Shamwari Game Reserve is an award winning, 5-star malaria free safari destination located in the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Shamwari game reserve is 7000 hectares in size and boasts 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. Conveniently accessible at only a 45-minute drive from Port Elizabeth Airport, the exclusive 5-star Shamwari Game Reserve is rated highly in the top malaria free safari destinations in South Africa.
With exceptional game viewing year-round, 3-4-hour game 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 offer an excellent chance to see and photograph the Big 5, giraffe, zebra, hippo, jackal, and a diverse community of antelope. Shamwari is renowned for its close up sightings with an excellent chance of spotting all of the big 5. Game drives take place in the early morning and late afternoon with sundowner stops in breath-taking locations.
The Shamwari Game Reserve safari lodges offer guests diverse accommodation options in one of 6 luxury lodges. Accommodation options range from inter-leading family rooms to exclusive suites with floor to ceiling windows, private viewing decks and plunge pools. Each Shamwari lodge offers a unique feel and atmosphere. Decor ranges from warm earthy tones at Eagle Crag and Bayethe lodge to light open spaces at Long Lee Manor house. Sarili is a private 5-bedroom safari lodge for families and groups of friends wanting a more personalized experience with a flexible itinerary and private chef. Riverdean is the family friendly lodge and welcomes children of all ages. Here you will find a wealth of children’s activities and a junior ranger program. All lodges at Shamwari have expansive views over the 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.
- 10-seater vehicles at Riverdene family lodge.
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.
Highlights
- 25 000 hectares in size.
- Seven 5-star lodges, an Explorer Camp and three wildlife rehabilitation facilities.
- Bushman’s River is a prominent landmark providing a good water source to the animals.
- Home to five of South Africa’s eight major biomes providing rich vegetation types for an array of varied wildlife.
- Exceptional outdoor dining experiences.
- 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
- Riverdene Family Lodge welcomes children of all ages.
- Sarili Private Villa welcomes children of all ages.
- Long Lee Manor welcomes children from 6 years old.
- Bayethe Tented Lodge welcomes children from 12 years old.
- Eagles Crag welcomes children from 12 years old.
- Explorer Camp welcomes children from 12 years old.
- Sindile Lodge welcomes children from 16 years old.
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.
Discover Safari Lodges
In Shamwari Game Reserve
Long Lee Manor
Ages 6 years and older
Eagles Crag
Ages 12 years and older
Bayethe Tented Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Shamwari Sindile Lodge
Ages 16 years and older
Riverdene Family Lodge
All ages are welcome
Sarili Private Villa
All ages are welcome
Explorer Camp
Ages 16 years and older

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