Home » Kruger Luxury Lodges » Greater Kruger National Park – Kruger Private Reserves – Sabi Sands Lodges Reservations – South Africa
Greater Kruger National Park - Kruger Private Reserves
Timbavati Private Reserve
Big Cats Heaven
Kruger Private Concessions
Experience Kruger Private Lodges
Manyeleti Private Reserve
Prepare Your Senses for an amazing wildlife experience!
What is the difference between Kruger National Park & Greater Kruger Park?
Many visitors ask themselves what the difference is between Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger National Park. The answer is quite simple! One is South Africa's oldest and largest national park, and the other combines private game reserves to form a massive wildlife area that surrounds the Kruger National Park.
Kruger National Park and the Greater Kruger Region represent one of Africa's most beautiful and diverse habitats. This vast wilderness area is the heart of the Kruger 2 Canyon (K2C) and Vembe UNESCO Human and Biosphere Areas, as well as the Greater Reserve of the Limpopo Borderlands (GLTP Treaty, 2002).
The Main Difference Between National Parks and Private Reserves
The main difference between Kruger National Park and Greater Kruger National Park is that the former is a national park which is governed by the local authorities. Greater Kruger, on the other hand is made up of a group of private wildlife reserves managed by affiliates, the Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR) that help private land owners with the administration and the conservation process.
Greater Kruger is an umbrella brand for the various members of APNR that make up the open-ended nature reserve adjacent to Kruger Park. The latter was established to act as a unified interest group coordinating the interests of its members and working with government agencies to oversee conservation activities and ecotourism in the region.
Kruger Park is the largest and oldest of South Africa's 21 national parks managed and managed by South African National Parks (SANParks). The only private facilities in Kruger National Park are the luxurious safari lodges on private land.
Unrestricted and Restricted Access
The old fence separating Greater Kruger Private Reserve and Kruger National Park was removed in 1993 to allow wildlife to roam freely between his two natural areas. it was done. Kapama Private Game Reserve is a member of her APNR but has chosen not to remove the fence.
Wildlife roams freely between two sanctuaries. Because Greater Kruger and Kruger Park operate as two separate ecotourism destinations, travel between the two regions is restricted for human hikers.
Guests staying in private reserves in the wider Kruger area are free to visit Kruger Park (a small entrance fee applies). However, the reverse does not apply. Access to the Greater Kruger Private Reserve is restricted to paying guests only.
Where is Kruger National Park?
Kruger National Park is located in the far northeast of South Africa, in the Mpumalanga province, also known as the Lowveld. Mozambique is on the eastern border and Zimbabwe is on the northernmost border.
Out in the middle of the dry riverbed of Crooks Corner, at the top of the national park where the Rubuvu and Limpopo rivers meet, you find yourself at the crossroads of South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe.
The closest towns to the main entrance to Kruger Park are Nelspruit, White River, Hazyview and Malelane. You can fly from Johannesburg to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit and take a shuttle transfer to Kruger National Park, or fly direct to Skukuza Airport (inside Kruger Park). The drive from Johannesburg to the most accessible entrances in the southern section takes between 5-6 hours, with a refreshment stop along the way.
Sabi Sand Private Reserve
Best safari experience in Africa!
Kapama Private Reserve
Effortless Big Five Experience
Thornybush Private Reserve
Incredible Wildlife Moments
Private concessions in the Kruger National Park
The private concessions in the Kruger National Park are areas of land that have been allocated by SANParks as restricted-access conservation tracts and private entities operate under government license. Each concession is several thousand hectares in size and is unfenced so game can roam freely across the vast wilderness areas.
Access to the private concessions in Kruger Park is restricted to paying guests, but the safari operators in the private concessions have unrestricted access to the public roads of the Park. Your game ranger is allowed to drive off-road for wildlife sightings on their private land but this is forbidden in the rest of Kruger.
