Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Set in 54 000 hectares of undulating mountains and plains, indigenous flora and fauna, rock formations and rock art is Sanbona, an oasis retreat that truly has something to suit everyone’s tastes. The reserve in the heart of the Klein Karoo blends the history of the Khoisan hunter gathers with African chic and comprises of four types of properties to choose from. There’s the Explorer Camp for you more adventurous types, the wonderfully luxurious Tilney Manor for those of you who like your creature comforts and Dwyka Tented Lodge and Gondwana Family Lodge for those of you who like the best of both worlds. All you need to do is pick your favorite.

Location

A three and a half hour drive from Cape Town, Sanbona is the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in the serenity that can only come from nature. The surrounding area, previously home to the San people, is steeped in fascinating history and guests are offered a unique insight into the way of life of this indigenous group. With seven rock art sites throughout the reserve that date back more than 3000 years staying at Sanbona gives you a unique opportunity to delve into South Africa’s past.

Your room

Staying at Sanbona’s Explorer Camp is a real adventure as you can hear and see wild animals roaming through the camp from its three tents. At the site of the luxury Dwyka Tented Lodge, where the hunter-gatherer people once roamed, you’ll find 9 tented suites with en-suite bathrooms, outdoor showers and private plunge pools overlooking the open plains. For a more exclusive and up-market Karoo experience the six luxurious suites of Tilney Manor boast breath taking vistas of the mountains and have private terraces and balconies, and Gondwana Lodge has twelve spacious suites.

Why we like it

Every property in Sanbona has something distinctly special about it. We love Dwyka Lodge’s spa where you can spoil yourself with treatments inspired by the natural landscapes. Rejuvenating mind, body and soul the products include plants from the surrounding region such as fynbos which is known for its ability to eliminate toxins. Overlooking the Bellair Dam, and resembling a typical thatched Karoo homestead Gondwana Lodge is perfect for an unforgettable family vacation. Tilney Manor is where you should head for a romantic and peaceful experience and Explorer Camp is a must if you are in search of an immersive, get-back-to-nature getaway.