Discover the Diverse Wildlife of Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Situated in South Africa’s significant Eastern Cape Province, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a top-tier safari and holiday destination. “Shamwari”, translating to “my friend” in Shona, epitomises the pinnacle of private game reserves, offering a sanctuary where guests can live in harmony with nature, experiencing the wonder of the landscape where the esteemed Big 5 freely roam under the vast African sky. With six distinct lodges and one explorer camp, Shamwari provides a variety of unique experiences, ranging from exclusive tranquility and effortless family fun to the enchanting appeal of luxury tented camps, meeting the diverse desires and expectations of its guests.
Long Lee Manor, an integral part of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, stands as a testament to luxury and comfort, with its origins tracing back to 1910. Recently undergoing significant renovations, the Manor now boasts enhanced features, providing guests with a more refined and exquisite stay. The accommodation options at Long Lee Manor are diverse, featuring 2 Manor House Suites, 4 Garden Rooms, 11 Plains Rooms, and 1 Family Suite, each designed to offer a tranquil retreat for guests. With amenities such as a large rim-flow swimming pool, a pool-side bar, a tastefully appointed dining room offering both indoor and outdoor seating options, and a boma for delightful outdoor dinner evenings, the Manor is equipped to provide a seamless and luxurious experience. For those seeking wellness and rejuvenation, the Manor also houses a spa and fitness centre, ensuring that every guest’s need is anticipated and catered to during their stay.
The Garden Rooms, overlooking the beautifully manicured gardens with private verandas, showcase gorgeous views of the surrounding plains. Conveniently, these rooms are interleading, catering to families as well as groups of friends and colleagues travelling together.
As the name suggests, the Plains Rooms overlook the Shamwari plains, offering guests magnificent views. Each room features an outdoor shower for those seeking a more authentic wilderness experience, and one room is adapted for wheelchair use.
In the historic manor house, dating back to 1910, there are two elegant suites that exude luxury. Each suite features a balcony with views overlooking the stupendous rim-flow pool and impressive waterhole.
Shamwari Private Game Reserve offers 5-star accommodation and unforgettable wildlife interactions amidst the stunning African landscape. Our game drives, available in the morning and afternoon, provide a lifetime experience, coinciding with when animals are most active. In our open vehicles, enjoy panoramic views and spot various animals with our trained rangers.
For a comfortable experience, bring binoculars, a camera, warm clothing, sunscreen, and a hat. Each drive lasts about three to four hours, with coffee stops in the morning and sun-downer stops in the evening. Let us know of any special requests or specific interests at the time of booking. Please note, children under four aren’t allowed on game drives, but childminding services are available for a fee.
In addition to spectacular game drives, Shamwari Game Reserve also offers professionally guided walking tours. These tours allow you to gain a true perspective of the flora and fauna indigenous to the region. Your guide will point out animal tracks, dung, hiding spots, rare birds and will educate you on the area and its history.
Unfortunately, children under the age of 16 or adults over the age of 65 are not permitted on these walks, unless the latter can provide a doctor’s certificate of fitness.
At Shamwari Private Game Reserve, we are deeply committed to the conservation of nature and the animals within our reserve. This commitment is embodied in initiatives like the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. This centre plays a crucial role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and caring for sick, injured, abandoned, or orphaned animals, all under the vigilant care of our professional veterinary team. Once these animals have recuperated, they are released back into their natural habitat. During your visit to Shamwari Private Game Reserve, you have the unique opportunity to visit and support the vital work being carried out at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.