Singita Private Concession
Singita Lebombo
Singita Sweni
Mluwati Private Concession
Imbali Safari Lodge
Hoya-Hoya Safari Lodge
Hamiltons Tented Camp
Jock of the Bushveld Private Concession
Jock Safari Lodge
Fitzpatrick’s at Jock
Lukimbi Private Concession
Lukimbi Safari Lodge
Tinga Private Concession
Tinga Safari Lodge
Narina Safari Lodge
Mutlumuvi Concession
Plains Camp; home of the Rhino Walking Safaris
Rhino Post Safari Lodge
Other private lodges in the Kruger National Park
Southern Kruger
Shishangeni Camp
Camp Shawu
Camp Shonga
Northern Kruger
Pafuri Camp
The Outpost
Private reserves of Greater Kruger
Greater Kruger is made up of private game reserves that are members of Associated Private Nature Reserve (APNR). All except Kapama Private Game Reserve are unfenced and game can roam freely across the vast protected wilderness area.
Balule Private Game Reserve: 40 000 hectares
Greater Olifants River Conservancy
Olifants West Game Reserve
Olifants North Game Reserve
York Game Reserve
Parsons Game Reserve
Grietjie Game Reserve
Mohlabetsi South Nature Reserve (include Jejane Private Nature Reserve)
Mohlabetsi River Nature Reserve
Timbavati Game Reserve: 14 000 hectares
Motswari Game Reserve
Ngale Game Reserve
Tanda Tula Game Reserve
Umlani Game Reserve
Sabi Sand Game Reserve: 65 000 hectares
MalaMala Game Reserve
Djuma Game Reserve
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Sabi Sabi Game Reserve
Londolozi Game Reserve
Singita Game Reserve
Ulusaba Game Reserve
Umbabat Private Game Reserve
Ntsiri Game Reserve
Ndlopfu Game Reserve
Ingwelala Game Reserve
Kapama Game Reserve: 50 000 hectares
Klaserie Private Game Reserve: 60 000 hectares
Thornybush Private Game Reserve: 11 500 hectares
Manyeleti Private Game Reserve: 23 000 hectares
Kruger Park Lodges Reviews
We absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and
...moreWe absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and comfortably decorated, the food was delicious (I'm a San Francisco foodie pescetarian and absolutely loved the food/presentation), and the game drives were unforgettable. Don't miss the bush walk--we walked through a field of butterflies, saw all kinds of animal tracks, and enjoyed a different view of the landscape we'd been driving through all week. I would also highly recommend visiting the Thornybush Community Project gardens with Gavin, where some of the beautiful food served in Sabi Sand resorts is grown by local women as part of a community collective. We also visited a school, which had an incredible impact on us. I loved Simbambili--a little piece of my heart is still there
We just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first
...moreWe just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first game drive, we got to know why Sabi Sands Lodges are the best when it comes to big five game viewing. We managed to view all of the big five on one day.
The accommodation was perfect and the staff were exceptionally friendly. We are hooked, we will certainly visit Sabi Sabi again, very soon.
Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days.
Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days. One extra walking safari midday. Excellent game viewing. Night time star gazing by the fire. Trip to the village. Great amenities. Boma, Observation points. Nice little library. The staff will walk you to your cabin at night. Our first time here was 2006 but this is the place to come for the best safari lodge experience.
This is the place to come back to.
After spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both
...moreAfter spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both Lodges are in the same Reserve and very close they offer a different athmosphere. The Dulini Lodge gives you a stronger "Africa feeling" in terms of decoration and setup in my view.
The bungalows are very spacious and well equipped.The welcome is kind and warm and the staff is amazing. They provided me with a special birthday dinner which made the stay even more memorable.
The game drives with the Ranger Fred and our tracker May where an experience. We saw a lot and as haveing been on Safari before we received so much more indepth information since we did not have to worry about seeing all the big 5 (which we saw anyway).
Will try to be back whenever possible
This was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very
...moreThis was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions that we had. The game drives were exciting and the search for the leopard was one of the highlights of the trip. The rooms were spacious, and the food was almost unending. The only downside, and understandably so, was the inability to move from one room to another, after dark. While our sons were older and able to stay on their own, families with slightly younger children may have to stay in one chalet. Strongly recommend it!!
Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide
Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide Michael. We saw so much and learnt so much in the "Land That Time Forgot". Leopard with Waterbuck kill, wild dogs, Lion and Elephant swimming and wrestling in a dam and so much more!!
