Shamwari Private Game Reserve's Conservation Efforts

Shamwari Private Game Reserve in South Africa is more than just a collection of beautiful lodges set against stunning surroundings; it is also a champion in conservation. With so many of our favourite and most famous African animals at risk, the reserve has programmes in place to raise awareness and conserve the many endangered species it is home to, including the Big 5 (elephant, leopard, rhino, lion and buffalo).

Shamwari works in conjuncture with a variety of organisations, the Born Free Foundation perhaps being one of the most famous. The Foundation works to raise awareness of wildlife living in impoverished conditions while in captivity and does so through various means with Shamwari. The reserve created the Born Free Foundation Animal Rescue and Education Centre as a way for guests to become better acquainted with the topic of cruelty to big cats and to visit some of those cats lucky enough to be rescued, in the 2 Big Cat Sanctuaries.

Big cats aren't the only beneficiaries of Shamwaris good work; there are also the many patients at the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. The centre aims to rehabilitate and return all animals treated back into the wild, providing first class veterinary care. Patients range from orphaned animals to those found injured or abandoned. They find a temporary home at the centre until they can recover full strength and be released or until they are old enough to take care of themselves.

The Centre practices what is known as the recovery phase, during which time recovering animals are kept in specially constructed bomas (enclosures). If there are any animals in recovery during a guests stay there is always the chance to visit them. From Giant eagle owls to caracals, patients at this animal hospital come in all shapes and sizes. There is no fee to enter the centre but a donation is always welcome.

In response to the growing crisis of rhino poaching, Shamwari recently opened The Ian Player Rhino Awareness Centre. Rhinos are already critically endangered, but the demand for their horn is pushing the species to the brink of extinction. For guests the Centre acts as a means of education, providing facts and information through 9 unique displays. Frightening statistics and powerful photographs convey a strong conservational message and show the impact of rhino poaching upon South Africa and its people.

The reserve is even going one step further to deter poachers, through their 'safari that makes a difference' campaign. This offers guests who donate a minimum of R100 per person per night discounted. Working alongside the Wilderness Foundation, Shamwari have now raised R1 million in the last 12 months, the proceeds of which will be ploughed back into the fight against rhino poaching and conserving the species.

Aside from its work with wildlife the reserve also takes steps to lower its carbon footprint, with a high tech central kitchen, which serves the lodges in the reserve fresh food every day and reduces any energy wastage as well. Combine this with a greenhouse, freshly grown vegetables and a worm farm to dispose of organic waste and the reserve boasts a considerable portfolio of eco and conservational policies. While retaining the essence of luxury through its stylishly designed lodges it is clear the reserve is doing its best to fly the banner of eco-tourism, conservation and a sustainable future.