Overview, trip report, images, and reviews from our visit to Sanbonani and SANParks – Kruger National Park.
Overview
Nestled at the confluence of the Sabie and Sand Rivers, Sanbonani is in the heart of the Bushveld. Luxurious chalets overlook the tranquil rivers where hippos splash and crocodiles soak up the sun on the banks of the river bed or spend time in one of the chalets where you can enjoy the sound of the beautiful man-made stream. Relax on your patio with your own wood braai area and enjoy a sundowner while soaking up the beautiful Lowveld sunset. Spend time walking along the riverbanks or around the gardens and admire the amazing trees including some rare species. Socialise in the ladies’ bar or soak up the waters of the spectacular pool which is fed from an underground mineral spring.
The beautiful Sabie River and the Sand River are Sanbonani’s borders, which forms a confluence at the bottom of the property. We have several primates, animals, and birds on the property, some of which are very tolerant of human presence, and it is tempting to consider them as pets and feed them. Please do not do this, they are wild animals. Feeding animals may lead to them becoming a nuisance and create a situation where they have to be destroyed.
We have indigenous trees, plants, and grasses on the property. In fact, we have some unique species. Thank you for not damaging and/or removing any plants. Do not pick up wood for your fire, it may give off toxic fumes and poison the food that is cooked on that fire. Plants that are decaying put nutrients back into the soil and create a living environment for insects. Picking up plants, logs etc. may be dangerous to you as they could hide a snake, spider, or scorpion.
There is an abundance of bird life – Some of the birds spotted at Sanbonani include Woodlands Kingfisher, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Spotted Eagle Owl, Barn Owls, African Wood Owls, Fiery-Necked Night Jar, Egyptian Geese, Fish Eagles along Rivers, Hadeda, Natal Francolins, African Hoopoe, Bearded Woodpecker, Olive Thrush, Dark Capped (Black-eyed) Bulbul, Purple Crested Turaco (Lourie), and Weavers – just to mention a few. There are Tree and Bird lists available at reception.
Trip Report
Overview
This report summarizes a week-long safari trip to the southwestern region of Kruger National Park, South Africa, using Sanbonani Resort as a base and the Phabeni Gate as the daily entry point.
Sanbonani Resort
Location: Conveniently situated near the Phabeni Gate, providing easy access to the park.
Facilities: Comfortable accommodations, friendly staff, and a range of amenities for a relaxing stay.
Overall Impression: A suitable base for a safari adventure in Kruger National Park.
Daily Safari Activities
Trip 1: Tshokwane Trading Post
Trip 2: Berg-en-Dal Rest Camp
Trip 3:Central Area
Trip 4: Malelane Gate
Wildlife Encounter Highlights: Encountered two male lions on a buffalo kill and a pack of wild dogs.
General Wildlife Observations
Big Five: Successfully observed lions, elephants, rhinos, buffaloes, and leopards during the trip.
Antelope Species: Encountered numerous species, including impalas, kudu, steenbok, wildebeest, and various others.
Predators: Observed lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs.
Birds: A diverse range of species, including vultures, eagles, kingfishers, and waterbirds.
Overall Impression
This safari trip to Kruger National Park exceeded expectations, providing unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic beauty. The combination of Sanbonani Resort as a comfortable base and the park’s diverse ecosystems ensured a memorable experience.