With a keen sense of its history and a vision to preserve the future, Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is ecologically and geographically integrated with the Greater Kruger National Park. Situated within one of the oldest and largest proclaimed private reserves in Africa – the world-renowned 65,000-hectare Sabi Sand Wildtuin – it encompasses a diverse habitat where big game abounds and roams freely throughout this pristine part of the ancient African continent, in an unspoiled haven in South Africa. Deep in the African bushveld, this private game reserve offers world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and walking safaris allowing guests to feel the pulse of untamed Africa through the soles of their feet.

Founded in 1979 and now celebrating its 40th anniversary, Sabi Sabi offers four unique safari lodges: Selati Camp, Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp and Earth Lodge, which weave history, design and modern amenities. All lodges have amenities such as: air conditioning, inside and outside showers, internet access, binoculars and wildlife guidebooks. Paying close attention to preserving the history and beauty of its natural setting, a wide range of wildlife can be seen.

The intimate all-suite Selati Camp is the perfect accommodation for travelers looking for a romantic luxury safari lodge in South Africa. Its railway theme aesthetic (inspired by the legends of hidden Kruger millions and the grand steam train era) features interesting memorabilia and other collector’s pieces in each suite. While each opulent suite – there are seven – are romantically named after bygone railway stations, honeymooners should opt for the Lourenço Marques suite, or the Ivory Presidential Suite comes complete with a plunge pool and a private open safari vehicle.

Bush Lodge was designed to allow ample space to relax, unwind and savor the tranquility of the environment, the ultimate luxury home in the bush. Each of the 25 suites include a vibrant and eclectic mix of furnishings and décor garnered from all corners of the African continent while guests can make use of the two swimming pools and viewing decks. For a little indulgent pampering, Amani Spa at Bush Lodge offers the ultimate African spa experience.

Little Bush Lodge seamlessly bridges contemporary ‘Today’ and the avant-garde ‘Tomorrow’ on the banks of the Msuthlu Riverbed. Its six private suites are inspired by the great African continent creating an ambience of ‘African Adornment,’ inclusive of floor to ceiling glass doors and the ‘suri’ light, a gorgeous hanging light. The intimate and state-of-the-art camp provides various intimate lounge areas and the unique signature conversation piece – a floor to ceiling shimmering mantel, totally clad in individual copper five-cent coins.

Last but certainly not least, Earth Lodge is a balance of innovation and harmony in nature. Guests are fully embraced by the surrounding environment with a panorama of uninterrupted views that is uniquely Africa. The lodge boasts a library, award-winning wine cellar, a ‘day bar’ in ankle-deep water, discreet gym, an alluring sunken fire-pit lounge overlooking the wide-open bush and the holistic Amani Spa.

 

When staying at one of the four safari lodges, guests can experience Africa’s magic at their lodge – with no fences between the reserve and the Kruger Park – or on their two daily luxury safari outings. Home to the Big Five -elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo – as well as cheetah, wild dog and hundreds of species of animals, birds, insects, reptiles and plants (including rare and endangered species), guests can experience up-close encounters in their open vehicles. Under the supervision of their highly-skilled and trained field guides and Shangaan trackers, guests enjoy both early morning and late afternoon safari (each lasting about three hours), both centered on prime viewing times. The reserve is also a birdwatcher’s delight as it is home to over 300 bird species.

Sabi Sabi’s mission is to preserve the cherished resources that embrace them, while providing a sanctuary for flora and fauna and addressing the needs of neighboring communities. With future generations in mind, they strive to have as minimal of an impact on its surroundings and preserve the majestic bushveld that surrounds the reserve. As a member of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, a collection of like-minded lodges committed to sustainable tourism, Sabi Sabi’s conservation policy is based on two principles, conservation and eco-tourism. Putting conservation in action is key to this as they implement green policies as part of operations (greywater system, adopting the ‘Planet or Plastic’ campaign, using biodegradable products and minimizing their carbon footprint).

With daily scheduled flights from O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg) International Airport directly to the Sabi Sabi Airstrip, experiencing luxury in the bush is only a 50-minute flight away. The reserve also offers private air charters and helicopter transfers on request with complimentary transfers between the Sabi Sabi airstrip and the safari lodges.