PREFACE
Inkwenkwezi is situated in the malaria free Eastern Cape of South Africa. only a 30-minute
drive from East London at the start of the Wild Coast. The reserve is approximately 4000
ha encompassing five different biomes (vegetation types) which offer varied game viewing.
It is one of the few reserves with a tidal estuary. The reserve has the big five and a variety
of antelope as well as giraffe, zebra & other predators. The reserve is five minutes from
magnificent beaches and a 40 minute drive from a national airport. Driving to Inkwenkwezi
is a pleasure as the roads are tarred right to the entrance.
The name Inkwenkwezi, translates from Xhosa to mean “star” and has been open to the
public since November 1999.
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve symbolizes the realization of two brothers – Graham
Stanton and Keith Stanton and their tireless dedication to fulfilling their dream of creating a
game reserve at the beginning of the rugged Wildcoast. As is the case with many a dream,
though, the challenges were significant not only to establish the reserve but to insure its
viability as a tourist destination.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve is to contribute significantly towards
conservation, economic growth and social upliftment in the region.
VISION STATEMENT
To develop Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve into an Internationally-recognized
Tourism Product by providing exceptional service. To preserve and protect the local fauna
and flora as well as rare and endangered animal species.
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OBJECTIVES
To protect the reserve against, and rehabilitate the reserve following, adverse impacts
such as those of fire, introduced species, diseases, soil erosion and alien vegetation.
Conserve sites or areas of cultural significance.
Encourage low-impact nature-based tourism and other related activities.
The focus on providing educational guided tours and activities to introduce the concept of
conservation; it's ethic, philosophy, principles and values. We aim to facilitate an
experience that embraces some of the fundamental values of nature; solitude,
timelessness, freedom from a world where man is in control, and a place where the
sounds and ways of nature pervade.
GOALS
We aim to develop Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve into one of the Eastern Cape’s
premier Private Game Reserves through a strategy of key wildlife introductions, lodge
developments, property acquisitions, strategic partnerships and other joint ventures with
neighbouring communities and products.
BACKGROUND
LAYING THE PLATFORM FOR THE REALIZATION OF A CHILDHOOD DREAM
Graham Stanton’s appreciation for animals first took shape as a child when he adopted a
piglet on his family farm near present day Mthatha in the former Transkei. He reared the
pig under his bed on a bottle. His brother, Keith shared this appreciation for animals and
by their teens the brothers shared a dream of creating a game reserve in an area similar to
that of their family farm. Childhood dreams were however soon replaced by adult
necessity and began a dairy and vegetable farming operation - supplying the network of
trading stores in the then Transkei. By 1976 however larger political undercurrents
resulted in the family farm being bought up - in preparation for Transkei independence.
Keith took up a position in industry in Johannesburg while Graham remained in the
Eastern Cape. By the early 1980s Graham entered the Chintsa area - not far from the Kei
River and the border to the Transkei - in search of ground for a game reserve. By 1983
the first small farm - that would become the first segment of the future Inkwenkwezi Private
Game Reserve – was acquired. It was on this farm - Happy Home - that the brother’s first
game would be introduced. Graham’s first game auction was a catalogue sale and he
acquired game - starting off with ostriches and mountain reedbuck - knowing full well that
back in Chintsa no game fences had yet been erected. Graham now needed to act fast
and along with the help of a kind neighbour, Trevor Taylor, they hurriedly began erecting
game fencing. At this stage Graham admits he and Keith went on a road trip to see what
else was on offer in South Africa – before committing finally to Chintsa. They could have
bought fully stocked reserves at that time for less that what the ground back home would
cost, but they still came back to Chintsa. Three factors counted overwhelmingly in the
Chintsa areas favour in comparison to other parts of South Africa. Rainfall, location, and
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the fact that the Eastern Cape is a malaria free area. Firstly an annual rainfall of 850 mm
– and associated heavy carrying capacity - left little worry for serious drought and heavy
input costs. A scenario Graham had seen first hand near Kimberly how they were feeding
the game in the summer. Furthermore, a game reserve is first and foremost about
attracting people - you don’t open a game reserve and attract people tomorrow. You have
to be on some sort of recognised tourist route! With East London and the Chintsa area
being the natural progression from the garden route - and being situated in a malaria free
area – the future potential was always real. The small Happy Home farm was however too
small to accommodate the brother’s mature dream and they began purchasing
neighbouring farms. In fact today’ Inkwenkwezi Private Nature Game Reserve consists of
the amalgamation of 29 properties totaling 4,000 hectares. The next obvious step was to
stock it with game.
