Kerzner adds Shamwari Reserve to Rare Finds portfolio, marking South African homecoming

SOUTH AFRICA – Kerzner International has secured a management deal for the Hospitality Division of Shamwari Private Game Reserve, bringing the iconic Eastern Cape wildlife destination under its Rare Finds collection starting April 1.

The agreement, announced by the Investment Corporation of Dubai-owned reserve, also places Shamwari Air’s private charter service under Kerzner‘s commercial wing, a homecoming for the luxury hospitality giant born in South Africa.

Where Kerzner’s Heart Beats

“South Africa is where the Kerzner story began and it remains the heartbeat of our DNA,” said Philippe Zuber, Kerzner International CEO.

For a company that started with Southern Sun Hotels in Durban before birthing Sun City and Atlantis resorts, returning to manage one of Africa’s finest private game reserves feels poetic.

A Reserve Built on Conservation and Luxury

Spanning 25,000 hectares, Shamwari comprises seven distinct lodges united by commitment to wildlife conservation and responsible tourism.

The reserve is home to the Big Five and has earned global recognition for its conservation efforts, including wildlife rehabilitation centers, rhino breeding programs, and community initiatives like the Khanya Care Centre vegetable garden project supporting local children.

Flying in Style with Shamwari Air

Shamwari Air offers direct, on-demand flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg via Beechcraft 1900D aircraft operated by National Airways Corporation, with flight times under two hours from Cape Town and just over two from Johannesburg.

Private lounge access at both airports ensures the experience begins before takeoff, eliminating four to five hours of road travel and aligning with global luxury safari trends.

Continuity with a Familiar Face

Joe Cloete, guiding Shamwari for 34 years, will continue leading the property. “We are thrilled to be included in Kerzner’s Rare Finds portfolio,” Cloete said.

A Perfect Match for Discerning Travelers

For luxury travelers seeking authentic safari experiences, this union promises magic.

Shamwari’s lodges, from family-friendly Eagles Crag to ultra-luxury Sarili and exclusive Lobengula with its private plunge pools, offer Big Five sightings across malaria-free landscapes teeming with wildlife.

With Kerzner‘s global sales machine behind it and Shamwari Air smoothing the journey, Africa’s original eco-luxury destination just became more accessible.

The reserve joins Kerzner’s Rare Finds alongside One&Only Cape Town and Gorilla’s Nest, creating a seamless network of conservation-led luxury across the continent.

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