Sabi Sands Safaris

Tucked alongside the southwestern corner of Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve is arguably one of South Africa’s most iconic safari destinations. Known for its rich wildlife density and luxurious lodges, this private reserve offers an unmatched safari experience that blends expert guiding, luxury safari lodges, exclusive wildlife viewing and most famously some of the best leopard sighting in Africa.

One of the standout features of Sabi Sands is the quality of its guides and trackers. These pros aren’t just knowledgeable—they’re passionate storytellers, often with decades of experience in the bush. They’ll help you track leopards on foot, explain the subtle behaviours of elephant herds, and make sure every game drive is a mix of excitement and insight. And thanks to private concessions and off-road driving permissions, sightings are often intimate, with fewer vehicles and more time to watch the wildlife without a crowd.

Game viewing here is nothing short of spectacular. The reserve is famed for its leopard sightings—arguably the best in Africa—and it’s also home to the full Big Five, plus cheetah, wild dogs, and abundant birdlife. Animals here are well habituated to vehicles, meaning you can get astonishingly close without disturbing them.

When it comes to lodges, expect top-tier luxury. Whether you’re in a family-friendly lodge or an ultra-exclusive retreat, service is personalized, cuisine is world-class, and the views are safari postcard perfect. Many lodges have their own waterholes, so wildlife viewing can begin right from your private plunge pool.

The best time to visit? May to September, during the dry winter months. Cooler temperatures and thinner vegetation make for easier animal spotting, and the overall safari experience is crisp and comfortable. That said, the summer months bring dramatic storms, lush landscapes, and adorable baby animals—so really, there’s no wrong time to go.