Sarili Lodge

Sarili Lodge

Between Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth Off the N2, Port Elizabeth 6130 South Africa
Traveller (62)
Dining (11)
Room & Suite (11)

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About

#9 of 25 lodges in Port Elizabeth
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Location
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Rooms
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Value
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Cleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Service
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sleep Quality
Shamwari Game Reserve - The Pride of the Eastern Cape.Sarili Lodge at Shamwari Game Reserve is the perfect combination between a colonial and bush experience. Perfect for families or small parties.An environmentally Friendly private African thatch designed Villa with a spacious deck overlooking the Bushman’s River with expansive views of the plains, the Lodge is positioned in the Southern Region of the Reserve. The décor emulates an old traditional Farmhouse with interiors that reflect an easy living home lifestyle in a natural environment.The Lodge consists of five Suites & can sleep a maximum of ten (10) Guests. The lodge features a child friendly Swimming Pool, Dining & Lounge Areas, Courtyard Barbeque Area & special Children’s Menu. Child Minders are available at an additional cost. Shamwari offers a special “Kids on Safari” programme where Kids aged 4 & older have a chance of a lifetime to view the Big 5, view a special educational film & visit the Born Free Foundation & Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5. Stretching 25,000 hectares over a malaria free landscape, it offers an award-winning nature experience and is one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Wifi
Pool
Free breakfast
Bar / lounge
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Airport transportation
Restaurant
Shuttle bus service
Room features
Air conditioning
Room service
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
5.0 of 5 stars
HOTEL STYLE
Luxury
Hidden Gem

Location

Between Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth Off the N2, Port Elizabeth 6130 South Africa
Getting there
Car recommended
Places to stay are graded on a 0-100 scale. The higher the grade, the easier it is for travellers to find restaurants and things to do within walking distance.
Grade: 43 out of 100
43
Port Elizabeth Airport
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Detailed Reviews
Lisa K wrote a review Jan 2015
Smithtown, New York
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Our party of 9 (5 adults and 4 kids) decided on Shamwari as opposed to the much talked about Kruger. Friends have told us that Kruger has become very commercial, so we looked for an alternative. We are so glad we did! The Sarili Lodge at Shamwari Game Reserve is a first class, authentic and exhilarating experience. Since there were 9 of us, we had the lodge all to ourselves. Here are some logistics:

* There are 5 bedrooms with #5 being the largest.
* There is staff on premises 24/7. The kitchen and housekeeping staff are there during the day and 1 manager remains overnight in separate quarters in the service wing.
* Meals are included (excluding all beverages)
* Morning safari is at 6am and you will be served tea and pastries prior. Return is at 9am where you will receive a full breakfast--both buffet and a la carte.
* Afternoon safari is 4-7. Tea is served prior and dinner at approximately 8pm.
* You will want to tip both your safari guide and your house staff.

Our guide, Nicky, was fantastic---a wonderful guide and tracker. We saw 4 of the Big 5 (we knew the leopard would be elusive) and we even saw a kill.

Thanks to Monde, Kay and Bongo as well!

The food was delicious and the experience was unforgettable. This was our first time in Africa and our 6th continent proved to be a charm.

Bucket list-worthy and not to be missed!

