"The property is extremely hard to find because the Google map will not be able to get you there. The staff was not prepared for our arrival, as they already had anticipated that we would not be able to find it. Consequently, the restaurant had a menu but there were only two different cuts of steak. with one piece each. since there was nothing else we ate the steak, which was fine. Getting there, you will have to travel through some neighbourhoods that didn’t seem too safe to me."
"The property is extremely hard to find because the Google map will not be able to get you there. The staff was not prepared for our arrival, as they already had anticipated that we would not be able to find it. Consequently, the restaurant had a menu but there were only two different cuts of steak. with one piece each. since there was nothing else we ate the steak, which was fine. Getting there, you will have to travel through some neighbourhoods that didn’t seem too safe to me."
"This was a great place to stay near Kruger. Staff were exceptionally helpful, food was great and the location unbeatable. We had hippos playing in the river in front of us."
"This was a great place to stay near Kruger. Staff were exceptionally helpful, food was great and the location unbeatable. We had hippos playing in the river in front of us."
"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"Have stayed here several times and will continue to do so when coming to Kruger. It's a great property , really comfortable rooms with everything you need, and you cannot beat the location!"
"We had a short stay at the Sanbonani Resort Hotel with our family. The rooms were large and quiet. The staff were friendly and we had the evening buffet which was good value. For our trips to Kruger it proved to be a good location and excellent value."
"We had a short stay at the Sanbonani Resort Hotel with our family. The rooms were large and quiet. The staff were friendly and we had the evening buffet which was good value. For our trips to Kruger it proved to be a good location and excellent value."
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
"We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
"The villa was magnificent and in many ways better than what's shown in the photos. All the staff were very professional and made sure we were taken care of."
"The villa was magnificent and in many ways better than what's shown in the photos. All the staff were very professional and made sure we were taken care of."
"Everything was great! Our guide was very knowledgeable and conscientious of the needs and wants of his group. So exciting to have a herd of elephants come up and drink from the pool."
"Everything was great! Our guide was very knowledgeable and conscientious of the needs and wants of his group. So exciting to have a herd of elephants come up and drink from the pool."
"Unkompliziertes Check in. Extrem freundliches und hilfreiches Personal. geräumige, geschmackvoll eingerichtete, sehr saubere Bungalows mit viel Privatsphäre und mit viel Liebe zum Detail eigerichtet. Grosses bequemes Bett. Grosses sehr sauberes und praktisches Bad, grosszügig mit Badezimmer Wäsche ausgestattet. Auf der grossen Aussenterrasse eigener kleiner Plunge-Pool mit perfekt sauberem Wasser. Safe unser Zimmermädchen hat immer wieder kleine persönliche Akzente gesetzt, wie abendliche...
"Unkompliziertes Check in. Extrem freundliches und hilfreiches Personal. geräumige, geschmackvoll eingerichtete, sehr saubere Bungalows mit viel Privatsphäre und mit viel Liebe zum Detail eigerichtet. Grosses bequemes Bett. Grosses sehr sauberes und praktisches Bad, grosszügig mit Badezimmer Wäsche ausgestattet. Auf der grossen Aussenterrasse eigener kleiner Plunge-Pool mit perfekt sauberem Wasser. Safe unser Zimmermädchen hat immer wieder kleine persönliche Akzente gesetzt, wie abendliche...
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
This was our 5th visit to Elephant Plains. It's the most affordable option in the Sabi Sands and an excellent place to stay. Since our 2022 visit, they have updated the rondovels. They're super comfortable with everything you need. Staff were great. They seem to have simplified the food options (an improvement) and the quality is great.
You go to the Sabi Sands for the exceptional leopard sightings and amazing safaris. This place does not dissapoint - in one drive we had 2 leopard cub...
This was our 5th visit to Elephant Plains. It's the most affordable option in the Sabi Sands and an excellent place to stay. Since our 2022 visit, they have updated the rondovels. They're super comfortable with everything you need. Staff were great. They seem to have simplified the food options (an improvement) and the quality is great.
You go to the Sabi Sands for the exceptional leopard sightings and amazing safaris. This place does not dissapoint - in one drive we had 2 leopard cub...
Love everything about our stay! Wish we booked for longer! It was incredible!
Such an amazing experience, fantastic staff! Highly recommend the Boma Dinners and Private Dining in our Lodge was outstanding! We will be back
Love everything about our stay! Wish we booked for longer! It was incredible!
