Shamwari Long Lee Manor

“An Unforgettable Luxury Safari Experience”

Our stay here was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, it was clear we were stepping into absolute luxury. The main reception and shop area were beautifully designed, and the accommodation itself—large, elegant bungalows—felt like something out of a dream. Our own bungalow ov… more

Our stay here was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we arrived, it was clear we were stepping into absolute luxury. The main reception and shop area were beautifully designed, and the accommodation itself—large, elegant bungalows—felt like something out of a dream. Our own bungalow overlooked the safari plains, and one afternoon we returned to find giraffes grazing right up to the boundary. Moments like that made the experience truly magical. With only a small number of guests on-site, the service felt incredibly personal. We were two families travelling with teenagers, and every single minute was a joy. Yes, it is expensive, but once you’re there, you immediately understand the value—every detail is thoughtfully crafted, and it is worth every penny. Meal times were a highlight in their own right. The quality, variety, and presentation were exceptional, and every dish was delicious. We also had our own safari guide who took us on two game drives each day. We travelled across varied terrain and saw an astonishing range of wildlife—everything except leopard. The sightings we did have were breathtaking, and the knowledge our guide shared was unbelievable. These memories will stay with us forever. Thoughtful touches made the experience even more special: hot water bottles and blankets for the early morning drives, and in April we definitely needed woolly hats and hoodies. Evening drives were just as magical, with stunning sunsets and lamping activities to spot nocturnal animals. Once the sun dipped, the temperature dropped quickly, so warm layers were essential. Our accommodation, our guide, the drives—every aspect was unbeatable. Pure luxury from start to finish.

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“Amazing, wonderful, cannot recommend highly enough !”

Booked a 2 night stay as the last 2 nights of a 2 week garden route trip to SA as a special treat as I'm 60 in a week or so. Difficult to describe this place, it really is something very special, to say it has the wow factor is a massive understatement. From the moment we arrived all of the staff ,… more

Booked a 2 night stay as the last 2 nights of a 2 week garden route trip to SA as a special treat as I'm 60 in a week or so. Difficult to describe this place, it really is something very special, to say it has the wow factor is a massive understatement. From the moment we arrived all of the staff , from reception to gardeners, kitchen staff to room attendants ,treated us like royalty, they make everyone feel special and always greet you with a big smile and they could not do enough to make our stay something that we will remember forever. We had a garden room and within 5 minutes of grabbing a drink from the mini bar (All inclusive like everything else !) and sitting outside our room on the large patio area we saw about 15 giraffe and a family of warthogs walk by ! The food, from breakfast to dinner was fine dining with wines to match. We did 4 game drives while we were there and can only say we were amazed and frankly emotional with what we saw, we were so close in our open vehicles. Difficult to summarise but we saw 4 of the big 5 (no Leopard unfortunately but they are exceedingly elusive !). We saw an Elephant chase away a lion and lioness, from about 15 feet we saw 2 male lions having a difference of opinion which really brought home how big, strong and dangerous they are. We saw a Cheetah and her 5 cubs and watched for ages while she stalked some Impala, it was truly riveting ! We saw a lion family, a lioness, her 2 year old daughter and 5 lion cubs and father..all from so close. We saw several white Rhino and their young. Special mention to our Ranger Karien, she was fantastic, so knowledgeable and passionate about the animals, the insects, the plants, everything ! She gladly answered all questions (and there were lots of questions thrown at her !) and although she knew the answer to most questions she made a point of coming back later to answer anything she wasn't sure about, she really was superb. We don't usually visit places twice because we like to try new places but I will be returning, simply the best !

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“Just like the elephants; we will never forget this adventure”

Just back from our South Africa tour and adventure. People ask what was the most memorable moment and I have no hesitation. It was during our stay at this superb game reserve and our encounter with elephants. My dearest wish had been to see them and by day 3, I'd almost given up hope. But just … more

Just back from our South Africa tour and adventure. People ask what was the most memorable moment and I have no hesitation. It was during our stay at this superb game reserve and our encounter with elephants. My dearest wish had been to see them and by day 3, I'd almost given up hope. But just 15 minutes into our morning drive and we stopped at a watering hole when one elephant came down the slope; quickly followed by at least 30 others. And don't believe it when people suggest a herd of elephants are noisy. They're not. They crept upon us. We saw so many incredible animals - cheetah brothers, a family of lions, giraffes, hippos, zebra. springbok and rhinos. Our guide Karien was amazing. She told us that safari was a game of hide and seek that demanded patience. Karien was undoubtedly modest as her knowledge and skills played a key role. She was amazing and so thoughtful. On a day-drive, we were at risk of sunburn so she detoured to a neighbouring lodge to collect sunscreen and repellent. She also packed the most amazing lunch that we enjoyed under an old tree. Within the 25k reserve, there is a rehabilitation centre where we met the orphaned baby rhino who had been 'fostered' by a sheep plus the famous Born Free conservation centre. Words cannot describe the Manor. Our room was enormous with an external patio, the most comfy beds, well stocked bar, decadent bathroom and even an outside shower. Food was five star+, prepared with care and served with joy by beautiful people. We were even treated to an impromptu performance of South African music and dance. This wasn't a holiday. It was the experience of a lifetime.

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“Drop everything and go now!”

There’s no question that the accommodations at Long Lee Manor are impeccable but it’s the hospitality that makes it a truly memorable destination. From the warmth of Obi and LizeMarie at reception to the culinary delights of Richard’s staff both in the dining room as well as in the bush, they don’t… more

There’s no question that the accommodations at Long Lee Manor are impeccable but it’s the hospitality that makes it a truly memorable destination. From the warmth of Obi and LizeMarie at reception to the culinary delights of Richard’s staff both in the dining room as well as in the bush, they don’t miss a mark. The true gem, however, is the Rangers. Our group of 15 was deftly led by Odie and Mino on 6 thrilling, educational and diverse game drives. Individually their expertise can not be overstated but their cohesion working as a team (you too Abel!) allowed our family to have unforgettable experiences that created life long memories for all three generations. Their knowledge isn’t just of flora and fauna but also biology, geology, astronomy and ecology. The conservation aspect at Shamwari permeates the experience. Visiting Glen at Born Free and Thaba at the rehabilitation center were unexpected bonuses that showed us how each of us can continue to be a part of supporting their efforts in eradicating animal cruelty and understanding the cycle of life in the bush. From 8-80 years old we were not only catered to but offered unique insights and views appropriate for each of us. This includes physical accommodations as well as educational…there’s nothing they don’t consider when it comes to meeting the needs of their guests. 10/10 will be back again!

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