Sanbona Gondwana Family Lodge

If you are looking for a family safari experience within easy striking distance of Cape Town then the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve should be at the top of your list of where to go. Found on the fringes of the semi-desert Little Karoo, three hours drive from Cape Town, it is a haven for wildlife of all kinds and one of the most scenic areas for game viewing in the whole country.

Gondwana Family Lodge was designed with families in mind and is a superb retreat when looking to share a safari experience together. The bedrooms are very spacious and are able to accommodate whole families in the same room, especially important when travelling with younger children. The high thatched roof of the lodge means it stays cool in the hot summer months the area experiences, whilst the shaded verandas are a popular spot to relax in the afternoons. A sparkling swimming pool sits in the garden of the lodge and is popular with guests of all ages. The main lounge area is where guests come together before game drives and to share stories of what they have seen on their day exploring the bush. The cuisine is outstanding, with menus designed specifically for younger guests and meal times are flexible as well. The outdoor boma area is great when the weather allows for alfresco dining and a highlight of any stay here.

The reserve is home to the Big 5, as well as a huge array of antelope, other predators and birdlife – indeed it is arguably one of the most diverse game viewing experiences that South Africa has to offer. Game drives, guided nature walks and star gazing are amongst the activities on offer, with special game drives offered for younger children as well.