Experience South Africa

Relax and unwind with a treatment or two at the luxurious DAVINCI Spa

Sweat it out in the DAVINCI gym open daily from 05h00-22h00

Cool off in the DAVINCI infinity edge swimming pool, or relax with a refreshing drink on the pool deck

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and the pristine environment that is her backdrop are the canvas for renowned and upcoming artists who have been invited to the Artist Residency. The artists draw inspiration from their location and wildlife sightings to create new pieces. Browse the gallery where artists showcase their existing and new creations whilst sharing their creative process with you.

Artist in Residence Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Artist in Residence Credit: Lion Sands Private Game Reserve

Game drives, in open safari vehicles, head out at sunrise and again in the late afternoon. The reserve’s natural animal populations include all of the Big Five, and it is renowned for the quality of its leopard sightings – the most elusive of predators. With no more than 16 vehicles allowed on the reserve at any one time, Lions Sands assures you a truly personal safari, and the field guides are able to take you within close range of Africa’s most impressive species. Photo opportunities are spectacular! Also included is a hot beverage/sundowner stop to purely appreciate being in the bush and in the moment.

For those who wish to experience the bush, not just observe it, there is no better guided excursion. Feel the scrub crunch beneath your feet, touch a velvety acacia seed pod, hear the crack of a branch indicating you are not alone, and spot the game appear just metres off – exhilarating! This is also a wonderful opportunity to encounter the smaller creatures, often missed on safari vehicles, and to discover more about the reserve’s plants – many with fascinating medicinal properties and traditional uses.

Lion Sands together with MORE Community Foundation assists our local Huntington and Justicia B villages, and you can get involved, too. Take a community tour (proceeds go to our development projects here), or roll up your sleeves with our Get Your Hands Dirty initiatives. These centre on education, infrastructure, health and environment, and you can choose the area best suited to your interest.

Between safaris you’ll have the luxury of free time and how better to indulge than in the spa? We favour Africology products, instilled with the belief that self-care brings balance. So with our range of therapies, we offer a wellness experience to rejuvenate your body, quiet your mind, and revitalise your spirit. If you must gym, there’s a fully kitted out facility with a view of the bush to take your mind off the burn.

Dining at Ivory is an exploration, with a table laid out wherever you wish, and dishes and wines introducing you to new flavours. Every dietary requirement and craving are satisfied, and we will tempt your taste buds with our tapas style lunches and venison tastings. We have a fully certified Kosher kitchen and full supervision by a Mashgiach can be arranged at additional cost.

Our Chalkley and Kingston Treehouses set you in the middle of big landscapes, globed by even bigger skies, their lights twinkling down to the horizon. Below, the stillness is punctuated by animals’ whistles, huffs, and growls… carried on the wind. Heaven for the hopeless romantic, the adventurer, the person who needs a complete disconnect and digital detox, and the wildlife enthusiast who prefers the bush au naturel.

Our priority is your wellness, and besides our spa we have a spacious fitness centre where you can work out to a view. Emerge renewed with a session in our steam room or sauna; or boost your metabolism with a plunge in our ice bath.

Perfect your swing at one of Cape Town’s most renowned golf courses and create memories to last a lifetime. As part of your stay, treat yourself to an extraordinary day of golf at De Zalze Golf Course. Set in the heart of the Cape winelands, this world-class course combines breathtaking scenery with expertly designed fairways and greens, offering an outing that blends sport, relaxation, and natural beauty.

Whether you are an avid golfer or simply seeking a serene outdoor escape, this renowned course promises a memorable outing. Marvel at the sweeping vineyard vistas, expertly designed fairways, and immaculate greens that make De Zalze a favourite among golf enthusiasts.

Our team is here to make your day seamless. From reserving tee times tailored to your schedule to arranging transport and special requests, we will handle all the details. Speak to our concierge team to begin planning your ultimate golf outing in Cape Town.

Golfing in Cape Town Credit: Mehmet Erzincan

Golfing in Cape Town Credit: Mehmet Erzincan

Nourished by nature. Enabling genuine connection to self, others and nature through the essence of the Cape.

Uniquely situated in the heart of the city, our serene and exclusive Fairmont spa and gym spaces exude an intimate atmosphere akin to a private retreat.

Embrace the natural beauty of South Africa’s coastal treasures, majestic mountain ranges and grand floral kingdom at our spa, where the soothing whispers of the sea and the enchanting aroma of fynbos create an unforgettable sanctuary of tranquility.

