THIRTY FIVE YEARS OF EXCELLENCE
SABI SABI LUXURY SAFARI LODGES
Deep in the African bushveld, within South Africa’s famous Sabi Sand Reserve,‘something enchanting lies in wait’ – the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. This award winning private game reserve offers world-class standards in luxury accommodation, exceptional close wildlife encounters, personal service and delicious cuisine.
The Sabi Sabi philosophy of ‘yesterday, today and tomorrow’ stems from over 100 years of safari experience; a history richly woven into the atmosphere of each of its four uniquely individual safari lodges – Selati Camp, Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp and Earth Lodge. South Africa and its warm hospitality echo through the style and flavour of each and every one.
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Something special is happening deep in the heart of the wilderness…’ The reserve is home to the ‘Big Five’ (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo), as well as cheetah, wild dog and hundreds of other species of animals, birds and plants indigenous to the area. Highly trained and experienced rangers and trackers ensure that your safari experience ranks amongst the best in the world. You can look forward to fantastic close-up experiences with Africa’s wildlife on every game drive.
SABI SABI LOCATION INFORMATION
Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve is an unspoilt part of Africa ecologically and geographically integrated with the adjacent Kruger National Park. It is situated within one of South Africa’s oldest and largest proclaimed reserves – the renowned Sabi Sand Wildtuin.
Sabi Sabi lies 500 km east of Johannesburg, 800 km north east of Durban and 200 km west of Maputo in Mozambique. It lies on the same latitude as Sao Paulo and Brisbane and the same longitude as Cairo, Istanbul and St.Petersburg.
SELATI CAMP
Indulgent and romantic, the historically themed Selati Camp is the Sabi Sabi of Yesterday. Conjuring up memories of when time drifted slowly and luxury embraced you in an effortless whisper.
Fashioned in a colonial “Out of Africa” style, this exclusive lodge comprises seven opulent thatched suites, each with full bathroom en-suite and private alfresco shower nestled under majestic indigenous trees. World-class cuisine is served on wooden thatched decks built alongside the Msuthlu riverbed, in the open air “boma” or in the “farmhouse kitchen”.
The premier accommodation at Selati Camp is the sumptuous and spacious Ivory Presidential Suite, which is a favourite amongst Kings, Queens, and those just looking for exceptional accommodation. It offers colonial grandeur in the form of original antiques, a draped four-poster bed, private terrace, and fireplace. The magnificent en-suite bathroom, complete with Persian carpet and antique chaise-lounge, also features a very private plunge pool. The separate dressing room features an antique wardrobe and matching dressing table.
The Lourenco Marques Suite is a must for honeymooners or the romantic at heart. Whether it is the fragrant flower petals strewn on the exquisite bedlinen, or the candles illuminating the bathroom on return from the evening safari, a stay in this romantic suite will always be remembered.
Under the spectacular canopy of the Southern night sky the camp is still romantically lit by the gentle flicker of oil lamps and lanterns, and the warm glow of fires.
Sabi Sabi’s Selati Camp combines turn of the century elegance with personalised safari luxury – a rare experience.
BUSH LODGE
Here the tradition of warm African hospitality greets you, endless views of the African bush surround you and every whim is anticipated in the harmonious family of ‘Today’s’ Bush Lodge.
To maintain privacy and intimacy, the lodge has 25 suites in total including 2 Luxury Villas and the Mandleve Presidential Suite with each suite featuring en-suite bathrooms and al-fresco, glass-fronted showers, with wonderful views of the bushveld.
BUSH LODGE FACILITIES
- Number of Suites: 25
- Amani Spa
- Boma
- Boutique Shop
- Business Centre
- Dining Area
- EleFun Children’s Centre
- Full Bar
- Facilities Handicapped Suite: No. 25
- Lounge
- Meeting Facility
- Telephone/Fax
- Two Swimming Pools
- Wine Cellar
Two spacious Luxury Villas feature a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, second en-suite bedroom, a private pool, library/lounge and beautiful patio facing a waterhole. The suites are air-conditioned and feature sumptuous linen and classic leather and wood furnishings.
The Mandleve Presidential Suite features a private plunge pool and luxurious interiors with endless views of the bushveld.
Bush Lodge has been sensitively designed to allow ample space to relax, unwind and savour the tranquility of the bush. The two swimming pools and large covered viewing decks overhanging the Msuthlu riverbed are an invitation to cool off in the filtered water or sit in comfort while spotting game at the well-utilised pan. An exquisitely furnished lounge, atrium and intimate bar area are perfect meeting places for friends old and new. As an extra indulgence, the Amani Spa at Bush Lodge offers the ultimate African Spa experience.
The lodge is family friendly and children of all ages can enjoy the EleFun Centre, a fully-fledged children’s facility. Interesting environmentally themed activities, including hands-on ‘edutainment’ for several distinct age groups, are designed and supervised by qualified childcare professionals.
