Owner’s Introduction

“I had always dreamt that one day I would own my own piece of Africa and with my heart firmly set on restoring the overgrazed Eastern Cape land, this dream became a reality in 1992 when I opened the then 12 000 hectare Shamwari Game Reserve.

With Shamwari, I was able to share the joy of South Africa’s incredible wildlife with local and foreign tourists alike and soon it became a profitable conservation project, giving back to the earth so dear to me.  As it became more popular, I felt the need to keep a little piece of this jewel for family getaways.  During my time of ownership, I held onto a section of the farm and used it only as a secluded retreat with full transversing rights over the now, 20 000 hectare, Shamwari Game Reserve.

It’s this 400 hectare piece of picturesque private land that I still own (after selling the Game Reserve in 2008) and wish to share with those who choose to adventure through the African wilderness and share my dream.

Named the Founder’s Lodge, this unique experience will become available to guests mid-2016.  The character-filled old farmhouse on this distinct piece of land is a link to something my team and I created.    I love the breath-taking views across the cliffs, valleys and sprawling natural bushveld.  And with the conscious decision not to re-introduce the bigger more dangerous animals to this property, I know that guests will enjoy the spectacular walking expeditions and bird-watching experiences on offer together with BIG 5  game drives on Shamwari.

I am excited to share my dream – it’s sure to be a special safari experience like no other.”

Accommodation

To maintain the intimate and personal character of the experience, there are only six private suites. Either off the courtyard or forming part of the home, they all allow access to the many comforts on offer. 4 Contemporary Suites lead from the courtyard, while the 2 Traditional Suites are located in the original residence.

All Suites feature a private veranda, offering breathtaking views across the cliffs, valleys and sprawling natural bushveld.

Every Suite at Founders Lodge offers maximum comfort and privacy for quality rest and relaxation.

Master Suite

Heritage Suite

Contemporary Suite

Features

Amenities

Game Drives

A “must-do” for any visitor to South Africa, game drives provide the perfect opportunity to observe African wildlife in their natural habitat. Nowhere else in the world is one treated to such a variety of animal and birdlife, each one beautiful, unique and perfectly adapted to its environment.

Founders Lodge is located just 50m from the entrance to Shamwari Game Reserve, one of the largest private conservation initiatives in South Africa. The Reserve is home to Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, lion, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) as well as 5 of the 7 biomes of South Africa, which allows for a large concentration and variety of wildlife.

Daily game drives with professional guides provide countless sightings of diurnal (day-time) animals, while the more elusive nocturnal animals are discovered during the evening drives. Sundowner drinks at sunset and coffee/tea at sunrise add an extra special touch.

Guided Walks

Qualified guides provide the opportunity for guests to experience the excitement of tracking, as well as identifying birds, insects and plants.  These walks are restricted to the 400 hectare Founders reserve, which is free of predators and dangerous animals, to allow for more freedom of movement.

Dining

Guests are treated to delicious traditional South African fare with a modern gourmet twist.

Our chef makes use of fresh seasonal ingredients and menus are changed regularly.  Meals are served outside as often as possible in the boma or at our bush picnic venue. For those days when a more comfortable environment is required, meals are either served in the dining room or on the dining terrace.

Founders Lodge is a place built on meaningful memory, and offers visitors the special opportunity to make time spent in the African outdoors equally memorable.

Travel Advice

Directions to Founders Lodge

Follow the N2 east out of Port Elizabeth, heading towards Grahamstown bypassing the R342 turn-off. Continue along the N2 until you reach a sign board Founder’s Lodge on the Sidbury road. Turn left on the gravel road and follow this road until you reach a T-junction. At the T-junction, turn left you travel only 500m and you will turn left again and follow sign boards to Founder’s Lodge.
Please be aware that South Africa has introduced strict immigration regulations when it comes to travelling with children. Please ensure that you are carrying the correct documentation when travelling as a family.

See & Do

A must-do for any visitor to South Africa, game drives provide the perfect opportunity to observe African wildlife in their natural habitat.  Nowhere else in the world is one treated to such a variety of animal and birdlife, each one beautiful, unique and perfectly adapted to its environment.

Founders Lodge is located just 50m from the entrance to Shamwari Game Reserve, one of the largest private conservation initiatives in South Africa.  The Reserve is home to Africa’s Big 5 (elephant, lion, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) as well as 5 of the 7 biomes of South Africa, which allows for a large concentration and variety of wildlife.

Daily game drives with professional guides provide countless sightings of diurnal (day-time) animals, while the more elusive nocturnal animals are discovered during the evening drives.  Sundowner drinks at sunset and coffee/tea at sunrise add an extra special touch.

Children under the age of 4 years are not permitted to join game drives.

“We can’t take credit for having made the reservation at Founders Lodge. It was the very strong recommendation of our Africa-based travel agent. And boy, are we ever glad that he did so!
This place demonstrated the very best of South Africa’s hospitality and tourism industry: luxurious accommodation, quality gastronomy and experiences in the Shamwari Game Reserve that we could scarcely believe.” –bytowntraveler

“Founders is magical….pure relaxation…and every need has been catered for! absolutely pure class! Fantastic food and the hosts Vicky and Wayne are a cut above the rest! should you want to get away from it all and experience something different…Founders has it all!”  –Carmen C

“Everything so good!!!! You been treating like royal from the first moment until the last. The food are really outstanding and the hospitality out of this world. Game drives are good and the guide very knowledgeable. I saw a lot of cats and always a highlight. Wish i could take my family.” –Marlie D