Welcome to the Western Cape’s Premier Wildlife Destination!
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a three-hour drive from Cape Town in the heart of the Little Karoo, along the Route 62 – the world’s longest wine route.
We are extremely honoured to be the custodians of this pristine Karoo wilderness area, which is home to unique flora, fauna and rock art. By means of personal guest interaction we aim to educate those who visit us, so they too can realise the importance of conserving this wilderness reserve for generations to come. We see our younger guests as future conservationists and eco warriors and by investing in them through our Kids on Safari programme, we hope they in turn will nurture nature.
Whilst the free roaming Big 5 call Sanbona home, it is the vastness of the landscape, the alluring atmosphere of stillness, an air of isolation amid the raw beauty and boundless plains of the Karoo that make safaris at Sanbona unique.
Explore the 54, 000 hectares of this premier, malaria-free, private game reserve in the Western Cape for an ultimate safari experience close to Cape Town.
More reasons to visit Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
- Premier Safari Experience close to Cape Town
- Malaria-free
- Explore the haunting beauty of the harsh, unforgiving landscape of the Little Karoo.
- One of South Africa’s largest privately owned wildlife reserves
- The first authentic free roaming “Big 5” wildlife reserve in the Western Cape
- Free roaming self-sustaining white lions
- Home to the critically endangered and highly elusive riverine rabbit
- Home to the dwarf blue butterfly, the second smallest butterfly in the world
- Over 200 identified bird species for the avid bird watcher
- Important raptor nesting sites, including the Verraux’s (Black) Eagle
- The Bellair Dam provides a wetland habitat for a myriad of water birds & wildlife. Boat Safaris are enjoyed with a qualified guide and skipper.
- Approximately 650 plant species
ACTIVITIES AT SANBONA
A world of new experiences waiting for you at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.
CHECK IN & CHECK OUT TIMES
For guests self-driving to Sanbona, check in is at 14h00 on day of arrival and check out is at 11h00 on day of departure.
TRAVELLING TO SANBONA & YOUR LODGE
- Gondwana Lodge: S 33Ëš 43’ 36.679” E 20Ëš 36’ 2.323”
If you find yourself lost and need a pointer in the right direction, contact us on +27 (0)21 010 0028.
Transfers can be arranged with reservations on request at an additional cost. All transfers are handled by accredited car hire and charter companies and must be arranged prior to arrival.
WELCOME LOUNGE
Sanbona offers a Welcoming Lounge 15km from the main gate. A complimentary transfer from the welcoming lounge to the different lodges is available on request and must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. There is secure parking available for vehicles at the Welcoming Lounge. Guests enjoy a refreshment while they wait for transfer to their respective lodges.
One of the true joys of Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the freedom to do nothing at all in absolute luxury. But for those who choose to venture beyond the comfort of their lavish Lodge, a world of safari activities and experiences awaits.
The little Karoo is one of the most diverse regions of the Western Cape in terms of plant and wildlife. A magical safari experience is enhanced by the magnificent views, panoramic landscapes and towering cliffs of the Sanbona landscape.
Don’t forget to mention any special interest you have as we will do our best to accommodate you.
For a taste of what is on offer, guest safari activities include:
- Game Drives
- Birdwatching
- Relaxation Retreats
- Sanbona Boat Safari
- Flora & Fauna
- Nature Walks
- Photography
- Rock Art
- Rock formations & Features
- Stargazing
- Kids on Safari
A priority for the Reserve has always been the re-introduction of species that once naturally roamed through the Little Karoo. Although historical records are used, re-introducing species to their natural range must take into consideration the suitability and extent of the available habitat and the presence of potential competitors. Due to the change in vegetation type, some areas may no longer be suitable for the habitat requirements of certain species.
The process of returning the large herbivore and predator species has taken many years and is still ongoing. The Wildlife Department researches the ecology of the animals within their new environments to ensure success and sustainability of the processes. The impact of predators on their prey as well as herbivores on vegetation must be studied, measured and monitored continuously to establish the correct ecological balance that will ensure a productive, self-sustaining ecosystem on Sanbona for years to come.
