Sabi Sand Game Reserve

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Sabi Sand Game Reserve Overview

Reasons to Visit Sabi Sand Game Reserve

* Superb wildlife viewing * Home to the Big Five * Day and night game drives * Exceptional service and hospitality * Excellent high-end luxury safari lodges * Off-road driving allows close-up viewing of animals

Sabi Sand Game Reserve Wildlife

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is famed for its remarkable biodiversity, making it a top destination for safari adventures. Here, you can encounter the Big Five, which includes lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, and rhinoceros. Sabi Sand is particularly celebrated for its frequent leopard sightings, allowing visitors to observe these elusive cats in their natural habitat. Beyond the Big Five, the reserve teems with an array of wildlife. You'll encounter herds of zebras, graceful giraffes, swift cheetahs, and numerous antelope species. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the rich avian diversity, with over 300 bird species soaring through the skies, including the vibrant lilac-breasted roller and the majestic African fish eagle. Sabi Sand Game Reserve offers a captivating and ever-changing backdrop for your wildlife encounters, with various ecosystems ranging from open savannah to lush riverine forests. This diverse habitat ensures that your safari experience is replete with thrilling wildlife sightings and memorable moments in the heart of the African wilderness.

Black Rhino
Rare
Buffalo
Common
Cheetah
Common
Elephant
Common
Giraffe
Common
Hippo
Common
Hyena
Common
Leopard
Common
Lion
Common
Rhino
Occasional
Wild Dog
Rare
Wildebeest
Common
Zebra
Common

Wildlife Highlights

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is possibly the best place in Africa to see leopards. Both the quantity and quality of sightings are superb.

Best Time to Visit Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Best Time to Visit

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Best Weather

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Worst Weather

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The optimal period for wildlife observation coincides with the winter season, often regarded as the 'low season.' This time holds particular allure due to fewer tourist crowds. Winter spans from May to September and is marked by dry conditions. During this period, animal sightings are abundant, as the landscape's foliage thins, prompting wildlife to congregate around rivers and waterholes. Among these months, September stands out as the most enticing for a visit, as it offers the most agreeable temperatures among the winter months while retaining excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Low Season

* Excellent time for wildlife viewing | April to September

High Season

* It can get a bit busy | October – March

Sabi Sand Game Reserve Weather and Climate

Sabi Sand Game Reserve enjoys a diverse climate throughout the year, providing distinct experiences for visitors: Dry Season (May to September) | The dry winter months bring mild temperatures, with daytime highs averaging around 25°C (77°F) and cooler nights at approximately 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is scarce, and the landscape becomes less dense, making it the prime time for wildlife sightings. Animals often gather around water sources, offering fantastic game viewing opportunities. September, the end of the dry season, is particularly attractive for its comfortable temperatures. Wet Season (October to April) | Summer ushers in warmer weather, with daytime temperatures reaching around 30°C (86°F) or more. Occasional heavy rains rejuvenate the landscape, turning it lush and green. While the wet season showcases a vibrant environment, wildlife can be more challenging to spot due to the abundant foliage and the animals' dispersed movement patterns. The wet season is a birder's delight, with migratory birds adding to the avian diversity. Transitional Months (April and October) | April sees the landscape at its greenest, and October marks the transition from dry to wet. These shoulder months offer a balance between lush scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities, making them a suitable choice for visitors looking to avoid extreme weather conditions. When planning your visit to Sabi Sand Game Reserve, consider your preferences for temperature and wildlife encounters. The dry season, encompassing the winter months, is often favored for exceptional game viewing due to reduced vegetation and animal congregation around water sources.

How to get to Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Sabi Sand Game Reserve, a tapestry of privately-owned estates, beckons you to embark on an exquisite journey. Our discerning travelers have the privilege of selecting from an array of opulent transportation options tailored to suit your impeccable tastes.

By Air

Domestic flights also connect to the Sabi Sands region, offering accessibility to the reserve. Additionally, self-drive options are also popular among some visitors.

