Where to go if you want to see Africa’s big cats—these are some of our favourite places.
A bush breakfast is a special way to enjoy the first meal of the day.
Leopards are elusive. They’re masters at melting unseen into the trees and rocky outcrops. Some safari goers never catch sight of one.
Our advice? Visit Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Leopard sightings here are almost guaranteed. Along with the rest of the Big 5 team, and many other mammals, birds and insects besides. The vegetation and landscape are also pretty special.
Sabi Sand Wildtuin, as it’s officially known, was the first private nature reserve in South Africa, proclaimed in 1965. In 1993, the final game fences between it and Kruger National Park were dropped, creating a huge area for the free movement of wildlife.
It might sound complicated, but Sabi Sand, the big reserve, is made up of several smaller private game reserves, their borders unfenced. It’s named for the Sabie River on its southern boundary and the Sand River flowing through it. It covers 65,000 hectares (about 160,620 acres).
The dry season, in winter, from May to September, is best for viewing wildlife. Animals are easier to spot as there is less foliage and they gather around rivers and waterholes. But the green season has its own allure, and plenty of discounts and promotions.
Sabi Sand is known for high-end safaris with phenomenal Big 5 sightings. (By the way, it is Sabi Sand, not Sands, because it is named after the Sand River. And it is Sabi Sand, but the river is the Sabie River—it’s all to do with history.)
You can self-drive to get there, but flying in to nearby airports (KMIA / SZK / HDS) from Cape Town or Johannesburg cuts travel time and boosts safari time—a win.
There are more than 50 excellent lodges in Sabi Sand Game Reserve. We’ve done some of the leg-work for you, and rounded up 10 of our favourites, listed below, in no particular order. Prices can range from $300 to $2,920 per person per night.
“I used Safari.com in 2022 when my husband and I went on our first safari to Kruger National Park. They were professional, quick and easy to work with. I was anxious to return in 2024 and Mel du Toit didn’t disappoint.”
It has tennis, croquet and a child programme, and its ability to balance heritage with contemporary luxury and family-friendly safaris makes it a standout. Unmatched sightings of leopards are reported in 85% of game drives.
Star rating:
5 star
A cool patio for quiet game watching at &Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp
Key features:
Historic elegance: Kirkman’s Kamp is a restored colonial-era lodge with antique furnishings, claw-foot bathtubs, and vintage safari décor
Exclusive wilderness access: it has p10,500ha traversing rights giving private access to a pristine area bordering Kruger National Park
Luxury accommodations: 12 colonial-style cottages with private verandas and Sand River views
Premium amenities: rim-flow infinity pool, tennis court, and croquet lawn
Family-friendly: There is a WILDChild Programme with junior ranger activities
Your experience is front of mind: there are vehicle limits at sightings and strict off-roading protocols with expert &Beyond-trained rangers and trackers
&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp is a five-star luxury safari lodge in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, known for its blend of 1920s colonial elegance and modern
comforts. Leopards are sighted on 85% of game drives.
“To say we had the experience of our lives would be a gross understatement…The accommodations are generous, well-appointed and luxurious. In our 4-day stay there were monkeys, impala, water buck, warthogs, and even a visiting elephant that delighted all of us.”
– Melissa O, US
Rates start from $1,140 per person, per night (sharing)
4 suites (max 12 guests) and one vehicle per 4 guests, as well as the fusion of architectural boldness, wildlife intensity, and bespoke service, exclusive intimacy and riverside luxury. It’s a leopard hotspot, with 85%+ success rate in sightings.
Star rating:
5 star
Dining under the trees as the sun sets at Dulini Leadwood Lodge
Key features:
Ultra-private experience: accommodates only 8–12 guests, ensuring a secluded atmosphere
Spacious suites: each suite (100–200m²) features private heated plunge pools and outdoor showers
Spectacular wildlife sightings: renowned for high leopard sightings because of its expert trackers and prime location
Treehouse dining: an elevated deck under a 500-year-old jackalberry tree lends itself to unique dining experiences
Wine and cuisine: private wine cellar with curated tastings of South Africa’s top vintages
Dulini Leadwood Lodge is at the confluence of the Sand and Mabrak rivers, giving front-row wildlife viewing.
Dining is excellent, too, with the option of wine cellar meals—intimate tastings paired with South Africa’s top vintages.
Dulini Leadwood Lodge offers exclusivity with only four suites, creating an intimate safari experience in Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The lodge is famous for its breathtaking riverfront setting and high leopard density.
“In 1987, Belinda Carlisle crooned that “heaven is a place on earth”. While I doubt her ballad referred to Dulini Leadwood, it should have…There are few superlatives that can appropriately articulate just how spectacular this place is.”
– Andrew F
Rates start from $1,450 per person, per night (sharing)
Timeless elegance with explorer-themed campaign furniture, and bold murals. As Singita’s first lodge, Ebony is a benchmark for luxury safaris, balancing legacy with forward-thinking design.
