Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

The Sanbona Reserve covers 54 000 hectares of arid landscape and the endless plains that lie before you are teeming with a plethora of small wildlife and the Big Five. Nestled at the foot of the undulating Warmwaterberg Mountains, the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the closest five star game reserve to Cape Town that comes highly recommended by Accommodation South Africa.

The reserve lies within the Little Karoo region which is an expansive arid area covered with indigenous fauna and flora. The region is also home to the San tribe's original ancient Bushmen rock art. The prefix "San" of the name Sanbona refers to the original inhabitants of the Karoo area, and the suffix "bona" refers to a vision of positioning the portion of land.

Home to ancient rock art depicting tales of hunting and gathering; and home to the rare Timbavati White Lion, Sanbona offers a Big Five safari destination coupled with an insight into the traditions of the original inhabitants of the area. Knowledgeable safari guides ensure your safety is paramount and you will walk away with knowledge about local plants that were used for medicinal purposes during a bygone era.

The Tilney Manor offers exclusive accommodation with rooms that boast both indoor and outdoor showers, patios which give rise to endless views over the horizon which are undisturbed by dense vegetation. There are six rooms which all have a comfortable lounge area, fireplace and a romantic freestanding bath. These are just a few of the exceptional comforts guests are able to enjoy whilst in the comfort of their very own suite. Should guests wish to dine in privacy, then dinner will be brought to your room upon request. There is also an intimate wellness centre where your choice of treatments are available and a small but tranquil swimming pool is right next door to the wellness centre - just perfect for those boiling hot, African summer days in the Karoo!

The second lodge at Sanbona is called the Khanni lodge which is tucked away in a secluded valley overlooking a natural watering hole. It gives the impression of being a summer house based in the Karoo with wrap around verandas, high lime washed ceilings and rustic beams that all contribute towards creating the quaint yet spacious atmosphere of the five star Khanni Lodge.

With contrasting colours and backdrops, The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve makes for the ideal destination in which to relax and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul. Sanbona is one of our top five star game reserves in the Western Cape and it really is an oasis in the middle of nowhere!

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is situated approximately 3 hours from Cape Town between Montague and Barrydale. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is situated approximately 3 hours drive, a scenic 270 km from Cape Town. Travel on the N1 from Cape Town in the direction of Paarl. Continuing on the N1 travel through the Huguenot Tunnel. A tollgate controls this tunnel. Alternatively, the scenic Du Toits Kloof Pass can be taken. The first town is Worcester set in the Breede River valley. Taking the second turnoff to the right into the town itself, the N1 is left and the interesting and quaint Route 62 or R62 is taken. Follow the signs to the picturesque town of Robertson and the next town is Ashton. Travel on through the Montagu Pass to the historical town of Montagu. Continue for approximately 43 km and turn left at “Die Vlakte” and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve signs. The main entrance to Sanbona Wildlife Reseve is 7km where guests will be welcomed. From the main gate, it is a further 25km to the oasis of Tilney Manor.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve | Five Star Game Reserves in the Western Cape