Such an amazing experience, fantastic staff! Highly recommend the Boma Dinners and Private Dining in our Lodge was outstanding! We will be back
We arrived at Skukuza airport in the early afternoon… picked up by our guide it was a short 5min drive to Shalati. If you are lucky you can see the train on the bridge from the plane!
Let me get this out of the way: the check in and check out process was not the best. We were ushered by an impatient staff to fill our paper work and finish lunch on arrival. We were left without hospitality on departure with numerous miscommunications by staff (eg. departure times / park ticket / exit letter...
We arrived at Skukuza airport in the early afternoon… picked up by our guide it was a short 5min drive to Shalati. If you are lucky you can see the train on the bridge from the plane!
Let me get this out of the way: the check in and check out process was not the best. We were ushered by an impatient staff to fill our paper work and finish lunch on arrival. We were left without hospitality on departure with numerous miscommunications by staff (eg. departure times / park ticket / exit letter...
Cuong
Reviewed September 9, 2023Reviewed September 9, 2023
The staff, super friendly and were happy to go out of there way and listen to your personal preference to make you stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Cleanliness 110%
Completely worth the price you pay!
Luxury lodges
Great food
the game drives were beyond expectations
Could not have asked for a better experience!
Hope to return in the near future
The staff, super friendly and were happy to go out of there way and listen to your personal preference to make you stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Cleanliness 110%
Completely worth the price you pay!
Luxury lodges
Great food
the game drives were beyond expectations
Could not have asked for a better experience!
Hope to return in the near future
Natasha
Reviewed September 27, 2016Reviewed September 27, 2016
Rhino Post was a lovely experience. The food was exceptional and staff friendly and helpful.Our animal sightings were a bit slim but that is the luck of the draw.
Rhino Post was a lovely experience. The food was exceptional and staff friendly and helpful.Our animal sightings were a bit slim but that is the luck of the draw.
Luxury exclusive lodge with stunning suites and amazing staff. We loved our stay and the safari drives gave us so many viewings of the big five and so much more.
Luxury exclusive lodge with stunning suites and amazing staff. We loved our stay and the safari drives gave us so many viewings of the big five and so much more.
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed September 21, 2019Reviewed September 21, 2019
The minute we arrived we were greeted by lovely staff and elephants at the pool. What followed was a once in a lifetime experience.
The positives - Beds are super comfy with electric blankets for those cold nights and a fan for the warm days. The food was AMAZING. I LOVED being seated with fellow safari mates and getting to know people from across the world even though we are total introverts. Our guide Leighton was brilliant, knowledgeable and an excellent driver. And the wildlife…. Wow. ...
The minute we arrived we were greeted by lovely staff and elephants at the pool. What followed was a once in a lifetime experience.
The positives - Beds are super comfy with electric blankets for those cold nights and a fan for the warm days. The food was AMAZING. I LOVED being seated with fellow safari mates and getting to know people from across the world even though we are total introverts. Our guide Leighton was brilliant, knowledgeable and an excellent driver. And the wildlife…. Wow. ...
We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
We traveled as a couple and spent three nights in Hoyo Hoyo. Our trip was all about the two three hour game drives morning and evening. They were sensational. Andrew, our guide was a treasure.
Our bungalow was fantastic and beautifully appointed (NB tailor your expectations. This is in the middle of the bush and not an 80th floor suite in a 6 star hotel in China). Nonetheless, all our needs were catered for with a smile and a joke from the delightful staff, always at the ready.
Highly...
Adam
Reviewed October 24, 2026Reviewed October 24, 2026
Amazing location within the reserve. Animals right within camp. Staff are so friendly. The village tour is very worthwhile and contributes to the community if there on a Thursday.
Amazing location within the reserve. Animals right within camp. Staff are so friendly. The village tour is very worthwhile and contributes to the community if there on a Thursday.
Everything about this lodge was perfect, From the safaris, the guides, the super friendly staff, high quality food, atmosphere and facilities, we had a view of the elephants, buffalo and impala everyday whilst having lunch. Highly recommend staying here and would definitely come back again. Saw the big 5 in the space of 4 game drives, lots of up close encounters, what a trip!
Everything about this lodge was perfect, From the safaris, the guides, the super friendly staff, high quality food, atmosphere and facilities, we had a view of the elephants, buffalo and impala everyday whilst having lunch. Highly recommend staying here and would definitely come back again. Saw the big 5 in the space of 4 game drives, lots of up close encounters, what a trip!
