Overview:
Experience the game-abundant Sabi Sands on this three-day lodge safari, situated in this highly coveted private reserve, away from the bustling masses. Owing to the popularity and exclusivity of Sabi Sands, securing available accommodation can be challenging; nevertheless, African Budget Safaris has just incorporated five ‘best-value’ lodges in Sabi Sands into our portfolio, significantly enhancing alternatives for our budget-conscious clientele.
Embark on wildlife watching excursions in open 4×4 safari vehicles, seeking the Big Five, other wildlife, and abundant avian species. Embark on an exhilarating trek into the bush, accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger who will impart insights on the African terrain. Reside at a safari lodge, crafted for comfort while evoking the essence of historical safaris. Experience en-suite amenities, a pristine swimming pool, and dining in the boma by the campfire beneath a starlit sky.
This cost-effective safari experience will provide enduring memories.
Day 1: Johannesburg to Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
At the commencement of this Southern Sabi Sands Safari in Greater Kruger Park, our shuttle transports clients from the OR Tambo Bus Terminal in Johannesburg to Hazyview in the Mpumalanga Province of South Africa. Departing the megacity at approximately 06:45, we proceed eastward into the Mpumalanga Lowveld, the premier safari destination in South Africa. Upon arrival in Hazyview, we proceed to our lodging within this private reserve.
We have time for a little snack before commencing our initial game-viewing drive within the exclusive concession area. The concession region hosts the quintessential big game species of Africa, comprising the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo, and elephant. A variety of birds and smaller animals inhabit this area, so remain vigilant.
Upon concluding our wildlife drive, we proceed to the lodge for dinner in the open-air boma, subsequently enjoying leisure time to relax around the campfire or at the bar.
Included meals: Evening meal
Concerning Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa
Sabi Sands Private Reserve, including 65,000 hectares within the Greater Kruger National Park, provides a more intimate and less congested safari experience compared to the primary wilderness section of Kruger National Park. Sabi’s management philosophy prioritizes wildlife conservation, with the primary purpose of monitoring habitat and wildlife densities. The promotion and conservation of animals, flora, and fauna, as well as the preservation of the area as a sanctuary for all indigenous species, is a significant priority. The hunting of wildlife in Sabi is prohibited.
The Sabi Sands Reserve has a 50 km unfenced border with Kruger National Park, facilitating the unrestricted migration of species across this expansive terrain in pursuit of optimal grazing and water sources. Predators are consistently nearby, and Sabi Sands is notably noted for its huge felines, particularly exceptional observations of leopards. The likelihood of encountering leopards in Sabi Sands is nearly assured, and safari vehicles often approach within three to four meters of these remarkable carnivores, providing exceptional photography prospects.
The lodging in Sabi is upscale for the discerning guest. The Sabi Sands Lodge Safari provides budget travelers with an economical tour package that includes lodge accommodation within the Sabi Sands Reserve. Due to the extensive selection of lodges in African Budget Safari’s portfolio, we consistently secure suitable accommodations for our clients in this highly coveted private reserve.
Day 2: Sabi Sands Safari – South Africa
Our day commences early in the bush, as this is the optimal time for observing wildlife, with animals approaching the waterholes during the day’s cooler hours. Following coffee and rusks, we board our open-sided safari vehicle for optimal viewing and photographic opportunities, and proceed into the bush. Our knowledgeable guides are dedicated to their profession and strive to provide optimal animal encounters for our tourists. When required, they will venture off-road into the wilderness to approach the action as closely as feasible.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve is known for its big cats, particularly leopards, and also hosts a remarkable variety of antelopes, including eland, kudu, waterbuck, nyala, bushbuck, roan, sable, impala, hartebeest, springbok, duiker, and tsessebe. Predators include large felines, jackals, hyenas, foxes, African wild dogs, servals, civets, genets, and cheetahs. Sabi is a premier destination for avian enthusiasts, offering an exceptional experience for bird watchers. The avian species are the African fish eagle, lilac-breasted roller, bateleur, martial eagle, kori bustard, southern ground-hornbill, and grey-headed parrot.
After two to three hours, we return to our resort for breakfast, followed by a bushveld walk with our armed ranger for those interested. This is an excellent opportunity to gain further insights into the flora and animals from our expert guide. He will identify the smaller organisms that play a crucial role in the ecosystem, and there is always the excitement of uncertainty over the presence of larger animals nearby. The roughly 45-minute stroll occurs near the camp and is not overly demanding. At this juncture, some relaxation is highly desirable; hence, it is an opportune moment to take a nap, explore the campsite, indulge in spa treatments, or immerse oneself in the shimmering pool. Lunch is provided in the early afternoon.
In the late afternoon, we venture into the wilderness to augment our observations. We halt to appreciate a magnificent African sunset, and as darkness descends, we return to camp, observing nocturnal species along route. Following a brief tidying session, we convene with our fellow travelers at the bar for pre-dinner beverages before proceeding to the bonfire in the boma to enjoy supper. Following dinner, the fire is kindled, and we unwind while discussing the day’s exhilarating events.
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Sabi Sands Game Reserve to Johannesburg, South Africa
On the third day, we rise early for a concluding game drive in Sabi Sands Game Reserve. With some fortune, we may observe species that have previously evaded us, as mornings are optimal for wildlife observation.
Following our game drive in the concession area, we will return to camp to await our shuttle, expected to arrive at approximately 10:00, for the journey back to Johannesburg. Owing to time limitations, we may receive a packed breakfast, and it is recommended to leave your bags at reception prior to the game drive for an expedient departure when the shuttle arrives. We return to Johannesburg between 17:00 and 18:00.
Included meals: Morning repast
Concerning Sabi Sands Lodge A
Our acclaimed, family-operated lodge is among the inaugural establishments in the southern region of the prestigious Sabi Sands Game Reserve, recognized for its hospitality and exemplary service. Each private apartment is tastefully designed, expansive, and ventilated by ceiling fans. The suites are illuminated by candlelight and lanterns instead of electricity, creating a lovely ambiance. Delight in candlelit baths, massages, and enchanting evenings by roaring fireplaces. This exclusive camp features only nine suites, each equipped with en-suite amenities and a separate viewing deck. The open-plan lounge and dining space, featuring a well-stocked bar and wine cellar, extends to a viewing balcony that views the expansive plains and a waterhole. Additional amenities comprise a 20-meter lap pool, a spa featuring both indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, a plunge pool, and a traditional boma, where guests convene in the evening for meals around a campfire beneath Africa’s starry skies.
This private game lodge offers magnificent panoramic views, making it an ideal location for tranquility and leisure while observing wildlife.
Concerning Sabi Sands Lodge B
Lodge B, located in southern Sabi Sands and surrounded by an indigenous garden, has just undergone refurbishment. Each chalet is uniquely and elegantly designed, featuring en-suite facilities that include both indoor and outdoor showers. Every cottage features a private deck for serene wildlife observation. The camp features a glistening pool situated in a picturesque, wooded environment, along with a fully-equipped, air-conditioned gym. The open boma is a favored location among visitors for dining by the campfire in the evenings. For retail therapy, there exists a store replete with intriguing curiosities and some commonplace yet essential things, such shampoo and toothpaste.
Numerous viewing platforms are available at the camp for guests to observe wildlife during the day. A dam is situated just across from the lodge, featuring a submerged hide for guests desiring proximity to wildlife. This genuine African camp, featuring hospitable staff, is an optimal location for an amazing safari experience.