Sabi Sabi Portfolio
Upon confirmation of your Sabi Sabi reservation, Secrets VIP guests are also treated to one night complimentary stay at The Peermont D’Oreale Grande Hotel at Emperors Palace with return Airport transfers.
Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge is a gem in South Africa's wilderness. It's a premier destination for those seeking an exclusive safari experience. Nestled in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, it offers unparalleled access to the African bushveld. This award-winning private game reserve offers world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and delicious cuisine.
Why Sabi Sabi: What makes it different?
The first light of dawn spills across the African bushveld, gilding the thorn trees in gold as a leopard stretches lazily on a sun-warmed rock. Somewhere beyond the river, a lion’s deep-throated roar echoes through the crisp morning air. This is Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve – where the wilderness whispers its oldest stories and luxury wears the untamed beauty of Africa as its finest jewel.
Sabi Sabi is not just a safari lodge; it's an experience of a lifetime. The ambiance and setting offer a rare blend of serenity and adventure. Here, every moment feels like a carefully curated masterpiece of nature.
The lodge's design pays homage to African heritage while embracing contemporary luxury. Each space in Sabi Sabi reflects a deep connection to its surroundings, enhancing the safari experience. Beyond the stunning decor, it's the staff that completes the magic. Passionate guides and hospitable team members ensure that every guest leaves with unforgettable memories.
In a continent blessed with extraordinary safari destinations, Sabi Sabi distinguishes itself through an unwavering commitment to excellence. The reserve’s traversing rights across 65,000 hectares of pristine wilderness ensure exclusive game viewing opportunities far from the crowds. Its team of guides and trackers, many with decades of experience, possess an almost supernatural ability to locate wildlife while sharing fascinating insights into the ecosystem.
What truly makes this one of the best African safari experiences is how seamlessly it blends heart-stopping adventure with uncompromising luxury. Whether it’s tracking a leopard on foot (from the safety of a vehicle), enjoying a private dinner in the bush, or simply soaking in a freestanding tub while elephants wander past your suite, every moment feels both exhilarating and deeply peaceful.
Ultimately, Sabi Sabi is about connecting with the wild in unparalleled comfort. From sunrise game drives to tranquil evenings under the stars, every aspect feels enchanting.
Location, Wildlife and Biodiversity
Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge is nestled in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Sharing a 50-kilometer unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park allows for free movement of animals, maintaining natural migration routes and ecological balances. This region is celebrated for its unique ecosystem. The African bushveld is lush, teeming with fauna and flora that thrive in this vibrant environment.
The reserve is home to nearly 150 mammal species and over 500 bird species, offering guests a rich tapestry of wildlife encounters beyond the iconic Big Five-lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino.
Sabi Sabi is especially famous for its leopard population, often called the "leopard capital of the world," where these elusive cats are habituated enough to allow intimate and awe-inspiring sightings.
Lions thrive here as well, with several well-established prides providing fascinating social dynamics to observe. Large herds of elephants and buffalo roam freely, while both black and white rhinos can be spotted, underscoring the reserve’s role in conserving these critically endangered species.
The reserve’s diverse habitats-from riverine forests along the Sabie and Sand rivers to open savannahs, rocky outcrops, and indigenous thickets-support a wide range of herbivores like giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, kudu, and impala, which in turn sustain a healthy predator population including cheetah, wild dog, and hyena.
Aquatic species such as hippos, crocodiles, and various fish thrive in the perennial rivers, while the rich birdlife includes raptors, kingfishers, and water birds that add to the vibrant ecosystem.
Sabi Sabi’s commitment to conservation, anti-poaching, and habitat management ensures that wildlife populations remain healthy and that guests enjoy authentic, close-up encounters with a broad spectrum of species in a pristine wilderness setting.
The land here breathes with life. Ancient marula trees stand as silent witnesses to centuries of drama, their branches heavy with the weight of nesting eagles and foraging vervet monkeys. The seasonal Sand River cuts a serpentine path through the reserve, its banks worn smooth by generations of elephants coming to drink at dusk.
What makes Sabi Sabi one of the best safari destinations in Africa is its extraordinary biodiversity. The reserve’s expert trackers can follow the faintest signs – a disturbed leaf, a single paw print in the dust – to bring guests face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic creatures. Leopards, those most elusive of big cats, are seen here with remarkable frequency, their spotted coats blending perfectly with the dappled shadows of the riverine forest.
