Sabi Sands Reserve Safari from Maputo 3 Days/2 Nights

Planning a safari that combines luxury, wildlife encounters, and convenience? The Sabi Sands Reserve Safari from Maputo offers all that and more. This three-day adventure takes you from the vibrant city of Maputo into one of South Africa’s top private game reserves, renowned for its abundant wildlife and close-up encounters with the Big Five.

What we love about this experience are the seamless transfer arrangements that get you straight into the wilderness, the luxurious comfort of Nottens Bush Camp, and the variety of safari activities—from game drives to bush walks under expert guides. The opportunity to see leopards regularly, spot large herds of antelope, and enjoy well-curated sunset and night safaris make this a standout choice.

A possible consideration is the travel time from Maputo, which is around seven hours by road, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy scenic drives and are prepared for a full day of travel on the first day. Also, while the package covers most essentials, additional costs like visas or optional extras (such as specialized drinks or massages) are not included.

Ultimately, this tour appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts, luxury travelers, and those seeking a convenient, all-inclusive escape into Africa’s wild heart. If you value comfortable accommodations paired with authentic game viewing, this could be your perfect getaway.

Key Points

• Luxury and Comfort: Stay at Nottens Bush Camp, a high-end lodge with excellent amenities.
• Wildlife Encounters: Big Five sightings including frequent leopard encounters.
• Variety of Safari Activities: Multiple game drives, bush walks, and night safaris.
• Seamless Transfers: Private transport from Maputo with border entry included.
• All-Inclusive Value: Meals, drinks, park fees, and game drives are covered.
• Flexible Payment: Book now without immediate payment, with full cancellation up to 24 hours before.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: The Journey from Maputo to Sabi Sands

The adventure begins early with a pickup at Maputo port around 8:45 am. The private transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle is a comfortable way to start the trip, with the drive taking approximately 7 hours, including crossing the border into South Africa. This border crossing can add some waiting time, so pack patience along with your camera.

Traveling through scenic landscapes, you’ll enjoy the changing scenery from Mozambique’s coastline to South Africa’s bushveld. The guide, who usually holds a company flyer for easy identification, provides insights during the drive, making the long journey more engaging.

Once at Nottens Bush Camp, you’ll check into your luxurious accommodation, which exudes comfort amidst the wild. After a well-deserved lunch, the afternoon invites you to relax or explore the lodge’s peaceful surrounds.

Your first game drive is scheduled for late afternoon, giving you your first close-up look at the reserve’s wildlife. These open 4×4 Land Rovers provide panoramic views, perfect for photography. The sundowners stop, with drinks and snacks as the sun dips, offers a classic safari moment, setting the mood for the nights ahead. The evening ends with a night safari, spotlighting nocturnal animals rarely seen during the day.

Day 2: Full Day of Safari – Big Five and Bush Walks

Early mornings are a hallmark of safari life, and this tour doesn’t disappoint. The morning game drive kicks off at sunrise—an ideal time for spotting predators like lions and leopards. With tea and coffee served during the drive, it’s a cozy way to start a day in the wild.

Post-breakfast, there’s the option of a bush walk—a rare chance to experience the environment at ground level with a qualified ranger. As one reviewer noted, walking amongst wildlife allows a full immersion in the bush’s smells, sounds, and textures, providing a different perspective than vehicular safaris.

The afternoon features a second game drive, often highlighting different animals and behaviors. Reviewers mention encountering leopards regularly, which is a highlight for many wildlife lovers.

The lodge’s luxurious amenities, like the pool and comfortable lounges, offer downtime between activities. The carefully curated meals, often praised for their quality, are served in a relaxed setting, sometimes outdoors under the stars.

Day 3: Departure and Flight to Cape Town

After breakfast, you have some free time for packing or a quick final walk around the lodge. The transfer back to Skukuza Airport takes about two hours, with your guide ensuring a smooth journey. The flight to Cape Town offers stunning aerial views of South Africa’s landscapes, and upon arrival, an airport transfer is arranged to your hotel.

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What Makes This Tour Special?

Wildlife Abundance and Big Five Sightings

Sabi Sands is known for its high density of game, especially leopards, which are seen quite frequently by guests. The reserve’s reputation is well-earned, offering opportunities to spot lions, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo—collectively known as the Big Five. Several reviews mention that, thanks to experienced guides, guests often get close enough for excellent photos, and some even report seeing a leopard resting just yards from the vehicle.