The camp manager Gary was so welcoming and friendly. His enthusiasm for the bush is infectious. Thanks for a wonderful time in a special place.
Also thanks for arranging a truly unique bat sighting!!!!
Stayed May 2017, travelled with family
Fabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we
...moreFabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we surprised a rhino and it charged our Land Cruiser, leave it to our guide, Brogan, to take care of business. With a sharp, "OY!", the rhino stopped it charge, turn around and trotted back to its mate. Note that the wifi was only available in the office when we went, but it's due for an upgrade any date. Pro-tip: No cell coverage, but the office has a cell tower booster. Turn off your wifi, and your phone will pick up the cell booster if you have a local phone or international plan
Everything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't
...moreEverything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't fault it and would love to go back. You have to be there to believe how good it is, and how close you get to what is after all wild animals. I could have almost touched one of the lions we saw!!
My daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved
...moreMy daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved the fact that we were teamed up with the same driver/tracker/four other guests in the same car over the course of all the days - we had such fun together and really got involved in trying to spot the animals. And we were rewarded with multiple leopard sightings and the other big 5, as well as all the other beautiful animals - zebra, giraffes, kudu, impala etc - and many birds. The rooms - including outdoor shower, dining area, food, pool, gift shop, massage, the lovely candle light (and lack of electric lighting) and special sundowner by the river were all fabulous. We felt so relaxed and welcomed. The staff were professional and friendly. Nothing was too much trouble. They went the extra mile to engage with my 9 year old daughter. This place suited us perfectly. It was top class without being pretentious. Worth every penny - and actually better value than some other lodges. Recommended without hesitation. We hope to return one day. Thank you to all - Dale, Suzie, Gift, Desmond, Tulani, Riddent, Joe and everyone else (sorry if names are miss-spelt).
Stayed April 2017, travelled with family
If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is
If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is a must. We have been travelling to to South Africa every year for the past 12 years and stayed at many game reserves including the Krugar many times. This year we saved up hard and achieved our dream, to stay in Sabi Sands. All that I can say it's Well Worth every penny, the reserve is just something else! It's the best and it's a must, forget the rest push the the boat out and and stay at in Sabi Sands.. We chose Elephant Plains due to our budget. It was wonderful food fantastic, staff brilliant, service first class.
We saw the big five for the the first time in 12 years....
So if you are looking for a safari holiday then look no further this place is the best.
Memories we will never forget.
I cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights
...moreI cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights we stayed there. Highly recommended.
Loved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were
...moreLoved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were incredible and we certainly saw everything we came to see. The entire staff works hard to ensure a great experience for their guests. Our suite was great, very clean and comfortable . The swing was cozy on the front deck! Enjoyed our meals and evenings in the bar. Thanks to all for a great time!
This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect.
This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect. The game drives were so exiting. Of 8 game drives we saw leopards at 7 of them.
The staff were so friendly and helpful. The food was nice. The skills of the tracker and ranger was fantastic. It was so nice to follow how they read the tracks in the sand and bushes. We saw the big 5 and a lot more. If would go back? YES
I did my research before booking into which area we wanted to stay and which camp, so I knew what
...moreI did my research before booking into which area we wanted to stay and which camp, so I knew what we expected , but what we got was beyond that.
From our collection at the airport to our return to the airport we had amazing service from all the staff, shout out to Wonder who picked us up from the airport and to Pell who greeted us as we arrived at the camp. We saw a few smaller animals on the drive from the airport to camp including bush McDonalds ( Impala - will explain later) we frantically took photos amazed at how close we were for Wonder to tell us first you will take and first you will delete as you will run out of space and have loads of them
Our luggage was taken to our lodge by Dale and the team (cant all them rooms as they were so much more) whilst we were given a quick tour and then told lunch was waiting for us.
