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If you’re an avid traveler or wildlife enthusiast, you probably have Kruger National Park on your bucket list.
But today, I want to share a hidden gem right next door: Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
Not only is the Sabi Sand Game Reserve located next to Kruger National Park, but they also share an unfenced border, allowing animals to roam freely between the two areas.
I’ve had the pleasure of staying at the Sabi Sands Game Reserve twice, first in 2015 and then again in 2022.
It has become my favorite safari destination in Africa, and I can’t wait to visit again soon!
In this blog post, I will explain why the Sabi Sands Game Reserve is an excellent choice for your first safari in South Africa.
I will also share my experience at Elephant Plains Game Lodge, the property we booked inside Sabi Sands.
Why Choose Sabi Sands over Kruger National Park?
Sabi Sands is Smaller in Scale
Kruger National Park is vast, covering over 2 million hectares of wilderness, making exploring it in a single visit impossible.
Its massive size means that animals are widely spread out, thus requiring several hours of driving between sightings.
In contrast, the more compact Sabi Sand Game Reserve offers easier wildlife tracking.
Its manageable size increases your chances of spotting the ‘Big 5’ and fulfilling your bucket list in less time.
| The African Big 5 |
|---|
| The Big 5 was coined by big-game hunters to refer to the five most difficult animals in Africa to hunt on foot. |
| leopard cape buffalo elephant lion rhinoceros |
Exclusivity and Intimacy
The most significant advantage of Sabi Sands over Kruger National Park is its exclusivity.
Only guests staying at one of the private lodges, like Elephant Plains, are allowed into the reserve.
This means fewer tourists, less crowded game drives, and a more intimate wildlife experience.
Kruger, on the other hand, can get quite crowded, especially during peak season, which can affect the quality of your safari experience.
Exceptional Wildlife Encounters
Sabi Sands is renowned for its incredible wildlife sightings, particularly the Big 5.
Having been on numerous safaris, I can confidently say that the guides and trackers at Sabi Sands are among the finest we’ve encountered.
Their collective expertise significantly enhances your chances of witnessing these magnificent creatures up close.
Unlike Kruger, where you might spend hours searching for animals, the lodges in Sabi Sands communicate with each other about animal locations, ensuring you don’t drive for hours searching for game.
Off-Road Adventures
One of the standout features of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve lodges is the guides’ ability to drive off-road to track animals.
This isn’t allowed in Kruger, where self-drivers must strictly stay on designated roads.
Being able to follow a lion pride or get closer to a leopard lounging in a tree adds an entirely new layer of excitement and engagement to your safari.
This freedom to off-road is precisely why I recommend staying at the Sabi Sands Game Reserve over Kruger.
Less Competition from Other Tourists
Kruger National Park attracts many local and international tourists due to its significantly lower cost than Sabi Sands.
However, because day visitors and self-drives are allowed in Kruger National Park and off-roading is prohibited, multiple vehicles often gather around wildlife sightings, affecting the quality of the game-viewing experience.
In fact, it is sometimes difficult to see game when your views are often obstructed by other cars.
Open-Air Vehicles
In Sabi Sands, you travel in elevated open-air vehicles, offering the best viewing opportunities in South Africa.
In Kruger, you’ll be driving your own vehicle, which means you won’t enjoy the luxury of an open-air setup.
Expert Guides and Trackers
One of my favorite aspects of guided game drives in Sabi Sands is the presence of both a guide and a tracker in each safari vehicle.
Guides are an incredible source of knowledge about animal behavior, making every trip feel like a National Geographic tour.
As someone naturally curious about wildlife, I find this setting to be the perfect opportunity to ask questions.
Additionally, the dedicated tracker focuses solely on locating animals, expertly identifying footprints in the sand, and spotting wildlife amidst the foliage.
In contrast, when you drive your own vehicle in Kruger, you will not have access to the same depth of knowledge and insight that guides can provide in Sabi Sands.
Sabi Sands is More Expensive but Worth Every Penny
If budget is your main consideration when choosing a place to stay, I recommend Kruger for its remarkably affordable accommodations.
The national park area offers a range of accommodations, from public camping sites and self-catering options to luxurious lodges.
The Sabi Sand region, in particular, boasts some of Africa’s premier safari lodges.