GAME TRANSFORMS INKWENKWEZI INTO WORLD CLASS DESTINATION
Having enough game to be taken seriously as a reserve posed a major problem - You
can’t open (a game reserve) with one of each specie of game, numbers had to build up. In
order to build these numbers two critical ingredients were needed - capital and time.
Significant capital from Keith in Johannesburg allowed for financial clout (for the
acquisition of game) while Graham went about the scouting, buying and management of
acquired game in the reserve. It was then decided to use the reserve for alternative uses while the game numbers were allowed to accumulate – and the reserve was cleverly
marketed by the brothers as a local wedding and conferencing venue resulting in an
unexpected booming business thanks to its proximity to East London and its airport. This
important and unexpected business success – along with increasing interest from local
and national travellers – allowed for increased cash flow and time to allow game numbers
to increase and the introduction of more species. However, the Chintsa frost free area
also held its distinct challenges. Being rife with ticks, game was susceptible to tick born
diseases like gall sickness, red water and heart water a scenario specifically true for
springbok, fallow deer and eland (red billed oxpeckers are to be reintroduced to the
reserve soon). Eland were a particular problem, however, the brothers were intent on
having them in the reserve. In the end they managed to acquire some eland - with
significant resistance to tick borne diseases - from the coastal Mkambati Nature Reserve
in the former Transkei. Over the years the balanced stocking of browsers and grazers
(and management of gene pool diversity by the introduction of new game) has resulted in
there being over 40 species of game including Giraffe, Zebra, Wildebeest, Eland, Kudu,
Nyala, Blesbuck, Impala, Mountain Reedbuck, Warthog and much more. It has however
been the introduction (and return) of the big five over the years that has really allowed
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve to demand recognition in the Eastern Cape. Today
White Rhino and TB free Buffalo roam the park while leopard (having also been spotted by
adjacent farmers) have allegedly returned to the area encouraged by the availability of
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game. Meanwhile lions have been reintroduced but are held in a 90 ha reserve – including
breeding white lions – until such a time as the reserves game numbers are sufficient to
absorb the impact of these super predators. Once the entire 4000 ha of the park is
completely fenced – currently 2/3 of the property owned is fenced with the rest to be
completely fenced soon, thereafter the lions will be allowed to roam the park. The
releasing of the lions is going to be the ultimate for Inkwenkwezi! Elephants have also
been introduced but the impact of elephants on the reserve, with its indigenous flora and
rare trees would be too great and therefore it was decided to acquire trained elephants that are released under guidance into the park. These expensive trained elephants
however offer a new dimension to any visitors experience to the park as they - along with
their qualified trainers and handlers - allow for close interaction as well as guided safari
elephant back tours. The elephants are housed at night and fed in special stables and
also offer a handy contribution to the combating of invasive plants as they are also fed
alien vegetation from the reserve including Guava, Port Jackson and Black Wattle Trees.
Despite the continual improvement of Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve from an
infrastructural perspective (accommodation and other facilities) and the stocking of game,
another vital element to the business is of course marketing - that has been developed
concurrently. Keith is currently involved in international marketing campaigns, while
Graham spearheads local marketing.
THE CHALLENGES OF ACCESSING MARKETS
A major issue relating to the accessing of tourists is the relative isolation of the area from
successful tourist routes (e.g. the Garden Route) and the proximity to the former Transkei
that has often received negative publicity. Accessing international package orientated
tourists has proved specifically difficult as the very nature of the international tourist
industry limits new comers ability to access a piece of the pie. Only the big guys with an
enormous advertising budget can access the international market successfully - in their
first year. The average business will take from 3- 5 years before even breaking in.
International tour operators are notoriously jealous of their reputation and tour operators
aren’t interested in risking years of reputation for unknown products. Only now after
stamping the ground and world travel markets for 9 years (including tourist fares in cities
like Dublin, Berlin, Antwerp, Utrecht etc) have we become known. For the first time in
2009 did we get recognised tourist buses through our area having signed two year
contracts. Furthermore in terms of marketing the present is always the future in the tourist
industry. You have to be working three yours down the road. If a tour operator speaks to
you this year his brochure will only be completed the following year for marketing –
awaiting distribution - leaving you to benefit only two years down the road. Despite the
value of international tourists and their foreign currency the value of local and national
travellers are as critical – a market that has in fact allowed Inkwenkwezi Private Game
Reserve to build a reputation so as to access structured international markets. You have
to survive on the locals and the small operators until you build a clientele. You have to
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build up your reputation. It is due to this approach that Graham founded the local Wild
Coast Jikeleza Route - marketed through various brochure campaigns and relevant
regional and provincial tourist structures. The strategy is based on a sign posted Jikeleza
route – a short diversion from the N2 via Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve - that
highlights the attractions of the surrounding area. This more localised strategy has now
been broadened to include national marketing strategies – with an aim at relevant national
magazines – focusing on the area as a winter destination (at reduced prices) during South
African mid year school holidays. This focus however is on the broader region and
includes cooperation between various local tourist structures. In the end though, the
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve website has proved invaluable in drawing many of the
local and international visitors - predominantly United Kingdom, German and Dutch
tourists.
THE IMPORTANCE OF SELLING THE EXPERIENCE
It used to be true that tourists wanted quality accommodation and cuisine but the priority
has changed to tourists wanting an experience to remember.
We believe that
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve offers the possibility of what we call ‘’marketing
memories’’. For example, the possibility of sighting the Big Six in view of the Indian Ocean
(and whales in season) is a unique experience in itself. Furthermore with a golf estate
being built a few kilometers away, the easy access of world class beaches, and the big
five, the selling of the ultimate diversified experience is a real possibility here in Chintsa.
Where in the world do you have the big six, golf and beaches within a kilometer from each
other! Other experiences at Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve includes 4x4 game
drives, bird watching, eco trails, plant and tree identification (5 different biomes), hiking
trails, game walks, horse trails, elephant back safaris, elephant interaction, quad biking,
mountain biking and canoeing (on the estuarine Kwelera river) all from the comfort of the
luxury tented bush and valley camps supported by top class restaurants.
EMPLOYMENT
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve has become a catalyst for employment in the area,
having started with 10 people and now employing 80 with the numbers set to grow as the
reserve develops further.
During construction, only local companies, including builders, carpenters etc were
contracted with both skilled and unskilled labour being provided by the local communities.
To further promote local employment, crafters are encouraged to provide the Curio Shop
with locally crafted items.
PROJECTS AT INKWENKWEZI
ERADICATION OF INVASIVE PLANTS
There is an ongoing program of eradication of invasive plants. The Wildlife and
Environmental Society have started a Research Program, which involves new concepts
with invasive plants versus indigenous plants. Inkwenkwezi has set aside a portion of land
for this research program.
In conjunction with the local Society for the Protection of Animals a total of 40 Mountain
Tortoises were released in into the game reserve. These animals are prehistoric and their
numbers are decreasing at an alarming rate – the locals consider them a delicacy.
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ACCOMMODATION AT INKWENKWEZI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
BUSH CAMP
The Bush Camp offers accommodation for twelve guests in six en-suite safari tents. All
tents have electric lights, twin beds with Cloud 9 mattresses, slatted headboards, bedside
tables and bedside lamps, bedside mats, telephones, chest of drawers.
The en-suite bathrooms feature a shower, (hot and cold water) which is crafted to
resemble a cave and blends with the natural rock and bush of this area. From its hilltop
site the camp overlooks a valley & each safari tent is positioned on a raised timber deck
offering you your own private game viewing. On the elevated timber deck guest are able to
relax on two easy chairs with a coffee table.
VALLEY CAMP
The Valley Camp offers twelve guests accommodation in six custom designed luxury tents
with the emphasis on spaciousness and quality. The tents are positioned on individual
timber decks and situated in a valley nestling amongst indigenous trees.
The bathrooms are fitted with both a slipper bath and a four sided glass shower (hot and
cold water) a vanity slab(drawers underneath) with a hand basin as well as a hanging area
for clothing. All finishes are of a high quality.
Tents are furnished with twin three quarter beds (one tent has a queen size bed) all with
cloud 9 mattresses and Percale linen. Headboards are trimmed with brass and have
bedside tables and lamps as well as a matching dresser, 2 leather easy chairs and a
butlers tray. A bar fridge stocked with a variety of South African wine and malt as well as
soft drinks.
The partially covered outside deck is large and has 2 easy chairs with a coffee table.
Guests at both the Valley Camp and the Bush Camp have tea and coffee making facilities
with a variety of different teas.
All tents have 3 roofs, the inside roof has ventilation flaps to control the temperature, the
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second roof is the water proofing and the outside roof is used for shade and helps
moderate the temperature. All tents have insect mesh on all openings.
DINING OPTIONS
EMTHOMBENI RESTAURANT
The Emthombeni restaurant offers an elegant African dining experience complemented by
authentic African decor. High thatched roofs blend with the rich stone flooring creating the
ambience of a mysterious & exciting Africa. Meals can be enjoyed inside the restaurant or
on the elevated timber viewing deck with glimpses of the Indian Ocean & the African bush.
THE SUNSET LAPA
The Sunset Lapa is hewn from the rocks of the area & covered in thatch. It is set on a
majestic hillside with wonderful views of our African sunset. The Lapa has an informal
lounge area where a stock of books and games are kept, there is also an indoor
fireplace for the colder evenings as well as an open air fire for guests to gather around.
