Overlooking the magnificent plains of Shamwari you’ll find the exquisite Long Lee Manor. The malaria-free Big 5 game reserve is easily accessible from Port Elizabeth Airport (Gqeberha) in the Eastern Cape. The original Manor was built in 1910, and has been lovingly restored and redesigned; to redefine elegance in nature.
The main guest areas include a large rim-flow swimming pool with a poolside bar and a lovely dining room with both in and outdoor seating. In addition, there is also a gift shop, spa, fitness center, and teen play zone. There is an electric perimeter fence around the property.
Sumptuously prepared meals are enjoyed in the main dining room or around the open blazing fire at the boma overlooking a waterhole.
The opulent Long Lee Manor has 17 x air conditioned Edwardian-styled rooms / suites sleeping a maximum of 2 x adults:
4 x Garden Rooms with veranda. The rooms are conveniently inter leading. Therefore, great for families as well as friends and groups traveling together. 11 x Plains Rooms with veranda and outdoor shower (2 x inter-leading of which one can accommodate a wheelchair) 2 x Manor House Suites situated upstairs in the historic manor house dating back to 1910. The suites exude luxury. With balconies overlooking the stupendous rim-flow pool and impressive waterhole.
In addition, there is 1 x Family Suite with 2 en suite bedrooms, a living room, and a private plunge pool. This suite sleeps a maximum of 4 x adults and 2 x children (8 – 11 years). Family time is uninterrupted with unspoiled views of the surrounding plains.
All of the accommodation is tastefully designed to enhance its location; while the Manor House has been lovingly restored to pay homage to the area’s rich heritage, adding a bit of romance to any stay. WiFi is available throughout the lodge. The rooms and suites also include a Nespresso coffee machine, telephone, mini bar, hairdryer, electronic safe, a television with selected satellite channels, and a private patio or balcony.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor Family Safari
Children aged 6 and over are welcome at Long Lee Manor where there is a small games room. They also have the chance to run wild at The Kid’s Adventure Center at Riverdene Family Lodge.
Visits to the Born Free Foundation Big Cat Rescue Center are focused on promoting the conservation of species and the protection of habitat whilst maintaining a humane and compassionate approach to the welfare of animals.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor Activities
The dominant vegetation type in this area is the thicket biome and more specifically known as the Albany Thicket. This biome sustains and bolsters a healthy population of animal species including kudu, elephants, black rhinos, monkeys, and bush buck. The Addo flightless dung beetle, is another conservation success story. This is unique to the Eastern Cape. A recent discovery was made of the Albany Adder which is a puff adder snake endemic to this area. Spekboom and Spike Thorn trees are also specific to this biome.
Things to do at Shamwari ↓
Game Drives and Walks
Game viewing drives are available for morning and afternoon trips; as this is when the animals are most active. The vehicles are open and comfortable and give you a panoramic view of the area. You’ll be guided by a trained game ranger who’ll take you through the reserve, encountering many animals along the way; including the rare Black Rhino. The game drives last for approximately 3 to 4 hours; including a coffee stop for the morning drive and a sun downer stop in the evening.
In addition to spectacular game drives; Shamwari Private Game Reserve also offers professionally guided bush walks. Rangers share their intimate knowledge of the reserve and their own expert insights; to make each natural encounter a special event. Here, you can gain a true perspective of the fauna and flora indigenous to the region. You may see a herd of wild buffalo but the tiny ox peckers on their backs are the real conservation success. Your guide can also point out animal tracks, dung, and birds. Plus educate you on the area and its rich history.
Birding
Shamwari Private Game Reserve has several bodies of water located throughout the reserve; which means it’s the ideal opportunity to catch sight of the teeming bird life; from tiny feathered friends to majestic birds of prey. Birds of prey include: 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
The rangers are knowledgeable about the various bird species residing in the reserve, and will happily share their insights with guests. At the moment there are more than 275 different bird species at Shamwari for guests to spot.
There is an abundance of special birds that we are privileged to see at Shamwari. 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. Some of these are: Olive Bush Shrike (Ruddy form) White Backed Night Heron Black Harrier Denhams Bustard Narina Trogon
Visits to the Conservation and Rehabilitation Centers
Shamwari takes great pride in their wildlife conservation and rehabilitation efforts. The reserve is home to a Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. As well as two Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries. To gain valuable insights into the work that goes into caring for abandoned, young, injured or orphaned animals and the plight of captive and confined wild cats respectively, be sure to stop by for a visit.