With that said, the nightly rates at the lodges in Sabi Sands include guided off-road game drives, all meals, and accommodations.
Oh, and you don’t have to rent a car and drive your own ride while looking for game.
I believe it’s worth the splurge. Having journeyed so far into Africa, you should seize the opportunity to experience the wildlife up close.
Luxurious Accommodations
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers a variety of lodging options to suit different budgets.
We stayed at Elephant Plains, which offers a range of accommodations, from rondavels to luxury suites.
Each room at Elephant Plains provides comfort and elegance, but what truly sets this lodge apart is its attention to detail and warm hospitality.
One of our most unforgettable experiences at Elephant Plains was witnessing elephants approach a watering hole for a drink, all from the comfort of our lodge’s terrace—a sight that will remain etched in our memories forever.
Culinary Delights
Food options in Kruger are limited and often basic.
In contrast, Elephant Plains spoiled us with sumptuous cuisine from skilled chefs.
Three meals a day and snacks on game drives ensure you’re well-fed throughout your stay.
Dietary requirements? No problem—the lodge caters to all needs with prior notice.
Sundowners and Night Drives
One of my favorite activities at Elephant Plains was enjoying sundowners—stepping out of the vehicle to have a cold drink and snacks while watching the sunset.
Due to strict regulations, this exclusive experience is not possible in Kruger.
Additionally, night drives at Sabi Sands offer a quieter, more personal experience compared to the large, noisy trucks used in Kruger.
Unique Experiences at Elephant Plains Lodge
Each day at Elephant Plains Lodge is filled with unforgettable moments. Here are some highlights from our stays:
Morning and Evening Drives
The lodge offers two game drives per day, one in the morning and another in the evening, maximizing your chances of seeing a variety of wildlife.
The guides and trackers work in tandem, using their combined expertise to locate and approach animals respectfully and ethically.
Close Encounters with Leopards
Leopards are notoriously elusive, but Sabi Sands is one of the best places in Africa to see them.
Thanks to years of habituation, the leopards here are more accustomed to vehicles, allowing for incredible photo opportunities and close-up sightings.
I had never encountered so many leopards up close until I visited Elephant Plains.
Memorable Wildlife Moments
From watching lions hunt buffalos to seeing rhinos graze peacefully, the wildlife encounters at Elephant Plains are genuinely top-notch.
On one occasion, we even saw a pride of lions feasting on a buffalo kill—an awe-inspiring and humbling experience.
Seeing the Big 5
Visiting Sabi Sands gives you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Big 5 animals up close.
Due to the area’s high wildlife density, you’re likely to spot majestic lions, elusive leopards, formidable elephants, robust rhinos, and mighty buffalos in their natural habitats.
The skilled guides rely on their extensive knowledge to track these animals, ensuring you see these incredible creatures during your stay.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sabi Sands is during the dry winter months, from May to September, coinciding with summer in the Northern Hemisphere.
During this period, the vegetation is sparse, and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.
However, the reserve is a year-round destination, offering its distinct charm each season.
| Pro-Tip |
|---|
| If you plan to visit during winter, ensure you are well-prepared. The game drives happen very early in the morning and late afternoon. Therefore, it can get extremely chilly. Pack a thick jacket, beanies, scarves, hand warmers, etc. |
Getting to Elephant Plains Game Lodge
If you plan to drive to the property:
GPS Coordinates: S24º44’38.9” E31º28’30.5”
Please do not follow google maps as it can take you on the wrong roads. Please ensure that you enter Sabi Sand Game Reserve at Gowrie Gate, as this is the only gate that can be used to access the lodge. Note that you will be travelling along gravel roads on your way to the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The last +/- 20km is a dirt road. Allow yourself at least 45 minutes from the end of the tar road to the lodge.The reserve is accessible with a sedan vehicle, however, it is important to note that the roads may become corrugated during the rainy season.
For the most current driving instructions to Elephant Plains, refer to this page.
While you can drive to Elephant Plains from Johannesburg or Kruger, I do not recommend it.
Not only is it far, complicated, and exhausting, but you can also fall prey to unscrupulous police officers who pull over tourists to extort money.
