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Deep in the heart of the African bushveld, within South Africa’s famous Sabi Sand Reserve, an enchanting world lies in waiting – the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. This award-winning private game reserve offers world-class luxury accommodation, exceptional wildlife encounters, personalised service and delectable cuisine to the globe’s nature lovers.
The Sabi Sabi philosophy of ‘Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’ stems from over 100 years of experience in the safari industry; a history richly interwoven into the essence of each of its four unique safari lodges – Selati Camp, Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp and Earth Lodge. South Africa and its warm hospitality is echoed to perfection in the style and ambience of each of these pristine lodges.
‘Something special is happening deep in the heart of the wilderness…’
The reserve is home to the Big Five – elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo, as well as cheetah, wild dog and a rich diversity of other animal, birds and plant species, all indigenous to the land. Highly skilled and experienced rangers and trackers ensure that your safari experience ranks amongst the best in the world. Guests can look forward to fantastic close-up encounters with Africa’s wildlife on each and every game drive safari.
For more information on this once-in-a-lifetime unforgettable South African safari experience, contact Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve today. You’ll soon discover why we’re continuously voted one of the best private game reserves in South Africa and globally.
Since 1979 Sabi Sabi has hosted many nature lovers from all over the world. They were all drawn to this unique area by the promise of a safari experience of a lifetime. Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, situated in the world-renowned 65 000-hectare Sabi Sand Reserve (Sabi Sand Wildtuin) in the south-western section of the famous Kruger National Park, is a wildlife Eden, where guest can experience the age-old interaction between predator and prey up close and personal.
Big game abounds and roam freely in this pristine part of the ancient African continent. This diverse habitat is home to the most spectacular species of wildlife, including the Big Five, as well as cheetah, wild dog and more than 200 other animal species, all indigenous to the area.
There is nothing quite as thrilling as a sighting of lion, elephant or rhino roaming free in the bush; as haunting as the sound of a laughing hyaena in the dead of night; or as electrifying as the anticipation created by a fresh spoor along a dry riverbed. These experiences all combine to make a visit to Sabi Sabi so memorable. Day- and night safaris in open-safari vehicles, under the guidance of highly experienced game rangers and qualified trackers, on- and off-road, give guests first-hand insight into the heart of wild Africa. Walking safaris allow visitors to feel the pulse of untamed Africa through the soles of their feet.
Sabi Sabi is a birders’ paradise as it is home to a remarkable 350 indigenous species. On a single summer’s day, a visitor from the Northern Hemisphere will probably see more species than he is likely to see during a lifetime in his home country. In fact, almost 5% of the world’s bird species have been recorded in this region of South Africa.
Sabi Sabi offers luxury Kruger safari guests a choice of four completely private luxurious, all-suite, award-winning lodges, each with its own distinct character and atmosphere – encapsulating the essence of “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”. Selati Camp represents all that was “Yesterday”. The contemporary Bush Lodge and Little Bush Camp have a current and modern ambience (“Today”), while the ground-breaking beauty and style of Earth Lodge signals the arrival of a new “Tomorrow”.
Indulgent and romantic, the historically themed Selati Camp represents the Sabi Sabi of a bygone era (“Yesterday”). It conjures up memories of an era when time drifted by slowly and luxury embraced the weary traveller in an effortless whisper. Imagine the Africa of the great safari era, when blazing sunsets melted into lantern-lit romantic evenings and great service was an effortless as a whisper. This is the Africa you will experience at Sabi Sabi’s Selati Camp, an award-winning luxury safari lodge in South Africa.
In the 1870s gold was discovered high in the mountain crevices of the Drakensberg escarpment, which towers majestically to the west of Sabi Sabi. The Old Transvaal Republic commissioned a railway line to transport the gold, from the interior to Delagoa Bay in Mozambique. A section of this railway, known as the Selati Line, ran through the Sabi Sand Reserve.
Today this line lies in disuse, but parts of the old railbed are still visible in the north-eastern section of Sabi Sabi, close to Selati Camp. The intimate all-suite Selati Camp offers discerning travellers an unforgettable African experience. It is the perfect haven for nature lovers in search of a romantic and luxurious safari lodge in Southern Africa. Decorated in a distinctive historic railway theme, meticulous effort went into creating this authentic home in the bush. This theme is carried throughout the camp, from the original steam-engine name plates, signals and shunter’s lamps lighting the path to your suite, to the interesting memorabilia and other collector’s pieces in each of the suites.