LITTLE BUSH CAMP
Pure excellence is at the heart of this intimate hideaway on the banks of the Msuthlu riverbed, surrounded only by the sounds of the wild and the unending view of the unspoilt bushveld.
Six luxury suites, each with a private viewing deck and heated spa bath overlooking the riverbed, are decorated in contemporary African design, complete with luxury furnishings, full bathroom en-suite, indoor and outdoor showers and air-conditioning. Thatched roofs, romantic mosquito nets draped over the comfortable beds and beautiful wooden finishes complete the picture of an exclusive safari getaway.
Little Bush Camp offers luxury accommodation for family, friends, or small groups.
Exuding the same warmth and effortless hospitality that characterises Bush Lodge, Little Bush Camp offers unparalleled intimacy and seclusion.
Sabi Sabi’s Little Bush Camp offers not only luxurious creature comforts, but a host of adventures as well. Tracking Africa’s big game including the Big Five in open vehicles by day and at night accompanied by qualified game rangers and Shangaan trackers, and going off road for exceptional close wildlife encounters, make for a truly memorable experience – the highlight of your safari holiday in South Africa.
EARTH LODGE
Celebrating the future of Tomorrow and the mineral wealth of ‘our’ continent – this is the past, present and future. Allow your senses to drink in the quiet opulence of a world class masterpiece.
Earth Lodge is a sanctuary symbolising a new era in luxury South African safari lodges. Sculpted into a slope of the earth, almost invisible in the landscape, the lodge uses texture, light and space to present a lodge like no other. Taking its cue from the surrounding environment, it has been described as the most environmentally sensitive lodge in Africa.
Earth Lodge reveals itself in a series of sensory revelations. On arrival a hidden corridor leads you down on a journey to a unique and unforgettable experience. The unexpected entrance opens to a panorama of uninterrupted bushveld. As in nature everything at Earth Lodge exists in harmony and you are immediately aware of a sense of calm and a restoring spirit.
Home to 13 ultra-luxurious suites including the Amber Presidential Suite, the lodge breaks with traditional bush lodge style to create a masterpiece of artistry and innovation. Each of the suites at this luxury lodge features individually designed furniture, private plunge pool, en-suite glass fronted bathroom and indoor and outdoor shower. The natural wooden sculptures by renowned South African artist Geoffrey Armstrong add a powerful magic.
The Amber Suite is a glorious celebration of generous size and space. Beyond belief in its beauty, from the magnificent carved wooden headboard to the deep egg-shaped bath, the suite boasts its own steam room, study and kitchen. It captures the spirit of nature and luxury in one unique experience.
The outdoor boma, its walls sculpted from tree roots and piled up piece by piece, captures the drama of the African night and evokes the power of the wilderness.
An indoor/outdoor dining area overlooking a waterhole and unending bushveld, a secluded library, art gallery, meditation garden; and an underground wine cellar with a collection of over 6000 bottles of rare wines, the venue for an unforgettable dining experience – everything at this luxury lodge has been created for your indulgence.
While on safari escape to the Amani Spa at Earth Lodge and indulge in holistic body, skin and beauty rituals, treatments and massages.
The gym facilities at Earth Lodge offer cardio equipment in a safe and air conditioned environment while still capturing the beautiful views out towards the bush.
Each morning and evening you will depart from this luxury safari lodge into the wilderness, either by open safari vehicle or on foot for a walking safari, accompanied by your armed and knowledgeable Game Ranger and Shangaan Tracker. Close enough to share in a thrilling encounter with Africa’s beautiful wild creatures.
EXPERIENCE LUXURY SAFARIS AT SABI SABI
Southern Africa captivates everyone who is lucky enough to experience its power and magic. The concept of ‘Safari’ conjures up images of adventure, dramatic landscapes and exciting wildlife. Sabi Sabi’s four luxury safari lodges are located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve which is geographically integrated with the Kruger National Park.
Sabi Sabi epitomises Africa’s magic. With no fences between the reserve and the Kruger Park, big game abounds, moving freely through this unspoiled part of the ancient African continent. The Reserve is blessed with a great biodiversity of habitat and wildlife giving an excellent chance of close encounters with the ‘Big Five’ – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard – as well as wild dog and cheetah. With over 300 bird species, the reserve is a birdwatcher’s delight.
There has been no hunting here for over half a century and the animals have become habituated to – and relaxed in the presence of – safari vehicles. The ultimate destination for a luxury safari; visitors to Sabi Sabi can look forward the unique experience of close encounters with animals as they continue unperturbed in their natural daily patterns of hunting, feeding, courting and suckling.
