Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Sabi Sand Game Reserve, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

  1. When to go to Sabi Sand Game Reserve
  2. Important essentials for Sabi Sand Game Reserve
  3. Activities for Sabi Sand Game Reserve
  4. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in January: weather and what to pack
  5. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in February: weather and what to pack
  6. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in March: weather and what to pack
  7. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in April: weather and what to pack
  8. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in May: weather and what to pack
  9. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in June: weather and what to pack
  10. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in July: weather and what to pack
  11. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in August: weather and what to pack
  12. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in September: weather and what to pack
  13. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in October: weather and what to pack
  14. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in November: weather and what to pack
  15. Sabi Sand Game Reserve in December: weather and what to pack

When to go to Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa by month

January

If you go to Sabi Sand Game Reserve in January, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

February

February in this region is constantly hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

March

March in Sabi Sand Game Reserve can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

April

If you vacation in Sabi Sand Game Reserve during April, you will probably notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to choose the right kind. The majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

May

If you vacation in Sabi Sand Game Reserve during May, you may find that it is hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the correct type. Many adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

June

June for Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. There is frost occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be careful to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

July

July in Sabi Sand Game Reserve is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day. There is frost sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

If you are traveling to Sabi Sand Game Reserve in August, you will notice that it is hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

September

If you visit Sabi Sand Game Reserve during September, you are likely to see that it is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to pick the necessary kind. A lot of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

October

Traveling to Sabi Sand Game Reserve in October, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

If you visit Sabi Sand Game Reserve during November, you might find that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

December

December in Sabi Sand Game Reserve can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) to high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Sabi Sand Game Reserve may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

What to do in Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is situated in the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces of South Africa. As a part of the Greater Kruger National Park, the reserve is home to an abundance of wildlife including the Big Five game animals – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos. Sabi Sand Game Reserve is considered to be one of the best safari destinations in Africa, offering visitors an opportunity to see these animals up close and in their natural habitat. In this article, we will explore the top tourist attractions in Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

1. Game Drives

Game drives are the most popular attraction in Sabi Sand Game Reserve. The drives are conducted in open vehicles and are the best way to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The drives are led by experienced guides, who have a wealth of knowledge about the reserve’s animals and their behaviors. Game drives take place early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the animals are most active. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and many more.

2. Bush Walks

For those who want a truly authentic safari experience, bush walks are a must-try activity. Guided by an experienced ranger, visitors can walk through the wilderness and get up close and personal with nature. Bush walks are a great opportunity to learn about the smaller animals and plants in the reserve, as well as the traditional uses of local flora and fauna. Visitors can also experience the thrill of walking through the bush with wild animals around them.

3. Bird Watching

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is also a paradise for bird lovers, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the area. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of birds, including raptors, waterbirds, and songbirds. Some of the notable species found in the reserve include the African fish eagle, martial eagle, brown-headed parrot, and the southern yellow-billed hornbill.

4. Photography

Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a photographer’s dream, with a plethora of scenic views and breathtaking wildlife. The reserve offers endless opportunities for photography, from dramatic landscapes to close-up shots of animals in their natural habitat. Some of the best times for photography are early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and perfect for capturing stunning images.

5. Cultural Tours

Apart from the wildlife attractions, Sabi Sand Game Reserve also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about local history and cultures. Cultural tours take visitors to local villages where they can meet and interact with the local community. Visitors can learn about traditional customs, beliefs, and practices, as well as sample local cuisine and crafts.

In conclusion, Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and diversity of African wildlife. Whether you’re interested in game drives, bush walks, birdwatching or cultural tours, the reserve has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, Sabi Sand Game Reserve is an unforgettable safari destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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