Our Story
The story of Sashwa is one of dreams, co-creation, and a pioneering vision.
Our journey began with a profound passion for the African wilderness and a vision to redefine safari experiences. Driven by a deep love for nature and a commitment to conservation, we embarked on creating a retreat where guests could fully immerse in the transformative power of the wilderness.
At the heart of this vision was a sustainable profit model to support Koru Camp, a non-profit community education initiative within the reserve. This blend of sustainability and a desire to foster deep connections with the wilderness inspired the creation of Sashwa.
Our vision encompasses three intertwined pillars: empowering local communities, conservation and sustainability, and fostering meaningful connection and transformational nature-led experiences for people in the African wilderness. We believe Mother Nature is sentient— guided by a Nature-first ethos, every choice we make and every detail at Sashwa has been crafted with care to reflect our commitment to honoring her and providing an unforgettable experience.
By reconnecting people with nature, we unlock the potential for true transformation. In returning to the wild, we rediscover purpose, protect what matters, and imagine a world shaped by harmony and connection. We invite you to experience the love and soul woven into the fabric of Sashwa and find inspiration, healing, and transformation during your time with us in the African wilderness.
“Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better.” – Albert Einstein
MVUU Game Reserve
Our home is Mvuu Game Reserve (Struwigrus), a private game reserve in the Greater Kruger Park nestled between Klaserie and Balule bordering the Olifants River.
Purchased in 2020 by Trustee, Peter Eastwood, on behalf of the Tanglewood Trust. The Trust’s intention was to transform the land from a hunting concession into a protected haven for wildlife and a location for Koru Camp, a unique place in the African Wilderness dedicated to immersive community wildlife education. Within a year, the land revived, and the wildlife returned in abundance.
Mvuu Game Reserve forms part of the Greater Kruger Biosphere, sharing unfenced borders with Kruger National Park. This seamless wilderness spans over 2 million hectares, allowing wildlife to roam freely across the landscape – creating an untamed, and deeply enriching safari experience.
Meet Peter
Peter Eastwood was born and raised in New Zealand, but his heart was captured by Africa as a teenager through the novels of Wilbur Smith. His first visit to Africa was in 1982 and he has returned regularly ever since. Peter’s journey into conservation began in Kwa- Zulu-Natal, where he became involved in rhino protection through his local network. In 2019, he purchased property in the Lowveld, deepening his commitment to preserving Africa’s wild spaces. Peter’s passion for conservation has taken him and his children across southern Africa, exploring its diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
When not immersed in conservation work or wilderness adventures, Peter lives in his bushveld home in Greater Kruger and remains closely connected to Sashwa, where he continues to guide and nurture its founding vision.
Our Team
Ian Shoebotham
General Manager
Ian Shoebotham
General Manager
Ian brings much more than just management expertise as the GM—he also leads trails, offers stargazing and birdwatching experiences, and has a passion for organic gardening. His presence is integral to the guest experience.
Kim Scott
Reservations Manager
Kim Scott
Reservations Manager
Kim is your go-to person from the moment you consider booking until you arrive. Her knowledge is unmatched, and there’s no question she can’t answer before your journey begins.
Joosje Heringa
Marketing & Business Development Manager
Joosje Heringa
Marketing & Business Development Manager
Based in Spain, Joosje is instrumental in growing our international presence. She represents us at global travel and retreat shows and builds key relationships with international travel agents.
Fortunate
Front of House
Fortunate
Front of House
Always smiling, Fortunate ensures every guest feels welcomed and well cared for throughout their stay.
Jennifer
Home Keeping Angels
Jennifer
Home Keeping Angels
With a constant smile and a dedicated spirit, Jennifer keeps our rooms immaculate. She’s also a key driver of our Dancing Queens and Kings.
Brenda
Home Keeping Angels
Brenda
Home Keeping Angels
Our longest-serving team member, Brenda works tirelessly behind the scenes to keep everything at its best for your stay.
Lunghile
Home Keeping Angels
Lunghile
Home Keeping Angels
A new member of the team, Lunghile is quickly proving to be a valued and capable addition.
Emily
Home Keeping Angels
Emily
Home Keeping Angels
Small in stature but with a huge heart, Emily is a versatile team member whose broad skill set allows her to float between roles wherever she’s needed.
Chef Agree
Nourish Team
Chef Agree
Nourish Team
A vital part of our culinary team, Chef Agree combines culinary excellence with impeccable plating skills.
Chef Koketso
Nourish Team
Chef Koketso
Nourish Team
An essential contributor to our kitchen, Chef Koketso blends outstanding flavors with beautiful plating.
Chef Nothando
Nourish Team
Chef Nothando
Nourish Team
Our Assistant Chef, Nothando, earned her spot in our kitchen after impressing the Chefs with her passion and dedication during her internship at Koru Camp. A rising star, she brings energy and creativity to every dish.
Tiyani
Nourish Team
Tiyani
Nourish Team
The heart and soul of the restaurant, Tiyani’s cheerful energy and dedication bring joy to both guests and colleagues. She’s also a leading force in the Dancing Queens and Kings
Senzeni
Nourish Team
Senzeni
Nourish Team
Senzeni is a key member of the Nourish team—serving guests with care and also handling vital logistics between town and the lodge.
Realise
Nourish Team
Realise
Nourish Team
Quietly in the background but essential, Realise ensures every plate, glass, and utensil is spotless and ready for service
Danielle
Spa Team
Danielle
Spa Team
Whether you seek massage or reflexology, Danielle and her team are here to help you relax and rejuvenate.
Sinah
Spa Team
Sinah
Spa Team
The newest member of the spa team, Sinah brings vibrant energy and enthusiasm to every guest interaction.
Crowd
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Crowd
Maintenance & Gardens Team
If something breaks you will find Crowd in the midst of the repair. There’s little he can’t fix, and his energy is unmatched.
Mateo
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Mateo
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Our road maintenance hero and multi-skilled team player, Mateo is always ready to jump in— as an energetic member of our Dancing Queens and Kings or with a TLB.
Believe
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Believe
Maintenance & Gardens Team
You’ll usually find Believe in the Abundance Garden, tending to the food we eat or caring for the lodge gardens. Believe is always happy to answer any questions you may have about how we grow vegetables in this often challenging environment.
George
Maintenance & Gardens Team
George
Maintenance & Gardens Team
George is our strongman and dedicated groundskeeper. From the veld to the lodge, he always goes the extra mile.
Samson
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Samson
Maintenance & Gardens Team
Gardener and a backup TLB driver, Samson AKA Uncle is at the heart of many celebrations, whether bringing joy to team or entertaining the guests as one of our Dancing Queens and Kings.
Celebrate
Team Village Kitchen
Celebrate
Team Village Kitchen
Often found in the main kitchen baking the delicious cakes, breads, rusks and desserts we love so much. If she’s not in Nourish, you’ll likely find her in the Team Village Kitchen, making sure our amazing team is well fed
Sashwa River of Stars
Step into a transformative journey where holistic wellness meets the magic of an African safari. At Sashwa, every retreat is designed to nourish your body, calm your mind, and awaken your spirit, all while surrounded by the raw beauty of the African wilderness.
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