Part of the world renowned Shamwari Group, Shamwari Game Reserve is one of the largest malaria-free Big Five private game reserves in the Eastern Cape, near Port Elizabeth and forms a natural extension to the breathtaking Garden Route. Shamwari is the flagship of the Shamwari Group and boasts five eco-systems which support many forms of plant, bird and animal life including the Big Five. 

Guests can enjoy six uniquely styled lodges; Eagles Crag, Bayethe Tented Lodge, Long Lee Manor, Riverdene Family Lodge, Sarili Lodge and the newly refurbished Villa Lobengula. Some are built into their natural surroundings while others are the living memory of settler history. The ‘Kids on Safari’ Program is designed to educate kids about wildlife, conservation and eco elements of the reserve. While kids are occupied, parents can enjoy their own game drives at leisure or pamper themselves at the Relaxation Retreat. 

The new Villa Lobengula, a holistic relaxation villa, offers a true haven of rejuvenation, relaxation and utter serenity. It has been designed for large families or intimate groups and offers just six suites, accommodating 12 people. This sole-use villa boasts a private guide, chef and host. Guests can meditate on the tranquil deck, rejuvenate with various holistic therapies and take full advantage of the private yoga studio. 

Also new is the Shamwari Explorer Camp which is a unique two-day walking safari experience amongst Big Five territory, while sleeping in mobile tents. Guests are accompanied by specialist guide Geran Ellish, who directs guests on the two-day walk. Explorer Camp accommodates six guests in total with three mobile tents and a mobile eco shower and toilet. Bush meals are uniquely prepared to accompany the outdoor experience while guests gather around the camp fire each night. 

The current winter special at all three Shamwari Group properties is 50 percent off standard rates on five-star accommodation at Shamwari Game Reserve, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve near Cape Town and Jock Safari Lodge situated in the Kruger National Park. This winter special is valid until September 2012 and in order to qualify guests must pay and book within seven days. 

Recently at Shamwari Game Reserve ‘The Ian Player Rhino Awareness Centre’, was opened which has been initiated as part of the Forever Wild campaign and due to the rhino devastation in South Africa. At the launch a cheque for R182 800 was presented by the Shamwari Group to the Wilderness Foundation, as a result of the Forever Wild campaign, to be used to raise public awareness and support law enforcement agencies with equipment for logistical and operational support etc.

Shamwari’s Forever Wild campaign offers a reduced rate at any of the Shamwari Group properties, and when guests donate R100 or more to the campaign Shamwari then donates R500 for each booking. 

iafrica.com and Shamwari are giving away a two-night stay for two people... all you have to do to stand a chance of winning is to fill in your details below!