The Hills Self Catering Cottages - Shamwari Private Game Reserve

The Hills Self Catering Cottages is a hotel near Shamwari Private Game Reserve.

Location
Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape Safaris, South Africa, Southern Africa
Coordinates
-33.304985, 26.506475
Phone
+27832340420
Activities
hotel

PlnrScore: 32/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

2570 species observed within 20 km, 65 mammals, 211 birds.

  • Sweet Thorn (Plantae, 1252 observations)
  • Cape Aloe (Plantae, 1162 observations)
  • Bietou (Plantae, 748 observations)
  • Longleaf Wattle (Plantae, 648 observations)
  • black wattle (Plantae, 572 observations)
  • Indian fig opuntia (Plantae, 508 observations)
  • Cabbage tree (Plantae, 508 observations)
  • blue plumbago (Plantae, 437 observations)
  • Wild Pomegranate (Plantae, 392 observations)
  • common lantana (Plantae, 367 observations)

Best Time to Visit The Hills Self Catering Cottages

The best months to visit The Hills Self Catering Cottages are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 22.36°C, rainfall 38.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.2°C, rainfall 38.4mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 69.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 21.38°C, rainfall 48.6mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 70.2%
  • April: Good, temperature 18.12°C, rainfall 45.9mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 70%
  • May: Good, temperature 16.4°C, rainfall 36mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 65.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 14.88°C, rainfall 26.2mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 58.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 13.39°C, rainfall 18.8mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 57%
  • August: Good, temperature 13.83°C, rainfall 21.6mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 61.3%
  • September: Good, temperature 15.37°C, rainfall 45.2mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 68.3%
  • October: Good, temperature 17.3°C, rainfall 68.9mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 71.3%
  • November: Good, temperature 18.55°C, rainfall 52mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 70.9%
  • December: Good, temperature 20.2°C, rainfall 69.6mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 72.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

How close are The Hills Self Catering Cottages to Shamwari Private Game Reserve, and can I easily arrange game drives?

The Hills Self Catering Cottages are conveniently located just a short drive from Shamwari Private Game Reserve's main gates, making day visits highly accessible. While the cottages do not offer their own game drives, guests can typically arrange day visitor game drives directly with Shamwari or through a local tour operator, subject to availability and advance booking.

What self-catering facilities are provided at The Hills Cottages, and where can I purchase groceries?

Each cottage at The Hills is fully equipped with a kitchen including a stove, oven, microwave, refrigerator, and essential cookware and utensils, allowing for comfortable meal preparation. For groceries, there are supermarkets and local shops available in nearby towns like Paterson or Alicedale, which are a reasonable driving distance from the property.

When is the best time of year to stay at The Hills Self Catering Cottages for optimal wildlife viewing at Shamwari?

The cooler, drier winter months from May to September are generally considered ideal for wildlife viewing at Shamwari, as vegetation is sparser and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. This period also offers pleasant daytime temperatures for exploring the Eastern Cape, though evenings can be chilly, so pack accordingly for your cottage stay.

Can I expect to see wildlife around The Hills Self Catering Cottages themselves, and what safety precautions should I take?

While The Hills Self Catering Cottages are not within the 'big five' area of Shamwari, you might occasionally spot smaller, non-dangerous wildlife like various bird species, small antelope, or vervet monkeys on the property or in the surrounding natural bush. It's always wise to keep cottage doors and windows closed, especially at night, and avoid leaving food unattended to prevent attracting curious animals.

How does staying at The Hills Self Catering Cottages compare in terms of cost and experience to staying inside Shamwari Private Game Reserve?

Staying at The Hills Self Catering Cottages typically offers a more budget-friendly alternative to the all-inclusive luxury lodges within Shamwari Private Game Reserve. You gain the flexibility of self-catering and a private cottage experience, while still having convenient access to Shamwari for game drives, making it an excellent value option for travelers who prefer to manage their own meals and schedule.

Other Safari Lodges in Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Parks in Eastern Cape Safaris

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa