The Guidebook to Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve
Zannon James, one of our African Travel Experts, recently spent a week in Greater Kruger and one of the reserves he visited was the renowned Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park and is known for its abundant wildlife. Zannon offers valuable insights on making the most of your Greater Kruger safari in South Africa.
Upon landing at Skukuza airstrip, I met my driver and began the first leg of my Greater Kruger safari. After a quick itinerary overview, we headed to Sabi Sands, a private reserve adjacent to Kruger. The drive to the luxurious Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge felt like a game drive itself, with sightings of giraffes, impala, and more as we entered the reserve.
About Sabi Sabi
Sabi Sabi is a family-owned and run establishment that started in 1979. Since its inception, it has made a name for itself due to its wide offerings, incredible location, and commitment to both wildlife conservation and its staff. Lourens, the lodge manager at Sabi Sabi Little Bush, passionately reminded me of the lodge ethos—a philosophy that honours the past, embraces the present, and aims for a sustainable future. This commitment to preserving the wilderness while providing exceptional guest experiences was clear throughout my Greater Kruger safari.
Each lodge within the collection has its own unique character. Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, where I stayed, is a refined and elegant retreat perfect for families and larger groups. The oldest lodge in their collection offers spacious suites and a lively communal atmosphere. Selati Camp is a nostalgic choice for history enthusiasts, evoking the charm of old-world safaris. Little Bush Camp offers a more intimate setting, ideal for small groups and multi-generational families seeking peace and quiet. Lastly, Earth Lodge provides contemporary luxury with an eco-conscious design, perfect for couples and honeymooners looking for a high-end escape in the bush.
What Was The Wildlife Like?
My guide, Macs, was an energetic young safari ranger with a deep knowledge of the African wilderness, paired with JP, a seasoned tracker with an incredible eye for detail. Together, they made an unbeatable team, ensuring an unforgettable safari.
Our first game drive far exceeded my expectations. As we entered the reserve, the excitement of being on safari kicked in. Macs quickly spotted two male lions lounging in the afternoon sun, their golden fur stark against the green plains. Nearby, a pride of lions, including four adult females and seven playful cubs, rested in the distance. Later, following tracks expertly identified by JP, we encountered something extraordinary—a beautiful leopard enjoying an impala kill. As if that wasn’t enough, two more leopards, possibly her offspring, emerged from the undergrowth. Seeing three leopards in one sighting is incredibly rare and showcased the exceptional wildlife viewing that Sabi Sands is known for especially on a Greater Kruger safari.
Just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, we came across a herd of buffalo, their massive horns a testament to their strength. As we headed back to the lodge, a herd of elephants, including incredibly young calves just days old, crossed our path, ending the day on a high note.
Staying in a game reserve like this, with unfenced borders to Kruger National Park, offers the same or even better game viewing but with fewer people, resulting in a more intimate experience. Another advantage is the opportunity for night game drives, exclusive to private reserves. This must-do experience allows you to witness nocturnal wildlife with your guide and tracker, providing a unique perspective on Kruger’s wildlife.
My Stay at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
Staying at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge was about more than just the amazing wildlife—though that was definitely a highlight. What really stood out to me was the luxury and personalised service. My suite, tucked among the trees, offered incredible views of the bush. The décor was a mix of colonial elegance and modern comfort, with handcrafted furniture and luxurious textiles that blended seamlessly with the natural surroundings. The lodge had a lively communal atmosphere, perfect for families and groups, while each suite still provided privacy for a peaceful experience in the wilderness.
One standout aspect of the lodge is the gourmet cuisine, focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. We enjoyed meals in stunning locations, including a memorable dinner under the stars. The lodge features a majestic boma with a crackling fire at its centre, creating a magical atmosphere as the flames lit up the faces of fellow guests and staff.
The lodge strikes a great balance between exciting game drives and pure relaxation. The lodge has a gym, two pools, a safari deck, and the Amani Spa. Most mornings began with an exhilarating game drive, followed by a refreshing swim in one of their two pools. The afternoons were spent on the deck, sharing stories and drinks with other guests as the sun set.
A highlight of my stay was an interactive drumming session, where staff taught us to play traditional African drums. The rhythmic beats were a beautiful reflection of South African culture, making it an unforgettable experience.
Overall Thoughts of Your Stay?
Overall, my stay was incredible, and a huge thank you to the lodge and their team for having me. This reserve offered exceptional wildlife encounters, luxurious accommodations, and warm hospitality made for an unforgettable experience. With its dedication to conservation and commitment to guest satisfaction and has truly earned its reputation as one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
Looking to embark on your trip to Kruger? Choosing Sabi Sabi provides the perfect spot for all the region has to offer. Start planning your South Africa safari today, contact us.
