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Shamwari Explorer Camp

For the adventurous at heart who are not too concerned about life’s luxuries, indulge yourself in the essence of nature in this authentic African bush experience at Shamwari Explorer Camp in the Eastern Cape. The Explorer Camp is discreetly fenced for safety reasons and is offered as a 2 or 3-night expedition, available seasonally from October to May. Three tents are located in a magical bush setting and facilities include a viewing deck, plunge pool, and dining lounge. Wake up to coffee served in front of your tent and enjoy culinary campfire feasts under the stars. There is a portable bar to enjoy your drink of choice out on the viewing deck. This incredible Eastern Cape safari experience is completely off the grid, allowing guests to get in touch with nature and learn about the fundamentals of wildlife and the reserve.

The experience takes you on a guided walking safari around the game reserve and offers an excellent chance to see and photograph the Big 5, giraffe, zebra, hippo, jackal, and a diverse community of antelope. All guided walking safaris and activities at Shamwari Explorer Camp are led by passionate and highly experienced game rangers offering you a wealth of information while tracking wildlife and discovering the reserve.

Conveniently accessible at only a 45-minute drive from Port Elizabeth, the exclusive 5-star Shamwari Game Reserve is an ideal inclusion at the end of your Garden Route travel itinerary. This private game reserve boasts 7000 hectares of beguiling landscapes over 5 of South Africa’s 8 biomes. The rich and diverse vegetation makes the landscape an ideal habitat for varied wildlife and an impressive selection of birdlife. In addition to the Explorer Camp, Shamwari is home to a collection of 5-star luxury lodge; Eagles Crag, Bayethe Tented Lodge, Sarili Lodge, Long Lee Manor and the Riverdene Family Lodge .

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Game Drives:

Game drives take place twice a day in the early mornings and afternoons for a duration of 3-4 hours.
Game drives are led by an experienced guide.
Night drives and guided bush walk are permitted.
6-seater vehicles.
10-seater vehicles at Riverdene family lodge.

Wildlife:

Shamwari is a Big-5 reserve and is home to the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino.
Other wildlife include giraffe, hippo, zebra, cheetah and a variety of antelope species and more.
275 bird species, including rare birds and birds of prey.
Leopard sighting are rare in any eastern cape game reserve.

Activities & Facilities:

Walking Safari
Bird watching
Tracking game
Learning the fundamentals
Stargazing
Campfire
Swimming pool

Highlights:

Unique walking experience to discover the region’s rich natural history, from birding and cultural heritage to thrilling Big 5 encounters.
The walking trails are hosted and guided by an armed qualified walking guides.
The camp is located on a plateau set amongst sandstone extrusions.
3 x canvas tents with two single beds (king convertible).
Culinary feasts are served around the campfire or in the dining tent.
Unwind in your hammock or by the plunge pool, catch up on some rest, or simply soak in the beauty of nature.
Distances walked vary each day, but can last up to 4 hours.
A game viewing vehicle remains in camp should the trail for the day not depart directly from camp.
The camp operates September to May.

Location:

Located in the Eastern Cape, along South Africa’s east coast.

Getting There:

The closest commercial airport is Port Elizabeth (PLZ).
Shamari Game Reserve is a 50 minute drive from Port Elizabeth.
Flight time from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 10 minutes
Flight time from Johannesburg to Port Elizabeth: 1 hour 35 minutes

Inclusions & Exclusions:

Included: Walking activities, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.

Child Policy:

Explorer Camp welcomes guests from 16 – 65 years.
Guests over 65 may be able to participate with a ‘fit to participate’ certificate.

Rates:

The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
Rates are charged per person, per night.
Single supplement of 30% applicable.
Rates displayed are valid until 31 May 2025.

Seasons:

The camp operates September to May.

Accommodation Options

Tented Camp

Sleeps 2 Adults

Tents are comfortable and equipped with all the modern amenities required. The tents feature 2 single beds (or one king), en suite bathroom with a shower, and all the other essentials such as shower gel, shampoo and insect repellent.