The wildlife encounters extend far beyond the Big Five. A morning game drive might reveal a pack of wild dogs on the hunt, their coordinated movements a ballet of predation. Night drives uncover the bush’s secretive nocturnal residents – the spectral bushbabies with their enormous eyes, the stealthy civet cats, and the occasional honey badger, nature’s most fearless small predator.
The lodge itself is woven seamlessly into its natural surroundings. Every aspect, from its architecture to the activities offered, honors the land. This deep connection to the bushveld is a key aspect of the Sabi Sabi experience. Visitors can indulge in the beauty of this biodiversity with each safari outing. Nature shows its amazing secrets here.
Accommodation
As the sun dips below the horizon and the bushveld settles into its evening rhythms, Sabi Sabi’s lodges emerge as sanctuaries of sophistication. Each property offers a distinct interpretation of luxury safari lodges in South Africa, ensuring every traveler finds their perfect wilderness home. Voted one of the best private game reserves in South Africa and the world, Sabi Sabi is a wildlife-rich private reserve in the Greater Kruger area with 4 luxury lodges:
The Earth Lodge features innovative architecture, seamlessly integrating with the landscape. Its minimalist design speaks to eco-conscious travelers. Guests enjoy private suites with enchanting bushveld views. Earth Lodge is the Sabi Sabi of Tomorrow. Exceeding the highest international standards of architectural design, its curved lines, artistry of light and natural textures are a sensory delight designed to soothe and delight.
Suites burrow into the earth, their stone walls and living roofs creating a seamless transition between indoors and out. The lodge’s subterranean wine cellar, hewn from ancient rock, hosts intimate tastings of South Africa’s finest vintages beneath flickering candlelight.
It is often described as the most environmentally friendly lodge in Southern Africa. Suites are ultra-modern, with organic architecture, private plunge pools, and a focus on sensory experiences. The design uses texture, light, and space to create a tranquil, minimalist environment. Earth Lodge features a unique day bar, award-winning wine cellar, spa, gym, and multiple relaxation areas.
Best For: Travelers who appreciate cutting-edge design, sustainability, and a tranquil, immersive bush experience.
Bush Lodge The flagship lodge, Bush Lodge, is known for its vibrant energy and contemporary safari-themed furnishings, making it ideal for families, friends, and groups seeking a lively yet luxurious safari experience. Known for its lively energy and contemporary mix of safari-themed furnishings and décor garnered from the African continent, Bush Lodge welcomes luxury safari guests from the world over to celebrate nature’s beauty, relax in luxury and revel in the joy of Today.
There are 22 spacious suites, each with air conditioning, glass-fronted indoor showers, private patios, and day beds that can convert to child-friendly beds. The decor blends modern comfort with African touches, and suites are designed for privacy and bushveld views. Features include a dedicated kids’ centre with activities and pools, open-sided viewing decks overlooking a waterhole, and the exclusive Mandleve Suite for honeymooners, complete with a private pool and outdoor shower.
The lodge’s Amani Spa offers treatments incorporating traditional African remedies, while the interactive kitchen allows guests to learn the secrets of preparing local delicacies.
Best For: Families, social groups, and those seeking a classic, welcoming safari environment.
Selati Camp Selati Camp embodies the romance and glamour of the early African safari era, decorated with authentic railway memorabilia and vintage touches. This intimate lodge offers a charming, vintage feel. With only 7 elegant suites, all named after bygone railway stations and decorated with authentic memorabilia sourced from rail museums and antique stores – Selati Camp artfully weaves an ambience and character of Yesterday.
There are eight thatched suites, each with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, and outdoor showers. The Lourenco Marques Suite is tailored for honeymooners, featuring an outdoor bathtub with rose petals, while the Presidential Ivory Suite offers a plunge pool, private terrace, and exclusive use of a game vehicle and guide.
The lodge includes a swimming pool, sun loungers, lounge, bar, and dining areas, with meals often served in a traditional fire-lit boma.
Best For: Couples and history enthusiasts seeking old-world charm and romance.
For those seeking seclusion, Little Bush Camp provides an intimate escape where the rhythm of the wild sets the pace of the day. Just six suites positioned along the Msuthlu River ensure privacy, with outdoor showers open to the vast African sky and private decks perfect for afternoon siestas accompanied by the calls of fish eagles. Intimate spaces allow for privacy while indulging in luxury.
Small and tasteful, Little Bush Camp seamlessly bridges the space between the contemporary Today and the Avante-Garde of Tomorrow. Little Bush is a desirable oasis nestled deep in the African wilderness in which to escape and relax.