What a lunch it was - my friend said it was the best steak pie she has EVER had - so much so that she asked Jann for the recipe, there is no shortage of food that's for sure. We said a quick hello to a few other camp guests and all were welcoming as were the team who served us, everyone introduced themselves to us. We had our first interaction with he camp monkeys (I now truly know where the phrase cheeky monkey comes from) we found it funny at first that they were trying to pinch food from the tables but we could soon see the nuisance they were for the staff (cute nuisances though) They really do work as a family
It was then a quick freshen up and out on our first game drive. Well that's when we got to the jeep as a warthog decided to pay us a visit blocking our path from the lodge, I love how the animals are free to roam. Jeff was our driver and Conrad was tracking , it wasn't long before we saw our first of the big five a leopard who was resting after a good feed on its catch which we could see some leftovers up the tree and the male hyena hoping for it to fall, I was rather nervous at first as we were close than I ever thought we would be but I also felt safe , That drive we saw loads of animals Rhino, Wildebeest, Elephants, Hypo, Dad Leopard with son and daughter Kudo to name a few and then we met the other guest out in the bush for sundowners.
Back to the lodge, we popped to our room to change and a lovely bath had been prepared for us with candles and a bottle of bubbly for our wedding anniversary, the oil lamps were lit and the ambiance stunning, of to diner and another amazing spread, we thought we were not hungry after the big lunch but we still managed to eat a fair amount. A nice few drinks then we headed back to our lodge as we knew we had an early start.
The weather took a bit of a turn whilst we were there but given we are English (and northern) we are used to it, but as we went out for the early drive Conrad had prepared the vehicle and our seats had nice blankets and hot water bottles to help with the early chill until sunrise - another great drive seeing lots and Jeff teaching us so much about the animals and general bush life.
The change in weather meant that we didn't unfortunately get to use the pool, we did though have a massage and that was fantastic and great value
There wasn't a single drive that we didn't see something that took our breath away and I can tell you about it and show you pictures but nothing can replicate the feeing. On talking to other guest that had experienced safari holidays in other camps or countries all said the same they saw more animals with Nottens easily than they had with others, this reinforced my research as A safari trip was always on my dream bucket list as a once in a lifetime - however I loved it so much I will be returning and hope to get my family from Australia to meet us there.
Jann and the team in the kitchen are hidden gems the food is all outstanding and wine keeps flowing as does Amarula (one of my new fav drinks)
For me Notten's was perfect it was natural and bush like, but we were treat like royalty without the pretence, the whole staff team are a credit from those very early wake up calls right through till the last person goes to bed nothing is too much trouble.
A wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always
...moreA wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always good), our Ranger and Tracker were great fun and very knowledgable, the staff were on the ball and the atmosphere and mood relaxed and attentive. My 6th visit, and great that Ulusaba is back to its best, thank you!
It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are
It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are extremely helpful with information and when you arrive they make you feel part of the lodge community not just a guest (truly welcoming).
The staff are genuinely interested in your adventure and happiness joining in stories and experiences of each game drive .Be prepared for the early starts 5.30 am game drive however believe me this is the best time of the day to see the animals and is a magical time to see the bush. The lodge and rooms are to a very high standard with all rooms having great views and the best bit being no fences !!!! YOU REALLY ARE IN THE BUSH 🙂 .
This is without doubt a luxury Safari
I don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her
...moreI don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her birthday and I was planning to propose. From the moment the booking was made until the last minute we left the location the service was impecable.
I can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every
...moreI can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every way. The lodgin itself was so nice and luxury, the food excellent and you really had everything you could possible need.
We had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our
...moreWe had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our guide was knowledgeable and nice (the others in our group had a guide who had had incredible intuition for finding animals and we benefited from it). The rooms are nice, beautiful and comfortable. The food was good/okay... We were there for three nights and it seemed like there were a lot of repeats between the meals. The staff were all friendly and the customer service was great!
Klaserie Private Reserve
Private Lodges & Big Five
Karongwe Private Reserve
Kruger Private Reserve
Makalali Private Reserve
Kruger Private Reserve
Where is Greater Kruger?
Greater Kruger lies alongside the Kruger National Park, on its western boundary adjacent to the central section of the Park. The closest access point that links Greater Kruger with Kruger Park is Orpen Gate. Sabi Sand Game Reserve shares a 50-kilometre unfenced boundary with the national park, and acts as a wild buffer between the national park and the unfenced private reserves of Greater Kruger.