Be advised: during our road trip to Elephant Plains, we rented two cars, and both were stopped for veering out of our lanes. We paid the police $100 to be released.
I recommend taking a domestic flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, also known as Eastgate Airport. Airlink flies between Hoedspruit and JNB and CPT.
To ensure you do not miss your flight to Sabi Sands, allot 1-2 days of cushion in Johannesburg after arriving from your international flight.
There is a Marriott hotel at the JNB airport that offers a complimentary airport shuttle service. Nightly rates are about $75.
If you plan to visit Cape Town, Airlink also flies between Hoedspruit and Cape Town. For ideas, check out our itinerary below.
To avoid driving on our own and risking getting pulled over again, we booked airport pick-up and drop-off with Elephant Plains.
The drive from Hoedspruit Airport to Elephant Plains was about 1.5 hours.
Other alternatives to getting to Elephant Plains are to take a private plane and arrive inside Sabi Sands (more expensive) or get picked up from Johannesburg (cheaper but very long drive).
Reach out to them via email, and they will respond quickly to inquiries.
How to Book Elephant Plains
Plan ahead and book at least a year in advance, as the property is highly sought after.
Elephant Plains offers just 12 rooms in total, including five rondavels, six luxury rooms, and one honeymoon suite.
During my last visit, we made our reservations a few months in advance instead of a year out, so the affordable rondavels were already sold out.
Nevertheless, it was great to experience staying at a rondavel (2015) and a luxury room (2022), which were both genuinely remarkable!
Rondavels – Set in a landscaped garden, these rooms feature a sundeck, air conditioning, an overhead fan, a mini bar, a tea and coffee station, and an electronic safe.
Luxury Rooms – These open-plan suites offer stunning views of the dry riverbed or the waterhole, each featuring a private viewing deck.
Safari Trip Packing List
Packing these essentials will prepare you for a comfortable, safe, and memorable safari adventure.
Clothing
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing for daytime to blend with the environment and stay cool.
- Long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and cooler evenings.
- A warm jacket or fleece for chilly mornings and nights.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- A swimsuit for lodges with pools or relaxing after a day of adventure.
- Thick jackets, beanies, and scarves if you visit during winter.
Accessories
- High-SPF sunscreen to protect against the harsh African sun.
- A pair of binoculars for close-up wildlife viewing.
- A camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture unforgettable moments—I used my Insta360 camera on my last trip to Africa.
- Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
- A filtering water bottle to stay hydrated during game drives.
- A small backpack for carrying daily essentials during excursions.
Practical Items
- A small first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.
- Personal medications in sufficient quantities for the entire trip.
- Travel-sized toiletries to keep luggage light and manageable.
- Moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry and comfortable.
- A flashlight or headlamp for navigating the lodge at night.
- A travel journal or notebook to jot down memories and wildlife sightings.
Luggage Tips
- Use soft-sided duffel bags for easy transportation in safari vehicles.
- Check weight restrictions for domestic flights within the safari region.
- Pack in layers to adapt to fluctuating temperatures throughout the day.
How to Plan This On Your Own
Below is my recommended timeline if you plan to book this trip to Elephant Plains independently.
| Date | Task |
|---|---|
| 12+ months from your trip | Reserve your rooms at Elephant Plains. |
| 11+ months from your trip | Book your airfare using points and miles or set up alerts on Google Flights if you are paying cash. |
| 6+ months from your trip | Book your domestic flight between JNB/CPT to Hoedspruit. |
| 3+ months from your trip | Apply for visas if your country requires it. Book your airport pick-up and drop-off with Elephant Plains. |
| 1 month from your trip | Purchase travel insurance, safari outfits and other essentials. |
Other Considerations
Malaria Zone
The Kruger region, including Sabi Sands, lies within a malaria zone.
It is advisable to consult a travel nurse several weeks before your trip, as you must take malaria pills before, during, and after your visit.
Arrivals and Departures
Plan to arrive between 12:00 and 14:00 to ensure you can have lunch and join the afternoon game drive.
On departure day, they ask that you vacate your room by 11:00.
Bush Walk
The daily bush walk happens after breakfast and will be led by your ranger.
During the walk, you’ll see animal tracks, birds, various grasses and trees, and other intriguing bush details.