Constructed deep in the bush on the Msuthlu River, Little Bush Camp offers an intimate, secluded experience with just six luxury suites. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or exclusive use. Each suite features a private viewing deck and heated spa bath, with authentic African decor and modern comforts. The camp’s main lodge has a relaxed lounge and indoor/outdoor dining areas. Guests enjoy personalized service, exclusive activities, and the option for private safaris. The camp is also family-friendly, with special children’s activities and meals.
Best For: Couples, small families, or friends seeking privacy and exclusivity.
Exclusive Experiences and World-Class Amenities
Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge offers an unparalleled blend of exclusive experiences and world-class amenities, making it a premier destination for discerning travelers seeking an authentic yet luxurious African safari.
The lodges at Sabi Sabi are designed to harmonize with the natural surroundings while providing contemporary luxury and comfort. Suites and villas feature spacious interiors with elegant African contemporary design, private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and expansive viewing decks that overlook the bushveld or iconic waterholes, allowing guests to observe wildlife in serene privacy. For example, the Bush Lodge offers 25 luxurious suites with vibrant décor and large covered decks overlooking the Msuthlu riverbed, complemented by two swimming pools and the indulgent Amani Spa for ultimate relaxation. The Earth Lodge, an architectural masterpiece, boasts 13 ultra-luxurious standalone suites with private patios and pools, a spa, gym, and a unique Day Bar set in ankle-deep water, enhancing the ambiance of tranquility and exclusivity.
Sabi Sabi’s safari experiences are expertly curated to immerse guests in the African wilderness. A day at Sabi Sabi unfolds like a carefully composed symphony, each movement more breathtaking than the last. Guided game drives in open-top Land Rovers, led by knowledgeable rangers and skilled Shangaan trackers, provide thrilling close encounters with the Big Five and other wildlife, including some of the best leopard sightings in Africa. Walking safaris offer a more intimate connection with nature, revealing the smaller details of the bush that are often overlooked. Night drives add an exciting dimension, allowing guests to witness nocturnal creatures and the bush’s vibrant nightlife.
Dining at Sabi Sabi is a celebration of culinary excellence, featuring world-class cuisine that showcases local flavors paired with fine South African wines. Guests can enjoy meals in elegant dining rooms, under the stars in traditional bomas, or on private decks with panoramic views. The lodge’s commitment to authentic South African hospitality ensures that every meal is a memorable occasion.
Additional amenities include cultural visits to local communities, photography workshops, and wellness treatments at the Amani Spa, where guests can rejuvenate with natural therapies in a serene setting. The lodges also offer private safari vehicles, ensuring personalized service and flexibility throughout the stay.
In summary, Sabi Sabi Luxury Safari Lodge delivers an extraordinary combination of exclusivity, luxury, and immersive wildlife experiences. Its world-class accommodations, expert guiding, exceptional dining, and thoughtful amenities create a transformative safari journey where guests feel pampered, connected to nature, and enriched by the beauty and spirit of the African bush.
Crafting Your Perfect Safari
The ideal Sabi Sabi experience unfolds over three to four nights, allowing time for both thrilling wildlife encounters and leisurely enjoyment of the lodges’ world-class amenities. The dry winter months (May to September) offer optimal game viewing as animals congregate around permanent water sources, though each season paints the bush in different hues and offers unique rewards.
For those combining their safari with other South African highlights, Sabi Sabi’s proximity to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport makes it easily accessible after exploring Cape Town’s vineyards or the beaches of Mozambique. The Secrets VIP Safari desk excel at creating seamless itineraries, whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or simply the joy of experiencing one of the top safaris to South Africa.
Every aspect of Sabi Sabi is designed to offer luxury and immersion. This creates an environment where guests feel truly pampered and connected to the wild African setting.
In summary, safari guests should choose Sabi Sabi for a luxury safari because it offers an unmatched combination of exclusive, high-quality wildlife experiences, diverse and luxurious accommodations, expert guiding, and exceptional hospitality in a pristine and well-managed private reserve. This makes Sabi Sabi a top choice for travelers seeking both adventure and refined comfort in the African bush.
Ready to experience the best luxury safari in Africa? Contact Secrets VIP Travel to begin crafting your unforgettable Sabi Sabi safari today.