ACTIVITIES AT INKWENKWEZI
GUIDED GAME DRIVES
Experience true tranquility as you view the abundance of wildlife from our open-topped 4x4
vehicles. Game viewing can be enjoyed either with our morning or afternoon game drive.
The tour includes a drive through our white lion reserve.
GUIDED SUNSET GAME DRIVE
Enjoy a game drive at dusk, with the sun setting, bringing about the nocturnal life on the
reserve. View them with spotlights in a complete different time of day.
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BIRD WATCHING
Inkwenkwezi is a paradise for all the enthusiastic bird watchers, Inkwenkwezi hosts the
rarely sighted Stanley Bustard as well as Knysna Lourie and Kingfishers to mention only a
few of the 276 bird species that has been recorded here.
GUIDED MOUNTAIN BIKING
Enjoy the sights and sounds of nature whilst mountain biking through indigenous forests
and open plains.
GUIDED QUAD BIKE TOURS
A guided leisure ride through the reserve viewing game in their natural habitat.
ELEPHANT INTERACTION
You will never forget the experience of a close interaction with one of the world’s greatest
animals. Getting really close up you can touch, feed, talk to and educate yourself on these
graceful, gentle giants.
ELEPHANT SAFARI
Enjoy game viewing with a difference. Enjoy an elephant back safari in the reserve whilst
taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
GUIDED HIKING TRAILS
Walk on the wild side and enjoy the outdoors. Come and explore the beauty of the
reserve on foot.
CANOEING
Enjoy scenic canoeing on the Kwelera River in the reserve.
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WHALE AND DOLPHIN WHATCHING
The reserve overlooks the Indian Ocean, which presents opportunities for Whale and
Dolphin viewing in season. Trips can be arranged at an additional cost.
SWIMMING
Pay a visit to the prestine beaches only 1 km from the game reserve and go swimming,
surfing, and fishing or just relax around the pool at the camp.
ACCOMMODATION AFFELIATED TO INKWENKWEZI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE –
SITUATED OUTSIDE THE GAME RESERVE
CHINTSA SANDS GUESTHOUSE
Situated 4 km from Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve, outside the game reserve, at
Chintsa West, a stone throw away from the beach. The guest house consist of 2 x Double
Rooms, 2 x double rooms with a Double Bunk in each and 1 x Twin room with double
bunk. Each room has its own ensuite bathroom. Chintsa Bay Restaurant is situated just
above the guest house from where guests can enjoy meals.
The room configuration is as follows:
Turban Shell
Conus Shell
Starfish
Bunk
Sea Urchin
Horned Helmet
Room 1
Room 2
Room 3
Accommodates 2 people - Double Bed
Accommodates 2 people - Double Bed
Accommodates 4 people - 2 Single Beds & a Double
Room 4
Room 5
Accommodates 4 people - Double Bed & a Double Bunk
Accommodates 4 people - Double Bed & a Double Bunk
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UMNENGA LODGE
Umnenga Lodge is situated 6 km from Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve, outside the
game reserve, at Glen Eden and 1km from our prestine beaches. All roads to the
establishment are tarred. Umnenga Lodge is ideal for accommodating tour groups.
The room configuration is as follows:
3
Double Rooms
16
Twin Rooms
6
Single Rooms
Meals (Dinner, Breakfast & Lunch) can be enjoyed from one of the venues i.e.
Emthombeni Restaurant, The Lapa, Umnenga Lodge or Chintsa Bay Restaurant.
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Inkwenkwezi offers a charming thatched open-air chapel with its red carpet laid out for the
bridal couple to walk down and say ”I do”. The chapel is situated at Emthombeni (under
the old wild fig tree). We offer a beautiful garden settings with water features incorporating
waterfalls, small ponds and streams with rapids. To capture its beauty once the sun has
set, strategically placed lights light up the garden.
After the service the couple may wonder into our paradise garden for their photo session.
The breathtaking scenes, and interesting features will give you the opportunity to have a
range of unique photographs to keep as mementoes of this important day.
During the photo session the guests are invited to have a pre-arranged Inkwenkwezi
welcoming drink, while relaxing with the tranquil sounds of running water, cocktails and
canopes.
On walking into the thatched Emthombeni, you are welcomed and you become one with
the enchanting gardens when the big sliding glass doors are opened. Our beautiful, welldesigned and equipped bar is operated as per your instructions.
Our kitchen will cater accordingly to your requirements and only the finest and freshest
ingredients are used. On our buffet, more than generous portions are served. We include
in the package options for you to choose your buffet menu.
Your unique table décor and artistic displays will ensure that your special occasion is not
short of being exclusively to your needs.
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