Sabi Sand Game Reserve
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South Africa

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

South Africa

Experience Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Bordering the southwestern corner of the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve covers 65,000 hectares of unfenced, pristine bushveld. Because there are no fences between it and the Kruger, wildlife roams freely, yet the private status allows for a far more exclusive experience. It is the birthplace of sustainable wildlife tourism in Southern Africa, home to some of the world's most luxurious safari lodges. The reserve is famous for its exceptional habituated predators, particularly leopards, which often ignore the presence of vehicles, allowing for unparalleled photographic opportunities. With off-road driving permitted for significant sightings, Sabi Sand offers an intimate encounter with the wild that is rarely matched elsewhere on the continent.

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Popular Safaris in Sabi Sand Game Reserve

4-Day Sabi Sand Reserve Luxury Safari, Greater Kruger
3 Days

4-Day Sabi Sand Reserve Luxury Safari, Greater Kruger

From

$3,156.00

5-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Safari
5 Days

5-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Safari

From

$4,831.00

Where to Stay

Leopard Hills Lodge
5

Lodge

Leopard Hills Lodge

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Notten's Bush Camp
4

Tented Camp

Notten's Bush Camp

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Arathusa Safari Lodge
5

Lodge

Arathusa Safari Lodge

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Iconic Highlights

1

The Leopard Capital: Arguably the best place on Earth to see these elusive big cats in their natural habitat.

2

Big Five Exclusivity: Private traversing rights mean you can see Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhino without the crowds.

3

Off-Road Exploration: Rangers are permitted to drive off-track to follow predators, ensuring you get the perfect angle for photos.

4

Ultra-Luxury Lodging: Home to world-class estates like Singita, Londolozi, and Sabi Sabi.

5

Nocturnal Discoveries: Guided night drives using spotlights uncover the secret lives of the bush's night-dwellers.

Wildlife & Nature

Lion

Elephant

Leopard

Rhino

Buffalo

Cheetah

Giraffe

Zebra

Wildebeest

Wild Dogs

Climate & When to Visit

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Monthly Averages

MonthTemp HighTemp LowRainfall
Apr29°C--°C-- mm
Aug26°C--°C-- mm
Dec32°C--°C-- mm
Feb32°C--°C-- mm
Jan33°C--°C-- mm
Jul24°C--°C-- mm
Jun25°C--°C-- mm
Mar31°C--°C-- mm
May27°C--°C-- mm
Nov31°C--°C-- mm
Oct30°C--°C-- mm
Sep28°C--°C-- mm

Travel Requirements

  • Passport: Must be valid for at least 30 days after your intended departure with 2 blank page

  • Visa: Follows South African entry requirements (many nationalities are visa-exempt for up to 90 days).

  • Health: Sabi Sand is in a Malaria-risk area. Prophylaxis is highly recommended, especially during the summer.

  • Reserve Fees: A vehicle entry fee (approx. ZAR 310) and a per-person conservation levy (approx. ZAR 140–150) are payable at the access gates (Newington, Shaw's, or Gowrie).

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Why is Sabi Sand so famous for leopards?
    Due to decades of sensitive, non-threatening vehicle exposure, the leopards here have become "habituated," meaning they view safari vehicles as part of the natural landscape and do not flee, allowing for incredible close-up observations.
    Can I self-drive in the Sabi Sand?
    No. While you can drive yourself to your lodge's entrance gate, all game viewing must be done in the lodge's open safari vehicles with a professional ranger and tracker.
    Which gate should I use?
    This depends entirely on your lodge's location. The reserve has three main gates: Shaw’s Gate (south), Newington Gate (west), and Gowrie Gate (north). Always check your lodge's specific directions before arrival.

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    Dest Type

    Game Reserves

    Status

    Entry Permits Required

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