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Fairmont Spa Credit: Fevzi Ondu

Cries of the Atlantic seagulls, roar of seals and the rhythmic clink of yacht masts with the air imbued with a welcoming sea breeze. Embark on the sensory voyage that is Cape Grace’s afternoon tea overlooking the picturesque V&A Waterfront yacht marina and with the majestic Table Mountain as your backdrop, Cape Grace’s afternoon tea, curated by our renowned pastry team, promises an experience of unparalleled sophistication and charm.

Afternoon Tea Hours:
Thursday to Sunday
Bookings at either 14h30, 15h00 or 15h30

R550 per person.
R650 per person including a glass of Cap Classique.

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Afternoon Tea Credit: Candice Bodington

Embark on a captivating journey into the rich history of whiskey and delve into the intricate art of distilling, maturing, and blending this timeless spirit. Guests can select from two immersive experiences: an expertly guided tutored tasting or a more flexible, refined self-guided exploration.

Tutored tastings are offered daily from 12h00 to 16h00 providing ample time to savour and appreciate the nuances of each whiskey. For those opting for the tutored tastings, there are two tiers available:

•Standard Tutored Tasting: A guided introduction to whiskey appreciation.

•Premium Tutored Tasting: A more elevated journey, complemented by expertly curated pairings to enhance the tasting experience.

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Credit: Claire Gunn

Discover Cape Town in a whole new way with Cape Grace’s exclusive RE:CYCLE bicycles by Vélosophy, crafted from recycled Nespresso capsules. This unique offering combines sustainability, design, and adventure, inviting guests to explore the city’s vibrant landscapes on two wheels. As the first hotel in South Africa to offer this innovative experience, Cape Grace invites guests to enjoy an eco-conscious way to discover the beauty of the Mother City. With names like Grace, Two Oceans, Mermaid, and Breeze, each of the 10 bicycles adds a touch of personality to your journey.

Credit: Candice Bodington

There’s something special about seeing a place on horseback. Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins.

Horse riding at Grootbos is suitable for anyone, whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider. Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of our special horses that are specifically trained for the beach. Our 22 horses at the Grootbos stables are well exercised and expertly trained, while all of our guides have years of experience in dealing with these noble animals.

The Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay each year and being witness to them in action whilst they breach and blow is a very special experience to observe.These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay.. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions.The Grootbos guides know all the best spots and this guided experience is an experience of a lifetime.

Grootbos Nature Reserve has an exclusive boat trip, through Dyer Island Cruises, leaving every morning from Kleinbaai harbour. Besides seeing the amazing whales, this trip offers a complete experience of the Marine Big5, which includes the whales, dolphins, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals and surface viewing of the Great White Shark. The boat comfortably accommodates 20 guests, has a toilet, upper decks, shelter from the sun as well as snacks and drinks provided onboard. The boat also has specialized guides, who can provide all the facts about the whales as well as other interesting information about the magnificent marine life. As these gentle giants are very curious, they often swim right up to the boat to get a better view of the boat and the guests. This trip takes about 2 hours and is a marine experience not to be missed!

Boat-based whale watching is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

One of the most exciting experiences at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is the Great White Shark cage diving. Gansbaai has the reputation for being the shark capital of the world. Divers and adventurers travel from all over the world to watch this magnificent creature in the waters around Dyer Island. Every day a number of boats leave Kleinbaai harbour to spend a few hours on the water to view the Great White Sharks from the boat or to go diving in a cage with these elegant and large predators. This is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed!

Cage Diving (No diving experience required!)
This is truly one of the most adventurous activities on our planet, coming face to face with the Great White Shark. No diving experience is required, and all equipment is provided on board. When the sharks are around the boat, the divers get into the cage and the shark is lured to within meters from the cage. As the shark approaches, divers duck under water and marvel in amazement as this awe inspiring creature swims past the cage.

Surface Viewing
Grootbos guests have the choice to either enter the cage on the shark boat or view these magnificent creatures from the top deck of the boat. Surface Viewing is normally suitable for people wanting to see the shark from out of water and not necessarily come face to face with it inside the water. However, it is often commented that one gets a better view of the sharks from the top deck.

Shark Cage Diving is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again.

The 800 recorded plant species in our 2500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life as you touch, smell and see the natural miracles that surround you. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.

As a guest at Grootbos, there are so many different ways to enjoy the beach. You can take a long, relaxing walk on a solitary shore; laze in the sun on the luxurious white sand; or explore the unique coastal ecosystem while looking out for frolicking whales.

