Bushman Sands Game Reserve

About Bushman Sands Game Reserve

Although the reserve claims to offer Big 5 sightings, by all accounts this is not the norm. For this reason, if it is a Big 5 game viewing experience you are after, we do not recommend this reserve. If you are after wide open spaces and viewing of various antelope species and small game, the Bushman Sands might be worth a visit.

Did you know? Bushman Sands have reintroduced indigenous animals to the reserve, in an attempt to restore the environment to its natural state.

Bushman Sands Game Reserve is situated on nearly 4000 hectares of former farmland. Bushman Sands game reserve offers malaria free sightings of wildlife within the reserve. Working with Shamwari's conservation team many years ago, Bushman Sands reintroduced indigenous animals to the reserve in an attempt to restore the environment to its natural state.

Animals that once roamed freely over 200 years ago have been reintegrated into their natural habitat.

Species present include cheetah, black wildebeest, red hartebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippo, kudu, eland, springbuck and waterbuck.

The Africa of a bygone era is further recaptured by the Bushman paintings which are accessible in the reserve. Dating back thousands of years, these rock art paintings ensure that the cultural legacy of the Khoi San people remains for years to come.

Another unique feature is the massive 200ha New Years Dam in the heart of the reserve. Originally built as a source of water for the steam trains, the dam now sustains the wildlife in the arid Eastern Cape landscape.

Three-hour game drives through the Bushman Sands Reserve take place daily. Accompanied by qualified rangers who have been employed from the Alicedale community, visitors are introduced to true African big game from open landrovers.