For safety, kids 16 and under can’t join the walk, and guests over 60 need to provide a medical certificate confirming they’re healthy and fit for the activity.
The rangers will assess anything that might be unsafe, considering fitness, agility, and any physical restrictions.
Clothing and Accessories
The dress code is casual and light, though a sweater might be necessary for early mornings and evenings.
From September to April, summer temperatures range from 20 to 40°C, so sun protection is crucial.
As summer is also the rainy season, packing a rain jacket is advisable.
I recommend avoiding visits during the summer when dense vegetation and intense heat make spotting animals more challenging.
Winters, from May to August, are mild, with temperatures between 5 and 25°C.
However, night drives and early mornings can be extremely cold during winter, making warm jackets, beanies, and scarves essential.
Dietary Requirements
Inform the lodge at the time of reservation if you have any special dietary needs.
Also, let them know if you’re celebrating a birthday, honeymoon, or any special occasion you’d like the lodge to acknowledge.
Game Drives
Game drives occur in open Land Cruisers, which are four-wheel-drive vehicles that enable rangers to venture off-road.
These vehicles provide guests with up-close wildlife encounters and excellent photo opportunities.
Off-road driving is conducted under guidelines set by Sabi Sand ecologists, restricted to specific areas, and done with caution.
Rangers avoid sensitive areas and only drive over small trees.
On afternoon and night drives, they use spotlights to spot nocturnal animals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can we plan this trip independently, or do we need to hire a safari operator?
Planning this on your own is relatively easy, and Elephant Plains is exceptionally helpful in addressing any questions related to your safari inquiries.
Is the property kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Most of the guests during our visits were families. Kids can also join the game drives. However, only children 16 years of age and older are permitted to join the bush walks.
Does it get very hot in the open-air vehicles?
Since the best time to visit Sabi Sands is during winter, it gets very cold during the game drives.
I’d still bring sun protection – sunscreen, hats, and glasses.
I will avoid Sabi Sands in the summer, as there is so much vegetation, and animals tend to hide from the sun. Plus, the weather can be quite uncomfortable.
I am pretty sure they can arrange a private game drive if you let Elephant Plains know beforehand so they can prepare for it.
How many people are in one vehicle during the game drives?
Each vehicle can fit up to ten passengers, but the property rarely fills them up to the maximum.
In 2015, my five friends and I were assigned our own vehicle, and a solo traveler joined us for two of our six game drives.
In 2022, my three friends and I were assigned to a vehicle with two other tourists.
How many nights is a good amount at Sabi Sands?
A minimum of three nights would be recommended.
This will give you the opportunity to participate in up to six game drives and at least one bush walk.
The more game drives you join, the more likely you’ll see the Big 5.
Final Thoughts
Elephant Plains Lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve offers an unparalleled safari experience that outshines even the renowned Kruger National Park.
Its exclusivity, expert guides, luxurious accommodations, and phenomenal wildlife sightings make it the ideal choice for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of the African bush.
Ready to experience the magic of Sabi Sands for yourself?
Book your stay at Elephant Plains Lodge and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.
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Great blog post, thank you for all the information and tips!
How was the open air car? Does it get too hot without any shade?
The best time to visit Sabi Sands is during the winter season. There is not a lot of vegetation, so animals can easily be seen. Plus, it doesn’t get too hot, so animals can be seen roaming around. Therefore, it gets really cold as the drives typically happen during the early morning or late afternoon. I’d still bring sun protection, though – sunscreen, hats, and glasses. I will avoid Sabi Sands in the summer as it’s very leafy, and animals tend to hide from the sun. Plus the weather can be quite uncomfortable. Thanks for reading and asking this question.
Did you see any kids at this lodge? Either in 2015 or 2022?
Do you know if they offer private game drives or only shared game drives? How many people in the game drives?
Lots of children on both visits! Each car can fit about 8 passengers. We have been fortunate that in 2015, we got the car all to ourselves (we were 6 then). In 2022, we were 4 so we shared with 2 other guests. Not bad at all!
How many nights would you say it’s a good amount here since it’s a smaller area?
I suggest a minimum of 3 nights, which allows you to join up to 6 game drives. I’d stay longer if you want to sleep in and skip some of the morning drives, as they start very early!