Shamwari Private Game Reserve
The award-winning Shamwari can take your safari in so many directions. Personal encounters in the big cat sanctuary, professional photo tours that sharpen your images, tailored activities for young children or languid hours in an opulent spa. One of the largest and most impressive of the malaria-free safari destinations within reach of the Garden Route, this is a reserve that builds the itinerary around your interests and needs.
Days that suit the mood
On our many visits to Shamwari we’ve been exclaiming how rare it is to find a private game reserve that offers such a depth of experiences. The days can be pure adventure, remembered by the thrilling moments with elephant bulls, elegant rhinos, swooping eagles and the big cats.
They can also be very calm, Shamwari providing an idyllic place to relax amongst nature when you’re on an overland South Africa holiday. If you’re on a self-drive holiday, consider Shamwari as a place to reenergise while still maximising the new experiences. If you have really specific interests, then the staff and guides are very happy to arrange tailored activities.
Luxury accommodation that’s tailored to the mood
This depth of experience also emanates from the reserve’s accommodation options. Seven distinctive lodges and camps are hidden across the reserve, enabling families and couples to enjoy a private space. Consider one night in the Explorer Camp, a redolent opportunity to spend a dreamy night in the bush, surrounded by animals, without having to leave modern comforts behind.
An animal collection that always inspires
Shamwari has played a pioneering role in wildlife conservation and has successfully reintroduced many species that were removed from the Eastern Cape area during colonialism. We’re impressed by both the abundance and diversity of animals, from endemic delights to the famous sights that a safari isn’t the same without.
You’ll probably need two nights to see it all, as Shamwari is larger than most private game reserves in the area. And from past experience, we think you’ll want to stay longer given the quality of the lodges and the exacting attention to detail.
Shamwari Game Reserve has recently achieved its Fair Trade Tourism certificate for its amazing wildlife conservation initiatives and commitments. In mid 2018, the reserve opened a wonderful new Animal Rehabilitation Centre in its centre, creating easy accessibility for all the nearby lodges.
