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Sidbury, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Founders Lodge By Mantis

Wildlife Lodge

Trip Advisor Rating '.$item_trip.' Our Rating 10.0
 

Founders Lodge by Mantis, once the private residence of Mantis Collection visionary Adrian Gardiner, offers a luxurious retreat in South Africa's malaria-free Eastern Cape. Set on a 400-hectare reserve with direct access to the Big 5 Shamwari Game Reserve, it promises an intimate wilderness experience.

The lodge's elegantly appointed accommodations overlook serene gardens, blending refined comfort with the untamed beauty of the surrounding bushveld. Each room is thoughtfully equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a restful stay, while complimentary private parking enhances convenience. Guests can unwind in the shared lounge, sip drinks at the sophisticated bar, or relax on the terrace beside the year-round outdoor pool, immersed in the tranquil ambiance.

Exhilarating game drives on the adjacent Shamwari Game Reserve and guided walks across the private 400-hectare reserve offer immersive encounters with the region's iconic wildlife and pristine landscapes. The lodge's restaurant serves exquisite cuisine, showcasing fresh, local ingredients, with dining areas designed to complement the natural surroundings. A well-equipped gym is available for those seeking to stay active, and ironing facilities add a touch of thoughtful service.

Surrounded by the Eastern Cape's breathtaking scenery, Founders Lodge provides a seamless blend of heritage and luxury. Located 26 km from Lalibela Private Game Reserve, 28 km from Bushman Sands Golf Course, and 88 km from Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport, the lodge offers a paid airport shuttle service, ensuring effortless access to this exclusive safari haven.

Available Board

All Inclusive

Rooms & Suites

General Facilities

Activities

  • Themed Dinner Nights
  • Game Drives
  • Billiards
  • Games Room

Wellness

  • Outdoor Swimming Pool
  • Fitness
  • Full Body Massage
  • Hand Massage
  • Head Massage
  • Couples Massage
  • Foot Massage
  • Neck Massage
  • Back Massage
  • Steam Room
  • Sun Umbrellas
  • Sun Loungers Or Beach Chairs
  • Massage
  • Fitness Centre

General

  • Invoice Provided
  • Concierge Service
  • Daily Housekeeping
  • Ironing Service
  • Laundry
  • Meeting/Banquet Facilities

Hotel Reviews

Location rating Location
Sleep Quality rating Sleep Quality
Rooms rating Rooms
Service rating Service
Value rating Value
Cleanliness rating Cleanliness
5 rating
January 2026

I haven’t got a chance to stay in this beautiful place as my visa is rejected. I put my hands down to their service especially Mariska Hay, who have help me through the process of the cancellation...

5 rating
December 2025

The whole experience of staying at Founders Lodge was fantastic. The safaris were brilliant, the rooms, the food and staff were wonderful.

5 rating
November 2025

An amazing stay in a beautiful location. All the staff are absolutely wonderful and cannot do enough for you. Great food and lovely rooms Animals can be viewed coming to the waterhole at all times of...

5 rating
November 2025

What an amazing place this is - where to start!! Ian and Glynnis were on leave the week we called but such is the quality of their amazing team we did not want for anything. The wildlife landscapes...

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Average Weather

Ave Daily Temp °C
Ave Monthly Rain mm

Jan
26
20
Feb
26
55
Mar
25
45
Apr
23
50
May
23
53
Jun
22
44
Jul
21
68
Aug
21
73
Sep
21
55
Oct
22
46
Nov
23
49
Dec
25
40

Hotel Location

Rates Nightly From

CA$547 Per Person

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