Tom
Reviewed February 14, 2018Reviewed February 14, 2018
Family holiday with kids and parents, wanting a bit of comfort when compared with the accommodation options at the Kruger Park rest camps. Great location, forever friendly staff and comforts of a good hotel. We loved the deck for sundowners, spotting elephants with our torches at night, the buffet was diverse and plentiful, and sitting next to the file with a glass of wine whilst being entertained to some wonderful African dancing and singing! The kids had a ball watching the bushbuck that...
Family holiday with kids and parents, wanting a bit of comfort when compared with the accommodation options at the Kruger Park rest camps. Great location, forever friendly staff and comforts of a good hotel. We loved the deck for sundowners, spotting elephants with our torches at night, the buffet was diverse and plentiful, and sitting next to the file with a glass of wine whilst being entertained to some wonderful African dancing and singing! The kids had a ball watching the bushbuck that...
Wayne
Reviewed September 21, 2014Reviewed September 21, 2014
Thrilling Safari Experiences: Enjoy exhilarating safaris that provide unforgettable encounters with Africa's diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
Breathtaking Scenery: Marvel at stunning hilltop views and the picturesque Sabi River, creating a perfect backdrop for your adventure.
Luxury Accommodations: Choose from a range of luxurious lodges and hotels offering spa facilities and immersion in nature.
Rich Cultural Experience: Engage with friendly locals and explore the blend of culture and nature in this enchanting reserve.
Ideal for All: Perfect for couples and families, Sabi Sands caters to all tastes, from adventure seekers to those seeking relaxation.
Find great hotels near Sabi Sands Game Reserve
When visiting the stunning Sabi Sands Game Reserve, you’ll discover a diverse selection of accommodation options, from luxurious safari lodges to well-appointed hotels. Ideal for both leisure and business travellers, these establishments offer spa facilities and a chance to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness. Notable options include the Sabi Sands Lodge, Savanna Lodge, and Simbambili Game Lodge, each promising an unforgettable experience amidst Africa's rich wildlife.
Kruger Gate Hotel: Nestled just 20.9km from Sabi Sands Game Reserve, the 4-star Kruger Gate Hotel offers a family-friendly and romantic atmosphere. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel caters to both families and couples, providing amenities specifically designed for children, including a shared playground and supervised childcare. Couples can indulge in romance packages that feature special dining options through room service. For relaxation, guests can enjoy spa treatments such as Swedish and prenatal massages. The inviting pool area is perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.
Kruger Shalati - Train on the Bridge and Garden Suites: Located 27.4km from Sabi Sands Game Reserve, the unique Kruger Shalati offers a budget-friendly, romantic experience aboard a luxury train. With an impressive guest rating of 9.8 out of 10, this accommodation features golf-themed activities for enthusiasts. Guests can enjoy thoughtful romance packages, including champagne service and private chef options. The on-site spa offers a range of treatments, while the pool area encourages relaxation amidst stunning views, making it a distinctive choice for couples looking for a memorable getaway.
Sabie River Bush Lodge: Situated 22.5km from Sabi Sands Game Reserve, the 3-star Sabie River Bush Lodge is ideal for those seeking adventure and nature. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this lodge offers a range of outdoor activities, including kayaking, cave exploring, and zip-lining nearby. The accommodation embraces the natural environment, featuring outdoor terraces and barbeque grills for guests to enjoy. Perfect for nature lovers and business travellers alike, this lodge combines wellness with adventure in a serene bush setting.
Where to stay in and around Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Discover the enchanting Sabi Sands Game Reserve, where breathtaking scenery and luxury await. Experience thrilling safaris amidst stunning hilltop views, and immerse yourself in the charm of local wildlife. This region offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ideal for couples and families alike. With friendly locals and a romantic atmosphere, Sabi Sands is a must-visit destination for those seeking an unforgettable getaway in South Africa.
Mala Mala Game Reserve: Located a mere 12.9km from Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Mala Mala Game Reserve is a beautiful village celebrated for its stunning natural park setting. This region invites adventurous travellers seeking outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. While visitor numbers are relatively steady throughout the year, the peak season occurs from December to February. Here, you can indulge in local activities such as exploring nature reserves and enjoying nearby attractions like national parks and shopping malls. The area also offers recreational venues including golf courses, perfect for unwinding after an exciting day of safari.
Manyeleti Game Reserve: Approximately 19.3km from Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Manyeleti Game Reserve is another picturesque village that promises an immersive natural experience. Known for its scenic beauty, it’s an ideal spot for those keen on outdoor adventures. The peak travel period runs from November to January, attracting visitors eager to explore the abundant wildlife and lush surroundings. Manyeleti is home to various recreational areas and resorts, making it a great base for safari excursions. Nearby attractions include stunning national parks and nature reserves, allowing you to fully appreciate the region's biodiversity.