Happy travels!
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Date of stay: December 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul P wrote a review Apr 2018
Sacramento, California
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This is one of the smaller and cozier of the six lodges on the Shamwari Game Reserve, and an instant favorite for us. Service was impeccably attentive and responsive, the pre-drive morning coffees and afternoon teas pleasant had many satisfying options, and the dinner faire was truly superb for such a small location. Our game drive guides were both friendly and knowledgeable, and we ended up seeing far more animals of all sizes than we expected. The nearby location of the Born Free Foundation site was an added extra benefit, and worth a visit.
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Date of stay: April 2018
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Second floor rooms overlooking the game reserve provide outstanding views.
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sheilamac11 wrote a review Jul 2015
Ayrshire, United Kingdom
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Was a bit apprehensive about this as never done safari before let alone been in Africa I needn't have been it was all made soo easy ! Sarilli is a truly 5 star experience from the word go from the welcome to the food , the game drives and well the rooms were wow ! We had rooms 3 and 4 upstairs with fab views of the river and the plains ahead . The food was excellent all so well presented too. Our ranger/guide Julius was really knowledgeable and looked after us well giving us a couple of layer of ponchos that was efficient in keeping us toasty on the drives as one morning was frosty and bitterly cold . All in all would recommend only down side never saw leopard but he seems to be tricky to spot .
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Date of stay: July 2015Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Janet F wrote a review Mar 2014
New Jersey
5.0 of 5 bubbles
I don't know where to begin about our amazing experience at the Sarili Lodge in Shamwari Private Game Reserve! The only problem with the entire visit is that we only booked one night!
My friend and I arrived early on Sunday, March 16th to be greeted by Liza the moment we pulled up to the lodge. We received welcome drinks and a tour of the facilities. Our room was ready for us, and we could order lunch any time we chose until two pm. I have been to three other parks and reserves in South Africa, and this experience was by far the best! Our room was extremely comfortable with every possible amenity. Our room faced the courtyard and the pool, and I wasn't sorry that we did not face the reserve because our overall experience was beyond expectation.
All of our meals were delicious; the game drives led by the knowledgeable senior ranger Armand were outstanding. We saw the big 5 and cheetahs in less than 24 hours. I asked Armand if he actually guarantees seeing all of the game on the reserve. He, of course said “no”. Perhaps we were lucky, but we saw lions and a leopard in the first drive among other animals, and all of the other large game in the morning drive.
My friend and I asked about a gift shop in the reserve. Armand offered to drive us the morning we were leaving. He took us to the property with the shop. On the drive back, we saw over twenty mother and children elephants. The trip was so unexpected we didn't even bring a camera. I was able to get amazing photos with my blackberry phone because were so close. He then drove us to other parts of the reserve to see more game. All of this happened after our check out time!
I went back to work today and told all of my colleagues about this must-have experience in South Africa. Because it is in the grasslands, the landscape is entirely different from Kruger and the other big parks in the North of the country. I strongly recommend a trip and stay at Sarili Lodge!
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Date of stay: March 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesLocation
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled with friends
Room Tip: We were in a room on the courtyard, which is probably "less desirable". However, we...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mitchells-14 wrote a review Mar 2018
Canada
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Thank you Steph, Sharlene, Michael, Westley, Athi et al for such a fantastic stay. All the little details made it special. The lodge is tastefully decorated and bright - nothing overly themed or cluttered with knick-knacks.

We were a party of five and stayed three nights in rooms 1, 2 and 5. All were large, luxe and clean. Beds super comfy.

Food was great. Accommodated our allergies and intolerances.

Our kids (9 and 11) had beyond excited. I think they are too old to be in a true "kid-friendly" lodge with a playground or playroom, so was delighted that Sarili had kids menus as well as kids-on-safari backpacks which we lugged all they way back home. They were comfortable roaming around the lodge and hanging out on the deck. Staff was incredible - so engaging and appeared to be happy to see them.

Oh and kids loved Glen at the Born Free Foundation.

The drives were amazing. Westley knew what we wanted to see and made sure we got the stunning photos we were after.

Highly recommend Sarili!
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Date of stay: March 2018Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alec11 wrote a review May 2016
sydney
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Stayed 3 nights at Sarili Lodge in the first week of May
The lodge has only 5 rooms in a very modern building set high on a bluff overlooking Bushman's river in the southern section of the Shamwari reserve
The lodge has it's own staff and we were greeted by Michael – the super smooth lodge host who would not be out of place as the "maitre d" of a New York restaurant
The modern décor does not convey an African "feel" but the upside is very comfortable and practical accommodation
We had a room on the top floor overlooking the river and plains beyond
You can literally see for miles and can recline in bed with binoculars and observe the wildlife, so a room overlooking the river is well worth the little extra
The room was very spacious with a large bathroom, standalone bath and separate shower and toilet
Nearby is the Born Free sanctuary for rescued animals and their lions can be heard roaring at daybreak
Wildlife viewing is why you come and you will not be disappointed as we saw 4 of the big 5 as well as countless other antelope, exotic animals and birds
Possibly the only criticism in this regard is that Shamwari is so big that you can drive quite a distance to see some animals if they happen to have moved to the northern section
Meals are normally eaten with your guide – those guys earn their money – and a braai (barbeque) is often on the cards
So if you are expecting a 5 star dining experience (as we have at other lodges) then recalibrate
Service is first rate lead by Michael, Sharlene and our game guide Armand
Overall, commensurate with its reputation, Sarili Lodge at Shamwari does provide a truly unforgettable experience
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Date of stay: May 2016
5.0 of 5 bubblesCleanliness
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jfillmore4 wrote a review Feb 2019
Michigan
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This review is long overdue. We lucked out and had a very wonderful opportunity. This lodge is very comfortable and clean. There are only 5 rooms. We were the only ones staying for the 4 nights we were there and had the entire lodge to ourselves! I feel truly blessed to have had this rare experience while on safari. I imagine it's pretty rare for a family to have a lodge to themselves for their entire stay.

