Sabi Sands: The Premier Destination for a Big 5 Safari in Africa

Sabi Sands Nature Reserve offers the pinnacle of a Big Five safari in Africa. The area, adjacent to the globally recognised Kruger National Park, forms part of the Greater Kruger with unfenced borders between Sabi Sands and Kruger National Park. This allows animals to move freely in this wilderness area, rich in diverse African wildlife.

Within Sabi Sands, a selection of exclusive five-star game lodges await, providing you with sumptuous retreats from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Notable among these lodges is Londolozi, renowned for its photographic safaris, opulent accommodation and magnificent river views.

Singita Boulders Lodge offers ultra-luxurious suites with private plunge pools and sensational views over the surrounding bush and Sand River, as does Lion Sands Ivory Lodge and Earth Lodge at Sabi Sabi.

Connected by raised walkways the suites at Ulusaba’s Safari Lodge overlook the dry Mabrak riverbed, where you might spot elephants, or other animals passing through. Its River Rooms offer private plunge pools, or you could relax at the lodge pool where you may spot a shy kudu nibbling at the surrounding bush.

MalaMala is ideally situated on the banks of the Sand River, with its riverine habitat being a prime location for game drives and wildlife encounters. This lodge, in existence since 1927, played a pioneering role in South Africa’s private game reserve history by banning hunting and transitioning to photographic safaris. The land is also owned by the local community, making Mala Mala a great choice for those looking for a sustainable travel experience.

Cheetah Plains, another gem in Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, is the first lodge to present a fleet of fully electric Toyota Land Cruisers. These eco-friendly game-drive vehicles, charged using solar power, emit minimal noise, allowing you to approach animals quietly without disturbing them.

According to Sipps Maswanganyi, head field guide at Cheetah Plains, “It’s mostly elephants that freeze when you approach because they don’t know what’s coming. They have to adapt to it slowly and aren’t used to a vehicle driving with nothing but a low whining sound and no vibrations.”

No matter which lodge you choose within the Sabi Sands Nature Reserve, expert trackers and guides enhance every game drive with their vast knowledge of the local flora and fauna.

Sabi Sands is also known for its frequent leopard sightings, making it one of the best places in Africa to spot these elusive big cats, as well as lions and the rest of the Big Five.

Tips for your first safari in Sabi Sands:

Opt for neutral-coloured clothing to blend in with the surroundings.
Don’t forget essentials like comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
Cameras and binoculars are must-have items.
Game drives are typically conducted in the early morning and late afternoon when wildlife is most active, so be prepared for early wake-up calls and cooler temperatures (bring some warm clothes, even in summer).
While observing animals, always listen to your guide’s instructions on how to behave around wildlife.
Remember that game drives take place in wilderness areas that continue to function along nature’s rhythms. There are no guarantees of seeing specific animals, however, be patient and enjoy the sightings you do have – you never know, you could end up having incredible encounters.
Guides and trackers are invaluable sources of knowledge about the animals, plants, and ecosystems. Ask questions and engage in discussions to enhance your understanding and learn interesting facts.

In an interview published in Business Day last year, Sir Richard Branson had this to say about what keeps him coming back to South Africa, “It’s always a delight being here. The wildlife is astonishing. I’ve just had the pleasure of being in Ulusaba and I just love the people in that region. The people of SA are quite magical.”

Happy travelling,
The Leopard Team

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