Nights at Selati are quiet, intimate and filled with magic and wonder. Oil lamps and lanterns set a romantic tone for complete relaxation under southern African skies. The warm glow of the campfire creates the perfect ambience in which to exhale and forget about the outside world for a while.
With its classic vintage styling, this exclusive lodge comprises seven opulent thatched suites, each with a full bathroom, en-suite, and private alfresco shower under a canopy of majestic indigenous trees. World-class cuisine is served on wooden thatched decks on the banks of the Msuthlu River, in the open-air “boma” or in the “farmhouse kitchen”.
The premier accommodation at Selati Camp is the magnificent and spacious Ivory Presidential Suite, fit for a king. It is the obvious choice for those who truly appreciate luxurious accommodation. Its grandeur is evident in its superb collection of original antiques, with an exquisitely draped four-poster bed from where you have a view on your own private terrace and plunge pool. The en-suite bathroom, complete with Persian carpet and antique chaise-lounge, creates a serene space surrounded by the unmistakeable sounds of the surrounding wilderness. The separate dressing room boasts an antique wardrobe and matching dressing table. Selati Camp is a fusion of turn-of-the-century elegance and personalised safari luxury, and the result is an unsurpassed experience in the bush.
The Lourenco Marques Suite is a favourite among honeymooners and romantics. From the fragrant flower petals strewn on the exquisite bedlinen, to the flicker of candles in the bathroom beckoning guests to unwind after their evening safari, a stay in this romantic suite will leave a lasting impression.
Nestled deep in the heart of the bushveld, and overlooking a waterhole and open plain, lies a lodge that pulses to the rhythm of Africa. Welcome to Bush Lodge.
Steeped in tradition, the emphasis here is on warm African hospitality with unsurpassed views of the African bush. It’s warm and vibrant ambience invites weary souls to relax and unwind. Dedicated staff caters for your every whim, making it your “luxury home in the bush”. Its history spans over 35 years. It represents the Sabi Sabi of “Today”. A vibrant mix of exquisite furnishings and décor, sourced from all corners of the African continent, gives it its distinctive and unique safari style. Bush Lodge is renowned for its service excellence and effortless attention to detail.
To retain privacy and intimacy, the lodge has 25 suites, which include the two Luxury Villas and the Mandleve Deluxe Suite, with its own private plunge pool and luxurious interiors. All the suites feature en-suite bathrooms and al-fresco, glass-fronted showers, with breath-taking views of the natural bushveld.
The two spacious Luxury Villas each has a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a second en-suite bedroom, a private pool, library/lounge and beautiful patio overlooking the waterhole. The suites are air-conditioned, and crisp linen and classic leather- and wood furnishings contribute to its special ambience.
Bush Lodge has been meticulously designed to allow for ample space in which to relax, unwind and savour the tranquillity of nature. The two swimming pools and large covered viewing decks overhanging the Msuthlu River, invite guests to cool off in the filtered water, or sit in comfort watching the game quenching their thirst at the waterhole. An exquisitely furnished lounge, atrium and intimate bar area are perfect meeting places to enjoy some bonding time with friends, old and new. As an extra indulgence, the Amani Spa at Bush Lodge offers visitors the ultimate African Spa experience.
The lodge is family-friendly and children of all ages can enjoy the EleFun Centre, a fully-fledged children’s facility. Interesting environmentally themed activities, including hands-on ‘edutainment’ for the various age groups, are designed and supervised by qualified childcare professionals.
Nestled in the shade of the indigenous riverine trees on the banks of the Msuthlu River, lies Little Bush Camp, an intimate bush hideaway, where pure excellence is the order of the day. The distinct sounds of the wild envelope this luxurious camp and the unending vistas of the unspoilt bushveld never cease to delight.
Little Bush Camp is the latest addition to the Sabi Sabi collection of five-star safari lodges. It offers luxurious accommodation to families, friends and small groups.
Exuding the same warmth and effortless hospitality that characterise Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp offers unparalleled intimacy and seclusion in the heart of the African wilderness.
