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Shamwari Bayethe Tented Lodge

Shamwari Bayethe Lodge

The Eastern Cape Game Areas, South Africa

Shamwari Private Game Reserve is a solid choice for those looking for an introductory safari experience in the Eastern Cape. Bayethe Tented Lodge is set within this reserve, allowing you to experience life in the bush in comfort.

There are 12 indulgent tents, with canvas walls, thatched roofs and plunge pools. In addition to morning and evening game drives, Bayethe Tented Lodge offers a wide array of activities. There's a spa on site overlooking the river and optional walks and visits to the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary — this can be arranged with your lodge manager or game ranger.

OUR OPINION:

For those who want to experience the pioneering spirit of camping out in the bush, without compromising on the comforts of a modern lodge, Bayethe Tented Lodge is an excellent option, and game viewing directly at the lodge is exceptional.

OUR RATING: First Class

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Rooms

The 12 high-end tents are surrounded by trees which provide seclusion and privacy from other guests. All tents have either a king size bed or twin beds, minibar, hair dryer and en suite bathroom with an indoor bath and outdoor shower. The tents also have a private deck, plunge pool, fireplace and Wi-Fi. Most tents offer river or bush views, maintaining the connection with nature and providing an authentic bush atmosphere.

Location

Shamwari is a 250 sq km (96 sq mile) private game reserve located 45 minutes from Port Elizabeth along the Bushman’s River. The reserve boasts six unique lodges and an explorer camp, with Bayethe Tented Lodge being their sole luxury tented lodge. The private reserve largely comprises reclaimed farmland where game has now been reintroduced.

Food and drink

With all meals included, each morning starts with tea, coffee and rusks prior to the departure of your morning game drive. Upon your return, enjoy a large fresh spread of continental breakfast along with a variety of cooked-to-order hot dishes. Lunch includes a selection of à la carte items and dinner is a standard three-course table d’hôte menu. The staff can cater to any food allergies or aversions if notified in advance. Although the cuisine is not gourmet, meals are consistently fresh, nicely prepared and well presented by the courteous and attentive staff.

Families

Guests 12 years and older are welcomed at Bayethe Tented Lodge. Whilst this particular Shamwari property is not ideal for children, there are others on the reserve, such as Riverdene Family Lodge and Sarili Private Lodge, that have been designed specifically with the safety and comfort of families in mind.

Honeymooners

A luxurious Bayethe tent, with a special welcome from the lodge upon arrival, is a wonderful place to celebrate a honeymoon.

Facilities and activities

The lodge has internet access, a communal lounge area with TV, an outdoor deck with a swimming pool and a spa on site. A complimentary car wash is also available. 

Tour ideas in The Eastern Cape Game Areas

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at Shamwari Bayethe Lodge as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.

    The Eastern Cape Game Areas and nearby places