Average Expert Rating
Rating Breakdown
Write a User ReviewBig Five and more in the Albany thicket
Read more
of antelope. With luck, you might see four of the Big Five on one wildlife drive (the exception being the elusive-as-ever leopard) but a two or three-night stay is recommended to be reasonably confident of this. Shamwari’s reputation for luxury and exclusivity is justified when it comes to the stunning accommodation and food, and the quality of wildlife sightings. However, with a total of 71 rooms and suites spread between eight lodges and camps, it can get pretty busy with tourist traffic compared to the likes of Samara or Kwandwe.
Shamwari, the Ferrari of safaris
If this all sounds a bit un-adventurous, it is – the vibe at Shamwari is very much all about luxury and ease rather than wilderness and exhilaration, and the prices can be eye-watering. But spa treatments and amazing food are still always welcome, and this would be a great place to bring a friend or partner who’d like to see game but doesn’t fancy roughing it. It’s also easily accessible from
Read more
Port Elizabeth, making it a good one-night stopover option on a driving holiday in the Eastern Cape.Indulgent game viewing
There are many reasons why I love Shamwari and keep returning, but the most simple is that it always delivers. Situated along the Bushman's River, Shamwari is a private, family-owned game reserve which offers visitors a chance to combine Big Five viewing with luxury living… Well, at least for the few nights you stay here. Any place that combines game viewing with spa treatments certainly wins my tick of approval. The accommodation and meals at the well-run lodges are included in packages. As are the twice daily game drives. While the vegetation is not as lush as in the north around Kruger and the 20,000-hectare park is comparatively small, this is a major advantage when it comes to game viewing. It’s also malaria-free, which is a big bonus, especially for anyone travelling with children. On my last visit I saw all of the Big Five as well as numerous other larger mammals. I watched cheetahs feed and got within metres of a pride of lions. Then topped my day off with an indulgent massage… Heaven!