The closest large town to Greater Kruger is Hoedspruit. It’s the central tourism hub of the region and you can fly there directly from Johannesburg to Eastgate (HDS) Airport. Most travelers drive to Greater Kruger; it’s a 5-7 hour drive depending on where you’re staying, with a refreshment stop along the way.
How big is Kruger National Park?
The Kruger National Park covers an area of 19 485 square kilometers (7 523 square miles), and stretches over the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo. It’s 360 kilometers (220 miles) from north to south, and 65 kilometers (40 miles) from east to west.
How big is Greater Kruger?
Collectively, the unfenced private reserves of Greater Kruger cover an area of 1 800 square kilometers (180 000 hectares/695 square miles) of land dedicated to conservation. The fences that prevented free movement of game between the private reserves of Greater Kruger and Kruger Park were removed in 1993.
Hoedspruit and a number of popular private game reserves in the area are often marketed as Greater Kruger destinations but they aren’t formally part of the protected APNR conservation area.
What’s the same?
Outstanding biodiversity
Greater Kruger and Kruger National Park are located in a protected wilderness region that is without doubt one of the most biologically diverse in the world. The region is core to the Kruger2Canyons (K2C) and Vhembe UNESCO Man and Biospheres.
K2C forms part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, which is a peace park that links the Kruger Park with Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe and with Limpopo National Park in Mozambique.
Incredible wildlife sightings
The private reserves of Greater Kruger are unfenced and open to the Kruger Park. Game roams freely between the two protected wilderness areas. Visitors to both are guaranteed incredible wildlife and bird sightings. The most exciting are the famous Big 5 which includes elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard.
Dedication to conservation
Conservation of South Africa’s valuable resources is at the heart of the very existence of these two entities. A priority is to curb rampant wildlife poaching but there’s as much emphasis on protecting the rich ecosystems of the region.
Malaria area
The far north-eastern region is a medium-to-high risk malaria area. It’s highly recommended that visitors take anti-malaria tablets and other precautions to prevent being bitten by the malaria-carrying mosquito. It’s a life-threatening disease that can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated early.
What’s different?
Unrestricted vs restricted access
Everyone is welcome at Kruger Park, including day visitors. The private reserves of Greater Kruger are restricted to paying guests and the general public are not allowed to traverse the unfenced properties.
Greater Kruger safari operators have unrestricted access to the public roads of Kruger Park (pay an entry fee). Your ranger has to drive you to one of the Kruger Park entrance gates; there’s no short-cut road through the private reserves to Kruger Park.
Kruger Park is anything up to an hour’s drive from the private reserves of Greater Kruger. The closest access gate to Greater Kruger is Orpen Gate which takes you to central Kruger; from there you head south or north to explore the national park.
Inclusive versus exclusive
Kruger Park is affectionately known as the “People’s Park”. The national park caters for everyone’s budget and everyone is welcome (apart from the luxury safari lodges on private concessions); you pick the area you like and the accommodation you can afford.
Greater Kruger is the exclusive neighbor. The luxury safari lodges offer an intimate safari experience that’s tailored to discerning wildlife travelers. Many are award-winning establishments; all offer luxury accommodation and superb facilities in secluded bushveld surrounds.
Budget vs luxury accommodation
SANParks’ accommodation ranges from camping to traditional bungalows and family guest houses. Rates are priced to be as affordable as possible for the general public and are geared for self-catering holidays. Only the safari lodges in the Kruger Park private concessions offer an exclusive luxury safari experience.
Guests pay a premium to stay at a safari lodge in the Greater Kruger. The bulk of their guests are international tourists who benefit from the current exchange rate.
Self-drive vs open safari vehicles
The majority of visitors to the Kruger Park drive their own vehicles on daily game drives, apart from those that book private SANParks game drives in open safari vehicles.
The private reserves of Greater Kruger do not allow self-drive tours; guests are taken on game drives in open safari vehicles with a professional ranger and tracker.
Public roads versus Off-road driving
Kruger Park visitors are restricted to the public roads of the national park, unless they’re staying at a luxury lodge in a private concession.
In Greater Kruger, the game rangers are allowed to take the game vehicles off-road to get up close to wildlife sightings.
