Sanbona is one of South Africa’s largest privately-owned nature reserves, stretching across 58 000 hectares of rich protected ecosystems within two biodiversity hotspots. This vast track of land in the Little Karoo outside Montagu, a mere 3.5 hours drive from Cape Town along Route 62, is owned by a non-profit company focused on steering conservation to the forefront of the safari experience.
This stark landscape is dotted with rare succulents and unique rock formations that have been adorned with Khoi and San rock art, offering an authentic natural space. Guests can expect to enjoy endless vistas, wide open spaces, dramatic geological formations as well as diverse game viewing, set in a malaria free area. Sanbona boasts an impressive collection of rare and endemic botanicals and wildlife, all of which are free roaming and self-sustaining.
The reserve strives to preserve, protect and rehabilitate this already challenging landscape. Once driven out due to human intervention, the reserve now protects endangered species such as Cape mountain zebra, cheetah and riverine rabbit, to name but a few, creating a balance where critically important ecosystems, endangered wildlife and flora can prosper for the benefit of future generations.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve appeals to anyone with a love of travel, an interest in wildlife and a passion for conservation and learning more about their local surroundings. One can indulge in the pleasure of viewing big game like elephant and cheetah, smaller game species like brown hyena, steenbok and klipspringer, to insightful information on the regional endemic flora. The safari experience is elevated by offering educational insights to this unique landscape that one may not necessarily be used to or able to witness anywhere else.
Surrounded by open plains and rolling mountains, guests can experience 5-star accommodation in a choice of three luxury lodges each with their own distinctive character and style.
Opulent and romantic, Dwyka Tented Lodge is embraced by striking rock formations and set in the horseshoe bend of a dry Karoo ravine that is framed by a beautifully weathered landscape. The accommodation is luxurious and private. Each of the nine luxury tents has an en-suite bathroom and a private deck with a heated plunge pool to epitomises the romance of a pioneering wilderness adventure.
Tilney Manor was designed in true Cape Georgian style, it is perfect for guests in need of an exclusive Karoo experience. Breath-taking views of the undulating mountains embrace the historical Manor in a refuge of peace and tranquillity. The Manor offers six spacious open-plan suites leading on to private verandas.
Gondwana Family Lodge is the perfect family retreat in its configuration complimented with a tailored Kids on Safari programme to inspire the eco-warriors of the future. This spacious thatched Lodge offers guests a sense of modern comfort with a touch of bush authenticity. Interconnecting rooms, indoor and outdoor play areas and a child-friendly pool cater for guests of all ages. Nature drives, walking safaris, rock art and star gazing complete an exciting safari option very close to Cape Town.
Finally, operating during our summer months the rustic and seasonal Explorer Camp offers adventurous guests an authentic walking experience to explore the Little Karoo while sleeping in luxury tents and enjoying evenings around a campfire.
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Picture: Supplied