Safaris take place each morning and evening in open safari vehicles which drive through a wide variety of habitats, allowing visitors to view the vast interactions of the wild. After breakfast, guests on guided walking trails can experience the natural environment on foot. The dedicated, highly trained and experienced Rangers lead you to discover miracles of nature you may never have dreamed existed.
LUXURY AFRICAN SAFARIS
MORNING SAFARIS
An early morning call from the Ranger will wake you before first light, while the kitchen brews hot coffee or tea, and prepares cool fruit juices with a muffin, rusk or other freshly made delicacy. So begins the morning safari.
The bush is already alive, the air filled with birdsong as the rising sunlight dances off beads of dew on spiders’ webs. Nobody, not even the tracker who can read the bushveld like a book, knows what’s in store. He will watch the road for spoor, leaning forward intently to find any print left by a predator during its hunt in the dark. There may be hushed discussions in Shangaan between Ranger and Tracker, and brief radio interactions from one vehicle to another. Sharing information ensures that the occupants of each safari vehicle have the best chance of a wide range of sightings during their drives – and also ensures control and responsible behaviour as the vehicles move in close to the animals.
MORNING GUIDED BUSH WALK
Renowned for luxury experiences, Sabi Sabi isn’t all about phenomenal game drives and exceptional dining. Opportunities for education and adventure are definitely on the cards for those interested and energetic. On the morning environmental awareness walking safari you can be part of a small group that sets out on foot after breakfast. The walk is an opportunity to feel the pulse of Africathrough the soles of your feet and experience the bushveld at close quarters.
Sabi Sabi boasts approximately 350 different species of birds, a paradise for birdwatchers. Raptors are plentiful, including 11 species of owl, the seldom seen cuckoo hawk and rare bat hawk. There is an endless diversity of trees, shrubs and flowering plants, and whatever the time of year, no two walks are ever the same.
EVENING SAFARIS
Evening falls and you prepare for the night safari. As the fierce heat of the day cools, the inhabitants of the bush become restless, and the animals move out of the shade of the trees. The call of the crested francolin reverberates through the bushveld and birds increase the volume of their song. You will be aware of colours softening to the beautiful, gentle hues that vary with each season. New scents fill the air and as the sun dips behind the horizon your Ranger will choose a spot where you can stretch your legs and enjoy sundowners alongside the vehicle. Watch in awe as the sky turns to the sensational vibrant reds, golds and oranges typical of an African sunset. There is a lull as the animals sense the transition into a time of increased danger. It is during evening safaris that the nocturnal hunters start stirring, and their prey needs to be alert for survival through the night.
During your safari you may be lucky enough to watch lions prepare for their evening hunt. Their long bodies stretch to ease muscles cramped from lying in the shade during the day; sinews are lengthened and claws sharpened against a tree; the vegetation is marked with scent, and the wind checked for smells; only then do they set off in a slow, loose-jointed, arrogant amble. There are numerous nocturnal hunters and on your evening safari, with the help of a spotlight, a leopard’s eyes may reflect back from a nearby tree. Or you may be lucky enough to spot another smaller predator, a genet, African civet or African wild cat. One can come across scenes at night that become etched in memory: elephants moving heavily but silently in the moonlight; the incredible flying leaps of bushbabies from treetop to treetop, and the red shine from a lion’s eyes as it looks up from its kill. A Sabi Sabi evening safari will never be forgotten.
ETHICS
Sabi Sabi epitomises Africa’s magic, big game abounds, roaming freely through this unspoiled part of the African continent. The reserve is blessed with a great biodiversity of habitat and wildlife giving an excellent chance of close encounters with the ‘Big 5’ – Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Lion and Leopard – as well as the rare Wild Dog and Cheetah, and hundreds of species of other game. With over 300 bird species, the reserve is a birdwatcher’s delight.
Accompanied by highly trained rangers and Shangaan trackers, visitors experience African’s unique wildlife in open game vehicles by day and night providing an unforgettable and truly enriching safari experience.
Rangers and trackers take great care not to drive through sensitive ecological areas and ensure that no protected or endangered fauna and flora are disturbed during the off-road game tracking. For environmental reasons, off-road driving is restricted to the Big 5 as well as the highly endangered Wild Dog and Cheetah species only. Similarly for environmental reasons during periods of heavy rain the rangers do not conduct any off-road driving. Rangers will often track wildlife on foot before leaving the road to afford guests a closer view.
Sabi Sabi has also implemented a policy of limiting the number of vehicles in any game sighting, again to minimise the impact on the animals and birds on the reserve as well as to enhance each guest’s game viewing experience.
At night, only nocturnal animals are tracked and viewed with spotlights, with diurnal animals and birds being left alone.
Animals and birds are left to move freely within the reserve as they have done for centuries – unfenced and undisturbed. All sightings are assessed by the rangers as to animal behaviour and reaction to the vehicle.
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All images are credited to Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve
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