Day drives versus night drives
Kruger Park has strict open and closing times for the main gates and rest camp gates. Visitors are not allowed to drive around after the sun sets. Strict fines are imposed on visitors who don’t make it back in time to their rest camps in the evening.
The private reserves of Greater Kruger don’t impose strict times on game drives. Guests are taken out for late-afternoon game drives and often return well after dark.
Self-catering vs fine-dining
The Kruger Park restaurants typically offer more affordable meals to cater for families, overlanders and travellers on a tighter budget. Most local Kruger Park visitors book the self-catering units and prefer to braai (barbeque). You can stock up on provisions at the shops in the large rest camps.
The private game reserves of Greater Kruger are unapologetically marketed to the high-end traveler and as one would expect, offer their guests meals that are a cut above what you generally find in the Kruger Park. There are no shops in the private reserves, only boutique outlets selling gifts and convenience items.
Kruger National Park Lodges Reviews
I don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her
...more I don't usually write reviews however, I travelled to Lion Sands with my girlfriend in March 2017, it was her birthday and I was planning to propose. From the moment the booking was made until the last minute we left the location the service was impecable.
It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are
It's hard to put into words what a wonderful place this is , even before you arrive the staff are extremely helpful with information and when you arrive they make you feel part of the lodge community not just a guest (truly welcoming).
The staff are genuinely interested in your adventure and happiness joining in stories and experiences of each game drive .Be prepared for the early starts 5.30 am game drive however believe me this is the best time of the day to see the animals and is a magical time to see the bush. The lodge and rooms are to a very high standard with all rooms having great views and the best bit being no fences !!!! YOU REALLY ARE IN THE BUSH 🙂 .
This is without doubt a luxury Safari
Fabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we
...more Fabulous three days at Idube Game Reserve. Lovely people. amazing food. So many highlights. But one stood out. When we surprised a rhino and it charged our Land Cruiser, leave it to our guide, Brogan, to take care of business. With a sharp, "OY!", the rhino stopped it charge, turn around and trotted back to its mate. Note that the wifi was only available in the office when we went, but it's due for an upgrade any date. Pro-tip: No cell coverage, but the office has a cell tower booster. Turn off your wifi, and your phone will pick up the cell booster if you have a local phone or international plan
Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days.
Highly recommended. Amazing in many ways. Great safari experience. Unsurpassed food. Kind staff. Two safaris a day for three days. One extra walking safari midday. Excellent game viewing. Night time star gazing by the fire. Trip to the village. Great amenities. Boma, Observation points. Nice little library. The staff will walk you to your cabin at night. Our first time here was 2006 but this is the place to come for the best safari lodge experience.
This is the place to come back to.
We had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our
...more We had a great overall experience at Mala Mala. We saw abundant animals and several exciting interactions between them. Our guide was knowledgeable and nice (the others in our group had a guide who had had incredible intuition for finding animals and we benefited from it). The rooms are nice, beautiful and comfortable. The food was good/okay... We were there for three nights and it seemed like there were a lot of repeats between the meals. The staff were all friendly and the customer service was great!
After spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both
...more After spending 2 nights at the Dulini River Lodge we spent 2 nights at the Dulini Lodge. Even though both Lodges are in the same Reserve and very close they offer a different athmosphere. The Dulini Lodge gives you a stronger "Africa feeling" in terms of decoration and setup in my view.
The bungalows are very spacious and well equipped.The welcome is kind and warm and the staff is amazing. They provided me with a special birthday dinner which made the stay even more memorable.
The game drives with the Ranger Fred and our tracker May where an experience. We saw a lot and as haveing been on Safari before we received so much more indepth information since we did not have to worry about seeing all the big 5 (which we saw anyway).
Will try to be back whenever possible
A wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always
...more A wonderful visit that was nothing short of perfect. Amazing game sightings, the best I've had (and it is always good), our Ranger and Tracker were great fun and very knowledgable, the staff were on the ball and the atmosphere and mood relaxed and attentive. My 6th visit, and great that Ulusaba is back to its best, thank you!
