Undoubtedly the most high-powered of the Eastern Cape’s many private wildlife reserves,Shamwari, 30km east of Addo Elephant National Park, is an internationally renowned reserve dedicated to restocking large tracts of reclaimed land with animals that were common in the region before the advent of the farmers and big-game hunters. All of the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo) are present, and well-managed wildlife drives mean that you’ll have a very good chance of seeing at least four of them during the course of a couple of days’ stay.
Room rates vary from lodge to lodge, and many are discounted by almost 50% during April, May and June. Rates are all inclusive, but call ahead to check as some discounts apply only to South African residents.
Shamwari’s volunteer programme (www.worldwideexperience.com) offers the chance to do hands-on conservation work at the various wildlife reserves in the Eastern Cape.
The reserve can only be reached if you have your own car (and at these prices, you probably will). If you’re coming from Port Elizabeth, travel along the N2 towards Grahamstown for about 65km, take the Paterson turn-off (Rte 342), continue for a further 7km, then turn right at the Shamwari sign.
