Shamwari Explorer Camp

Shamwari Private Game Reserve has 25,000 hectares of protected habitat just an hour’s drive north-east of Gqeberha  (formerly Port Elizabeth). The reserve is 230 metres above sea level and has a diverse vegetation, with five of South Africa’s eight biomes present. The dominant habitat is Albany thicket, with its distinctive spekboom and spikethorn trees. This supports kudu and other antelope species and small numbers of elephant, giraffe, buffalo, and white and black rhino. Lion, cheetah and leopard can be spotted. As well as being a driving and walking safari destination, the reserve is deeply involved in wildlife rehabilitation, operating big cat rescue facilities in partnership with the Born Free Foundation. The reserve also runs a volunteer programme, the Shamwari Conservation Experience. Day visits and self-driving are not allowed.

Shamwari Reserve has six luxury lodges where walking activities are available on request. In addition, the Explorer Camp is dedicated to walking safaris and operates in the summer months, from September to May.

Guests at Shamwari’s Explorer Camp stay for two nights: Tuesday and Wednesday, or Friday and Saturday, with an optional third night (Sunday) on request. The camp has a minimal fence for safety and is beautifully situated, with a wooden deck overlooking the bushveld.

A game-viewing vehicle stays at the camp, so walkers can explore a different area each day. Walks are usually around four hours long, and participants over 65 should bring a medical certificate of fitness. The best close sightings of big animals are usually from the vehicle, and the walks focus on learning about the entire ecosystem of the reserve, from geology and soils to its varied flora, invertebrates and birdlife.

• Breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea
• Game drives
• Guided walks
• Selected local beverages, tea, coffee, water
• Tourism levy and 15% VAT

• Conservation levy R650 pppn
• French Champagne and premium branded beverages
• Transfers
• Laundry
• Spa treatment