Sabi Sands Game Reserve

About Sabi Sands Game Reserve

The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is undoubtedly the most exclusive private game reserve in South Africa. The 65,000-hectare Sabi Sands Game Reserve is located on the south-western corner of the Kruger National Park. There are no restricting fences between the Kruger Park and Sabi Sands Reserve and the wildlife roams free.

Did you know? The wildlife of Africa and its equally beautiful habitat are celebrated at the exclusive Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. This game reserve has successfully, even a little magically, combined the raw, wild allure of Africa with sheer, world-class luxury.

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve shares a border with the acclaimed Kruger National Park in the Lowveld of the Mpumalanga Province, and is made up of several luxury lodges and smaller reserves. In fact, Sabi Sands is one of the most exclusive game reserves in the country, assuring its guests of the ultimate in hospitality and fine quality.

It covers an area of some 650 square kilometres and is named after the Sabie and Sand rivers which flow in and around it. Its border with Kruger National Park is not fenced, so animals are able to roam freely between these reserves, giving visitors fantastic opportunities to see and photograph them on the ultimate South African safari.

The animals of Sabi Sand are, arguably, its main attraction. This reserve is home to the Big Five (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, and rhinoceros), as well as to zebra, aardvark, caracal, the African wild cat, spotted hyena, hippopotamus, genet, civet, impala, pangolin, wild dog, blue wildebeest, warthog, side-striped and black-backed jackal, vervet monkey and baboon (amongst scores of others). In addition, there are around 500 different kinds of birds here.

Game drives at night, in the morning or during the late afternoon are enjoyed with experienced rangers. These knowledgeable guides will share their expertise and experiences with those on safari, making game drives special and memorable. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon and the landscape transforms from golden savannahs to dark silhouettes, a new array of nocturnal wildlife begins to emerge from their dens and hunt for food. Watching them as they cross the headlight beams of the safari vehicle is a deeply touching experience.

The lodges and bush camps in Sabi Sands offer absolute luxury and a real spoil for visitors that want to experience the thrill of the bush, coupled with lashings of opulence. Some of the lodges and camps are ideal for larger groups, while others are more exclusive and promise intimate getaways that are just perfect for honeymoons. These establishments are a cut above the rest, and the service and amenities are designed to make each guest feel pampered. Many of the lodges cater to families with children, providing child-minders and awesome activities for little ones.

The summer months (December to February) can get hot at Sabi Sands, nearing 30 degrees Celsius at noon. May, June and July are the winter months, when days reach highs of around 18 degrees Celsius. December experiences the most rainfall, generally speaking. So, for the most comfortable, cool conditions, the period between May and September is a fantastic time to visit Sabi Sands Game Reserve. During these winter months, the vegetation also tends to thin out, making it easier to see the animals in their natural environment.

To get to Sabi Sands Game Reserve, there are scheduled daily flights, private air charters, private road transfers, or self-driven road access. It is about 5.5 hours' drive from Johannesburg (home to the OR Tambo International Airport) and two hours from Nelspruit. Durban and the King Shaka International Airport are almost 10 hours away.

To fully appreciate the Sabi Sands Reserve and all it has to offer we recommend a stay of two to three nights (or longer if you can). SA-Venues.com proudly features a range of accommodation options within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Our Sabi Sands Accommodation search facility is easy to use and you make your accommodation bookings directly with the venues. Lodges within the reserve include self-catering, B&B style and fully catered, luxury game lodges. Special offers are highlighted, and reviews will help you make informed choices.