This was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very
...more This was a great experience overall. The resort was nice and homely. Our ranger Kelsey and tracker Bennett were very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions that we had. The game drives were exciting and the search for the leopard was one of the highlights of the trip. The rooms were spacious, and the food was almost unending. The only downside, and understandably so, was the inability to move from one room to another, after dark. While our sons were older and able to stay on their own, families with slightly younger children may have to stay in one chalet. Strongly recommend it!!
I did my research before booking into which area we wanted to stay and which camp, so I knew what
...more I did my research before booking into which area we wanted to stay and which camp, so I knew what we expected , but what we got was beyond that.
From our collection at the airport to our return to the airport we had amazing service from all the staff, shout out to Wonder who picked us up from the airport and to Pell who greeted us as we arrived at the camp. We saw a few smaller animals on the drive from the airport to camp including bush McDonalds ( Impala - will explain later) we frantically took photos amazed at how close we were for Wonder to tell us first you will take and first you will delete as you will run out of space and have loads of them
Our luggage was taken to our lodge by Dale and the team (cant all them rooms as they were so much more) whilst we were given a quick tour and then told lunch was waiting for us.
What a lunch it was - my friend said it was the best steak pie she has EVER had - so much so that she asked Jann for the recipe, there is no shortage of food that's for sure. We said a quick hello to a few other camp guests and all were welcoming as were the team who served us, everyone introduced themselves to us. We had our first interaction with he camp monkeys (I now truly know where the phrase cheeky monkey comes from) we found it funny at first that they were trying to pinch food from the tables but we could soon see the nuisance they were for the staff (cute nuisances though) They really do work as a family
It was then a quick freshen up and out on our first game drive. Well that's when we got to the jeep as a warthog decided to pay us a visit blocking our path from the lodge, I love how the animals are free to roam. Jeff was our driver and Conrad was tracking , it wasn't long before we saw our first of the big five a leopard who was resting after a good feed on its catch which we could see some leftovers up the tree and the male hyena hoping for it to fall, I was rather nervous at first as we were close than I ever thought we would be but I also felt safe , That drive we saw loads of animals Rhino, Wildebeest, Elephants, Hypo, Dad Leopard with son and daughter Kudo to name a few and then we met the other guest out in the bush for sundowners.
Back to the lodge, we popped to our room to change and a lovely bath had been prepared for us with candles and a bottle of bubbly for our wedding anniversary, the oil lamps were lit and the ambiance stunning, of to diner and another amazing spread, we thought we were not hungry after the big lunch but we still managed to eat a fair amount. A nice few drinks then we headed back to our lodge as we knew we had an early start.
The weather took a bit of a turn whilst we were there but given we are English (and northern) we are used to it, but as we went out for the early drive Conrad had prepared the vehicle and our seats had nice blankets and hot water bottles to help with the early chill until sunrise - another great drive seeing lots and Jeff teaching us so much about the animals and general bush life.
The change in weather meant that we didn't unfortunately get to use the pool, we did though have a massage and that was fantastic and great value
There wasn't a single drive that we didn't see something that took our breath away and I can tell you about it and show you pictures but nothing can replicate the feeing. On talking to other guest that had experienced safari holidays in other camps or countries all said the same they saw more animals with Nottens easily than they had with others, this reinforced my research as A safari trip was always on my dream bucket list as a once in a lifetime - however I loved it so much I will be returning and hope to get my family from Australia to meet us there.
Jann and the team in the kitchen are hidden gems the food is all outstanding and wine keeps flowing as does Amarula (one of my new fav drinks)
For me Notten's was perfect it was natural and bush like, but we were treat like royalty without the pretence, the whole staff team are a credit from those very early wake up calls right through till the last person goes to bed nothing is too much trouble.
I cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights
...more I cannot express how great my experience was at Idube, I have a lifetime of memories from the 4 nights we stayed there. Highly recommended.
Everything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't
...more Everything wonderful, just come back from part of Titan Tour. We saw the big five and so much more. Couldn't fault it and would love to go back. You have to be there to believe how good it is, and how close you get to what is after all wild animals. I could have almost touched one of the lions we saw!!
