Sabi Sabi’s Grand Expansion to Sandringham and Cape Town

A new safari adventure in South Africa is underway. Sabi Sabi, a name synonymous with elite safaris, is setting a new benchmark for luxury travel with a landmark expansion. Welcoming Sandringham Private Game Reserve into its portfolio and unveiling two exquisite South Africa safari lodges for 2026, Sabi Sabi is extending its legacy.

But the journey doesn’t end in the bush – a magnificent, historic five-star hotel in an exclusive Cape Town suburb completes this vision, seamlessly blending the thrill of a safari with the sophisticated charm of the Mother City. This is an invitation to experience the very best of South Africa.

Sabi Sabi: Excellence Since 1979

Over 45 years ago, the story of Sabi Sabi began. Taking its name from the Sabie River which winds through the land, Sabi Sabi – in the Great Kruger Area – was bought by Hilton and Jacqui Loon, a husband and wife team who wanted to create a luxury home in the bush.

This vision snowballed in the years to come, with the next chapter of Sabi Sabi being the acquisition of a non-commercial homestead which the Loons refurbished in the 1990s to become the luxurious Selati Camp.

The removal of the fence between Kruger National Park and Sabi Game Reserve was a pivotal moment, allowing for the natural flow of wildlife – a testament to Sabi Sabi’s dedication to authentic wilderness encounters, providing guests with unparalleled game viewing opportunities.

Sabi Sabi expanded over the years with new land and properties, with the early 2000s coming to a close with four Sabi Sabi South Africa safari lodges.

Sabi Sabi Conservation Success

A huge part of the Sabi Sabi story is conservation. The Loons began this adventure with the mindset that the reserve wasn’t about ownership but instead about being custodians of the land and protecting the wilderness for the animals that call it home and for future generations to be inspired by it.

Ecotourism at Sabi Sabi is linked to conservation and community. From dedicated anti-poaching units protecting iconic species like the rhino to meticulous habitat management that ensures a vibrant environment for the Big Five, every aspect of Sabi Sabi’s operation is designed to minimise human impact and maximise wildlife well-being. You’re not just on safari; you’re part of a vital conservation journey.

Sabi Sabi has come a long way since rehabilitating and rewilding former agricultural land into premier Big Five safari destinations complete with luxurious accommodations. Now, the next chapter of their story is being written with the addition of a new game reserve, two safari lodges, and a historic hotel.

Two New Lodges in Sandringham Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sabi has incorporated Sandringham Private Game Reserve into its stunning collection of protected spaces. Located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, the focus of this 4,500-hectare reserve is on regenerative tourism and ecotourism to create an environment where wildlife can thrive and travellers can have memorable safaris.

Once hunting grounds, Sandringham has been transformed into a wildlife sanctuary thanks to the efforts of Sabi Sabi. Animals are taking to the new protected environment, becoming more habituated to safari vehicles and people in their presence.

Imagine encountering elusive leopards, tracking majestic lions (including rare white lions), and marvelling at herds of elephants and buffalo. Birdwatchers too will delight in the sightings of iconic species like fish eagles and southern ground hornbills.

The anticipation is palpable for the 2026 opening of N’Weti Camp and Shisaka Camp. While details are still emerging, expect the signature Sabi Sabi blend of unparalleled luxury, intimate ambiance, and prime wildlife viewing that has defined their existing collection.

“We are excited to be entering a phase of exploration and growth… Our journey begins with the inclusion of Sandringham Private Game Reserve, where our focus remains the rehabilitation of a magnificent piece of wilderness to the level, we believe would be best suited for a wildlife and an eco-tourism offering we pride ourselves in,” said Jacques Smit, Marketing Director at the Sabi Sabi Collection.

Sabi Sabi Acquires the Andros Hotel in Cape Town

What better complement to the wild majesty of a South African safari than the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town? Sabi Sabi makes this ultimate combination effortlessly luxurious with the acquisition of the iconic Andros Hotel, soon to be reborn as The Claremont.

The Andros Hotel, one of the top luxury hotels in the Mother City, has joined the Sabi Sabi family. Currently under refurbishment to bring it into the brand, The Claremont will be open for bookings later in the year.

Magdalene Sauer, the architect of the hotel, was the first female architect appointed to design such a building. Within the hotel’s refurbishment, Sabi Sabi will highlight and celebrate her legacy with Cape Dutch elements and historic antiques blended with contemporary flair.

The Claremont will have four Classic Rooms, 10 Deluxe Suites, and the Sauer Villa. Boutique wines as well as vintages from famed Constantia wineries will grace the menu at the craft wine bar. Unique craft beers, gins, and proudly South African produce will also be on offer.

A Farm to Fork experience can be had at the Vine & Veld Bistro, highlighting local farmers and producers. The on-site café will feature local coffees and an all-day high tea.

From a home in the South African wilderness to four (soon to be six) safari lodges and a luxury hotel, Sabi Sabi has become one of the best success stories in the world of African safaris. Discover Africa is excited to see Sabi Sabi continue to grow and have a positive impact on the environments they call home.