Shamwari Private Game Reserve Experience

Shamwari Private Game Reserve is just under 50 miles from Port Elizabeth Airport so, after a quick private transfer, you'll reach the reserve around midday. Upon arrival, you'll then hop into a safari vehicle, and be driven to your chosen five-star lodge.

After a warm welcome and a refreshing drink, you can relax in your room and freshen up. Spend a couple of hours relaxing and enjoying high tea at your lodge. At 4pm, you'll meet with your dedicated ranger and embark on a thrilling three-hour game drive, where you'll be able to search for giraffes, hippos, zebra, and the remarkable 'Big Five'. 

At sundown, you'll stop at a lookout point for sundowner drinks and snacks, before returning to your lodge. Late in the evening, you'll enjoy a magnificent feast – the perfect end to your first day.

Wake up early and enjoy a quick cup of tea at the lodge, before heading out on a morning game drive. Your ranger will be able to point out the local willdife, and you'll also have a quick tea break at sunrise. 

Before returning to the lodge, you'll have the chance to visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for a comprehensive tour. This wonderful centre rehabilitates animals and returns them to their natural habitat, so you can learn all about these creatures and their natural home. Once you return to the lodge, breakfast is served.

The remainder of the day is yours to spend at your leisure. Admire your surroundings, or unwind with a soothing spa treatment. About 4pm, you'll set off on another game drive to see more of South Africa's amazing wildlife, and enjoy sundowners with spectacular views.

You'll have another early start today, for your second morning game drive. After your safari, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary, where you'll be taken on a tour. Although these magnificent animals can never be returned to the wild, no human contact is permitted. But you can admire these majestic creatures, and learn all about them.

After breakfast, you can choose how to spend the rest of your day. Later, you'll meet your ranger for afternoon tea, then set off on your final evening game drive. 

Round off the day with a magnificent five-star dinner, accompanied with superb wine.

It's time for one final early-morning call from your ranger, as you embark on your last game drive. Admire the majestic wildlife, enjoy a cup of tea on the rolling plains, and return to the lodge for breakfast. You'll then have time to freshen up, before departing Shamwari Game Reserve for your onward journey.

Want to see more of South Africa? Speak to our Travel Specialists about extending your holiday with a road trip along the Garden Route, or fly west to vibrant Cape Town.

NB: some activities may change on the day.