Sabi Sands

Overview

Situated on the western border of the Greater Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands is a renowned wildlife sanctuary that shares an open border with Kruger, which allows the animals to roam freely between the two parks. The reserve is celebrated for its high density of wildlife, particularly the Big Five, and offers an exclusive safari experience with fewer guests and the flexibility to explore off-road in their safari vehicle and also on foot, providing unparalleled opportunities for close encounters and exceptional wildlife viewing.

Sabi Sands is also home to some of the most luxurious lodges in the whole of South Africa which, coupled with low tourist density compared to other reserves, ensures a higher level of comfort and personalized service, making it a preferred destination for those seeking an opulent experience paired with intimate and immersive encounters with nature.

Accommodation

Our top picks

Tengile Lodge

Known particularly for its frequent leopard sightings, the lodge offers an exclusive game viewing experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Big 5

Private Safari Vehicle

Pool

Private Butler

Spa & Wellness

Private Chef

MalaMala Camp

A perfect blend of refined luxury and exceptional service amidst the picturesque bushveld scenery of Sabi Sands.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Big 5

Private Safari Vehicle

Pool

Spa & Wellness

Stargazing

Private Deck

Londolozi Pioneer Camp

The camp integrates homestead origins with signature textures and iconic decor, reflecting an authentic African essence.

HIGHLIGHTS

The Big 5

Private Safari Vehicle

Photographic Studio

Pool

Gym

Spa & Wellness

Want to see more?

The above accommodation options are just a small sample of the 100’s we have for you to choose from. Get in touch for more amazing options, pricing and personalized itineraries!

Unfenced Boundaries

Sabi Sands Game Reserve shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, creating an interconnected area that allows wildlife to roam freely between the two regions. The unfenced boundary ensures natural migration patterns and behaviors are maintained, resulting in dynamic game viewing opportunities making Sabi Sands a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Looking Out for Leopards

Sabi Sands is renowned for its remarkable leopard sightings, making it a standout destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The elusive leopard, often considered the most challenging of the Big 5 to spot, is frequently encountered during game drives in the reserve.

Unrivalled Exclusivity

Unlike in neighboring Kruger National Park, self-driving is not permitted in Sabi Sands. This is to ensure that the private concession remains exclusive to the guests who stay there. The benefit of this is that safari vehicles are permitted to venture off-road, allowing you to follow animals further into the bush for a more authentic safari experience, something that is not permitted in Kruger National Park.

Superb Safari Biodiversity

Sabi Sands is known for its exceptional biodiversity and is celebrated as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations. The reserve is characterized by a unique blend of savannah and riverine ecosystems, creating a diverse habitat that supports a rich array of flora and fauna.

Experiences

Walking Safari

Embark on an adventure to connect with the African bush, interacting with its inhabitants, from largest to smallest.

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The Big 5

As well as Sabi Sands’ breathtaking leopard sightings, visitors can experience regular encounters with the rest of the Big Five, including rhinos, elephants and lions.

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Night Drives

Explore the mysterious realm of nocturnal wildlife on a thrilling night drive.

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Cultural Tours

Explore the vibrant Shangaan community’s rich culture and customs or immerse yourself in a futuristic African village for a unique experience.

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Spa & Wellness

Designed to foster your bond with nature and catalyze a profound shift in global consciousness.

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Photography Trips

Capture nature through your lens, from the smallest creatures to graceful giants like giraffes and elephants.

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Wildlife Conservation

From its very beginning, Sabi Sands Reserve has prioritized conservation as the cornerstone of its mission, regarded as one of the birthplaces of sustainable wildlife tourism in Southern Africa.

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A group of guests enjoy an evening drink against a stunning dusk backdrop

Plan your Safari

Each lodge has unique activities. Our Personal Travel Designers can talk you through them.

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Seasons

Why travel at this time

Optimal game viewing occurs during the dry season. During this time, animals gather around limited water sources, and the reduced vegetation cover makes spotting them easier.

Climate

There is virtually no rainfall during the whole of winter, and the humidity is very low. Animals are attracted to permanent water sources as water becomes scarce in the bush. July through to October marks the end of the dry season, during which malaria-carrying mosquitoes remain dormant.

Low Temp: 12.6ºC / 54.6ºF
High Temp: 27ºC / 80ºF
9mm / 0.3in (pm)

Why travel at this time

In the wet season, animals benefit from greater cover and are more spread out, and thus, spotting them becomes more challenging. However, it’s worth noting that some seasoned travelers and experts prefer the wet season. During this time, wildlife tends to be in better condition, many species give birth, behavioral patterns shift, and it offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as it coincides with the arrival of summer migrant birds.

Climate

From October through November, temperatures rise as rainfall increases, usually in the afternoons. December to February witness the peak of wet and hot conditions, marked by heavy afternoon rainfall and high humidity. By March and April, rainfall begins to taper off while temperatures gradually cool. April brings clear skies with minimal cloud cover, albeit slightly cooler nights that remain pleasant.

Low Temp: 19ºC / 66ºF
High Temp: 34ºC / 93ºF
76mm / 2.9in (pm)

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