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Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

For unrivalled game viewing, in particular the traditional, much sought after ‘Big 5’ safari, there is nowhere better than the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. A 65,000 hectare reserve, pioneered by local landowners in the 1950s, it is a small and exclusive concession within the world-renowned Kruger National Park, boasting the best wildlife viewing in South Africa, and possibly even the whole of Africa.

The 50 kilometre boundary between Sabi Sands and Kruger is unfenced, meaning that the animals can roam freely between the two. Wildlife in the Sabi Sands Reserve is well habituated resulting in extraordinary close-up encounters and prolific sightings, particularly of the elusive leopard and majestic lion, but there are also incredible opportunities to view the smaller, more endangered species such as African wild dog and cheetah. The game reserve contains two rivers, the Sabi and the Sand Rivers, further adding to the extensive bio-diversity; they attract a great variety of wildlife to drink there and sustain the bountiful flora and fauna.

Being a private game reserve, one can expect a number of quintessential benefits when staying here; there is no access to self-drive day trips for those staying outside the park, allowing a more peaceful, private and intimate experience; the private park has none of the restrictive rules that other national parks are forced to apply, such as not being allowed to drive off road when tracking wildlife; each of the lodges offer a high standard of ranger training, so you will be guided by highly trained guides and are guaranteed to return home more educated and respectful of the natural environment.

There are a number of lodges within the park, some quite affordable and some ultra-luxurious, but each one offers a range of game activities, most of which take place in the early mornings and late afternoons when the air is cooler, and the animals are more active in order to maximise your game viewing experience. You will soon find that the African bush can have a rather tiring effect on you, so for a dose of sophistication in a relaxed atmosphere, we recommend staying at Chitwa Chitwa, Singita Boulders Lodge or Dulini Game Reserve, and with the region’s scorching mid-day temperatures, refreshing swimming pools and a cold G&T are a welcome break in between game drives!

If you don't know where you're going, any road will get you there.
Lewis Carrol

Client Testimonials

Difficult to choose the highlight of the trip, can’t choose between… 1) Taj Mahal & Oberoi Amarvilas. 2) Ranthambore. 3) Lake Palace. We have to say a particular thank you for selecting Parmod as our driver. He is a delightful and kind man who took our holiday and our enjoyment as his responsibility. Thank you for putting together such an amazing trip for us. The balance of city and rural destinations was perfect for us and the variety of rooms and hotel types brilliant. Our driver and guides also added so much to the trip with their knowledge of India’s history and culture and their willingness to discuss it both from a professional and personal angle.
- Carruthers family, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
We have just returned back from a wonderful trip. Thank you very much for organising everything. The transfer was excellent – for once they had perfect car seats. The villa was lovely, just what we needed and the hotel had helpfully put us as far away as possible from everyone else. The breakfast buffet was the best I have ever seen – and I am slightly obsessive over breakfast!! There was an incredible choice, something for everyone and so beautifully presented. A real highlight of the trip. Thank you again for sorting everything - and at such short notice!
- Redmayne family, Phuket
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
I barely know where to begin... though a sincere 'thank you' would be the best. You have organised this trip perfectly. May was an inspiring and delightful companion in Myanmar – thoroughly professional and friendly at the same time. My accommodation throughout has been superb, especially The Governor's Residence and The Mandarin Oriental. The view from the cottage at Inle Lake was beautiful and I loved every moment of being there. And here I am now on the last leg of this extended holiday at my favourite place. I could stay here for ever, the peace, silence and surroundings all amazing, plus the people and the whole aura of Vana. Thank you for much, and I look forward to speaking to you on my return.
- Ms Margulies, Burma, India & Thailand
We really enjoyed the trip and were happy that we squeezed so much into a few short days. The Burmese people were lovely and the sites were fantastic. We really enjoyed the balloon ride and would highly suggest it to others in the future. The trip went super smoothly and a good time plus learning happened for all. Yangon was nice as the Strand was quite amazing and we of course loved the giant gold temple. Many thanks for all of your help and look forward to future travel with you.
- Wallace Family, Burma
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
Ballyfin was great - we loved it! Best things were the amount of space, it felt like you had the whole place to yourself, the history of the house, and the staff. We'd definitely recommend it. Thanks very much for all the help getting it booked!
- Mr Wyburd, Ireland
Getting to Amanpulo from Manila was very simple and the beach was the most beautiful I’d ever been on; pristine white sand, not a single piece of rubbish in sight. You get your own solar powered golf buggy to drive around resort (and a butler at request). The views from the Hillside Casita were spectacular!
- Mr Wyburd, Philippines
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka

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