Two hundred years ago, elephants thundered across the plains of South Africa’s Eastern Cape, their presence shaping both land and legend. But by 1989, this once-vibrant wilderness had become a shadow of its former self—hunted out, overgrazed, drought-stricken. To many, it was a lost cause. To Adrian Gardiner, it was an opportunity. This is the story of the man who changed a landscape—and in doing so, helped reshape the very narrative of conservation and tourism in Africa.

Adrian Gardiner has left a deep spoor in the global conservation community and in the hospitality industry. It all began in the Eastern Cape where he founded the legendary Shamwari Game Reserve. He now offers a small, select number of guests the opportunity to stay over at his original residence, the secluded Founders Lodge, and to experience all of its serenity as well as viewing the Big Five at the adjacent Shamwari.

Shamwari Game Reserve situated in the Eastern Cape near Port Elizabeth, has been nominated in the categories of ‘Africa’s Leading Conservation Company’, ‘Africa’s Leading Family Resort’, ‘Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge’, ‘South Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge’ and ‘South Africa’s Leading Spa Resort’.

The Shamwari Group and Inspirational Places have hosted an exclusive mini-indaba in Johannesburg, bringing key tourism partners together to boost trade in the region. In conjunction with Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa, the organisations offered a platform for owners of boutique hotels and lodges to present their unique establishments to a select group of travel trade and media looking for new and exciting establishments within South Africa and abroad.

Africa’s Leading Conservation Company Africa’s Leading Safari Lodge

In response to certain allegations made by the office of Tiger Woods towards owner of Shamwari Game Reserve, Adrian Gardiner after Mr Woods’ recent stay at Shamwari Game Reserve, Eastern Cape, South Africa, Mr Gardiner has commented accordingly.