Its six luxury suites, each with its own private viewing deck and heated spa bath, all overlook the Msuthlu River. All the suites boast contemporary African design, complete with luxury furnishings, a full bathroom en-suite, indoor and outdoor showers, and air-conditioning. Thatched roofs, romantic mosquito nets elegantly draped over the comfortable beds, and beautiful wooden finishes combine perfectly to create the magnificent ambience of this exclusive safari getaway.
Scrumptious dinners can be enjoyed in the soft light of lanterns dotting the trees. This jewel of the South African bushveld adheres to all the expectations associated with an exceptional safari lodge – a breath-taking setting, excellent cuisine and abundant wildlife.
Sabi Sabi’s Little Bush Camp not only offers luxurious creature comforts, but a host of adventures awaits nature lovers. Guests can experience the thrill of tracking Africa’s Big Five in open safari vehicles by day and at night, accompanied by qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers. Exceptional and intimate wildlife encounters await them off-road, creating lasting memories. Truly the essence of a safari holiday in Africa.
Celebrating the bright African future that awaits (“Tomorrow”) and the mineral wealth of our continent – Earth Lodge encompasses the past, present and future. It is a one-of-a-kind sanctuary indicative of a new generation of opulent and luxurious South African safari lodges.
Perfectly sculpted into a slope in the landscape, it is almost invisible as it blends in perfectly with its natural surrounds. The clever use of rich textures, light and space combine in harmony to create a luxury safari lodge like no other. Taking its cue from its environment, Earth Lodge has earned a well-deserved reputation as the most environmentally sensitive safari lodge in Africa.
Earth Lodge presents itself to visitors in a series of sensory revelations. Upon arrival, a hidden corridor leads you down the path to this unique and unforgettable experience. The entrance unexpectedly opens up onto a breath-taking and panoramic view of uninterrupted bushveld. As is the case in nature, everything at Earth Lodge coexist in perfect harmony, and guests are immediately overwhelmed by an intense sense of calm that restores the spirit. Home to 13 ultra-luxurious suites, including the Amber Presidential Suite, the lodge deviates from traditional bush-lodge style to create a masterpiece of artistry and innovation. Each of the suites features individually designed furniture, a private plunge pool, an en-suite glass-fronted bathroom and indoor- and outdoor shower. Natural wooden sculptures by renowned South African artist Geoffrey Armstrong add powerful magic to the ambience.
The Amber Suite is a glorious celebration of spaciousness. Beautiful beyond belief, from the magnificent carved wooden headboard of the bed to the deep egg-shaped bath, it oozes luxury. The suite also boasts its own steam room, study and kitchen. It captures the essence of nature and opulent luxury in one unique experience.
The outdoor boma – its walls sculpted from tree roots carefully compiled piece by piece – captures the drama of the African night and the magnificent power of the wilderness.
An indoor/outdoor dining area overlooking the waterhole and the wide expanse of indigenous bush, a secluded library, art gallery, meditation garden; and an underground wine cellar stocked with a collection of over 6 000 rare vintages, create the ideal venue for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Every little detail that defines this lodge has especially been created for your indulgence.
While on safari, escape to the Amani Spa at Earth Lodge and indulge in holistic body, skin and beauty regimes, treatments and massages.
The gym facilities at Earth Lodge offer access to cardio equipment in a safe and air-conditioned environment, while enjoying incredible views of the bush.
Guest can explore the wilderness each morning and evening, either by open safari vehicle or on foot during a walking safari, in the company of an armed and knowledgeable game ranger and Shangaan tracker. There is no better way to experience a thrilling encounter with Africa’s beautiful wild creatures.
The amazing beauty of Southern Africa will captivate the hearts of those lucky enough to experience its power and magic. The concept of a safari conjures up images of adventure, dramatic landscapes and exciting encounters with wildlife. Sabi Sabi’s four luxury safari lodges are located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is geographically integrated into the world-renowned Kruger National Park.
Sabi Sabi epitomises Africa’s magic. With the absence of fences between the reserve and the famous Kruger National Park, big game abounds and roam freely in this unspoiled part of ancient Africa. The Reserve is blessed with a great biodiversity of habitat and wildlife, creating excellent opportunities for close encounters with the Big Five– elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard – as well as wild-dog and cheetah sightings. Avid birdwatchers can delight themselves in the approximately 350 bird species found in this unique habitat.
