Riverdene Lodge, Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Location

Described as a ‘restored frontier homestead’, Riverdene Lodge is a substantial, solid lodge, located behind reassuring fences. Situated approximately two hours from Port Elizabeth by car, Riverdene Lodge lies within a 25,000-hectare game reserve, Shamwari, one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa.

Accommodation

Rooms are configured of nine Luxury rooms, accommodating a maximum of two adults sharing with one child and the option of sleeper couches (subject to availability). Seven of the nine rooms are inter-leading, composed of six twin bedded and three twin bedded with sleeper couches. All rooms include en-suite features, private patio areas televisions, electronic safes and air conditioning.

Dining

Menus are varied, often based upon a set menu with options ranging from pork and noodles to grilled bush meat or a buffet. Meals are served in the spacious dining room, or the magnificent stone boma, overlooking the Bushmans River. On some nights, the lodges lounge opens to an outdoor barbeque area offer al-fresco dinners.

Facilities

Boasting a focus on children, Riverdene Lodge is an obvious choice for a family safari, with a swimming pool, large playground and playroom with activities. Riverdene’s activities focus on 4WD wildlife safaris, occurring twice daily morning and evening. All tours stop for coffee in the morning and sundowners at sunset, with productive sightings of both black and white rhino often noted. A children’s coordinator organises indoor activities such as documentary DVDs, gift packs and visits to the Shamwari Animal Rehabilitation Centre for young children, alongside guided bush walks, spacious BBQ area and landscaped gardens.