Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a premier safari and holiday destination in South Africa’s ecologically and culturally significant Eastern Cape Province.
Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5. It’s a place where guests can exist in harmony with nature, however fleeting the moment, where wildlife roam the landscape under the relentless African sun.
Shamwari has 6 lodges and 1 explorer camp; each providing distinct experiences. From exclusive tranquillity, effortless family enjoyment or the back-to-nature appeal of a luxury tented camp.
Luxury Inspired by Nature
A stay at Shamwari Private Game Reserve is one that will remain with you forever. Due to its location in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the reserve offers abundant wildlife, fauna and flora exclusive to the area and unforgettable encounters with nature.
Conservation Philosophy
Staying at Shamwari means you are participating in and experiencing an immensely successful conservation project, which returned the land to the rich biodiversity for which the region was once renowned.
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to empower, engage and educate yourself with our conservation efforts in conserving a vanishing way of life by visiting one of our awareness centres.
wildlife rehab centre
The wildlife centre assists in the rescue, rehabilitation and care of sick, injured abandoned or orphaned wildlife under the care of a team of veterinary specialists.
Born free big cat sanctuaries
In collaboration with the internationally-acclaimed Born Free Foundation, the Big Cat Sanctuaries are dedicated to the plight of wild cats.
Conservation Story
During the past 25 years, the land was consolidated and rehabilitated in an attempt to restore it to its former glory.
Our Experiences
Enhance your stay by partaking in the range of experiences offered at our reserve, underpinned by our philosophy of respect to nature and each other.
Kids on Safari
Memories the little ones will treasure for a lifetime
Start them young with our special Kids on Safari Programme, which aims to entertain and educate kids about the importance of nature conservation.
Birding
Ornithologists and bird watchers alike are treated to an array of birdlife
The malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape is home to a host of beautiful birds, from tiny feathered friends to majestic birds of prey.
Safari Game Drives
The pride of Shamwari – offering unsurpassed game drives in Big Five territory
Guided by our trained rangers, you can experience wildlife interactions unlike any other during our morning and afternoon game drives plus experience fauna and flora indigenous to the Eastern Cape Region on a professionally guided bush walk.Up Close and Personal Encounters with Nature
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Shamwari Blog
What happens at Shamwari is worth sharing, from ranger interviews to wildlife rescue stories. We are a passionate group of individuals who love what we do, and do it for the love of nature. Welcome to the Shamwari Community.
Every Bird Counts, Global BIG Day
On May 4th, thousands of birders participated in the Global Big Day, an international collaboration attempt to see the largest amount of bird species around the world within a..
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International Leopard Day
The thrill of a safari is always one of the draws of the African bushveld. The sun starts to rise, peeking up over the horizon of the valleys. Guests head out with sleepy eyes..
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Karien – Shamwari Game Ranger Q&A
Ranger Karien guides out of Riverdene Family Lodge. She is friendly, has a warm smile and fun personality. Karien absolutely loves teaching children about nature and the animals..
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This is our third night, another two to go. The guides are amazing and all the staff make you feel incredibly welcome. I have seen such a wide range of animals and birds at very close quarters and each day gets better. The accommodation is luxurious and you will never go hungry. This place is a gem 