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Activities at Sabi Sabi
Community Experience
The Sabi Sabi community experience offers guests a heartfelt opportunity to connect with the vibrant local cultures and witness how tourism, conservation, and community upliftment are harmoniously intertwined. For over four decades, Sabi Sabi has cultivated strong, respectful relationships with neighboring villages such as Huntington, Lillydale, and Justicia, employing many local residents and supporting a range of education, health, and development programs through its dedicated Sabi Sabi Foundation. Visitors can engage in authentic cultural tours, gaining insight into traditional Shangaan customs, arts, and daily life, while seeing firsthand how sustainable tourism positively impacts these communities.
The experience highlights the importance of collaboration and empowerment, showcasing community projects that foster education, skills development, and poverty alleviation, all driven by a philosophy of giving a hand up rather than a handout. Through guided visits to local schools, cultural centers, and community initiatives, guests witness the tangible benefits of responsible tourism, including job creation, support for local businesses, and preservation of heritage. The funds raised from these paid community experiences are carefully managed to ensure long-term wellbeing and growth for the people living around the reserve.
This immersive encounter not only enriches guests’ understanding of African culture and hospitality but also invites them to contribute meaningfully to the future of these communities, leaving a lasting impact on both visitors and hosts alike.
The Wildlife Experience
The Sabi Sabi wildlife experience offers guests unforgettable close encounters with Africa’s diverse and magnificent fauna, providing fresh perspectives that awaken the senses and deepen appreciation for the natural world. Guests can witness mesmerizing sightings such as leopards perched in trees or male lions resting in lush grass, each game drive delivering unique moments of excitement and discovery.
The experience goes beyond mere observation, inviting guests to engage intimately with the bush through guided walking safaris that reveal hidden details and foster a heightened awareness of nature’s interconnectedness. Night drives transform the wilderness into a mysterious realm where nocturnal creatures emerge, sharpening guests’ senses amid the sounds and shadows of the African night under a starlit sky.
Alongside thrilling wildlife encounters, Sabi Sabi encourages moments of tranquility and reflection, allowing guests to slow down and savor the gentle rhythms of the bush, deepening bonds with loved ones and gaining renewed insights into life’s wonders. This holistic approach combines the thrill of close-up animal sightings, expert guidance from passionate rangers and trackers, and a profound connection to conservation and local communities, creating a safari experience that enriches both mind and spirit and leaves visitors refreshed, enlightened, and forever changed.
Walking Safaris
A Sabi Sabi walking safari offers a uniquely thrilling way to experience the wilderness at ground level, transforming guests from passive observers into active participants in the bush. Moving silently through nature’s wild gardens, guided by highly trained experts who often have lifelong familiarity with the area, guests gain intimate access to parts of the environment inaccessible by vehicle.
This close-up exploration reveals a microcosm of life, from tiny insects and delicate plants to animal tracks and spoor, opening eyes to the intricate interconnectedness of the ecosystem. The experience is both invigorating and educational, as guides share deep knowledge about the web of life in the bush, enhancing appreciation for nature’s complexity. Safety is paramount, with armed guides ensuring a secure yet immersive adventure. Walking safaris typically take place in small groups shortly after breakfast, allowing for personalized attention and a peaceful pace that encourages mindfulness and discovery.
This activity offers spine-tingling encounters with wildlife and a sensory-rich journey that sharpens hearing, sight, and smell, making every safari walk a profoundly memorable and transformative experience that deepens guests’ connection to the African wilderness.
Game Drives
A Sabi Sabi game drive is a journey filled with anticipation, discovery, and awe as guests experience the raw beauty of the African bush from the comfort and safety of an open 4x4 vehicle. Each drive begins like a blank canvas, ready to be painted with unforgettable wildlife encounters-from the towering gait of a giraffe passing by to the powerful presence of elephants and the earthy scent near a hyena den.
Close interactions with nature allow guests to fully appreciate the majesty of animals in their natural environment. Guided by world-class rangers and trackers, many of whom have grown up in the region and possess an instinctive understanding of the ecosystem, these safaris prioritize safety while enriching guests’ knowledge and connection to the wilderness. The guides’ expertise ensures that game drives linger longer at sightings, revealing not only the Big Five but also the smaller, often overlooked creatures and the intricate details of the bush. The ability to go off-road in search of exceptional sightings and the inclusion of night drives with spotlighting add thrilling dimensions to the experience.
Beyond wildlife, guides share insights into the local vegetation, cultural traditions, and folklore, enhancing the educational aspect of the safari. Morning drives capture animals at their most active, while afternoon and night drives offer dramatic shifts in behavior and the chance to see nocturnal species. Throughout the day, guests enjoy breaks in scenic spots for refreshments and reflection, often culminating in sundowners at sunset. This expertly crafted combination of adventure, education, and comfort makes every Sabi Sabi game drive a deeply rewarding and memorable exploration of untamed nature.
