THE END OF AN ERA ....đ
Dear friends, family, and loyal guests,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the news that Shayamoya will sadly be closing its doors at the end of June 2026.
This decision is not one we have made lightly, but rather a difficult outcome dictated by circumstances beyond our control. The land on which Shayamoya stands was amicably claimed by the government in 2015, and since then, we have faced ongoing challenges with the landowners and trustees. Despite our efforts to secure the future of this special place, through proposals and negotiations⊠the current stance of the landowners has left us with no choice but to prepare for closure.
As many of you know, my Father, Brian, and mother, Denise, built Shayamoya from the ground up in 1995/96, creating a sanctuary that was more than just a lodge. They were the pioneers of converting to conservation in the area. It was grazing land for cattle, with a stunning view, a variety of tree and grass species and abundant birdlife.
I joined my parents in the business in 1997 after travelling and working my way around the world and we were a great team. Our staff and the local community became family ⊠it was a home filled with countless memories.
Over the years, Shayamoya has been a place of peace, connection to nature, and soulful hospitality. Weâve been privileged to host so many wonderful guests, many of whom have also become part of our extended family. Unfortunately, recent developments, including lease disputes, unrealistic rent increases, and the refusal of a joint venture proposal, have made it impossible to continue operating.
Amidst these challenges, having also lost my father last year, juggling the ongoing negotiations along with personal grief has been incredibly tough. Despite these hardships, I have fought hard to protect what Shayamoya represents, alas the circumstances have left us with no choice but to wind down.
We will operate as usual until June 21st, so I invite you all to visit and enjoy the magic of Shayamoya one last time at a special price of just R975.00 per person sharing per night ( R1950 for a double room) inclusive of accommodation and our famous homecooked breakfast.
Our team, who as mentioned are more like family, will be unfortunately retrenched, hence I am doing my best to support them in finding new opportunities. We have been blessed to have some amazing, multi skilled, very hardworking people on board, that will be a great asset to any business. Please get in touch if you can help them! All bookings from July onwards will be regretfully cancelled and refunded to ensure a smooth transition.
While the future for Shayamoya is uncertain, I am at least grateful for the memories, the friendships, and the love that has filled this place. As I prepare to take a much-needed break, I want to thank everyone ⊠from our guests, staff, suppliers, and partners, for your unwavering support over the years. Shayamoya has been my heart and soul, and I will carry itâs spirit with me into whatever comes next.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Lindy Blevin
This is my contact Email: shayalindy@saol.com
in case anyone wishes to get in touch… pls be a little patient if I do not reply immediately, given the current circumstances. 
Reasons to Stay at Shayamoya Tiger Fishing and Game Lodge
By choosing Shayamoya, guests are assured an unforgettable stay filled with comfort, adventure, and personalized touches.
Shayamoya is conveniently located on key travel routes, making it easily accessible from:
- Johannesburg or Pretoria: Approximately a 6-hour drive
- Durban: Around a 3.5-hour drive
- Richards Bay: A 2-hour drive
- Kruger National Park: Approximately a 7-hour drive via a scenic route around Swaziland or a quicker route through Swaziland, offering a unique experience of a new country.
Experience Shayamoya
Experience how the breeze cools you as it blows gently off the great lake up the ridge or join us for one of our speciality Tiger Fishing excursions where the thrill of fighting one of these rare ferocious game fish is simply invigorating.
Privately managed by the Blevin family who have lived in the area for many years, Shayamoya exudes a warm and friendly atmosphere.
Packages
February
Freebie
Stay Three nights, Pay for Two
R5 600 per couple which includes a complimentary night!
Normal Price would be R8 400 per couple for 3 nights
Includes Bed and Breakfast.
Celebrate Your
Anniversary
R12 390 per couple. Two nightsâ accommodation in a premium, air-conditioned ensuite chalet, that enjoys panoramic views of Lake Jozini. Â
Winter Wonders
Special
Escape for a 3-night bush break to the warmth of Zululand and witness the magical show of the succulent gardens in bloom! Price: R5 460 per person sharing or R10 920 per couple.
Joint Couples
Retreat
Bring your friends and enjoy great hospitality, exciting tiger fishing, thrilling game viewing and relaxing massages: R4 545 per person sharing, R9 090 per couple.
Inclusive Safari & Tiger
Fishing Package
3 nights inclusive of breakfast, dinner, a safari, a fishing excursion, and a massage for only: R7 060 per person sharing, R14 120 per couple, R3 995 per child.
Tiger Fishing
Tiger fishing is the truly exciting activity, which we offer. This species of ferocious fighting game fish is rare to South African waters. Lake Jozini, also known as Pongolapoort, covers 17000 hectares and is the only lake in South Africa which is home to tiger fish, scientifically known as Hydrocynus vittatus, or commonly known as the âstriped water dogâ.
Good sizes have been caught on Lake Jozini where the official record is 8.3kg.
The tiger fishing season is from August to early November and March to May although we fish throughout the year. The lodge has a selection of fishing rods and tackle for hire.
How To Find Us
Please Note
The main entrance gate is automated and requires an access code. Please call us at 078 745 2564 or 063 796 3003 before your arrival so we can send you the code.
GPS Co-ordinates
- 27° 21â 415 South 31° 49â 762 East