Sanbona Explorer Camp

Highlights

• Authentic two-day walking safari experience to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Karoo on foot.
• Walking safaris allow you to witness the reserve's true beauty.
• An adventurous and authentic option offering the ambiance of a tented bush camp.

You Should Know

• The Sanbona Explorer Camp is available from October 1 to April 30.
• Sanbona Explorer Camp is sold as a two-night walking trail package; therefore, two (2) nights are automatically booked and payable at the time of reserving this unique experience.
• Each trail is two nights with a set arrival on a Friday of the week.
• Children aged 16 years and older are welcome at Sanbona Explorer Camp.
• Participants over the age of 60 will be required to provide a medical clearance certificate in order to participate.

The Details

Sanbona Explorer Camp operates during the summer months of October to April, offering a true wilderness walking experience. Each trail promises adventure and takes two days to complete, requiring guests to stay a minimum of two nights. These walks immerse you in nature, while camping in the bush around a campfire. Walking safaris provide an intimate way to experience the reserve's true beauty, just as the San people 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, provide privacy. Each tent has a private en-suite with a bucket shower, canvas basin, and bio-toilet, along with bathroom amenities and a hammock shaded by an ancient tree.

Sanbona encompasses three major biomes: Succulent Karoo, Thicket, and Fynbos. These habitats support a rich diversity of plants, birds, and animals. The walking safari allows guests to get up close to wildlife in areas of the reserve inaccessible by vehicle. The reserve is home to the only free-roaming, self-sustaining white lions in the world, as well as the critically endangered and highly elusive Riverine Rabbit, the thirteenth most endangered mammal globally and the second most critically endangered species in South Africa. Guests may also encounter several endemic tortoise species, as well as the Dwarf Blue butterfly, the second smallest butterfly in the world.

The reserve supports a variety of large and small antelope, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, and smaller predators such as black-backed jackal and caracal. Late afternoon and early morning hikes provide an opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures, including the aardwolf, brown hyena, and porcupine.

Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the reserve, including Verreaux’s Eagle, African Fish Eagles, and breeding pairs of majestic Black Eagles. Black Harriers are also regularly sighted.

The walks are led by an armed, qualified guide who provides an added layer of safety as guests may encounter the Big Five while on foot. An open game-viewing vehicle remains at the camp to transport guests, when necessary, to and from trail starting or ending points in other areas of the reserve. The well-trained and knowledgeable guides share insights into the reserve's flora, fauna, and cultural and natural history. Guests can also visit the exceptional Sanbona San rock art sites. Evenings spent around the campfire offer unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Sumptuous meals, prepared by the camp hosts, are served in the open, adding to the rustic charm of the experience.

Sanbona Explorer Camp is ideal for solo travelers, couples, and families seeking an authentic walking safari adventure.

Price Includes

• All meals, beverages, walking activities, tourism levy, and 15% VAT are included in the prices.
• Prices are advertised on a per-person, per-night basis.