Star rating:
5 star
Singita Ebony Lodge looks out over the Sand River
Key features:
Iconic safari legacy: as Singita’s first lodge, it sets the standard for luxury eco-tourism
Modernised design: it was redesigned in 2024 with open-plan spaces and nature-inspired interiors
Exceptional suites: Singita Ebony Lodge’s 12 luxury suites with private plunge pools and floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlook the Sand River
Tailored experiences: Ebony Villa includes a private pool, chef, and guide for exclusive stays
Unparalleled wildlife encounters: 85% of game drive have leopard sighting success, and there are guided bush walks, and night drives
Activities: there is archery and mountain biking as well as conservation-focused community visits.
For children, the WILDChild programme includes junior ranger activities, archery and cultural exchanges with local Shangaan communities.
And it’s Big 5 Central, with leopard sightings on 85% of drives, and traversing rights over 10,500 hectares bordering Kruger Park.
Established in 1993, it set the standard for eco-luxury safaris, blending conservation with high-end hospitality. Singita Ebony Lodge is the flagship of the prestigious Singita portfolio, known for its pairing of heritage and innovation.
“I wish I could give Singita Ebony a million stars. What really stood out was that they went above and beyond to cater to everyone’s individual interests. [My husband] went fishing and I was taken on a tour to see the anti-poaching K9s.”
– Shelby W
Rates start from $2,920 per person, per night (sharing)
Direct lakefront suites and an owner-curated gallery, all ages are welcome and there is a dedicated family suite, and hippos serenading your sunset dip.
Star rating:
5 star
Your private deck looks on to the water at Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge
Key features:
Unique location: it overlooks one of the largest permanent waterholes in Sabi Sand, attracting abundant wildlife
Luxurious suites: it has six art-curated suites each with a private plunge pool and outdoor shower, and overlooking a large waterhole
Exclusive villa: Chitwa House provides a private chef, butler, and game vehicle
Community engagement: you can visit the local Shangaan community through the Chitwa Trust
Eco-friendly initiatives: Chitwa Chitwa uses solar power.
You can see the Big 7—rare wild dog and cheetah sightings as well as the standard Big 5 drives. There are child-friendly bush walks and babysitting services.
A fusion of artistic elegance and wildlife immersion, Chitwa Chitwa is known for its stunning lake views and personalised service, as well as excellent dining.
“We stayed at Chitwa Chitwa for three nights. We should have stayed longer. Everything was perfect and I mean perfect…I miss the hippo calls from the lake so much.”
– Karen N, US
Rates start from $1,550 per person, per night (sharing)
Value for money—you get a more affordable yet still luxurious safari experience. There is traditional South African cuisine on the menu.
Star rating:
4 star
After a hot morning game viewing, the pool at Elephant Plains is a welcome sight
Key features:
Diverse accommodation: you can choose between rondavels (traditional huts), luxury suites, and the Manyeleti Honeymoon Suite with its private splash pool romantic daybeds, and exclusive river vistas
Exceptional game viewing: expect big five safaris with a strong focus on leopards
Family-friendly: there is a WILDChild programme, bush walks, and babysitting services
Wellness and recreation: spend your downtime in the spa, gym, or two pools, or on the waterhole-viewing deck
Authentic safari atmosphere: Elephant Plains maintains its 1960s family-camp heritage with modern comforts.
There are regular wild dog and cheetah encounters. For children, WILDChild activities include animal tracking and cricket matches.
An owner-operated lodge offering luxury at an affordable price, Elephant Plains is a blend of warm hospitality and exceptional game viewing.
“Over-delivered on all aspects—the lodge, our suite, the food, the service, and the game drives…So are so grateful to the team at Elephant Plains for delivering such a memorable experience.”
– Tracy, Canada
Rates start from $300 per person, per night (sharing)
Its timeless elegance and unrivalled leopard encounters.
Star rating:
5 star
Take your tea with an unsurpassed view at Londolozi Founders Camp
Key features:
Historic legacy: Founders Camp honours the founders of Londolozi with 1920s safari charm
Prime location: the riverside setting gives spectacular Sand River views
Luxurious chalets: each has a private plunge pool and outdoor shower
Comprehensive safari activities: expect game drives, bush walks, yoga, and cultural village visits
Family-oriented: children of all ages are welcome, and there is a Cubs Den programme for young adventurers
A Relais & Châteaux member, Londolozi Founders Camp epitomises refined safari luxury while maintaining a deep connection to its pioneering roots.
“We knew immediately that we were in for a special experience. From the beautiful accommodations to the stunning gathering area it was obvious that Londolozi Founders Camp was special. What sets this lodge apart is the incredible level of service and attention to detail.”
