Eastern Cape, South Africa – On Saturday, 1 November, Shamwari Private Game Reserve hosted the finish of the Nedbank Gravel Burn, the world’s largest gravel race, marking a milestone for South African sport, conservation, and tourism.
Over seven days and 800 kilometres, elite international cyclists and 500 riders from around the globe have raced across the Great Karoo’s gravel roads and rugged terrain. The final stage concluded at Shamwari, one of South Africa’s premier Big Five reserves, where riders will be welcomed with the wild beauty and luxury that define the Eastern Cape.
From icy mornings to gale-force winds, the Gravel Burn has tested riders with Africa’s extremes. Day 2 brought rain and ice, while Day 6 saw delays due to low visibility and strong gusts. Every kilometre has demanded resilience and grit- hallmarks of this inaugural seven-day gravel stage race.
The event has drawn a world-class field, including Olympic and World Champions, Grand Tour stage winners, and national titleholders. Among the men’s elite are Tom Pidcock, Lachlan Morton, and Lukas Pöstlberger. The women’s field features Ashleigh Moolman Pasio, Alison Jackson, Hayley Preen, and Haley Smith.
Race founder Kevin Vermaak says Shamwari was the natural choice for the finish line:
“What could be more fitting than a Big Five welcome at a world-class reserve? Shamwari was the first name on our list. CEO Joe Cloete and his team offer unmatched hospitality and a deep commitment to conservation.” Cloete adds: “This is a chance to showcase the Eastern Cape and the Greater Karoo to the world. We’re fully booked and ready to welcome over 800 guests with true African hospitality.”
The race’s finale also highlights Shamwari’s conservation efforts, including its partnership with Vulpro, South Africa’s leading vulture conservation organisation. A select group of riders will visit the facility to witness the next generation of vultures before their release in 2026.
As the sun sets over Shamwari, the Gravel Burn will culminate in a celebration of endurance, nature, and purpose – where rugged adventure meets refined luxury.
For reservation inquiries, please contact reservations via email at reservations@shamwari.com or on +27 42 203 1111, or visit.
For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact Sky Gordon via email at sky@phoenixcollective.world.
About Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Located in a malaria-free zone just an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, Shamwari Private Game Reserve spans 25,000 hectares and includes five of South Africa’s seven biomes, offering guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience extraordinary biodiversity in one destination.
Shamwari boasts one of the highest wildlife concentrations in the Eastern and Southern Cape, including all members of the Big Five, black rhinos, giraffes, kudus, bushbucks, and rare species such as the Addo flightless dung beetle and Albany adder. Birders can spot over 275 distinct bird species, from martial eagles to Knysna turacos and red-billed ox-peckers, reintroduced to the region by Shamwari.
Guests enjoy twice-daily game drives, professionally guided bush walks, and a revitalising spa experience.
Accommodation includes seven luxury lodges and an Explorer Camp, each with its own distinct character:
Sindile Safari Lodge
Sarili Private Lodge
Riverdene Safari Family Lodge
Long Lee Manor Lodge
Explorer Camp
Eagles Crag Safari Lodge
Bayethe Safari Lodge
Whether travelling solo, as a couple, or with family, Shamwari offers a safari retreat that blends world-class hospitality with a deep respect for nature.
As the sun sets over Shamwari’s vast plains, the final stage of the Gravel Burn will become a celebration of endurance, nature, and purpose. For Shamwari, it is a chance to share the softer, more luxurious side of South Africa, while reaffirming its role as a leader in conservation and eco-tourism.
To celebrate the end of the race, Shamwari will host the final gala evening and after party, where riders, guests, and organisers will come together to mark the week’s achievements. The entire reserve is booked out, and bonfires of joy will light up the landscape as stories are shared, victories toasted, and friendships forged under the African sky.
The post Time sensitive: 01 November Shamwari Private Game Reserve to Host Historic Finish of the World’s Largest Gravel Race – By Thabo Motlhabi appeared first on The Home Of Great South African News.
The world’s largest gravel race, marking a milestone for South African sport, conservation, and tourism
The post Time sensitive: 01 November Shamwari Private Game Reserve to Host Historic Finish of the World’s Largest Gravel Race – By Thabo Motlhabi appeared first on The Home Of Great South African News. Read More