By Road

Travellers making use of their own rental car when travelling in South Africa can easily reach the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.From Johannesburg, the driving distance is approximately 450 kilometres. Most of the route from Johannesburg takes you along the N4 national road making it an easy and comfortable drive.Including some stops for refreshments, the total driving time adds up to about 6 hours. Please note: access to the northern section of the Sabi Sands (access to for instance Chitwa Chitwa, Cheetah Plains and Arathusa lodges, also see our Sabi Sands map) is through Gowrie gate which takes 7 hours to get to from Johannesburg.

Where to stay in Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Lion Sands River Lodge

Discover Family Luxury at Lion Sands River Lodge Lion Sands River Lodge, nestled in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, welcomes you with the enchanting Sabie River’s view. This luxurious lodge sets the stage for an unforgettable safari journey. Upon arrival, the Sabie River unfolds before you, revealing its diverse wildlife. Hippos make their way upstream, and […]

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge

Unveil the Splendor of safari at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Discover the pinnacle of luxury at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, nestled in the legendary Sabi Sand. This award-winning lodge is more than just a retreat; it’s a gateway to an exclusive African adventure. Every detail at Ivory Lodge speaks of unparalleled luxury. The lodge blends […]

Simbambili Game Lodge

Simbambili Game Lodge: An Intimate Safari Journey Embark on a journey to Simbambili Game Lodge, where luxury and wilderness converge seamlessly. Tucked in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this sanctuary offers a privileged glimpse into the bushveld’s heart. You arrive and instantly feel the lodge’s warm embrace, setting the tone for a stay that balances […]

Silvan Safari Lodge

Silvan Safari: Redefine Your Safari Journey Step into Silvan Safari, a masterpiece nestled in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Here, adventure and serenity meet, crafting a safari experience like no other. Each moment is designed to astonish, from thrilling game drives to peaceful sundowners. As the dawn breaks, Silvan stirs to life. Guided by experts, […]

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

Wild Heart, Luxe Haven: Ulusaba Safari Lodge Ulusaba Safari Lodge stands proudly within the Sabi Sand Reserve, a beacon of luxury in the wild. Guests find themselves enveloped by the untamed African bush, yet cocooned in unparalleled comfort. Here, adventure greets you with open arms. As you arrive, the lodge’s charm is instantly palpable. Crafted […]

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Ulusaba Rock Lodge: Where Safari Dreams Soar Ulusaba Rock Lodge, set atop a rocky hill, invites you into a luxury safari experience. Located in the vast Sabi Sand Reserve, it stands as a pinnacle of exclusivity and comfort. Arriving at Ulusaba Rock Lodge, you step into a realm of unparalleled views. Each suite, a haven […]

Sabi Sabi Selati Camp

Step Back in Time at Sabi Sabi Selati Camp Discover Sabi Sabi Selati Camp, a tribute to the golden age of safari, nestled within the Sabi Sand Reserve. This exquisite lodge merges the untamed spirit of Africa with the genteel luxury of a bygone era, offering a unique wilderness experience. The camp celebrates the romance […]

Leopard Hills Private Game Lodge

Leopard Hills Private Game Lodge: Your Luxurious Safari Oasis Prepare for an extraordinary sojourn at Leopard Hills Private Game Lodge, an epitome of luxury nestled within the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. This exclusive lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience that perfectly marries elegance and untamed wilderness. The lodge boasts eight beautifully appointed […]

Jaci’s Sabi House

Experience Unrivaled Exclusive Luxury at Jaci’s Sabi House Embark on an extraordinary journey to Jaci’s Sabi House, an oasis of unparalleled luxury nestled in the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The retreat, boasting only five stunning suites, expertly melds contemporary sophistication with African charm, ensuring an intimate and personalized stay. From the moment […]

Inyati Game Lodge

Inyati Game Lodge: Your African Safari Dream Come True Experience the best of Africa at Inyati Game Lodge, a luxurious oasis where guests can immerse themselves in the magic of the bush. With its stunning accommodations, world-class service, and exceptional wildlife viewing, Inyati is the perfect destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable safari vacation. Upon […]

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