Ready to streamline your arrival at Shamwari Private Game Reserve in South Africa? Just in time for the new year, the property introduced air shuttle service aboard a 16-seat Beechcraft 1900D to its private airstrip, with direct links to Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport (two hours and 12 minutes travel time) and Cape Town International Airport (one hour and 45 minutes travel time).

© Daron Chatl

“The Shamwari Air Shuttle gives people their time back. It provides a convenient and time-efficient way for guests to reach us without spending hours at airports,” said Joe Cloete, CEO, Shamwari. “Their safari experience starts on the aircraft, and the short transfer doubles as a game drive. It means visitors can now enjoy their full stay without having to cut it short to fit commercial flight schedules.”

Named the Global winner for Best Luxury Private Game Reserve in Southern Africa and Luxury All-Inclusive Lodge at the World Luxury Travel Awards 2025, and Regional Winner for Best Luxury Tented Safari Camp, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is also one of South Africa’s largest malaria-free Big Five private reserves. Spread across 25,000 hectares in the Eastern Cape region, all of the property’s 5-star lodges — including Eagles Crag, Bayethe, Long Lee Manor, Riverdene Family Lodge, Sarili Private Villa and Sindile Tented Lodge — have undergone extensive refurbishments, adding to a true luxury experience.

© Daron Chatl

While there, guests can experience projects such as the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries and the Vulture Breeding Programme with VulPro. “All of which,” said Karla Pienaar, foundation manager, Shamwari, “show our work up close. The new air service means guests spend less time travelling and more time seeing conservation in action. Many are already extending their stays to take part in our initiatives.”