Shawu Elephant Safaris was created by Mike Lawrie, a Hoedspruit-based safari tourism entrepreneur who has spent over 20 years living in the heart of South Africa's Big 5 territory.
The name Shawu comes from the legendary elephant bull whose tusks were the longest ever recorded in South Africa. He roamed the Kruger lowveld for sixty years, and his legacy represents everything we believe in: strength, patience, endurance, and the deep connection between elephants and this landscape.
Mike Lawrie has dedicated the majority of his professional life to the African elephant. His connection to these animals goes beyond professional interest. It's personal, bordering on obsession. That obsession led to the creation of Shawu Elephant Safaris, an operation built entirely around ethical, elephant-focused experiences.
Mike also runs Safari Web Online (AI-powered tourism technology), Aerotel Hoedspruit (aviation-themed boutique hotel), Bush Villa Collection (exclusive-use safari villas), Wild About Hoedspruit (destination marketing), and Wild Getaways Magazine.
Every journey with Shawu is tailor-made. Tell us what you're looking for.