Where: Sabi Sands Private Wildlife Reserve is a 65,000-hectare reserve located on the south-western edge of Kruger National Park and shares a 50-kilometer unfenced border with the park, allowing wildlife to freely move between the two regions.
Why: Sabi Sands has been recorded as having the highest density of big game in South Africa and is known for spectacular sightings of Africa’s ‘Big Five’ most notably of leopard.
When: Wildlife viewing is excellent here year round. During the dry months, from May through September, animals are easier to observe since the vegetation is sparse and they congregate around rivers and waterholes.
Sabi Sands has established itself as South Africa’s top game-viewing location.With both the Sand and Sabi rivers running through the reserve, there is enough food and water to keep the wildlife happy all year.
There are no other places in Africa that can routinely or spectacularly deliver sightings of the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) like Sabi Sands can. The location has become well-known for its spectacular leopard sightings. Although they are the most elusive of all the cats and the hardest of the Big Five to locate, sightings are nearly certain here.
Early morning and late afternoon game drives and walks are conducted by your guide. As it is a private reserve, night drives are also allowed. Going out on a guided night game drive will introduce you to the more elusive nocturnal animals of the reserve.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve is home to luxury safari lodges, many of which are located in smaller private game reserves within the Sabi Sands Reserve. With some of the world’s most opulent lodges, excellent service, and good food, the reserve provides a unique experience. The lodging in the Sabi Sands can be pricey, but you certainly get what you pay for. The level of service and comfort on offer is unparalleled. Many offer spas and child-minding services, and additional activities such as helicopter flights.
The finest game locations are those bordering the major Kruger Park or adjacent to one of the two rivers in the reserve, especially along the Sand River.
