Everyone who goes on safari has one big goal – to see the Big Five. After doing some research, I found that the probability of meeting all 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard) on the very first safari is relatively low. Anyone who knows me better knows that this is not satisfactory for me and that I try to optimize the chances as much as possible 😉
Therefore we decided not to go to the Kruger National Park, but to spend a little more money on a private game reserve – the Sabi Sand Wild Reserve. It belongs to the Greater Kruger Area and is located right next to the Kruger National Park in South Africa. The reserve is considered one of the best safari destinations in the world and is particularly known for the high leopard population.
If we had to dig deep into our wallets, then we could really let it rip 🤣 At that time we were still of the opinion it might be our first and last safari 😉 We therefore booked 2 nights in a luxury accommodation in the Leopard Hills Game Reserve 😍
fantastic view of the savannah and a water hole
Our usual daily routine was as follows:
- We started with a sunrise game drive followed by a delicious breakfast.
- During the day there was enough time to relax. On our terrace you could watch herds of animals as they refreshed themselves at the watering hole.
- The second game drive took place shortly before sunset.
- The crowning glory was a course menu under the stars.
If these pictures are not enough arguments for Sabi Sands, you should have a look at our video 😊
Our personal opinion about Sabi Sands:
- Top destination for sighting the Big Five
- large leopard population
- Since it is a private reserve, we could also drive off-road and got even closer to the animals.
- If you want to see large herds of gnu or zebra, this is the wrong place.
- extremely expensive travel destination
On the following page you can get a very good overview about Sabi Sands:
Best travel time:
We prefer the dry season from April to October. Due to the lack of rain, the park turns into a dry, brown wilderness. The animals quench their thirst at the rivers and water holes. The grass is low, the bushes and trees are losing their leaves. The sparse vegetation makes it easier to observe animals.
Hotel recommendation:
Leopard Hills Game Reserve
More tips & recommendations:
It is a difficult decision to make when it comes to where to experience the best safari. It also depends on your own expectations. It was important to us to see the animals up close, and we really wanted to see a leopard. Sabi Sands is perfect for this and, in our opinion, the best option.
However, if you prefer to see the large herds or the “great animal migration”, then you are better off in the Serengeti or Maasai Mara.
So if we were to go on safari again, this time the Serengeti would definitely be on the program. So we would see both 😉