Our guides know exactly where to take you for the best swimming, tanning, walking, whale watching, angling and several other oceanic experiences on offer. We’ll transport you to and from the beach and provide you with a picnic lunch and all the beach accessories you need to enjoy your day in the sun.

Grootbos also offers guided beach tours where you can learn about the unique intertidal ecosystem; the abundant marine life; the coastal vegetation; and the geological forces that gave this coast its dramatic form.

A Bird's eyeview of Birding at Grootbos
Birding is akin to stargazing. On cloudless days, you see a myriad of these jewels flickering and floating in the sky, and once you know where and what to look for, you are transfixed by the ethereal pattern and order in their endless motion.
The Grootbos reserve and surrounding areas are a magnet to a wide variety of rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats. You know birding is not for the birds when you see how the Malachite Sunbird, with its bright green iridescent plumage, compete for attention with the flowering aloes and proteas. Grootbos is a birder friendly establishment endorsed by Birdlife SA. Our knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven our skies and flora with their beauty and procreative activities.
Let's face it, the dazzling tapestry of fynbos wildflowers on Grootbos is not meant to attract tourists - the colourful displays of petals are nature's magic to lure birds and other pollinators to their nectar in exchange for spreading their pollen.

The beaks of the conspicuous endemic Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Southern Double-collared Sunbird are tailor-made for sipping the sweet stuff from the floral tubes of the various Erica species. You cannot miss the male Cape Sugarbird, with its ridiculously long tail (almost 70% of its total length), feeding on the nectar of Protea species. The impressive tail is solely a decorative testimony to manhood - the longer, the better! They whip their tails to attract females and ward off rivals.
In breeding season (September to April) Grootbos guests will encounter a magnitude of feisty and friendly fellows sticking together albeit they are not of the same feather. The diverse habitats - from fynbos, Milkwood and Afromontane forests to riverine scrub and mountain slopes - accommodate at least 120 different bird species, of which 30% are endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa. These include specials such as the Knysna Woodpecker, Cape Clapper-lark and the Southern Tchagra.

Flagship raptors of the area are the majestic Black Harrier, Jackal Buzzard, Forest Buzzard and African Fish-Eagle. The nearby agricultural fields are home to Blue Cranes, the Agulhas Long-billed Lark and the Denham’s Bustard.
Coastal Birding Tours
Grootbos, in partnership with Dyer Island Cruises, also takes guests on a "game viewing" cruise to Dyer Island, where endemics such as the African Black Oystercatcher, Hartlaub’s Gull, Crowned-, Cape- and Bank Cormorant, African Penguin as well as the Cape Gannet flourish. Pelagic species such as the Shy Albatross, Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrels are also seen from time to time.

The Klipgat Cave outside De Kelders evokes vivid images of pre-historic times when modern man lived haply in symbiotic harmony with nature off the bounty of land and sea when the coastline was still kilometres away. This historical site in the Walker Bay was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70 000 to 80 000 years ago when large antelope such as black wildebeest and the extinct “blaauwbok” still abounded in the bay where dolphins, seals and whales now flourish.

Archaeological findings indicate that these primitive folks mainly lived off plants and smaller animals such as dune mole rats, tortoises and hares. They hunted steenbok and eland, while seabirds, shellfish and seals also formed an important part of their diet.

Dubbed Klipgat Cave (stone with a hole) after the remarkable window-like openings in the limestone rock formations that yield spectacular views of the bay and sea, the site is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. Innumerable stories of the perils and pleasures of yesteryear’s peoples unfold as layer upon layer of deposits reveal fascinating secrets of the tides, temperatures and living conditions of those early times. Later Stone Age pastoralists, believed to be the Khoekhoen/Khoikhoi, already kept sheep, and probably even cattle and dogs, in this area as early as 2 000 years ago.

They chiselled tools such as “needles” and “spatulas” out of bone to create ornaments, shell beads and pendants. Ostrich eggs were fashioned into water flasks, and tortoise shells served as bowls. These artefacts and bone samples are on display in the Cape Town Museum.

Unfortunately, the bulk of tell-tale everyday details of the loves and losses of man’s early ancestors is forever buried in the crags and crevices of this early home. Around 1713, a devastating smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of the entire local human population. The Klipgat Cave is of World Heritage significance and managed by Cape Nature Conservation.

