Sanbona Explorer Camp is a seasonal camp in the private Sanbona Game Reserve in the heart of the Little Karoo.
Sanbona Explorers Camp operates during the summer months of October to April and offers a true wilderness walking experience. Each trail promises an adventure and takes two days to complete, requiring guests to stay a minimum of two nights. These walks allow you to immerse into nature while camping in the bush around a campfire. Walking safaris allow you to see the reserves true beauty, just as the San did centuries ago.
The unfenced camp consists of three mobile canvas Tents, each sleeping a maximum of two people on two dressed stretcher beds. The tents, although in fairly close proximity to one another, offer privacy. Each tent has a private en-suite with a bucket shower, a canvas basin and bio-toilet; bathroom amenities, and a hammock shaded by an ancient tree.
Sanbona comprises three major biomes, Succulent Karoo, Thicket & Fynbos, which provide habitats for a great diversity of plants, birds, and animals. The walking safari affords guests the opportunity to get up close to game in areas of the reserve inaccessible by vehicle. The reserve homes the only free-roaming self-sustaining white lions in the world, and the critically endangered and highly elusive Riverine Rabbit, which is the thirteenth most endangered mammal in the world and the second most critically endangered species in South Africa. Guests may encounter the several endemic tortoise species of the reserve, as well as the Dwarf Blue butterfly, the second smallest butterfly in the world.
The reserve is home to a variety of large and small antelope, zebra and wildebeest, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, and small game such as black-backed jackal and caracal. Late afternoon and early morning hikes provide the opportunity to see nocturnal creatures, such as the aardwolf, brown hyena and porcupine.
Over 200 bird species have been identified in the reserve, including that of the Verreaux’s Eagle. African Fish Eagles, breeding pairs of majestic Black Eagles and Black Harrier are regularly sighted.
An armed qualified walking guide leads the walks, as guests may encounter the Big Five while on foot. An open game viewing vehicle remains at the camp to ferry guests, when necessary, to and from start and end points of trails in other areas of the reserve. The well-trained and knowledgeable guides offer guests insights into the flora and fauna and the cultural and natural history of the reserve. Guests can visit the exceptional Sanbona San rock art sites as well. Nights around the campfire offer spectacular stargazing opportunities. Sumptuous meals are prepared by the camp hosts and are all served in the open.
Sanbona Explorer Camp is ideal for solo travelers, couples and families looking for an authentic walking safari experience.
May 9, 2024
Great experience- very well organised…
Great experience- very well organised and trustworthy. 5 Stars
May 7, 2024
Wonderful experience with Safari.com
Wonderful experience with Safari.com. My Safari Agent, Dolan, has 20+ years of experience in booking a memorable safari. He guided me in picking the right lodging and safari within my budget. He offered several options and answered all my questions. His response time was fast, regardless of the international time difference, and we were able to make quick decisions. Highly recommend.
May 2, 2024
Dolan is Prompt and Knowledgeable
Dolan provided prompt and knowledgeable service. He determined what we were looking for and put together a safari that met those requirements. He is obviously knows the safari business and is very easy to work with.
May 14, 2024
Helpful
Helpful, friendly
May 14, 2024
Tanya from Safari were a great help at such short notice. Her friendliness, kindness and great service are much appreciated. 5 Stars for Tanya
Tanya from Safari were a great help at such short notice. Her friendliness, kindness and great service are much appreciated. 5 Stars for Tanya
May 13, 2024
I highly recommend Shann Shaw
Shann Shaw has been great to work with and she has tried her best to try to meet our budget expectations. She is very kind, responsive and detailed in her explanations and really, really helpful. When I told her I decided to book through expedia or booking, she still explained how everything worked and how these websites sometimes don't have all the details you need, yet, she work hard in getting us our flights and the hotel that we really wanted for this experience. I couldn't be happier with her service and dedication and highly recommend her services!
May 13, 2024
Candis was lovely to work with and…
Candis was lovely to work with and super quick to respond. The entire process from when we first reached out to her to inquire about a trip to when we confirmed the quote and booking was under a week. We sincerely appreciated having all of these details taken care of for us and the all of the attention she took in answering our questions and adjusting our trip to work within our timeline.
May 13, 2024
Safari
Candis was brilliant in assisting us to organise our safari. Highly recommended!
May 10, 2024
Prompt customer service
Very responsive, attentive with attention to detail. Quick and direct communication, great creativity and flexibility to accommodate our asks
May 10, 2024
Attitude
Attitude, helpfulness and friendliness!
May 10, 2024
Fabulous and efficient service by Shann…
Fabulous and efficient service by Shann Shaw, highly recommend her services! Made the process simple and stress-free.
May 9, 2024
Great experience- very well organised…
Great experience- very well organised and trustworthy. 5 Stars