– Laura S, US
Rates start from $1,730 per person, per night (sharing)
7. Jaci’s Sabi House
What makes this lodge special:
Its exclusive-use villa, private staff, and leopards at the waterhole. It’s ideal for families or friends wanting total privacy with dedicated staff.
Star rating:
No formal grading, but guest experience aligns it with 5 star
Leopard sightings at Sabi Sand Game Reserve are almost guaranteed
Key features:
Complete privacy: the entire property is reserved for one group (max 6 guests)
Luxury living: the bold décor is African-inspired, and dining is outdoors under the stars
Dedicated staff: private chef, butler, and game vehicle for tailor-made experiences
Prime wildlife viewing: Jaci’s Sabi House patio overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants and leopards
Exclusive activities: private game drives, guided bush walks, and night safaris with stargazing keeps it intimate.
An exclusive-use private villa, Jaci’s Sabi House is a fully personalised safari retreat, perfect for a luxury bush experience for groups of up to six guests. Guests consistently praise its “Michelin-star quality” cuisine, exceptional staff service, and prime wildlife viewing opportunities.
“I was truly blown away by the experience we had at Jaci’s! From the moment we arrived to the moment we left, we felt like royalty! The catering was generous, and the food was absolutely scrumptious!”
– Gary V
Rates start from $2,606 for four, per night (sharing)
Value-focused luxury, rustic charm, budget-friendly waterhole views—it’s perfect for travellers who prioritise wildlife proximity over ultra-luxury.
Star rating:
No formal grading, but guest experience aligns it with 4 star
Romantic outdoor dining at Arathusa Safari Lodge
Key features:
Affordable luxury: Arathusa Safari Lodge is a premium safari experience without the ultra-luxury price tag
Prime game viewing: waterhole-facing suites offer front-row wildlife sightings
Elegant accommodation: choose from eight waterhole-view suites and four bush-facing suites with plunge pools
Family-friendly: children from 12 years old are welcome
Leopard sightings: the lodge is consistently rated for excellent predator encounters
This is a high-value, mid-luxury option with an authentic safari experience and outstanding game viewing.
“If you are planning a safari in Sabi Sand or the Greater Kruger Park, you could not choose better than Arathusa. From start to finish, our 4-day stay was utter perfection.”
– Debbi S, US
Rates start from $500 per person, per night (sharing)
Its riverside suites, private plunge pools, Relais & Châteaux affiliation, treetop suites, sleepouts are tailored for romantic getaways with unique sleepout experiences.
Star rating:
5 star
A herd of elephants parades past Lion Sands Narina Lodge
Key features:
Relais & Châteaux: it is part of the Relais & Châteaux-affiliated Lion Sands portfolio
Private plunge pools: on offer are nine stilted suites with river views
Unique sleepouts: you can spend the night in a treetop platforms under the stars
Award-winning design: heated towel rails, underfloor heating, and opulent décor ups the luxury factor
Exceptional big five sightings: Lion Sands is renowned for leopard and elephant encounters.
Service is world-class service and dining is gourmet. Guests note Narina Lodge’s absolute luxury, private plunge pools, and award-winning design.
“Narina Lodge was perfect. We went with friends and our rooms and common spaces were lovely to spend time in. We even spent an afternoon at one of our pools just watching the wildlife and lounging in the sun.”
– Erica D
Rates start from $1,460 per person, per night (sharing)
Luxurious design, Sand River access and eco-luxury makes this lodge best for eco-conscious travellers who value sustainability without compromising on luxury.
Star rating:
5 star
Even the outdoor showers are a game-viewing opportunity at &Beyond Tengile River Lodge
Key features:
Sustainable luxury: spacious solar-powered suites (200m²+) are built with recycled materials for minimal environmental impact
Private plunge pools: the suites also have sunken lounges and expansive decks
Family-friendly design: there are interconnected suites for multigenerational travel
Exclusive wildlife access: Tengile Lodge has private traversing rights and expert guides
Conservation-focused: it is part of &Beyond’s 100-year sustainability vision.
&Beyond Tengile Lodge is & Beyond’s flagship lodge in Sabi Sand. It sets new standards in eco-luxury and architectural innovation, and is consistently ranked among Africa’s top lodges. With nine suites with private plunge pools, it is an intimate experience praised for unmatched luxury and architectural innovation.
“Absolutely fabulous, we had an adventure of a lifetime!!! From the beginning to the end it was great. I still think every day about our time in the bush.”
– Beatrix K, US
Rates start from $2,220 per person, per night (sharing)
Elephants are a major draw at Sabi Sand Game Reserve
These 10 luxury lodges in South Africa redefine safaris with their comfort, exceptional wildlife encounters, and world-class hospitality.
There is a perfect lodge for you, whether you’re seeking historic charm, exclusive seclusion, cutting-edge sustainability, conservation focused or cultural activities.
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