As hunting has been prohibited in the reserve for more than half a century, the animals have become used to – and relaxed in – the presence of safari vehicles. Sabi Sabi is truly the ultimate luxury safari destination where guest can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the form of close encounters with animals in their natural habitat, as they go about their daily business of hunting, feeding, courting and suckling their young.
Safaris take place each morning and evening in open safari vehicles. The routes will take visitors through a diverse variety of habitats, allowing them to experience the animal interactions first-hand. After breakfast, guests can also explore the bush on foot during guided walking trails. The dedicated, highly skilled and experienced rangers will even point out nature’s small miracles which, for the most part, go unnoticed by the naked eye.
An early morning call from the ranger just before daybreak, will awake visitors to the aroma of hot coffee or tea being brewed in the kitchen. After enjoying a scrumptious muffin, rusk or other freshly-prepared delicacies, guests will be ready to embark on their morning safari.
By now the bush is already alive with the sounds of birds, as the rays of the rising sun dance off the beads of dew on the spiderwebs. No one – not even the tracker who can read the bushveld like the palm of his hand, knows what experiences lie ahead. The tracker will search the ground for spoor,left by a predator during its night hunt. The ranger and tracker might engage in a hushed discussion, and brief radio interactions from one vehicle to another will guide the vehicle in the direction of a possible sighting. By sharing information from vehicles to vehicle, changes of unique sightings are optimised. It also encourages responsible behaviour and serves as a control measure to ensure the safety of each vehicle’s occupants.
Although renowned for its luxury experiences, Sabi Sabi isn’t only about phenomenal game drives and exceptional dining. Opportunities for education and adventure are available to the more curious and the more energetic. The morning environmental awareness walking safari comprises small groups that set out on foot after breakfast. The walk gives avid nature lovers an unique opportunity to feel the pulse of Africa through the soles of their feet and experience the bush like never before.
Sabi Sabi boasts a rich diversity of bird species, to the delight of birdwatchers. Raptors are plentiful and 11 species of owl have been recorded. Then there are the shy and elusive cuckoo hawk and rare bat hawk. The reserve boasts a rich diversity of trees, shrubs and plants, and no matter the season, no two walks are ever the same.
As dusks falls guests can prepare for the night safari. As the fierce heat of the day slowly anticipates, the inhabitants of the bush become restless, and the animals move out from under the shade of the trees. The call of the crested francolin reverberates through the land, and the birdsong increases by a pitch or two. Guests find delight in the gentle and soft hues of sunset that vary with each season. New scents fill the air and, as the sun dips behind the horizon, your ranger will choose the perfect spot to enjoy a sundowner next to the vehicle. Watch in awe as the sky changes into vibrant reds, golds and oranges, characteristic of an African sunset. There is a lull in the air as the animals sense this transition and switch into awareness mode against the dangers of the night. It is during these evening safaris that the nocturnal hunters come out to prowl, and their prey need to be alert and vigilant if they hope to survive the night.
During your safari you might be lucky enough to watch lions prepare for their evening hunt. They lazily stretch their powerful bodies to warm up the cramping muscles cramped from sleeping in the shade all day; claws are sharpened against a tree; the vegetation is marked, and the wind is checked for the scent of pray. Only then do they set off in a slow, loose-jointed, arrogant amble. Numerous nocturnal hunters are active in the dark and the safari vehicle’s spotlight might just make brief contact with the eyes of a leopard, the glow of its eyes a thrilling sight. Or you may be lucky enough to spot smaller predators, such as a genet, African civet or African wild cat. Elephants can be seen moving heavily but silently in the moonlight; there’s the incredible flying leaps of bushbabies from treetop to treetop, and the red reflection from a lion’s eyes as it briefly looks up from its kill. A Sabi Sabi evening safari is guaranteed to leave an indelible mark on the visitor’s memory.
Sabi Sabi is a one-hour flight from Oliver Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) in Johannesburg directly to the Sabi Sabi airstrip. Alternatively, guests can also fly via to Skukuza Airport or Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Mbombela. Visitors to Sabi Sabi can also opt for a scenic five-hour chauffeured or self-driven trip from Johannesburg.
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MoAfrika tours and the Kruger Safari Co. are destination management companies (DMC) and are not entities of the South African National Parks Board (SANparks).