We were upgraded to the largest room which was appreciated. The food was wonderful. I'm a picky eater and they were very accommodating. The staff were amazing! We were worried that they might skimp on things since it was just us. However, it was some of the best, friendliest service we've ever received.

There is just one guide per vehicle. There is no driver. He was wonderful. The lodge itself is the closest one to the main entrance near the south of the reserve. It's very convenient and also very close to the Born Free Big Cat rescue facility. You dine with the guide at times. The snacks and drinks on safari are very good. There is candy and other snacks provided during tea time.

The monkeys on the decks were quite entertaining. We saw a variety of animals like two lionesses, buffalo and giraffes from our deck/the main deck.

The safari vehicles were okay. Not the most comfortable but also not the worse I've used. Three seats to a row. You are provided with very nice blankets if it's cold. We saw a huge variety of animals. The drives were extremely bumpy! It was much worse than any other drive we've experienced.

The property is huge. We thoroughly explored the southern half of the reserve but didn't really go to the northern part. We were okay with this and felt like we saw plenty. The drives do go to high elevations at times. I can see now what other reviewers mean when they saw it kind of feels like a zoo. There are fences so it takes a bit away from the truly wild feeling I've had at other safari destinations. I did enjoy Shamwari and specifically Sarili Lodge but I'm not sure I would go here again. This was a one time only destination for me.

One disappointment was that the animal rehabilitation center was closed for renovation. I was looking forward to seeing their work and the animals up close.

I went home with very nice, unique animal napkin rings that they use on the tables for the meals. I gave them as gifts and kept some for myself. The lodge even worked with me shipping me more after I got home. It will be a great reminder of our time at Shamwari. They were available in the gift shop along with other nice items.