For those who just want to relax we offer an array of spa treatments. It is time to tip-toe into a slower world where the mind can drift away on the vapors of luxurious scents, such as sandalwood, arnica and buchu, while the body melts under the soothing touch of our fully qualified beauty therapist. Pampering takes place in the comfort of your own suite. For the tired body, a therapeutic full body massage is a definite must, leaving you in a state of absolute calmness. For the weary feet, reflexology, including a footbath, will most certainly do the trick. Manicures, pedicures, facials and a host of other treatments are available on request in our Bloom Beauty Salon or in the privacy of the suites at Grootbos.

Spa Treatments are not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.

Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.

Hop aboard the Lady Stanford river boat for a iconic and tranquil river cruise that winds its way gently along the picturesque Klein River, toward the Hermanus lagoon. Spend time on the open upper and lower decks of this modern eco-friendly river boat with its quiet, four-stroke boat engines, as you watch a kaleidoscope of natural colour go by.

No expense has been spared when it comes to comfort and luxury on board this vessel that most definitely stands out from the rest. A qualified skipper and experienced interactive guide, who intimately knows the river and all it has to offer, will ensure this journey is a memorable one. The Klein River features more than a hundred bird species which include majestic fish eagles, a flamboyance of pink flamingos and the ever spectacular, blue crane. Keep an eye out for otters, bontebok and horses grazing on the fertile river banks, as you make your way toward the lagoon. Lady Stanford runs daily trips for individual passengers as well as being available exclusively for private functions. The boat can comfortably accommodate 26 passengers.

The River Cruise is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Take a tour with heart as you discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefitting the community and environment around you. Learn and connect as you witness how our various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness.

What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment.
From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area home.

This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the Sand Dunes. The trail to the dunes is special, running on a narrow sandy horse trail through the Fynbos.
When reaching the dunes we will make our way up and across to reach a fantastic downhill section where we will pick up speed before reaching the top of our first vertical dune face. After a briefing on how to ride down the dune we down the face but for those just wanting an easy ride you can go around the side where it is an easy slope. The dune face may feel impossible and dangerous to do but the ride is in fact very controlled and the sand will slow the bike down.

What your mind tells you is impossible will in fact be very enjoyable and easy. I will be at the bottom of the dunes videoing your challenges so remember to smile. I will also teach you how to do slalom like a skiier on a snow ski slope. This is excellent fun on a bike and not too difficult to achieve. After the dunes we will pick up a 4x4 trail down to the beach. From there we will head back up to the car park but for those who are already tired I can bring the 4x4 down to the rocks so you do not have to ride up.

Fat Biking is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Visit the home of the recently launched Grootbos Florilegium. The Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery built on Grootbos Nature Reserve is an innovative space dedicated to the Florilegium’s fine botanical artworks and is a celebration of the hard work of all involved over the last five years.

The Grootbos Florilegium is the first contemporary African florilegium. Its intention is to celebrate and honor the Cape fynbos and the Cape Floral Kingdom in the southern Overberg, as a valuable botanical heritage of South Africa and as a record of the many rare, endemic and endangered plants of the region. The Florilegium is a global collaboration, featuring carefully selected botanical artists. 35 celebrated artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Reunion and the United Kingdom have lent their talent and expertise to the collaboration. A further 9 come from countries including the Netherlands, Brazil, the USA, Japan, Germany, South Korea and Italy.

The Grootbos Florilegium is representing nothing less than the best of the international botanical arts community.

Grootbos Foundation

• Conserving, rehabilitating and protecting the natural environment of the Cape Floral Kingdom particularly the flora and fauna on Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and in the Walker Bay region.
• The provision of education relating to indigenous horticulture, agriculture, conservation, ecotourism and life skills education.
•  Training and skills development for disadvantaged persons to enable them to obtain employment or become self-employed, particularly in the green economy.
• Using sports and sports facilities as a tool for social development and integration, promoting healthy lifestyles for youth, and increasing environmental awareness and life skills amongst communities.
• Research, including ecological, educational, social and scientific research on topics related to our core programmes.
• Developing sustainable and innovative solutions to tackle the issue of food insecurity. •The Green Futures College provides vocational training in eco-tourism, biodiversity stewardship training and other conservation-related programmes.
• Our Siyakhula programmes address food security and social enterprise development. The programmes include careers, employability and entrepreneurship, local farming and supporting initiatives that facilitate sustainable livelihoods.

