SABI SANDS GAME RESERVE, KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

ON SAFARI

As part of the Sabi Sand Reserve and greater Kruger National Park, Arathusa is located in one of the world’s most abundant natural wilderness areas where hundreds of animal species roam free.

Including the much acclaimed Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo – the five most dangerous animal species to be hunted on foot). Leopards, in specific, are abundant in this region with perhaps the globe’s highest population.

Arathusa prides itself on its leopard viewing. As these elusive cats are territorial, their regular appearance in the area enables us to plot their movements, and to observe their behaviour. Many of the animals become familiar and are easily recognised. Approximately 14 leopards are seen in the area in which Arathusa operates, six of which are seen on a regular basis.

There are also a number of different lion prides in the area, as well as a few nomadic males.

Over 90% of guests will experience sightings of The Big Five – very often in one day, and sometimes on one drive!

General “lowveld” game species are abundant in this section of the Sabi Sand Reserve, including giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala and more.

Within the lodge itself, guests will often see the resident bushbuck and nyala roaming between the Luxury Suites, or perhaps elephants drinking from the more remote Suites’s private splash pools. Hornbills may tap on their reflections in the windows, while the cry of the fisheagle signals its presence as it searches for prey.

This region is a bird-watcher’s mecca, and a few of the rarer birds are seen from the lodge itself. One such example is the Horus Swift.

One thing is certain … an Arathusa Safari will never disappoint!

Game drives, in an open safari vehicle, are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon every day in search of animals – both large and small. This means that about 8 hours of every day are spent in this natural sanctuary, in search of the creatures who call it home…

Experienced, knowledgeable and personable rangers are paired with local trackers, and together they ensure a first class safari experience.Trackers sit up at the front of the vehicle looking for fresh animal tracks, while rangers skilfully navigate into ravines and through thickets in pursuit of fantastic game sightings.

Close encounters are guaranteed, and the animals are not threatened by our presence thanks to our sound conservation management policies. Expect one-of-a-kind photographic opportunities of The Big Five, and much more – including over 300 bird species.

Guided walks with an armed ranger may also be arranged. Walks are usually arranged in the early hours during the summer months, when temperatures are more moderate. Being on foot affords a unique and altogether different view of the bush.