Nelson Mandela Villa

Inspired by this legacy and by his deep friendship with the former President, Douw Steyn commissioned the building of the Nelson Mandela Centre for Reconciliation on Shambala Private Game Reserve. This special retreat gave Mr Mandela the opportunity to work uninterrupted in peace and solitude, therefore providing him with space and tranquillity to strengthen his considerable efforts towards global and local reconciliation.

The Nelson Mandela Villa offers spacious and elegant accommodation within Shambala Private Game Reserve. It is truly a piece of paradise, humbly displaying an understated luxury and reflecting the rich roots of tribal design. The interior is cool, with neutral tones and fabrics, staying true to the tradition that was its inspiration. As you enter through the masterfully carved front door and walk through the quietly elegant, spacious living rooms to the comfortable bedrooms, there is always a sense of true African luxury.

The exclusivity and privacy of this special piece of paradise is unique and unsurpassed. The Nelson Mandela Villa offers five Luxury Bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and one Presidential Suite.

The Presidential Suite has an en-suite double bathroom and his and hers dressing room, as well as a private dining area with kitchenette and a private living room with a television. The staff wing leads directly off the main residence and includes a lounge combined with an operations area, as well as a kitchenette, six bedrooms and three bathrooms. The Nelson Mandela Villa can be booked for a maximum of 12 people.

Amenities & Services

• Dining area with 14-seater table
• Informal TV lounge with fireplace
• DSTV channels available
• Formal lounge with fireplace
• Outdoor deck with casual lounge area
• 2 Private studies
• Indoor/outdoor heated swimming pool situated on a viewing deck that overlooks a private waterhole
• Business centre and boardroom facilities
• Satellite telephone in each room
• Mobile phone signal at the Villa, but limited reception once out on the reserve
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• International plug point converters and hairdryers are available in each room
• Shambala Spa with two treatment rooms and outside deck

The Centre for Reconciliation

2nd November 2001 marked the opening of the Centre for Reconciliation. The Centre is the pinnacle of hope and peace, a space for quiet contemplation and inner reflection. It is a place that represents the ideology of reconciliation. The philosophy of hope. This remarkable home is a realisation of a dream, a gesture of friendship from one man to another. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. This is a tranquil retreat, a place where friends and associates can share the message of peace and reconciliation. Honoured guests and world ambassadors are present here today and express messages of appreciation.

The Shambala Private Game Reserve

Situated on 10,000 hectares in the Limpopo Province, a mere 2 and a half-hour drive or 45 minute helicopter ride from Johannesburg, Zulu Camp at Shambala Private Game Reserve is set under the watchful guardianship of the picturesque, malaria-free Waterberg mountains, and the magnificent African bushveld is home to a variety of remarkable flora and fauna including The Big Five.

The elephant, buffalo, black and white rhino, lion and leopard were originally named the Big Five due to the significant challenge and potential danger that they presented to hunters. They symbolise the ultimate in African wildlife and are associated with a true game-viewing experience. Only the sleek, shy leopard with its nocturnal habits and inaccessible habitat may sometimes elude the visitor.

The Big Five has always been renowned as being the fiercest and most dangerous animals. Being able to see these magnificent animals roaming free in their natural habitat is without a doubt one of the most wonderful memories that you will take away with you. Shambala offers the Big Five interaction, an ultimate once-in-a-lifetime experience, thrillingly close enough to feel your heart beating faster and yet far enough to keep out of harm’s way. This is the most remarkable bush walk you could ever imagine.

Shambala aims to maintain an ideal ecosystem throughout the wider reserve area and to achieve a harmonious and ecologically sound environment. We are actively involved in wildlife conservation and a comprehensive anti-rhino poaching programme. In addition to the Big Five, Shambala Private Game Reserve is home to the endangered sable antelope, black impala, tsessebe, and black rhino, as well as disease-free buffalo. The population of each species is carefully monitored to maintain a combination that not only ensures unique game viewing, but also creates a natural and beneficial balance between species.