Shamwari Private Game Reserve Joins Rare Finds by Kerzner International
- EDITOR
- 2 hours ago
- 4 min read
The iconic South African Sanctuary enters a new chapter in experiential luxury
Shamwari Private Game Reserve, a 25,000-hectare wilderness sanctuary in South Africa's Eastern Cape, enters a new era as a Rare Finds Resort under the management of Kerzner International (“Kerzner”) on 1 April 2026. Owned by Investment Corporation of Dubai (“ICD”), the Game Reserve's Hospitality Division and sales for Shamwari Air, the property's dedicated private aviation service, is now managed by Kerzner, inviting guests to experience the coveted Big 5 wildlife for an unparalleled experience.
Home to a diverse ecosystem of over 5,000 animals and 275 bird species, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is defined by a deep-rooted commitment to wildlife conservation, community engagement, restoration, and responsible tourism. Stretching over a vast, malaria-free landscape, the Game Reserve features 62 keys within six distinct lodges and an Explorer Camp, each offering a unique immersion into the Eastern Cape's ecological diversity. Whisking travelers to the heart of the wilderness in under two hours, Shamwari Air Shuttle offers private charter service upon request from Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Rare Finds focuses on celebrating the authentic soul and individual identity of their destination and unlocks exceptional places through a lens of discovery, ensuring that each property remains a true reflection of its local heritage. Through curated, personalized, and narrative-led experiences, the brand transforms each stay into a storied memory.
“Shamwari Private Game Reserve marks a defining addition to Rare Finds, embodying a new era of safari where conservation, cultural connection, and immersive discovery exist in perfect harmony,” says Mattheos Georgiou, Senior Vice President of Rare Finds and SIRO at Kerzner International. “We are deeply honored to build on Shamwari's extraordinary legacy as a pioneer in wildlife conservation and community stewardship, preserving its authenticity while thoughtfully enhancing the guest experience. Through Rare Finds, we bring exceptional destinations into the Kerzner ecosystem, connecting them to a global audience while remaining true to their individual spirit. Shamwari's official inclusion reflects our commitment to curating places of true significance, where purpose and place come together to create transformative journeys, delivered with the soul, precision, and service excellence that define Kerzner on the world stage.”
From the pulse of the Big 5 sightings to the educational Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries, Rhino Haven Project and rescue initiatives, and Vulture Breeding Programme, the property offers an enriching hub for families to connect with nature and learn more about the different conservation and sustainability programmes. The Game Reserve offers an immersive nature-led multi-generational adventure, inviting the youngest explorers to witness the magic of the wild firsthand, with children aged three and over permitted on guided game drives.
The different lodges are designed to cater to various audiences; from couples, multi-generational families, and group getaways, the different settings blend comfort and excitement for all kinds of adventures. The Game Reserve's culinary offerings throughout the six luxury lodges and the explorer walking trails camp offer indoor and outdoor dining experiences, celebrating social connection through a vibrant mix of flavors to suit all palates in stunning settings. Whether enjoying a sunrise breakfast in the bush or a sundowner overlooking the serene lakes, every meal is served against sweeping views that immerse guests in the vast sanctuary.
Each luxury lodge features its own dedicated wellness offering, ranging from a tranquil spa to intimate treatment rooms designed for restoration after a day in the bush. The property also features spaces for meetings and intimate events, along with a Kids' Adventure Centre. The Kids' Adventure Centre offers indoor and outdoor activities for children of all ages.
Joe Cloete, who has been with Shamwari for 34 years, leads the team as the Chief Executive Officer and will drive the purpose and renewed strategy of the Game Reserve forward. Joe says, “We are very excited about our collaboration with Rare Finds as we continue to enhance the guest journey and interactive experience at Shamwari under the Kerzner International umbrella. It is our people who define the soul of Shamwari, and we are committed to preserving and celebrating that together.”
The transition of Shamwari Private Game Reserve to a Rare Finds is a testament to Kerzner's expertise to lead iconic properties with an innovative spirit....
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