We just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first
...more We just came back from our first ever safari trip. We went not knowing what to expect. After our first game drive, we got to know why Sabi Sands Lodges are the best when it comes to big five game viewing. We managed to view all of the big five on one day.
The accommodation was perfect and the staff were exceptionally friendly. We are hooked, we will certainly visit Sabi Sabi again, very soon.
Loved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were
...more Loved our time at Nkorho. Our guide, Matt, and tracker, David, were extremely professional and knowledgeable. The safari rides were incredible and we certainly saw everything we came to see. The entire staff works hard to ensure a great experience for their guests. Our suite was great, very clean and comfortable . The swing was cozy on the front deck! Enjoyed our meals and evenings in the bar. Thanks to all for a great time!
Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide
Our family just spend 3 days in the Cottage.
The safaris were outstanding led by our intelligent and passionate guide Michael. We saw so much and learnt so much in the "Land That Time Forgot". Leopard with Waterbuck kill, wild dogs, Lion and Elephant swimming and wrestling in a dam and so much more!!
The camp manager Gary was so welcoming and friendly. His enthusiasm for the bush is infectious. Thanks for a wonderful time in a special place.
Also thanks for arranging a truly unique bat sighting!!!!
Stayed May 2017, travelled with family
This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect.
This was a perfect place for a safari. We stayed in one of the two suites, and this was perfect. The game drives were so exiting. Of 8 game drives we saw leopards at 7 of them.
The staff were so friendly and helpful. The food was nice. The skills of the tracker and ranger was fantastic. It was so nice to follow how they read the tracks in the sand and bushes. We saw the big 5 and a lot more. If would go back? YES
I can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every
...more I can´t stop thinking about my visit at Arathusa. Just want to go back. It was so amazing in every way. The lodgin itself was so nice and luxury, the food excellent and you really had everything you could possible need.
My daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved
...more My daughter and I spent 3 nights at Notten's in April 2017 and we loved everything about it! We loved the fact that we were teamed up with the same driver/tracker/four other guests in the same car over the course of all the days - we had such fun together and really got involved in trying to spot the animals. And we were rewarded with multiple leopard sightings and the other big 5, as well as all the other beautiful animals - zebra, giraffes, kudu, impala etc - and many birds. The rooms - including outdoor shower, dining area, food, pool, gift shop, massage, the lovely candle light (and lack of electric lighting) and special sundowner by the river were all fabulous. We felt so relaxed and welcomed. The staff were professional and friendly. Nothing was too much trouble. They went the extra mile to engage with my 9 year old daughter. This place suited us perfectly. It was top class without being pretentious. Worth every penny - and actually better value than some other lodges. Recommended without hesitation. We hope to return one day. Thank you to all - Dale, Suzie, Gift, Desmond, Tulani, Riddent, Joe and everyone else (sorry if names are miss-spelt).
Stayed April 2017, travelled with family
We absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and
...more We absolutely loved this resort. The staff is so warm and welcoming, the rooms and public areas are beautifully and comfortably decorated, the food was delicious (I'm a San Francisco foodie pescetarian and absolutely loved the food/presentation), and the game drives were unforgettable. Don't miss the bush walk--we walked through a field of butterflies, saw all kinds of animal tracks, and enjoyed a different view of the landscape we'd been driving through all week. I would also highly recommend visiting the Thornybush Community Project gardens with Gavin, where some of the beautiful food served in Sabi Sand resorts is grown by local women as part of a community collective. We also visited a school, which had an incredible impact on us. I loved Simbambili--a little piece of my heart is still there
If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is
If you are planning a trip to S.A. And want to spend time in the bush, then Sabi Sands is a must. We have been travelling to to South Africa every year for the past 12 years and stayed at many game reserves including the Krugar many times. This year we saved up hard and achieved our dream, to stay in Sabi Sands. All that I can say it's Well Worth every penny, the reserve is just something else! It's the best and it's a must, forget the rest push the the boat out and and stay at in Sabi Sands.. We chose Elephant Plains due to our budget. It was wonderful food fantastic, staff brilliant, service first class.
We saw the big five for the the first time in 12 years....
So if you are looking for a safari holiday then look no further this place is the best.
Memories we will never forget.
