Situated in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, the Garden Route safari parkshave established themselves as rivals to Africa’s traditional safari destinations in a relatively short space of time. They offer visitors an excellent opportunity to combine a Garden Route beach holiday with the adventures of a Big Five safari encounter on any one of our Cape Town, Garden Route and Game Reserve tour.
Steeped in history, the early settlers hunted the local wildlife of the area to near extinction, trading ivory tusks throughout the Cape Colony. As conservation efforts took hold over 70 years ago, the first Garden Route safari park called “The Addo Elephant Park” was formed.
Today, the area is a bastion for conservation and boasts a number of world class Garden Route safari parks.These reserves have re-introduced the indigenous wildlife, fauna and flora to the region and most offer Big 5 experiences.
The excellen…
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Situated in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, the Garden Route safari parkshave established themselves as rivals to Africa’s traditional safari destinations in a relatively short space of time. They offer visitors an excellent opportunity to combine a Garden Route beach holiday with the adventures of a Big Five safari encounter on any one of our Cape Town, Garden Route and Game Reserve tour.
Steeped in history, the early settlers hunted the local wildlife of the area to near extinction, trading ivory tusks throughout the Cape Colony. As conservation efforts took hold over 70 years ago, the first Garden Route safari park called “The Addo Elephant Park” was formed.
Today, the area is a bastion for conservation and boasts a number of world class Garden Route safari parks.These reserves have re-introduced the indigenous wildlife, fauna and flora to the region and most offer Big 5 experiences.
The excellent road infrastructure and air access allows clients to either fly to the nearby Port Elizabeth airport or self-drive to these safari parks from the Garden Route. Should you be looking for a self-drive Garden Route and Game reserve holiday, rental cars can be left at Port Elizabeth airport to avoid a return road trip should you prefer.
Shamwari Game Reserveis the flagship 5-star Eastern Cape safari park and has effectively put this destination on the safari map. Lalibela Tree Topshas authentic canvas tented suites, ideal for honeymooners. Amakhala Lodgeis a family friendly and boasts active cheetah population, whilst Kariega Main Lodgeis exceptionally family friendly offering big-5 safaris as well as walking, mountain bike trails and river cruises. Small group travel of 6 or less should consider hiring Hopewell Lodgeon an exclusive use basis.
With the extensive array safari lodges available, please be sure to discuss the best options with your consultant.
Shamwari Safari Holiday
At the forefront of conservation in the area is Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Established to bring the public’s attention to wild animals that are confined in impoverished conditions, the Born Free Foundation has been able to rescue several big cats (and other animals) from situations where they are in serious danger. Guests on a Shamwari safari holiday are able to see some of these rescued animals at the Born Free Foundation Animal Rescue and Education Centre.
Please note: technically speaking, the safari destinations mentioned above are not on the Garden Route, however they are in close enough proximity to combine easily with a Garden Route holiday.
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