Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a one-of-a-kind safari experience. From panoramic landscapes and towering cliffs to encountering wild animals in their natural habitats - nothing quite compares to Sanbona's unique combination of luxury and conservation.
With professional guides, luxury lodges, a wellness and spa retreat, as well as daily activities including bush walks, game drives, star gazing, and more - Sanbona is your go-to spot for an unforgettable Big 5 safari near Cape Town.
- Game drives: explore the beautiful landscapes of the Klein Karoo and see if you can spot the incredible wildlife, including the famous African Big Five.
- Nature walks: if you prefer to be on the ground when experiencing nature, opt for the bush walk. Explore the wildlife, flowers, and stunning scenery that the Little Karoo has to offer while on foot.
- Bird watching: More than 200 different bird species can be found in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which is a treat for serious birdwatchers.
- Stargazing: The stargazing opportunities at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve are unmatched due to the lack of light pollution.
- Rock art: Explore the beautiful art in the seven locations that have been identified as having rock art that is older than 3,500 years.
With the act of conservation, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve aims to let visitors discover something ancient, unexplored, and untouched. This conservation project brings you back to 350 million years ago when the land's ecological balance was formed. Take a journey through 2 unique biomes, plus many diverse habitats like the incredible quartz fields of the Karoo region.
For travelers visiting South Africa, the Klein Karoo offers a unique glimpse into the past. Despite considerable changes to the landscape, since 2002 efforts have been made to create a local ecosystem that mirrors what it was like over three centuries ago. Visitors today can enjoy the rewards of this hard work, enjoying a vision closest in spirit to the one that would have been observed by the area's original San inhabitants.
For 250 years, the Little Karoo has felt the consequences of agricultural practices - an impact that Sanbona Wildlife Reserve hopes to reverse. That's why they've created tailored conservation objectives focussing on restoring this paradise. They're working hard at taming soil erosion, controlling alien vegetation, and wisely regulating wildlife's interactions with the flora & fauna. All feasible activities are designed to cultivate healthy harmony – in true Karoo fashion.
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. With your qualified game ranger at the wheel, cruise around in comfort while viewing the wildlife of the Little Karoo. Stop for eye-catching plants and animals, including the famous African Big Five. Learn more about the nature and wildlife at Sanbona from your well-informed guide.
Game drives take place either in the early morning or at sunset. Complementary drinks that correspond to the time of day are included in your safari experience. The safari drives can last up to three hours.
Sanbona, one of South Africa's elite private game reserves, is nestled in the Little Karoo. Its vast territories exist solely for wildlife conservation and the rehabilitation of vegetation, spanning 58 000 hectares of protected land within two biodiversity hotspots. This getaway is only a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town. The reserve, which has stunning scenery and amazing geological formations, is tucked between the majestic Swartberg and Warmwaterberg Mountains. Sanbona is more than just a safari destination; it is run by a non-profit organization dedicated to conserving the local habitat, fauna, and flora.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is home to the African Big Five. With an emphasis on environmental sustainability and ecosystem conservation, you'll have the chance to spot some of the world's most majestic animals in their natural habitat while protecting them too. Apart from the majestic Big 5, birdwatchers in particular are in for a treat as the region is home to more than 200 species. Bellair Dam alone attracts an impressive 40 species. You're likely to spot various beauties such as Jackal Buzzards soaring high and lively Chat Flycatchers gracefully picking through shrubs nearby.
If you're looking for the ideal time to visit Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, January through May or September through December are your best bet for good weather! But if a chilly escape is more up your alley, plan a trip in July - the temperature will be rather different from what you'd experience during the summer months. The perfect combination of heat and wildlife awaits you at Sanbona, no matter when you decide to visit.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is nestled in a semi-arid climate along the Köppen-Geiger classification. Summer days here peak around 22°C, making for perfect summertime exploration! Although rainfall tends to be sparse throughout most of the year, with just 21mm falling during February, it does reach its maximum of 47mm come June. This ensures that vegetation remains lush and full all year round - providing plenty for adventurous explorers to discover!
We offer 3 different safari trips to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. All trips depart from Cape Town, with the length of stay ranging from a 2-day stay up to a relaxing 4-day trip. Pricing starts at $413 during the Winter months and goes up to $742 in the peak season, which is the summer months of January and December.
The price of your stay will also be influenced by your choice of accommodation. Before booking your Sanbona safari, you first need to decide what type of vibe you are looking to experience.
As previously mentioned, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is about 270km from Cape Town. The roads to the various accommodation options are not designed for off-road travelers. Guests with 4x4 vehicles are welcome to drive directly to the different lodges, but if you don’t have a 4x4, no need to stress. Sanbona offers complimentary transfers from The Welcome Lounge to the various lodges on a daily base. No excuse to miss out on this great experience.
No self-drives so you can choose to explore on guided walks or game drives. Getting around is easy once you are at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. When you arrive at the central lounge you are collected and transferred to your selected lodge. Then you are picked up for all of your safari activities and at the end of your stay you’ll be transferred back to the central lounge.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve has four accommodation options. Choose from luxury lodges and tented camps to self-catering chalets. On our Sanbona Safaris, you can choose between the Dwyka Tented Lodge, Gondwana Family Lodge, and Tilney Mansion. Options to choose from for all types of travelers.
Exploring is much more enjoyable when you can be worry-free. During your stay at Sanbona all meals, non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, and beverages from game drives are included. Internal reserve transfers between the welcome lounge and each lodge at Sanbona are also included. But that’s not all—also included are two daily safari activities AND tourism levies & VAT charges too.
This cozy cabin is located in a dry ravine with striking rock formations and natural surroundings. For those seeking a more secluded safari experience or a romantic holiday, this luxurious Sanbona resort is the best option. The Sanbona Lodge is solely available to adults. No guests under the age of 16 are allowed.
The spacious lounge and dining areas feature elegant, contemporary décor, wooden decks that take full use of the beautiful environment, and a boma for dining outside. The lodging is luxurious and private. The romance of a pioneering wilderness experience is captured by the nine luxury tents, each of which has an en-suite bathroom and a private balcony with a heated plunge pool. WiFi, air conditioning, private minibars, international dial phones, and electronic safes are among the amenities.
Delicious food created with regional ingredients is offered in the restaurant, and specialty drinks can be enjoyed in the bar or lounge area, where daily afternoon tea is also served. This magnificent safari hideaway is completed by a pool with breathtaking views.
Gondwana Family Lodge is the ideal haven for families, groups, and friends. This large Lodge gives visitors a sense of contemporary comfort with a dash of true bush charm. All guests can stay comfortably with interconnecting rooms, indoor and outdoor play areas, a kid-friendly pool, and the program's educational and enjoyable nature experiences. The Relaxation Retreat provides a relaxing end to an exciting day with a wide range of therapies and treatments, including a steam room.
The modern farmhouse has 12 spacious suites, each with a separate deck. For families with smaller children, there are several room choices, including interleading rooms. It is a cost-effective choice since younger children under the age of four are admitted free of charge and older children are subject to reduced rates.
Tilney Manor is a luxurious safari lodge in the tranquil Karoo mountains open to guests over 12 years. Inside the Manor house guests can select one of six spacious suites which come complete with an en-suite ambiance, including your very own indoor and outdoor shower as well as a bathtub begging for a soak.
Each suite opens onto its own private veranda, guaranteed for unwinding and relaxing. At Tilney Manor, you can pamper yourself at the spa where you'll be offered treatments and saunas that promise deep physical and mental benefits. Furthermore, treat your tastebuds to an unforgettable experience with authentic South African cuisine cooked over an open flame for everyone to enjoy around cozy fireplaces projecting flickering shadows in our large lounge area both indoors and out. A great choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway or families travelling with young adults!
If you're set to explore the wild landscapes of Sanbona with a safari drive, make sure to pack some essentials before setting off. Make sure you're prepared for an amazing adventure by bringing along some essential items! Binoculars are a must if you want to get close-up views of the wildlife. And don't forget your camera—it's the perfect way to save that weekend for years and years to come! Lastly, layered warm clothing and sunscreen will help keep you safe from the elements during your trip. Oh, and don't forget your hat. You'll never regret having an extra bit of shade while out on a special day.
Is a Sanbona safari safe? Without a doubt. The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which receives thousands of safari enthusiasts each year, is a safe safari location. Experience a malaria-free environment where safaris are done in a responsible manner. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve has age restrictions for activities and lodges to ensure maximum security. Savour every thrilling moment as you explore accompanied by qualified game rangers who are always there in case any big animals get too close.
Your journey to South Africa will definitely leave you with many memorable experiences, and you may want to take home some souvenirs as a reminder of them. You’ll want to make sure you have a mix of cash and cards with you, as most establishments will accept major credit cards (especially in larger cities) while US dollars are also often accepted. If you think your purchase is worth it, don’t forget to tip your service providers - 10% is generally a good ballpark figure to keep in mind. And strong-arming your way through with a camera isn’t encouraged; be sure to ask permission before taking photos of anything or anyone! Make the most of your trip by paying attention to all the details and being prepared ahead.
Find out more about travelling to South Africa in our South Africa Safari Travel Guide
Situated in the Western Cape, Sanbona is an untouched paradise home to a wide range of landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. With mountains towering above, it's no surprise that Sanbona boasts 58 000 hectares of beautiful Cape Fold Mountains. You'll also find wide-open Karoo plains with rocky outcrops, where you can explore indigenous flora and fauna native to the region.
But here's a fun fact: Sanbona also houses rare examples of ancient San rock art, some dating back as far as 3 500 years.
In 2003, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve made history as the first privately owned reserve in the Western Cape to successfully introduced free roaming Big Five. Since then, this success story has just kept on growing. Various wildlife species have been reintroduced into the reserve, restoring the ecological balance and allowing it to house an extensive array of carefully monitored predators. Extensive infrastructure developments have been made to ensure that visitors can appreciate nature with minimal environmental impact.
In 2015, Caleo Foundation took ownership of Sanbona and since then dedicates itself to preserving and protecting nature for generations to come; providing an opportunity for guests to gaze in awe without leaving a lasting footprint.
Contact African Budget Safaris for an excellent-value safari in the Sabona game reserve. To meet your specific requirements and budget, our experienced travel consultants construct specialized safaris.
Get in contact with us today and one of our helpful travel experts will help you find the ideal Sabona safari for you (at no additional cost).
Use the Google map to explore Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.