Shamwari Riverdene

• Shamwari was the first malaria-free game reserve in the Eastern Cape
• Shamwari Riverdene combines colonial elegance with modern comforts
• Riverdene is a child-friendly game lodge, great for families with young kids
• Superb Big Five game-viewing on the 20,000ha reserve
• Visit the Born Free Foundation, a breeding and conservation project on Shamwari

Shamwari remains at the forefront of conservation in the Eastern Cape area. This beautiful 20,000ha malaria-free reserve is situated in the verdant bush along the Bushmans River. Luxury accommodation is offered at different game lodges on the reserve, quite diverse in their appearance. Being malaria-free, Shamwari offers an ideal family safari experience. Shamwari Riverdene offers child-friendly accommodation and activities.

Accommodation

Riverdene Lodge is a restored settler’s lodge with 4 separate family suites all with satellite TV, telephone and small lounge area. Each comes with its own private guide and vehicle. One is a 3-bedroom family suite, with one bedroom equipped to accommodate a wheelchair. This has a maximum capacity of 9 guests: six adults and three children, accommodated on sleeper couches. There are also 3 two-bedroom family suites with a maximum capacity of 4 adults and two children under 12, also accommodated on sleeper couches..

The public area of Riverdene includes two elegantly furnished casual lounges, a sun room and a rimflow swimming pool with sun deck and poolside bar. Shamwari Riverdene serves exquisite cuisine, which you can enjoy in the dining room, in the spacious outdoor barbeque area or the boma with its stunning views over the Bushmans River. which you can enjoy in the dining room or in the braai area.

There’s also a supervised playroom, spacious lawns and a jungle gym for children to enjoy – see below.

Kids on Safari – Family travel at Riverdene

Riverdene is the family-friendly lodge at Shamwari and welcomes children of all ages, and allows children that are four years old and over to join their parents on a game drive due to specially adapted game vehicles with higher canvas sides for extra safety. (For the youngsters under 4 child minders are available at an additional cost.)

Upon arrival all kids age 4 – 11 years will receive a Kids on Safari backpack filled with goodies to take with on game drive, and their special children’s co-ordinator discusses activities with each family.

Riverdene is newly renovated with a wonderful kids club for games, toys and arts and crafts, and features a one-of-a-kind outdoor Adventure Centre to keep children of all ages entertained. From elevated walkways among the trees to ziplines and climbing walls.

Visits to the Born Free Rescue Centre and Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is another great way for kids to grow their conservation knowledge.

The Born Free Foundation promotes the conservation of endangered species and the protection of habitat whilst maintaining a compassionate approach to the welfare of animals. Children also love to visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and also the Film studio to interact with the animals and also to learn more about how wildlife documentaries are made. This typically happens after breakfast.