At Shamwari Game Reserve an experience of a lifetime awaits in the luxury and tranquillity of the African bush. Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge offers 12 exquisite superior tents with all the finest comforts. Each suite is equipped with a private deck and plunge pool, surrounded by the unique vegetation and spectacular views of the African bush. Bayethe hosts an exquisite in and outdoor dining experience, a world-class relaxation retreat and timber viewing decks. Activities at Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge include bush walks, birding, conservation and rehabilitation centre visits, and a children’s program. Exclusive packages for groups and families can be arranged with private safari drives and exclusive accommodation.
Conveniently accessible at only a 45-minute drive from Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape, the exclusive 5-star Shamwari Game Reserve is an ideal inclusion at the end of your Garden Route travel itinerary. This private game reserve boasts 7000 hectares of beguiling landscapes over 5 of South Africa’s 8 biomes. The rich and diverse vegetation makes the landscape an ideal habitat for varied wildlife and an impressive selection of birdlife. With exceptional game viewing year-round, 3-4-hour safari drives are led by passionate and highly experienced game rangers offering you a wealth of information while tracking wildlife. The specialized open 4×4 safari vehicles at Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge offer an excellent chance to see and photograph the Big 5, giraffe, zebra, hippo, jackal, and a diverse community of antelope. In addition to Bayethe Tented Lodge, Shamwari is home to a collection of 5-star luxury lodge; Eagles Crag, Riverdene Family Lodge, Sarili Lodge, Long Lee Manor and the Explorer Camp.
Gallery
Wildlife
- Shamwari is a Big-5 reserve and is home to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
- Other wildlife include giraffe, hippo, zebra, cheetah and a variety of antelope species and more.
- 275 bird species, including rare birds and birds of prey.
- Leopard sightings are rare in any Eastern Cape game reserve.
Game Drives
- Game drives take place twice a day in the early mornings and afternoons for a duration of 3-4 hours.
- Game drives are led by an experienced guide.
- Night drives and guided bush walk are permitted.
- 6-seater vehicles.
Activities & Facilities
- Game drives
- Guided bushwalks
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
- Spa treatments
- Viewing deck
- Bar & lounge
Highlights
- Exquisite 5-star tented lodge surrounded by lush vegetation, offering breathtaking views.
- A modern lodge featuring stylish decor and elegantly curated furnishings throughout.
- Twelve Blended Canvas Suites are nestled among the trees.
- Each suite features private viewing decks and plunge pools overlooking the reserve.
- Outstanding indoor and outdoor dinning experiences.
- Large viewing deck overlooking a waterhole.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives with close up sightings.
Location
- Located in the Eastern Cape, along South Africa’s east coast.
Getting There
- The closest commercial airport is Port Elizabeth (PLZ).
- Shamari Game Reserve is a 50 minute drive from Port Elizabeth.
- Flight time from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 35 minutes
Child Policy
- Bayethe Tented Lodge welcomes children from 12 years.
Special Offers
- Stay 4 nights and save 10% off your accommodation (valid 1 May – 30 Sept).
- Stay 6 nights and save 10% off your accommodation (valid 1 May – 30 Sept).
- Sole Use Offer – Book all rooms of any one of the luxury lodges for 2 nights and receive one room free of charge.
- South African resident rates are bookable 30 days prior to arrival date only.
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, guided bushwalks, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
- Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Rates
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 30% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 31 March 2027.
Seasons
- High season: 01 October – 31 March
- Low season: 01 April – 30 September

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Superior Tents
Bayethe exudes relaxation and luxury with its offering of 12 luxury tents. Each tent boasts an in-room fireplace, private deck and plunge pool, en-suite bathroom with Read morebath, outdoor shower, and air conditioning. Read Less
| High Season | $ 1,292per person, per night |
|---|---|
| Low Season | $ 1,108per person, per night |
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