Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Sanbona’s 62,000 hectares are comprised of incredible biodiversity and wildlife. It offers a unique and malaria-free safari experience within the striking landscapes of the Little Karoo.
Is Sanbona Wildlife Reserve malaria-free?
Yes, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is malaria-free, so it is an accessible and safe safari destination. In fact, the entirety of the Western Cape region is malaria-free.
How far is Sanbona Wildlife Reserve from Cape Town?
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is around a three-and-a-half hour drive from Cape Town. This makes it a fantastic safari destination to combine with a Cape Town city stay. You could also add a Sanbona safari to a Garden Route itinerary. Just let our Africa Experts know what you’d like to do.
What animals can you see at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Sanbona is home to Africa’s ‘Big 5’, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. You can also spot giraffes, cheetahs, hippos, zebra and antelope. For keen birders, the reserve contains over 200 species.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve pioneered the conservation of rare white lions, over two decades ago. It became one of the first reserves in the Western Cape to have free-roaming white lions. A majestic pair were integrated into the reserve, and they became iconic symbols of Sanbona’s conservation work. Sadly, the last two white lions, both born within the reserve, passed away from old age in 2023, and white lions are no longer found at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Their legacy, however, continues to highlight the importance of conservation in the region.
What is the best time to visit Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round. The dry winter months between April to September see temperatures that range from 7°C to 22°C, and visibility for spotting wildlife is great. During the warmer months, between October and March, temperatures typically sit between 16°C 36°C. Although rainfall is slightly higher through these months, there is only an average of two or three days of rain per month.
Is Sanbona suitable for families with children?
Yes, Sanbona is an excellent family safari destination. Being malaria-free is a huge advantage for families with young children. Gondwana Family Lodge is especially catered towards children, with a well equipped kids club and ‘Eco-Explorers’ activities to teach them about Sanbona’s wildlife and landscapes. There are age restrictions on some safari activities, however. The minimum age for game drives is four, and children under 14 are not permitted on walking safaris.
Next Steps…
If you have any questions about Sanbona Wildlife Reserve safaris or would like to book a holiday visiting Sanbona, please get in touch.
Our Africa Experts have first-hand knowledge of South Africa’s National Parks, reserves and safari lodges and would love to help you plan your adventure.
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