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Founders Lodge by Mantis
A Mantis Eco-Lodge Experience
Overview
The birthplace of conservation in the Eastern Cape
Founders Lodge by Mantis, an hour’s drive from Gqeberha’s Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport ‘s in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, is a game reserve with 5-star hospitality focused on tailored and convivial service, authentic South African cuisine and magnificent game viewing. This 7-suite lodge and newly renovated Founders Railway Carriage offers a pampered safari with an intimate, romantic experience for couples or an engaging, interactive social environment for families and friends.
Located in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, Mantis Founders Lodge is the birthplace of conservation in the region.
Accommodation
classic or contemporary
The Founders Railway Carriage
ideal for families or small travel bubbles
A lovingly restored 5-berth Railway Carriage, stationed atop a hill, overlooking a magnificent valley, offers exclusive use accommodation. The charming Carriage features, an expansive outdoor deck, private swimming pool, dining...
Room details
Master Suite
classic luxury
The Master Suite is situated in the original colonial manor. The suite is thoughtfully appointed with a king four poster bed, classic décor and period furniture. , spacious in size...
Room details
Heritage Suite
manor house splendour
The Heritage Suite is situated in the original colonial manor. This suite is thoughtfully appointed with twin bed, classic décor and period furniture, spacious in size and features a writing...
Room details
Contemporary Suites
modern, overlooking the valleys
Four Contemporary Suites were added onto the original manor, coloured in warm hues and cool greys, featuring modern South African art feature. The suites are spacious in size and features...
Room details
Honeymoon Pod
Private and exclusive
This plush, private pod is designed as an ideal setting for celebratory getaways for two. Perched above the central lodge, the suite offers unobstructed views of the valley and has...
Room details
Dining
Every dining experience is unique
Founders
Paired with a different location every time
Enjoy the enticing flavours of the Eastern Cape, traditional BBQ dinners and sumptuous lunches.
Cooking style: Other cooking style
Capacity: 16
Founders Bar
Just off the courtyard, you will find Founders’ relaxation area which features a Billiard’s table and a sunken bar. Indulge in a drink of your choice as you challenge a...
Lodge Experiences
Impact Projects
Sustainability
Humane Tourism Certified™
Kitchen Garden Project
Guest Impact Experiences
Food & Drink
Revolving dining locations
Formal Dining Room
Onsite picnics
Casual dining terrace
Bar and billiards room
Wellness
In-room spa treatments
Steam room
Gymnasium
Venues
Drawing room with fireplace
Library
Founders Museum and curio shop
Boma
Recreational
Photographic Hide
Big Five guided game drives
Guided walking safari
2 outdoor swimming pools
Bar with billiards table
Gymnasium and steam room
Peace of mind
Laundry Service
24-hour Security
Secure Parking
Malaria Free
Eco-initiatives
Location
Nestled between Gqeberha and Grahamstown, Mantis Founders Lodge is the perfect escape into the wilderness. Enjoy tranquillity away from the city and be reminded of the pristine beauty of the natural world.
Access: Follow the N2 east out of Gqeberha, heading towards Grahamstown, bypassing the R342 turn-off.
Continue along the N2, cross the Bushman’s River until you reach the Sidbury sign.
Turn left on the gravel road and follow this road for approximately 15km until you reach a T-junction.
At the T-junction, turn left and travel 500m.
Turn left and follow signboards to Founders Lodge.
GPS 33°27’27”S 26°7’28”E
Sidbury, Gqeberha, South Africa, 6131
Experiences
Interactive Wildlife Tracks and Signs Experience
Contribute towards wildlife conservation
With the art of tracking perhaps being the oldest science, it innately captures our imagination, fuels our curiosity and inspires the urge to interpret the stories left in the sand.
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Rhino Observation and Monitoring
Observe and record data on a species under threat
Rhino conservation is exceptionally important at Founders Lodge by Mantis and in addition to providing top class security and a safe place in their natural habitat to thrive, and provide...
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Bear Grylls Survival Academy Experience for Kids
Learn what it takes to survive in the wild
Founders Lodge by Mantis is the ideal base for a family holiday with the Founders Lodge Kids Conservation Warriors programme, which includes a Bear Grylls Survival Academy experience, taking young...
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Founders Safari Adventure
A plethora of species to spot
Guests can enjoy 4×4 guided game drives on 25000ha of game reserve. Our open game vehicles bring you closer to nature, adds to the excitement, and makes it easy to spot...
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Mantis Journey
South Africa | Best of Eastern Cape
4 nights / 5 Days
Classic Safari, Big 5, Rewilding, Conservation, Photographic Safari, Beach, Ocean Safari
Offers
Mantis Moments - A Special Occasion Celebration Package
The Vivari Hotel Mantis Moments Package includes accommodation in a...
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Up to 20% off stays of 2 nights or more
Unlock incredible savings at over 1,000 select hotels across Asia...
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