Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Spa Facilities

The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa offers an exclusive sanctuary at the Relaxation Retreats. Sanbona's body range draws on properties from the world famous indigenous fynbos plant kingdom, eliminating toxins, soothing the soul and rejuvenating the body.

The Relaxation Retreats at Sanbona overlooks ancient rock formations and scenic mountains and plains providing the perfect place for relaxation and enjoyment. Different spa and beauty treatments, as well as holistic modalities to balance and energise, are available for guests to choose from.

Safari Drives

Guests have the opportunity to explore the beautiful landscape of the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve with a qualified ranger in comfortable open Landcruisers.

During the game drive, be it in the early morning or for sundowners in the late afternoon/evening, various species of plants, animals, big game and birds can be observed. Sanbona's spectacular sundowner evening drives offer beautiful displays of light as the evening sun sets over the Little Karoo.

Wildlife in the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve:

•  Lions
•  African Elephant
•  Leopard
•  African Buffalo
•  White Rhino
•  Brown Hyena
•  Black-backed Jackal
•  Cheetah
•  Hippopotamus
•  Giraffe
•  Plains Zebra
•  Springbok
•  Eland
•  Gemsbok
•  Kudu
•  Red Hartebeest
•  Black Wildebeest
•  Grey Rhebok
•  Common Duiker
•  Steenbok
•  Klipspringer
•  Grysbok
•  Ostrich
•  Riverine Rabbit

Bird watching

The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is home to more than 200 species and, therefore, offers great bird watching opportunities for the avid birdwatcher.  The reserve is home to a healthy population of raptors which can be observed including African Fish Eagles, breeding pairs of majestic Black Eagles and regular sightings of Black Harrier.

Exotic birds in the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, South Africa, include the Cinnamonbreasted Warbler, which can only be seen in the early light of dawn. The Booted Eagle in the pale form breeds well on this reserve while the Southern Grey Tit intrigues one with its 13 different calls.

Spa treatments

The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers an exclusive sanctuary at the Relaxation Retreats.  Sanbona's body range draws on properties from the world famous indigenous fynbos plant kingdom, eliminating toxins, soothing the soul and rejuvenating the body.

The Relaxation Retreats at Sanbona overlooks ancient rock formations and scenic mountains and plains. Various relaxing spa treatments and holistic modalities to balance and energise are available for guests to choose from.
 

Nature walks

Guests staying at the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve may discover the spirit of the Little Karoo on foot during thrilling nature walks.  An optional walk with the guidance of a ranger can be arranged to cater for individual needs.

From gentle strolls, taking in the breathtaking beauty of the indigenous fauna and flora, to challenging trails where isolated vistas can be discovered, guests may reveal the beauty of Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.

Bushman paintings

The San people of Africa roamed this region of South Africa for thousands of years until about 100 years ago. There are 7 recorded sites of Bushman paintings throughout the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. However, many more can be found. Rock art sites date back to more than 3500 years and feature the spiritual beliefs and lives of these fascinating people.

 During their travels, members of the group would get together around a communal fire, weaving stories and celebrating the gift of life while the Shaman would meditate through rhythmic dancing, singing and clapping and while in a trance, receive visions and guidance.  These experiences of the Shaman were illustrated to the tribe in the form of the rock art seen today.

Photography

The scenic Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa is a photographer’s dream.   Due to the perfect light conditions, during sunrise and sunset, it is advisable to use 100 ASA film for exquisite photographic opportunities. A 100 – 300 lens is an excellent choice for taking breathtaking pictures here.  Macro photography is also incredible by capturing close-ups of the smaller species.

Stargazing

Stargazing at the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in South Africa is spectacular and amongst the best in Southern Africa due to the absence of artificial light.  Knowledgeable guides give explanations about the star constellations of the Southern Hemisphere.

The great Orion’s Belt forms part of the Constellation of Orion, the tragic lover and great hunter who in turn is hunting Taurus, the bull.  The navigational Southern Cross displays its superior facets such as the iridescent Jewel Box, the Coal Sack and the two pointers, Alpha Centauri and Beta Centauri. Guests can end a memorable day at Sanbona by reflecting under the star studded-canopy of African skies.