The History of Schotia Game Reserve

Schotia Game Reserve is one of the Eastern Cape’s most special safari destinations, with a history that stretches back much further than its modern reputation as a wildlife reserve.

The story begins with the Bean family, whose connection to the land dates back to the early 1800s. The original property, known as Orlando Farm, was owned and farmed by the family for generations. Over the years, the land changed from being primarily agricultural to becoming a place where wildlife could once again take centre stage.

In 1982, a new chapter began when the owners started introducing game to the property. Animals were brought onto the land with the vision of developing a natural wildlife environment and returning the area to something closer to its original character.

What started as a gradual wildlife project eventually became one of the Eastern Cape’s oldest and best-known private game reserves.

As more animals were introduced and the population grew, Schotia developed into a diverse wildlife area. Antelope, zebra, giraffe, elephants and many other species became established, creating an environment where visitors could experience African wildlife in a more natural setting.

One of the most important developments in Schotia’s history was the introduction of free-roaming lions. This was a major step in the reserve’s development because it allowed a predator-prey relationship to exist within the reserve rather than having the lions kept separately from other animals. The addition of predators added another dimension to the reserve and helped create the exciting safari experience for which Schotia is known today.

The reserve has continued to develop while remaining closely connected to its family roots. Unlike many large commercial wildlife destinations, Schotia has retained its identity as a family-owned reserve, with generations of the Bean family continuing to play a role in its management and future.

Its position close to Addo Elephant National Park has also made Schotia an important part of the region’s safari industry. Although much smaller than Addo, Schotia offers visitors a different type of wildlife experience. The compact reserve and guided safari approach can provide excellent opportunities to get close to a wide variety of animals and to spend time observing their natural behaviour.

Schotia is now home to a remarkable range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, rhino, hippos, giraffe, zebra and numerous antelope species. The reserve is also rich in birdlife, making it an interesting destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Perhaps the most interesting part of Schotia’s history is the transformation that has taken place over several decades. Land that was once primarily used as a family farm has become a thriving wildlife destination where conservation, tourism and family heritage come together.

Today, a visit to Schotia is an opportunity to experience more than simply a game drive. It is a chance to explore a piece of the Eastern Cape that has been carefully developed into a wildlife haven while retaining the character and family heritage that have been part of the property for generations.

A Special Part of the Eastern Cape

Schotia’s history is ultimately a story of change — from family farmland, to a wildlife project, and finally to an established private game reserve.

Its success demonstrates how land can be transformed to once again provide a home for wildlife while creating opportunities for people to experience and appreciate Africa’s natural heritage.

When you visit Schotia Game Reserve, you are not only seeing wild animals — you are experiencing the result of decades of vision, conservation and a family’s enduring connection to the land.