The Great Heart Wines Boutique recalibrates the notion of an ‘intimate’ and ‘personalized’ wine tasting with availability for a table that sits four guests at a time for Le Quartier Français and Leeu House guests only. Non-resident guests are welcome to enjoy the tasting option by making a booking at Protégé (right across from the Boutique). These wines can also be purchased at the Boutique.

Great Heart is the staff empowerment project of Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, known for their multi-award winning Leeu Passant and Mullineux wineries. Aimed at improving the livelihoods of those who work for the company as well as their families, the Great Heart wine brand is collectively owned by the winery staff, and a portion of all sales under this label go directly to them.

Set among the vineyards, Leeu Spa by Healing Earth is an immersive wellness sanctuary that offers holistic treatments and experiences by expert therapists. The tailor-made offerings are inspired by Africa’s rich natural resources, with a unique focus on the myriad therapeutic benefits of South Africa’s unique Pinotage grape. Pure and premium natural products from leading holistic wellness brand Healing Earth are used in the memorable treatments.

A range of treatments for children (aged six to 12) is also on offer.

Leeu Spa is situated at Leeu Estates, a 3km drive from Le Quartier Français. Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Leeu Collection guests are invited to take advantage of fine Franschhoek weather and the beautiful surroundings at Leeu Estates to indulge in a picnic basket filled with delicious treats. Enjoy the sweeping views of valley and mountains with a glass of fine wine in hand, and a perfect al fresco repast. Think local cheeses and charcuterie with house-made Estates preserves, fresh fruit and crackers etc.. All this and more will create lasting memories to take home.

Terms and conditions apply.

Offered to in-house guests only.

Picnic orders must be placed 48 hours in advance.
Weather dependent.
Only available at allocated picnic spots on Leeu Estates.
Scheduled transfers between our properties are available.

The Wine Studio offers a truly immersive wine experience. Housed on Leeu Estates, it is run by the Mullineux & Leeu team, whose knowledgeable tasting room staff will guide guests in the finer nuances of these handcrafted wines.

A complimentary Signature Tasting is offered to Leeu Estates guests only. Guests at Leeu House and Le Quartier Français are welcome to book a wine tasting experience at the Wine Studio during their stay. Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Indaba – The Meeting Place at Leeu Estates is a state-of-the-art multipurpose event and meeting venue for inhouse Leeu Collection guests. Inspiring artworks enhance this multipurpose venue and private terrace, designed for a variety of functions: Press briefings, seminars, business meetings, exhibitions and launches.

Indaba, which is 140 square metres (1 510 square feet) in size and has its own lift, boasts wireless audio and video conferencing equipment, a 203-centimetre (80-inch) television screen and high-speed Wi-Fi.

The different types of set up Indaba can accommodate for:
Boardroom – 22 guests
Schoolroom – 28 guests
Cinema – 60 guests
Cocktail - 60 guests

Catering for Indaba is done by The Dining Room culinary team.
Scheduled transfers between our properties is available.

Other activities within Franschhoek that can be arranged via our Concierge includes:

- Franschhoek Wine Tram (www.winetram.co.za)
- Hiking in the Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve (www.montrochellehiking.co.za)
- Franschhoek Motor Museum (www.fmm.co.za)
- Various full day and half day wine tours
- Franschhoek Huguenot Monument (www.museum.co.za)

At Shamwari Private Game Reserve, we not only offer our guests 5-star luxury accommodation, but pride ourselves on presenting wildlife interaction that is sure to be the highlight of your stay. Coupled with the African horizon and spectacular skies, we offer game drives through the reserve for an experience of a lifetime.

Our game viewing drives are available for morning and afternoon trips, as this is when the animals are most active. Our vehicles are open and comfortable, and give you a panoramic view of the area. You’ll be guided by one of our trained game rangers who’ll take you and your party through the reserve, encountering many animals along the way.

If you have a particular area of interest, you’re welcome to inform your guide who will include it along the journey, if possible.

In order to ensure that you have a memorable experience, we want you to be prepared and comfortable. We highly recommend you bring:

Binoculars
Cameras
Warm clothing
Sunscreen
Hat

The game drives themselves last for approximately three to four hours and take you through the reserve. Included on the game drive is a coffee stop for the morning drive and a sun-downer stop in the evening.

Our rangers are experts at navigating the Shamwari terrain and are readily available to answer any questions you may have. If there is a certain species you’re hoping to spot, or an area you wish to visit, chat to your coordinator to make arrangements.

We do suggest mentioning any special requests you may have when you make your booking. That way, we can advise you on the ideal time of year to visit, which lodge to stay at, and make any other arrangements that might be needed.