Djuma Game Reserve: Situated in close proximity to Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Djuma Game Reserve is famed for its captivating park landscapes. This area is perfect for those looking for adventure and scenic views, with peak visitor numbers occurring in April, and from August to September. The range of local activities includes exploring the beautiful nature reserves and enjoying the stunning wildlife. Djuma offers easy access to various national parks, ensuring that you experience the rich natural heritage of South Africa. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to soak in the beauty of the outdoors.
Things to do in Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Shopping
In Sabi Sands, you can find local craft shops offering unique souvenirs like handmade jewellery and traditional art. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Hazyview, where you can explore the Hazyview Shopping Centre for a wider selection of gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the tranquil spa at your lodge, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and wellness treatments amidst the African bush. Enjoy guided yoga sessions surrounded by nature, and embark on guided nature walks to connect with the vibrant wildlife and stunning landscapes of Sabi Sands.
Adventure
In Sabi Sands Game Reserve, embark on thrilling game drives for close encounters with wildlife. Experience guided bush walks to connect with nature and learn about the ecosystem. For an unforgettable adventure, consider a hot air balloon ride over the landscape, offering breathtaking views of the African savannah.
Nightlife
Experience the allure of Sabi Sands at the luxurious Singita Lebombo Lodge, where you can enjoy a fine selection of cocktails under the stars. Alternatively, unwind at the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, featuring a boma for storytelling and local cuisine by the fire, creating a unique evening atmosphere.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Find the best attractions near Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Sabi Sands Game Reserve is perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore attractions such as the lion sands game reserve, intimate safari experiences, and the stunning Sabi River. The area offers a mix of culture and nature, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both adventure and tranquillity in a private reserve setting.
Kruger National Park: Located 27.4km from Sabi Sands, Kruger National Park offers stunning outdoor scenery and thrilling adventure opportunities. Visitors can embark on guided safaris to witness the incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five, in their natural habitat.
Nyani Cultural Village: Situated 49.9km away, Nyani Cultural Village provides an immersive experience into the rich local culture. Engage with traditional crafts, music, and dances, giving you a deeper understanding of the area's heritage and community spirit.
Paul Kruger Gate: Just 20.9km from Sabi Sands, Paul Kruger Gate serves as a historic gateway to Kruger National Park. This site is steeped in history, offering insight into the conservation efforts and the legacy of Paul Kruger in South Africa.
Best time to go to Sabi Sands Game Reserve
The best time to visit Sabi Sands Game Reserve can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Sabi Sands Game Reserve falls in February, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Sabi Sands Game Reserve falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
77.4°F (25.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
February
77.7°F (25.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
March
76.8°F (24.9°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
April
72.5°F (22.5°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
May
68.9°F (20.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
June
64.8°F (18.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
July
64.2°F (17.9°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Average
August
68.4°F (20.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
September
73.4°F (23.0°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
October
75.0°F (23.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
76.1°F (24.5°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Slightly High
December
77.2°F (25.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Sabi Sands Game Reserve
What is the best area to stay in Sabi Sands Game Reserve?
The best area to stay in Sabi Sands Game Reserve is within the western sector, particularly around the Sand River and its tributaries.
This region is renowned for its exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, especially for leopards, as the riverine habitats attract a high concentration of animals. Lodges here are typically unfenced, allowing wildlife to roam freely, and offer a more secluded and wild safari experience. It's a prime location for those seeking an authentic and luxurious safari.
Couples looking for an exclusive and intimate safari will find this area ideal. The lodges often feature private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and romantic dining experiences under the stars. The focus is on personalised service and unparalleled wildlife encounters, making for a memorable and special trip.
Families seeking a high-quality safari adventure will also appreciate the western sector. Many lodges offer family suites and tailored activities for younger guests, such as guided bush walks, tracking lessons, and educational programmes.
When is the best time to go to Sabi Sands Game Reserve?
The best time to go to Sabi Sands Game Reserve is during the dry winter months, from May to October.
During this period, the vegetation is sparse, making it much easier to spot animals as they congregate around the limited water sources. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm, sunny days and cooler nights, ideal for game drives. This time of year offers consistently excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, which is superb for travellers looking for a high-quality safari experience.
For those prioritising comfortable weather and exceptional animal sightings, this is the prime window.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Sabi Sands Game Reserve with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards programme—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Sabi Sands Game Reserve hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Sabi Sands Game Reserve?
Prices for hotels in Sabi Sands Game Reserve often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$140 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.