Shamwari Game Reserve

You can't visit South Africa without visiting at least one or two game farms during your stay. Lucky for those of us in the Eastern Cape, we have plenty to choose from all around us. Shamwari is one of the "fancier" game reserves. They offer daily game drives from knowledgeable game rangers who will undoubtedly teach you a whole bunch of interesting things that you didn't know before. You can expect to spot an array of interesting wildlife along the way, of course. You can also drive around yourself, but there is no doubt that a professional guide will contribute significantly to the experience.

I had an amazing stay here. The accommodations were incredible with a pool in our back yard over looking a watering hole inhabbited by wild boar and other animals. The staff was top notch and the food delicious. We got to see every animal except the leopard. Elephants walked over to our car and blew air in our face, we saw lions eating a kudo feet away from our car, and we saw an endangered fox- to name a few of the highlights

The reserve has won endless awards for its safaris and its conservation. Its many difference lodges and camps offer everything from colonial grandeur to tented escapism. And throughout it runs the ethos of combining incredible safari experiences with a total commitment to conservation. Unlike many safari companies, they also have a very detailed and engaging programme for younger children - making it an ideal place for wildlife loving families too.