Expert Guides and Vehicles

Game drives are conducted in open 4×4 Land Rovers, which offer 360-degree visibility. Guests consistently praise the guides’ knowledge, particularly their tracking skills and ability to locate elusive animals. The tracker’s use of a powerful spotlight during night drives adds excitement and the chance to observe nocturnal species.

Luxury Accommodation and Dining

Nottens Bush Camp is described as a “luxurious lodge,” with spacious rooms and attentive service. The meals, served buffet-style with options for local and international dishes, are often highlighted as a highlight. The chance to enjoy a meal under the stars during good weather is a memorable feature.

Variety of Activities

Beyond game drives, the inclusion of bush walks and night safaris enriches the experience. Walking safaris, led by qualified rangers, allow a closer connection to the environment and wildlife, fostering a deeper appreciation of the bushveld’s textures and scents.

Seamless Logistics

The package’s well-organized transfer from Maputo, including border crossing, takes out the guesswork. The all-inclusive approach—covering meals, drinks, park fees, and flights—also provides peace of mind, making it easier to budget and focus on the experience.

Does the Price Match the Experience?

At $2,075 per person, this safari offers excellent value considering the luxury accommodation, multiple safaris per day, specialized guides, and all logistics included. The private transfer, combined with the high-quality lodge and activities, makes for a hassle-free escape into Africa’s wildlife with no hidden costs.

While the journey from Maputo is long, the scenic drive and border crossing are part of the adventure, and many guests feel the convenience outweighs the travel time. The included flights from Skukuza to Cape Town add to the seamless nature of the package.

Why this is a good investment:

• All-inclusive package simplifies planning and budgeting.
• Multiple game activities maximize wildlife sightings.
• Luxury lodge ensures comfort after long days.
• Expert guides and trackers improve chances of sightings.
• Unique experiences like bush walks and night safaris add depth.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This safari is tailored for travelers seeking a luxurious, hassle-free wildlife experience that balances comfort with adventure. It’s perfect for first-time safari-goers wanting to maximize wildlife encounters without roughing it, and for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Big Five moments in prime conditions.

It also suits those who appreciate fine dining and quality accommodations amidst the wilderness. If you’re comfortable with a full travel day on the first day and enjoy guided outdoor activities, this tour will keep you engaged and inspired.

Practical Details and Tips

• Travel time: The initial drive from Maputo is about 7 hours, including border crossings—so plan for a full day of travel on Day 1.
• Timing: Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for game viewing, so pack comfortable clothing for varying temperatures.
• What to bring: Binoculars, camera with zoom lens, sun protection, light layers, and a sense of adventure.
• Additional costs: Visa fees, optional extras like special wines, massages, or souvenirs are not included.
• Flexibility: You can reserve your spot with a “reserve & pay later” option, with cancellation possible up to 24 hours beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or only adults?
Most details suggest it caters to adult travelers, especially given the long drives and outdoor activities, but check with the provider for family-friendly options.

What is included in the package?
It covers accommodation at Nottens Bush Camp, two game drives and bush walks daily, meals, local drinks, park and conservation fees, private transfers, and a flight to Cape Town.

Are there any additional costs I should consider?
Yes, visas (if required), optional activities, special drinks, massages, and souvenirs are not included in the package.

How many animals can I expect to see?
Beyond the Big Five, expect to see a variety of antelope, birds, and possibly nocturnal wildlife during night drives, thanks to experienced guides.

Is the accommodation truly luxurious?
Yes, Nottens Bush Camp is praised for its comfort, offering spacious rooms and excellent service, providing a perfect retreat after a day of exploration.

What is the best time of year to go?
While not explicitly mentioned, safaris are generally best during dry seasons when wildlife congregates around water sources; check with the provider for specific timing.

Can I book this experience last minute?
Yes, with the “reserve & pay later” option, you can secure your spot and decide closer to the date, provided availability remains.

Opting for this 3-day safari from Maputo to Sabi Sands offers a well-rounded, luxurious escape into Africa’s wilderness. It’s designed for those who want to see big game in comfort, enjoy guided activities, and experience the thrill of night safaris and bush walks, all without sacrificing quality or convenience.

Travelers who value authentic wildlife encounters paired with top-tier amenities will find this tour a compelling option. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a safari adventure, this experience delivers on both adventure and comfort in equal measure.

If you’re after a rewarding, hassle-free safari with excellent chances of seeing leopards and the Big Five, and you don’t mind a longer journey on the first day, this package is worth considering. It’s a smart choice for anyone ready to step into the wild with style.

You can check availability for your dates here: