Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Home Wildlife Options Safari Camps Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Duration

2 to 3 Days

Difficulty

Easy

Price

Tour Overview

Set against the wide, arid plains of the Little Karoo, just 3.5 hours’ drive from Cape Town, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is one of South Africa’s most prestigious private game reserves. Spanning over 54,000 hectares, it offers an authentic and exclusive Big 5 safari experience amid ancient mountains, indigenous flora, and the unique silence of the semi-desert. With luxurious lodges, San rock art sites, and conservation-led tourism, Sanbona is the ultimate wilderness retreat for those seeking space, solitude, and safari excellence.

Tour Highlights

Two daily guided game drives in open safari vehicles
Opportunities to spot Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo)
Rich Karoo wildlife including cheetah, hippo, giraffe, antelope, and birdlife
Visits to San rock art sites dating back thousands of years
Stargazing under the vast Karoo sky
Family-friendly or adults-only accommodation options
Eco-conscious tourism and conservation initiatives

Inclusion

Accommodation at one of Sanbona’s luxury lodges or tented camps
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, teas, and snacks)
Two game drives daily with experienced rangers
Nature walks (optional and weather permitting)
San rock art excursions
Non-alcoholic beverages

Exclusion

Alcoholic beverages (unless stated in specific packages)
Spa treatments and boutique purchases
Transfers to/from Sanbona Reserve
Conservation levy (usually charged per night, payable on-site)
Gratuities for guides and staff

Best Time to Visit

Itinerary Details

Day 1

12:00 PM – Arrival and check-in at lodge

1:00 PM – Light lunch and briefing

4:00 PM – Afternoon game drive with sundowner stop

7:00 PM – Return to lodge and enjoy dinner under the stars

Day 2

5:30 AM – Morning wake-up with coffee/tea

6:00 AM – Morning game drive with bush coffee stop

9:00 AM – Breakfast back at the lodge

10:30 AM – Optional nature walk or spa time

1:00 PM – Lunch at leisure

4:00 PM – Second afternoon game drive

7:00 PM – Dinner and storytelling around the fire

Day 3 (Optional)

Morning game drive or guided walk

Check-out and departure after breakfast

Gallery

FAQ

Can I self-drive to Sanbona?

Yes, it is easily accessible by road from Cape Town (approx. 3.5 hours). Shuttle services can be arranged.

Is Sanbona malaria-free?

Yes, Sanbona is located in a malaria-free zone — ideal for families and those seeking low-risk travel.

Are children allowed?

Yes! Family-friendly lodges like Gondwana Family Lodge cater to children with special activities.

Is Wi-Fi available?

Yes, but expect limited connectivity — part of the charm is to disconnect and embrace nature.

Final Words

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is where luxury meets wilderness, just a short drive from Cape Town. It offers an unforgettable Big 5 safari without the crowds, in a vast, soul-stirring landscape. Whether you’re seeking romance, solitude, or a family-friendly adventure, Sanbona delivers a conservation-conscious escape that restores and inspires.

Book Your Tour