This will always be a great memory due to the great service and the opportunity of having the lodge to ourselves.
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Date of stay: September 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RSfromPriorLake wrote a review Mar 2018
Savage, Minnesota
5.0 of 5 bubbles
My wife and I and three other couples were a group of 8 who stayed at Sarili for 3 days, 2 nights in February, 2018. We would have loved to stay at least 2 more days. The staff were incredibly warm and welcoming, the rooms were well beyond what we expected, and the meals were varied and exceptional. We were presented with menus which gave us numerous delicious choices. The 4 game drives (2 in the early mornings at 6 am, 2 in the late afternoons), expertly led by Siya, were truly memorable. We saw 4 of the Big 5, missing only the leopard. We encountered giraffes, zebras, lions, kudus, warthogs, numerous birds, many different antelopes, elephants, both white and black rhinos, etc, etc. One of our group kept checking off the species on the little pamphlet, and she was kept busy indeed. When we returned from our drives we were met by staff with a beverage, and refreshing cold (or warm) towels to welcome us back. There were 5 very comfortable en suite rooms, 4 of which our group occupied), a lovely pool, and spectacular views over the adjacent Bushmans River. Sarili was truly a unique place, and we very highly recommend this amazing experience.
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Date of stay: February 2018
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesRooms
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jasmin D wrote a review Dec 2016
6th of October City, Egypt
5.0 of 5 bubbles
The lodge is absolutely fabulous...I enjoyed every second of it..we stayed in a suite (not a normal room) for 2 day with 4 game reserves...the suite was big and very clean with a gorgeous view from all over the room and the bath .. the staff was very friendly and polite...the weather was cold and it was rainy but from what I understood it was the perfect weather for the safaris...
The staff always welcomed us with hot chocolate and a hot towel when we came back from the safari..
Our safari tour guide was professional and super friendly..we saw 4 of the big 5 (not the leopard)..but me managed to see two cheetahs, baby lions (new borns) and a lion on a hunt..safaris were well organized and I enjoyed it very much
The food at the lodge was great too..the only thing that I would suggest needs improvement is the massage/spa
I would highly recommend it to anyone 😊
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Date of stay: September 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Niall wrote a review Nov 2014
Cork, Ireland
+1
5.0 of 5 bubbles
This was a honeymoon destination, not sure what was the expectation, how good, bad, indifferent the Lodge was going to be. The photos on website does not do th4 place justice, this is a fabulous place. Was an upgrade as Rippons was closed, like an other contributor and to say it was good, is an understatement.
We had a great time, the game drives were incredible especially an afternoon drive where we saw cheetahs at a kill, and lions follow down, all up close and personal. One guest said it was the best game drive he experienced in 20 odd years. Saw loads of animals, no cape buffalo, they elsewhere on estate, saw 4 of big 5.
The food was superb, the staff brilliant, superlatives hard to find really.
Dinner, BBQ and lunches were fit for a king. Stayed for 2 nights and had four game drives. If we stayed longer the clothes would not have fitted!!
Great memories from Sarili Lodge......
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Date of stay: August 2014
5.0 of 5 bubblesValue
5.0 of 5 bubblesService
5.0 of 5 bubblesSleep Quality
Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hamoud A asked a question Dec 2018
Somerset West, South Africa
Hi, Do you have accommodation for me and my family? 0791919291
Answer from SGR_socialmedia
Paterson, South Africa9 contributions
Good Day, Thank you for your enquiry. Please contact our reservation team directly on +27 (0) 42 203 1111. I trust the above finds you well and we look forward to hearing from you in the near future. Best Regards, Claire Radloff Shamwari Social Media Coordinator
Answer from SGR_socialmedia
Paterson, South Africa9 contributions
Dear Irinatokyo, Thank you for your enquiry and interest shown in Shamwari Game Reserve. We are delighted that you have chosen Shamwari Game Reserve as your safari destination! Sarili Lodge is beautiful! We are certain that you will love the views this lodge has to offer. We would advise that you book Room 4. Please keep in mind that the lodge does not produce a lot of noise that would disrupt your sleep. As Shamwari is a malaria free area, there is no need for you to pack any preventative tablets or syrup, other than your prescription medication. However, we do highly recommend that you bring: Cameras, lenses and binoculars Bathing suits for the pool areas Walking shoes Sunscreen and hats Directions to the reserve can be found on our website along with other FAQ's should you require additional information. I trust the above finds you well and we look forward to welcoming you to Shamwari Game Reserve in the near future. Best Regards, Claire Radloff Social Media Coordinator
Paul P wrote a tip Apr 2018
Sacramento, California47 contributions49 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Second floor rooms overlooking the game reserve provide outstanding views."
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Condocat wrote a tip May 2017
North Carolina374 contributions227 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Suite number 5 that faces the river has a very large balcony, it is more money but well worth it."
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Caroline D wrote a tip Sept 2014
Preston, United Kingdom9 contributions1 helpful vote
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"Ask for room 5 it is huge!!!!"
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Shannon C wrote a tip Aug 2014
Alexandria, Virginia24 contributions9 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"All six rooms are charming."
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Janet F wrote a tip Mar 2014
New Jersey9 contributions13 helpful votes
5.0 of 5 bubbles
"We were in a room on the courtyard, which is probably "less desirable". However, we loved our access to the pool and the main lodge area and had no complaints. Also, there is no spa at this property, but they will arrange spa services at a hotel close by. We had so much fun and good food on our trip that we didn't even consider veering from the offered options at Sarili!"
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LOCATION
South AfricaEastern CapePort Elizabeth
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
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SARILI LODGE - Reviews (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)

Frequently Asked Questions about Sarili Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Sarili Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Into Tours (5.9 km), Storms River Bridge (Paul Sauer Bridge) (0.00 km), and Kwantu Private Game Reserve - Day Visits (5.2 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Sarili Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
What food & drink options are available at Sarili Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Sarili Lodge?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Sarili Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include Backstreet Grill, Muse Restaurant, and SUKI Sushi & Asian Cuisine.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Sarili Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Sarili Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Sarili Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are there any historical sites close to Sarili Lodge?
Many travellers enjoy visiting Prince Alfred's Guard Memorial (5.3 km), The Prince Alfred's Guard Drill Hall (6.8 km), and Old Post Office Building (7.1 km).
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