Pabala Private Nature Reserve is a remarkable private reserve in the Gamtoos Valley (the name means Roaring Lion), between Loerie and Hankey in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, a short drive from Nelson Mandela Bay, Addo Elephant National Park, Jeffreys Bay and the Garden Route, and close to the Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve World Heritage Site. Three eco-biomes meet on the reserve, and the birding is a highlight: the reserve calls itself a birder's paradise, with more than 250 species identified. Guided game drives cross plains where the game roams free, guided nature walks explore the bush, and the experiences run from craft gin, rum and vodka tasting with wine and cheese to honey tasting and a close-up bee experience. There is a restaurant, bar, swimming pool and children's play area, plus wedding and conference venues, and the reserve is five minutes from the Sarah Baartman Centre of Remembrance with the largest man-made sundial in Africa.

The accommodation ranges wide: four luxurious 4-star Valley View Suites and a Honeymoon Suite overlooking the plains, bed and breakfast with king-size beds, private balconies and mini bars; the self-catering three-bedroom Stone Cottage sleeping 5; a tented bush camp of permanent twin and family tents on wooden decks with fresh linen and shared ablutions; and four grassed campsites where you pitch your own tent among the wildlife. Pabala is a BirdLife South Africa affiliated property.