Shamwari Private Game Reserve — panoramic view of the reserve

Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Luxury Inspired by Nature

Paterson, Eastern Cape75 km (1 hour drive) from PE25,000 hectares
Big Five Malaria-Free Family-Friendly
Book Now
4.9/ 5 — 1,240 reviews
From R18,100/ person / night

About Shamwari

Shamwari Private Game Reserve is an internationally acclaimed conservation project and one of the finest safari destinations in the world. Spanning 25,000 hectares across five distinct ecosystems, this malaria-free reserve offers an unparalleled Big Five experience just 75km from Port Elizabeth.

Home to the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries and a dedicated Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Shamwari is where luxury meets genuine conservation. Six distinctive lodges cater to every taste — from the cliff-top elegance of Eagles Crag to the family warmth of Riverdene, each promising intimate game drives with expert rangers and trackers.

The reserve's landscapes shift from dramatic valleys and riverine forest to sweeping grasslands, creating one of the most diverse safari settings in southern Africa. With a maximum of 12 guests per game drive vehicle, every encounter feels personal and exclusive.

Highlights

Six luxury lodges to choose fromBorn Free Big Cat SanctuariesWildlife Rehabilitation CentreFive distinct ecosystems in one reserveFly-in safari option via Shamwari AirAward-winning conservation programme

Gallery

Wildlife You'll See

LionLeopardElephantRhinoBuffaloCheetahHippoGiraffeBrown HyenaZebra

Activities

Open-vehicle game drivesGuided bush walksConservation experienceBirding safarisChildren's programmeSpa treatmentsStargazing

Lodges & 2026 Rates

All rates per person per night, fully all-inclusive unless stated otherwise.

Sindile Safari Lodge — Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Sindile Safari Lodge

The newest ultra-luxury addition — contemporary African design with panoramic views, heated plunge pools, and outdoor showers.

18 guests in 9 suites
Private heated plunge poolOutdoor showerFireplacePanoramic viewsButler service
Green Season — Apr–Sep 2026R22,430/ pp / night
~$1190
Eagles Crag Lodge — Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Eagles Crag Lodge

Perched on a cliff edge with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, private plunge pools, and spa-style bathrooms. Pure five-star elegance.

18 guests in 9 suites
Cliff-top positionPrivate plunge poolGlass wallsIn-room fireplaceSpa bathroom
Green Season — Apr–Sep 2026R20,520/ pp / night
~$1090
Bayethe Lodge — Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Bayethe Lodge

Tented luxury in the bush — spacious canvas suites with private decks and heated pools, set amongst indigenous gardens.

24 guests in 12 tented suites
Tented luxuryPrivate heated poolOutdoor deckIndigenous gardensBoma dining
Green Season — Apr–Sep 2026R18,100/ pp / night
~$960
Long Lee Manor — Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Long Lee Manor

A restored Edwardian manor house blending colonial elegance with modern safari luxury. Spacious suites with garden views.

30 guests in 15 suites
Edwardian architectureHeated swimming poolManicured gardensLibrary & loungeFamily suites
Green Season — Apr–Sep 2026R18,100/ pp / night
~$960
Riverdene Family Lodge — Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Riverdene Family Lodge

Purpose-built for families — spacious rooms, children's programme, jungle gym, and a kid-friendly pool area.

18 guests in 9 rooms Min age: 3
Family-friendlyChildren's programmeJungle gymKid-friendly poolInterconnecting rooms
Green Season — Apr–Sep 2026R66,220/ unit / night
~$3515

What's Included

  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Selected beverages
  • Two game drives daily
  • Guided bush walks
  • Tea & coffee
  • Laundry
  • Tourism levy
  • VAT

Not Included

  • Premium beverages
  • Spa treatments
  • Gift shop
  • Conservation levy
  • Transfers

Ready to Experience Shamwari?

Let us plan your perfect safari — best rates guaranteed, complimentary transfers, and a bespoke itinerary tailored to you.