Birding Safaris
Birding safaris at Sabi Sabi offer an extraordinary luxury safari experience for avid birdwatchers and nature lovers alike, set within the diverse habitats of this pristine private game reserve. Home to over 300 bird species, including rare and endemic varieties, Sabi Sabi is a true winged paradise where guests can witness the spectacular “Big 6” birds-the Pel’s Fishing Owl, Martial Eagle, Southern Ground Hornbill, Saddle-billed Stork, Kori Bustard, and Lappet-Faced Vulture-among many others. The reserve’s unique ecosystems provide year-round birding opportunities, with resident raptors dominating the cooler months from March to August, and vibrant migratory species enlivening the landscape during the warmer season from September to February.
Expert birding guides, well-versed in the terrain and avian behaviors, lead guests on both open vehicle safaris and walking tours, skillfully locating hidden nests and mimicking birdcalls to enhance sightings. This specialized knowledge ensures that every birding safari is rich with discovery, whether spotting iconic species like the Southern Ground Hornbill, Lilac-breasted Roller, or African Fish Eagle. Combining this exceptional birdwatching with Sabi Sabi’s world-class luxury accommodations, personalized service, and exclusive access to the renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve, guests enjoy a seamless blend of comfort and adventure.
For travelers seeking the ultimate luxury safari, Sabi Sabi’s birding safaris provide a unique and immersive way to connect with Africa’s natural beauty, making it a top destination for those passionate about wildlife and refined safari experiences.
Spa | Wellnes | Relaxation
Unwind in the untamed wilderness at Sabi Sabi, where luxury safaris offer the perfect escape to relax, observe, and rejuvenate amidst nature’s serene beauty. Here, the unhurried pace of the African bush creates a healing environment that encourages reflection, reconnection with oneself, and deeper bonds with loved ones. Guests can sink into the tranquility and comfort of well-appointed private suites, enjoying complete privacy while listening to the soothing sounds of the wild. From sunbeds and outdoor showers to expansive decks, every moment invites you to soak in breathtaking views and toast to nature’s splendor with a refreshing drink in hand.
The experience extends beyond relaxation to rejuvenation-bask in the warm African sun, breathe in crisp, clean air, and marvel at the endless vistas that invigorate the body and soul. For those seeking to reawaken their zest for life, Sabi Sabi offers indulgent spa treatments, refreshing dips in pools watched over by elephants, invigorating walking safaris, and adrenaline-filled game drives. Fitness enthusiasts can also enjoy state-of-the-art gyms at Earth Lodge and Bush Lodge.
Evenings bring magical moments with sundowners as majestic elephants captivate the horizon, creating unforgettable memories. Quality time with family and friends is cherished here, free from everyday distractions, fostering deeper connections through shared wildlife sightings, storytelling, and dining in inspiring settings. This soothing retreat enhances wellbeing through outdoor beauty treatments and peaceful moments with a good book or a private pool oasis.
Ultimately, Sabi Sabi’s luxury safari experience is designed to leave guests feeling deeply rested, enlightened, and profoundly connected to nature and themselves, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and holistic rejuvenation in the African bush.
Dining Experiences
Sabi Sabi offers an exceptional luxury safari dining experience that perfectly blends international cuisine with a fresh African twist, set against the magical backdrop of the bush. Each of the four lodges-Selati Camp, Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp, and Earth Lodge-showcases its unique character through thoughtfully crafted menus and varied dining settings, ensuring every meal is a feast for the senses.
Guests indulge in dishes prepared by world-class chefs using locally sourced, fresh, and organic ingredients, creating flavorful meals that celebrate both tradition and innovation. From romantic private dinners beneath the stars and bush picnics in secluded scenic spots to elegant high teas and interactive bush kitchen experiences, Sabi Sabi elevates dining to an unforgettable adventure. The culinary journey includes signature dishes like springbok shank, pumpkin gnocchi, and fresh seafood, complemented by an award-winning wine list recognized internationally for its excellence. Whether enjoying a leisurely breakfast, a gourmet lunch, or a candlelit dinner, guests savor every bite in inspiring natural surroundings, often accompanied by the sounds of the wild.
The lodge’s commitment to accommodating dietary needs ensures a personalized and inclusive experience for all. This seamless integration of fine dining and luxury safari adventure makes Sabi Sabi a top choice for travelers seeking world-class cuisine in the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness.
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