The latest addition to Shamwari’s conservation efforts is the vulture conservation project. Vultures are vital for a healthy ecosystem. However, they are severely threatened. Shamwari is now home to sick or injured vultures which have been rehabilitated and are able to breed. The Cape Vulture offspring will be released at Shamwari in keeping with its ethos of restoring the indigenous fauna and flora on the reserve. To what it once was.
These visits are included in your stay and no entry fees are required.
Getting to Shamwari Private Game Reserve
The nearest airport is Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Shamwari makes an ideal starting or ending point for self-drive Garden Route tours. We can arrange private road transfers or charter flights; for an additional fee when booked with your accommodation.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor Accommodation Rates
Manor House Suite
Adult Sharing
Single Adult
Child
1st April to 30th September 2024
R14 875
R19 340
R7 440
1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025
R19 380
R25 195
R9 690
1st April to 30th September 2025
R17 100
R22 230
R8 550
1st October 2025 until 31st March 2026
R21 320
R27 715
R10 660
Plains Rooms
Adult Sharing
Single Adult
Child
1st April to 30th September 2024
R13 110
R17 045
R6 555
1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025
R17 940
R23 320
R8 970
1st April to 30th September 2025
R15 080
R19 600
R7 540
1st October 2025 until 31st March 2026
R19 730
R25 650
R9 865
Garden Rooms
Adult Sharing
Single Adult
Child
1st April to 30th September 2024
R12 590
R16 365
R6 295
1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025
R17 220
R22 385
R8 610
1st April to 30th September 2025
R14 480
R18 825
R7 240
1st October 2025 until 31st March 2026
R18 940
R24 620
R9 470
Family Suite
Per unit per night – 4 adults / 2 children (6 – 11 years old)
1st April to 30th September 2024
R54 785
1st October 2024 until 31st March 2025
R71 740
1st April to 30th September 2025
R64 640
1st October 2025 until 31st March 2026
R80 350
Rates are per night.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor accepts children from 6 years old.
Rates include: Accommodation, meals, selected local beverages, game drives, guided walks, tourism levy, and 15% VAT. Rates exclude: French Champagne and premium branded beverages, transfers, laundry, gift boutique purchases, spa treatment and retail, and conservation levy.
Shamwari Long Lee Manor Accommodation Special Offers
The below special offers are valid from 1st May – 30th September every year.
Long Stay Discount – 10% on accommodation for 4 nights at Shamwari. Or a 15% discount on 6 or more nights. Combine the lodges for a great all-round experience at Shamwari. Sole Use Offer – Book all the rooms at Shamwari Long Lee Manor for 2 nights; and receive one room free of charge.
Which Shamwari lodge to choose:
Sindile – Ultimate tented luxury (no kids) Long Lee Manor – Gracious Edwardian Living Bayethe – Contemporary tented living (no kids) Sarili Private Lodge – exclusive-use safari lodge (Private Villa) Riverdene Family Lodge – Family Relaxation Eagles Crag – Secluded luxury (no kids)
Shamwari Safari Honeymoon
A honeymoon at Shamwari is the perfect place to start your new life with your partner. The luxury lodges of Shamwari are nestled in the African bush. The ideal place to unwind after the whirlwind of a wedding. With the unsurpassed beauty of nature and the comfort of luxury, we can guarantee an unforgettable honeymoon experience.
The friendly and dedicated staff are committed to making your stay exceptional. With a choice between five magnificent lodges, you will be able to find your oasis. As one of the top rated honeymoon destinations, Shamwari is made for a romantic getaway.
The honeymoon package includes the following provided guest stay a minimum of 3 nights stay.
Romantic turn down with some treats Private Dinner on one of the nights One Guided Bush Walk A treatment voucher for the Spa.
Shamwari Bayethe Lodge is a luxury tented camp in the Shamwari Private Game Reserve; a malaria-free, private game reserve in the Eastern Cape – the best rates and offers
Shamwari Sarili Private Lodge is a malaria-free luxury lodge from where you and your family and friends can watch Africa’s iconic Big Five – Exclusive Use safari
Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve is a luxury boutique hotel on the coast of the Eastern Cape – South Africa luxury bush and beach holiday, honeymoon or wedding