Shamwari Game Reserve

About Shamwari Game Reserve

Shamwari Game Reserve is the Southernmost, Big Game, malaria free, private reserve in Africa. This ultimate African adventure stretches along the Bushman's river, halfway between Port Elizabeth and Grahamstown, and forms a natural extension to the famous Garden Route.

Did you know? From an ecological point of view Shamwari Game Reserve is a very rich and diverse ecosystem, comprising five of South Africa's Biomes with fourteen vegetation types represented.

For the ultimate in a luxury African safari experience, the Shamwari Game Reserve offers visitors from every corner of the planet the opportunity to indulge themselves and their penchant for wildlife. More than this, it is a key player in the conservation and protection of a number of important plant and animal species, as well as of the environment and natural habitats on a larger scale. They are set apart by their commitment to maintaining world-class service with a liberal dose of extravagance.

Shamwari is situated in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, which remains one of the quietest, least developed places in the country. Port Elizabeth, in Nelson Mandela Bay, is less than an hour's drive away, as is the world-renowned Coega development.

The word “Shamwari” is Shona for “friend”, and testifies to the warm welcome and hospitable ambience of the reserve. From the managers to the guides, this team is dedicated to making each visitor's experience as special and memorable as possible.

Game drives are a must, and are certainly the highlights of a visit to Shamwari. A personal game ranger takes the lead; providing important information, answering questions and taking visitors directly to the spots in which wildlife has been spotted. Their personalised approach and their experience give visitors a dynamic, intimate look into the fauna and flora of Africa within a safe environment.

The Eastern Cape is a malaria-free zone, making the Shamwari Game Reserve ideal for families with young children or elderly members, who are particularly vulnerable to illness.

In fact, Shamwari has specialised activities especially for children. These include visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Centre and the Shamwari Animal Rehabilitation Centre. There are also indoor activities like puzzles, DVDs, board games, arts and crafts. In this way, families can enjoy a vacation that is tailored to all age groups and preferences.

The Born Free Foundation is part of Shamwari and has, as its focus, the drawing of attention to the threats facing the wildlife that is confined in impoverished places. This is accomplished through educational initiatives and raising public awareness. This foundation is also committed to protecting the natural habitat of the animals that live here.

Different animals can be seen within their natural environment at different times of day, and visitors are encouraged to take game drives in the early morning, at lunch time and again in the evening to get the most out of their game viewing experience. Guided walks are also an excellent way to see, feel, and even smell the wild appeal of South Africa at a comfortable pace. Some of the exciting animals that can be spotted include wild cats (such as lion), rhinos, elephants, a plethora of bird species and some rarely seen gems (including the White-Fronted Bee Eater).

The Eastern Cape has a particularly temperate climate, with hot, dry summers and cool winters with regular rain. However, even the winter months enjoy plenty of days of sunshine and pleasant temperatures. This means that Shamwari is a great place to visit practically all year round.

Although you can visit as a day visitor, to fully experience Shamwari Game Reserve and all it has to offer we recommend a stay of a few nights. SA-Venues.com proudly represents the full range of accommodation options within the reserve. Our Shamwari Accommodation search facility is easy to use and you make your accommodation bookings directly with the reserve. The Exclusive camps and luxury lodges within the reserve include luxury tented camps, an exclusive family lodge and luxury game lodge hotels. Special offers when available are highlighted and reviews will help you make informed choices.