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The Lake Jozini Experience

Experience the first Houseboat in South Africa - the only one of its kind. Onboard Shayamanzi Houseboats, soak up the stunning scenery of the Lebombo Mountains and superb wildlife of the Pongola Game Reserve on the shores of Lake Jozini (also known as Pongolapoort Dam). Enjoy the calm serenity of the open Lake Jozini waters, the thrill of Tiger Fishing or the adventure of Mountain Biking in the heart of the Zululand bushveld! Shayamanzi is about taking time out to appreciate Africa's special wonders.

CRUISE IN STYLE
The on-board experience has been brilliantly captured by Leanne & Dan

CRUISE IN STYLE

Unique African Experiences

Tiger Fishing

Lake Jozini is the only water in South Africa where you find the ferocious fighting Tiger Fish, an African game fish, which thrills you as it jumps out the water, throwing its head from side to side trying to get off your line.

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Game Viewing

Lake Jozini is surrounded by the Pongola Game Reserve and Pongola Nature Reserve, which provide spectacular game viewing from the water's edge. The Game Reserves are teaming with a large variety of wildlife.

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Celebrations

There is no better way to celebrate your special occasion than cruising Lake Jozini, surrounded by your friends and family. Shayamanzi Speciality cakes are available on request, made with love and care by our onboard chefs.

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Corporates

Shayamanzi Houseboats make for a unique executive conference venue cruising Lake Jozini. All relevant conference requirements can be arranged and there is cell phone signal everywhere ensuring access to the office at all times.

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"We had a 3 night exclusive charter for our group of 8 people, which was definitely the way to go. You are served 3 meals a day and snacks, our compliments to the 2 chefs the food was delicious, Bravo. What a treat."

- Mandy S (TripAdvisor) "What an awesome three day cruise on the luxury houseboat, Shayamanzi II. We cruised around the immense Pongolapoort dam, safely navigated by Captain Alan, who put our safety first at all times. We were able to see numerous species of wildlife as we cruised as well as closer sightings from the numerous trips on the tenders, piloted very competent skippers."

- iTimot (TripAdvisor) "I have never fished in my 70 years but I had to try the experience as the rods are supplied, the bait is put on the hooks for you, then I caught 2 tiger fish, 3 other people caught as well, the crew caught a Barbel. Never to be forgotten. The whole crew were always there if you needed anything, and I would like to thank Sally who helped us with the planning stage."

- Mandy S (TripAdvisor) "Our family (parents and two adult sons) spent three nights on Shayamanzi II in December 2024 and I HIGHLY recommend it! From the moment we stepped onboard we felt like we were properly on holiday, and thoroughly enjoyed our time onboard, whether we were in our cabins, in one of the communal areas, in the jacuzzi or out on the tender boats."

- Sheena Carnie (TripAdvisor) "We were so spoilt with the game viewing we saw so much from the tenders and the houseboat as you are close to shore, we saw Giraffe, Zebras, White Rhinos, Elephants, all types of Bucks, Hippos, Bush pigs, Fish Eagles, an Egret colony, Ostrich, Wildebeest, and probably more that I have forgotten to mention."

- Mandy S (TripAdvisor) "Its one of those experiences that you have to continuously remind yourself that you are simply on holiday and have not been transported to another universe. The peace and tranquillity of this holiday surpasses that of the normal getaway. One can really unwind, chill and relax on a Shayamanzi Luxury Houseboats holiday."

- iTimot (TripAdvisor) "We were on a three-day social cruise and three days was the perfect time to spend onboard... not long enough to get bored, but enough time to fully relax and enjoy everything on offer. The other guests on the cruise were all pleasant and relaxed and there were no issues, despite us all being strangers in a shared space."

- Sheena Carnie (TripAdvisor) "We hired the whole boat for a family birthday celebration which included young children. The boat is very comfortable, and the crew were outstanding, as was the food. Tiger fishing as well as the game viewing was excellent, I would highly recommend this trip on the Shayamanzi."

- Saffron Meg (TripAdvisor) "We were a group of friends who rented the whole boat. The food was deliciously prepared and the table tastefully set. The captain and crew were friendly, professional, and helpful. The tiger fish did not disappoint us and the thrill of catching one after another tiger fish cannot be described in words. Thank you for four great days on the boat."

- Mari Fourie (TripAdvisor) "To the Shayamanzi Staff and Crew 10/10, treated like royalty, they so efficient and polite, the food was top draw, every single meal and puddings (Chocolate Brownies wow) was absolutely delicious. Fishing, sunsets and game viewing our Captain Alan was excellent. This was the best getaway ever, highly recommend. Thank you for life long memories."

- Dave & Hayley (TripAdvisor) "This is the best holiday ever, the food and the staff and game viewing was fantastic. We met some awesome people and had the best time ever! Can highly recommend it."

- Karen P (TripAdvisor) "No words can describe how much we enjoyed our stay on Shayamanzi Houseboats. From the accommodation, to the food, to the crew and of course the fishing, everything was phenomenal! Thank you so much for such a lovely experience. We cannot wait to book our next trip onboard!"

- Leanne D (TripAdvisor) "Had an exceptional time on Shayamazi - everything was perfect!! Great food, great weather, great food and most importantly great hospitality!"

- B Phillips (TripAdvisor) "This was a fantastic trip and experience. The crew were very professional and was always willing to help. The food was outstanding and well prepared. We enjoy the fishing allot and it was great seeing some animals as well. The boot was in a great condition and we enjoy the upper deck where we spend most of our time. I would definitely do this again!"

- Hennie N (TripAdvisor) "This was a once in a lifetime experience!!!! I enjoyed it so much. The staff was friendly and helpful. We loved the space and our fishing trips. The views were also amazing. Will definitely recommend to anyone."

- Melanie (TripAdvisor) "We cannot recommend this enough. The game viewing from the houseboat was a treat, the daily activities on the tender boats were always entertaining and provided another perspective from the water. Food was outstanding and prepared with a lot of love. The crew and their service was just wonderful. Just the right mix of adventure and relaxation!"

- Tanya Hill (TripAdvisor) TESTIMONIALS & GUEST REVIEWS

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