Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape
Shamwari Private Game Reserve, part of the prestigious Rare Finds collection, offers an unforgettable family safari experience in the heart of South Africa’s Eastern Cape. Set across 25,000 hectares of private, malaria-free wilderness where five of the country’s nine biomes meet, the reserve is home to the iconic Big Five and an extraordinary variety of wildlife. With six luxurious lodges and an explorer camp thoughtfully positioned within the landscape, Shamwari combines refined accommodation with breathtaking natural surroundings, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the rhythm of the African bush.
Families are especially well catered for, with a range of child-friendly facilities and experiences designed to entertain, educate, and inspire young explorers. Dedicated children’s programmes encourage kids to learn about wildlife and conservation through fun, hands-on activities, while a children’s coordinator is available to guide daily adventures. Childminding services can also be arranged at an additional cost for children under three years old, who are not permitted on game drives, while children aged three and over are welcome to join safari experiences. From spacious family accommodation to unforgettable wildlife encounters, Shamwari creates the perfect setting for families to relax, reconnect, and experience the magic of Africa together.
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What to expect
Watch your child’s face light up as they spot incredible wildlife for the very first time on safari.
Facilities
Some of the facilities at Shamwari Private Game Reserve include:
- Safari game drives
- Bush walks
- Star gazing
- Birding
- Boat experience
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
- Vulpro @ Shamwari Experience
- Outdoor pool with shallow end for children
- Afternoon tea
- Spa
Fun family safari
Children can enjoy exciting wildlife experiences while learning about conservation, discovering iconic animals such as elephants, lions, and rhinos, and gaining a deeper appreciation for the natural world through engaging kids’ programmes and expert guides.
Kids on Safari Adventure Centre
At the centre of this programme is the Kids Adventure Centre at Riverdene Lodge Kids Adventure Centre, offering a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages.
Outdoor Activities:
- Zipline: Children can enjoy a thrilling zipline experience, helping to develop coordination skills.
- Rock Climbing Walls: Designed for older kids seeking adventure, these walls offer an adrenaline-pumping challenge.
- Treehouse Network: A series of suspended walkways connect treehouses, allowing children to explore the reserve from above.
- Adventure Slide: A fun slide that adds excitement to the outdoor play area.
- Maze: A family-friendly maze that provides entertainment for all ages.
Indoor Activities:
- Kids Library: A selection of books to stimulate young minds.
- Arts and Crafts: Creative sessions for children to express themselves.
- Pizza Making: Children can make their own pizzas using a wood-fired oven.
- Cookie Decorating: A sweet activity where kids can decorate their own cookies.
Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary Foundation
Enjoy a memorable family experience at the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary, a peaceful sanctuary that provides a safe home for rescued lions, leopards, and other big cats from around the world. Once saved from difficult situations such as circuses and the exotic pet trade, these magnificent animals are now able to live in comfort and safety while visitors learn about their stories and the importance of wildlife welfare and conservation.
Let us tailor-make the perfect Shamwari Private Game Reserve holiday for you
Call us on 020 3633 0653
Accommodation
Riverdene Family Lodges
Set against the stunning natural landscapes of the Eastern Cape, Riverdene Family Lodge overlooks vast stretches of unspoilt bushveld. It offers the perfect setting for families to relax and spend quality time together while watching majestic wildlife wander across the plains in the distance. Swimming pool with shallow area for children.
Rooms Configuration
4 x Luxury Family Rooms :
- 1 x 3 bedroomed family room of which 1 bedroom is equipped to accommodate a wheelchair
▪ Maximum capacity of 9 guests (6 adults / 3 children (0 – 11 years old or combination thereof)
▪ Children 2 – 11 years old accommodated on sleeper couches - 3 x 2 bedroomed family rooms
▪ Maximum capacity of 6 guests (4 adults / 2 children (0 – 11 years old or combination thereof)
▪ Children 02 – 11 years old accommodated on sleeper couches
Long Lee manor
Overlooking the breathtaking plains of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Long Lee Manor combines timeless elegance with the beauty of the wild. Featuring sophisticated Edwardian-style suites, a stunning rim-flow pool, and the beautifully restored original Manor House, the lodge offers luxurious comfort alongside sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Large rim-flow swimming pool.
Rooms Configuration
- 1 x Family Suite with 2 bedrooms both en-suite, a lounge area and private heated plunge pool
(sleeps maximum 4 adults and 2 children aged 6 to 11). Butler service included.
Sarili Private Villa
Sarili Private Villa is an exclusive six-bedroom retreat overlooking the sweeping grasslands of Africa and the tranquil Bushman’s River, offering families and friends the chance to experience the iconic Big Five in complete privacy and luxury. Set along the riverbank, the villa combines elegant comfort with an immersive bush experience, placing the beauty of the African wilderness right on your doorstep.
Room Configuration
• 2 x Luxury River View Suites and 4 x Luxury River View Rooms. 1 room is wheelchair friendly. Max 12 adults / 2 children (0-11 years old). Deck with plunge pool overlooking the Bushman’s River, Swimming Pool with shallow area for children, Separate children’s lounge / play area, In and outdoor dining facilities, Private Boma, Butler service • Child minding service.
*All lodges included private safari vehicle use, child policy on private vehicles is 3 years and older welcome to join.
Let your child run free and explore the exciting range of activities at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
Childcare
A children’s coordinator is available to lead the activities, and childminding services can be arranged at an additional cost for children under the age of three, as they are not allowed on game drives.
Please arrange childminding services prior to arrival.
Location
Take in the breathtaking aerial view of Sarili Private Villa, a secluded six-bedroom sanctuary where luxury and untamed wilderness meet in perfect harmony above the Bushman’s River.
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