The Sabi Sands
Mpumalanga , South Africa
Located in the Mpumalanga Province adjacent to the Kruger National Park is the renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve (officially known as the Sabi Sand Wildtuin). The Sabi Sands is one of the premier wildlife and safari destinations on the continent and is famous for its excellent Big Five viewing, particularly its leopard as this reserve is arguably the best place in Africa to view this beautiful and elusive cat. The 65 000 hectare reserve has an excellent biodiversity which includes:
- Over 300 species of birds
- Over 100 tree species
- Over 30 reptile species
- And over 50 large mammal species
The reserve is made up of a number of different terrain types including riparian vegetation, acacia and mixed woodland, open grassland, non- perennial tributaries and small to large kopjes (rocky outcrops). Two major river systems are found on the reserve which are the Sand River and the Sabi River. Both of these are perennial and are very productive game and bird areas. The Sand River is the life blood of the reserve and flows through its interior for approximately fifty kilometres whilst the Sabi River forms part of the southern boundary.
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is the oldest private reserve in South Africa having been formed in 1934. Today it is made up of a collection of private reserves which are open to one another forming this world famous conservancy. The Sabi Sands shares a fifty kilometre border with the Kruger National Park, the fences having been pulled down in 1993 allowing it to become part of the Greater Kruger National Park. This has allowed the free movement of large numbers of game between the reserves such as large herds of buffalo and elephant.
The Sabi Sands boast some of the most unique and luxurious game lodges and camps in South Africa. Lodges and camps within the Sabi Sands are mostly made up of four and five star retreats and offer broad accommodation and experiences to suit almost anybody. Apart from having a reputation of the best game viewing in the country, the lodges and camps also offer incredible service and superb comfort. Guests are treated like royalty whist being spoilt with amazing activities and delicious cuisine to exciting and adventurous game drives and walks. Knowledgeable guides and interesting trackers help guests to experience the African bush as they seek out the local wildlife often tracking their spoor or by reading other signs of the bush. On drives guests will set out in open 4x4 vehicles in the early mornings or late afternoons allowing them better chances of seeking out the Big Five and the other diverse wildlife the reserve has to offer allowing for excellent photographic opportunities.
Sabi Sands Reserves and Lodges:
The Sabi Sands Game reserve is easily accessible by both road and air. Shaws and Newington Gates are approximately five hours drive from Johannesburg whilst Gowrie Gate is seven hours away. Some of the private reserves have their own airstrips which can be accessed by private charter whilst Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is two hours from Shaws and Newington Gate and road transfers are available.