Unfortunately, no children under the age of 4 are permitted on the game drives; however we can arrange a childminder at an additional cost.

For a truly African safari experience, consider Shamwari Private Game Reserve as your next destination.

Not only do we offer unforgettable views and 5-star luxury accommodation, but we also have a host of activities available, including bird watching.

This malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, is home to a host of wild game, Big 5, and beautiful birds. Ornithologists and bird watching hobbyists alike are treated to an array of birds of prey sightings, including:

Black Shouldered Kites
Booted Eagles
Pale Chanting Goshawks
Secretary birds

Additionally, Shamwari Private Game Reserve has several bodies of water located throughout the reserve, which means it’s the ideal opportunity to catch sight of:

African Darters
African Shelducks
Hamerkops
Malachite Kingfishers
Three-banded Lapwings

These are a few special birds that we are privileged to see here. Specialist guides, who know the habits and habitats of these birds, will do their utmost to get you a sighting of these birds in their natural environment.

Olive Bush Shrike (Ruddy form)
White Backed Night Heron
Black Harrier
Denhams Bustard
Narina Trogon

Whether you set out on a game drive, go on a guided walk or simply watch from your balcony, bird watching is such a relaxing activity. In order to get the most from your safari experience, we highly recommend that you come fully prepared with these items:

Binoculars
Bird reference book
Cameras and lenses
Personal notebook
Warm clothing

In collaboration with the Born Free Foundation, the Big Cat Rescue and Education Centres are situated within our game reserve. They aim to draw attention to the plight of wild cats, confined in impoverished, captive environments throughout the world.

It’s the mission of The Born Free Foundation, founded by actress and conservationist Virginia McKenna and her late husband Bill Travers, to ‘Keep Wildlife in the Wild’. Both Shamwari and Born Free aim to promote conservation and protect these species and their habitat, whilst maintaining a compassionate approach to the welfare of animals. The rescue and education centres home rescued lions and leopards from across the world and aim to be an enlightening experience for all visitors.

The Born Free Foundation is a UK based wildlife charity organisation that rescues animals from captivity and gives them lifetime care in spacious sanctuaries. The charity protects threatened species including lions, elephants, tigers, gorillas, wolves, bears, marine turtles and much more in their natural habitat. Working with local communities Born Free finds humane solutions to help people and wildlife live together without conflict.

Since its inception in 1984, it has grown and been backed by celebrities, conservationists and passionate institutions worldwide, like Shamwari Private Game Reserve.

At Shamwari Private Game Reserve we’re passionate about the conservation of nature and the animals within the reserve. One of our endeavours includes the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, which helps to rescue, rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned or orphaned animals under the care of our professional veterinary team. Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.

Guests staying at Shamwari have the opportunity to visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Shamwari partnered with Vulpro, which is the only vulture conservation organization of its kind on the continent, spearheading population restocking and supplementation to address the severe decline of African vulture species.

Vulpro @ Shamwari offers a safe, well-balanced ecosystem for both in-situ and ex-situ conservation programmes and provides financial support and sustainability. Importantly it limits risk because the largest captive breeding population of vultures isn’t concentrated in one location. In addition, Shamwari’s anti-poaching unit provides good security.

Guests staying at Shamwari have the opportunity to visit VulPro which is adjacent to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Escape to Shamwari Private Game Reserve and enjoy a safari spa experience in the wilderness surrounds of the Eastern Cape. Our spa retreats will leave you feeling revitalised and rejuvenated, with treatments that are proven to be beneficial for the mind, body and soul.

Shamwari spa treatments are the ideal way to unwind and each of our offerings are created for men and women. Our luxury wellness retreats are based at certain lodges, but treatments can be arranged for guests staying in any of our other luxury accommodations.

Eagles Crag has 2 treatments rooms, a hydro bath, sauna and steam room.

We have a host of safari spa treatments available to you should you make a booking at Shamwari’s Relaxation Retreats.

In addition to the available treatments, our luxury health retreats also have retail products on sale.

In addition to spectacular game drives, Shamwari Game Reserve also offers professionally guided walking tours. Here, you can gain a true perspective of the flora and fauna indigenous to the region. Your guide can point out animal tracks, dung, hiding spots, rare birds and educate you on the area and its history.

Unfortunately, no children under the age of 16 or adults over the age of 65 (unless provided with a doctor’s certificate of fitness) are permitted on these walks.