Imagine arriving at a safari reserve and discovering that, beyond observing wildlife in its natural habitat, you are surrounded by a landscape that has undergone a remarkable transformation and rebirth. This is the vision behind Sandringham Private Game Reserve, the newest property in the Sabi Sabi Collection, which welcomed its first guests on 1 August 2026.
Located in the Greater Kruger, along the banks of the Timbavati River and neighbouring the Timbavati and Thornybush reserves, Sandringham represents a new chapter for a brand with more than 45 years of history in South Africa’s luxury safari industry.
The new reserve joins the renowned Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, a favourite among Brazilian travellers and celebrities, and The Claremont, the collection’s urban hotel in Cape Town.
A Reserve of Second Chances
Perhaps the best way to understand Sandringham is through the expression chosen by Sabi Sabi Collection itself: “a place of second chances.”
Over five years, the area underwent an extensive process of planning, environmental restoration and rehabilitation. What was once a hunting reserve has been carefully transformed into a protected area, allowing nature to reclaim its space and wildlife to thrive once again.
According to Rod Wyndham, Managing Director of Sabi Sabi Collection, Sandringham occupies one of the last remaining large stretches of savannah available in the Greater Kruger region.
More than simply creating a new safari reserve, the vision was to restore a landscape and build a long-term relationship with the communities living around it.
“With Sandringham, we sought to create hope for both wildlife and people,” explains Wyndham.
This vision is reflected throughout the project, which combines conservation, sustainability, local community development and high-end hospitality.
Luxury Surrounded by Nature
Designed by architect Nick Plewman and interior designer Cate Simpson of Reflecting Africa, Sandringham was conceived with the landscape taking centre stage.
The main area features a bar, lounge and restaurant overlooking an expansive body of water formed by the convergence of four rivers. Beyond, the savannah stretches out before guests, creating a profound sense of immersion in nature.
A wooden walkway connects the communal areas to the accommodation, gym, spa, library, museum and boutique. It is also one of the spaces that best captures Sandringham’s identity: a place to slow down, take in the scenery and share safari stories at the end of the day.
Shisaka and N’Weti: Two Ways to Experience a Safari
Sandringham comprises two intimate camps, Shisaka Camp and N’Weti Camp, each featuring six suites.
Shisaka takes its name from the Tsonga word for “nest”, a concept reflected in its architecture. Above each room is an elevated lounge-like space, ideal for admiring the landscape, watching the changing light over the river and taking in distant views of the Drakensberg Mountains.
The camp also features two luxury villas designed in the same architectural style.
Meanwhile, N’Weti Camp embraces the charm of luxurious canvas tents while paying tribute to Tsonga culture. Its name refers to the view of the mountains on a full-moon night, reinforcing the connection between architecture, culture and nature that defines the entire experience.
Sandringham House: Exclusivity for Small Groups
For travellers seeking an even more private experience, Sandringham also offers Sandringham House, an exclusive 1,100-square-metre residence accommodating up to eight guests across four suites.
The house features a private chef, butler, dedicated ranger and an exclusive safari vehicle for the group. It is a particularly appealing option for multigenerational families and small groups who value privacy, flexibility and personalised service.
Safaris, Gastronomy and Experiences Beyond the Big Five
As one would expect from a Sabi Sabi Collection property, the Sandringham experience extends far beyond its accommodation.
Guests can enjoy guided game drives accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers, exploring the reserve and discovering opportunities to observe wildlife from dedicated viewing decks.
Gastronomy is another highlight. Executive Chef Dion Von Wielligh and his team have developed a sophisticated culinary offering designed to complement the experience of being surrounded by the African savannah.
Yet perhaps the most distinctive aspect is the opportunity to experience a reserve that is still writing its own story.
Conservation That Embraces People and Nature
At Sandringham, conservation means more than simply protecting wildlife and natural habitats.
Sabi Sabi Collection also invests in the development of local communities. One such initiative is its partnership with the Tracker Training Academy, which trains young people from surrounding communities to become trackers, professionals who play an essential role in interpreting the natural environment during safari experiences.
The property also works in partnership with Bushwise on initiatives related to conservation and the rewilding of the area.
This approach recognises that the long-term sustainability of a reserve depends not only on protecting the land but also on creating meaningful opportunities for the people who live nearby.
A New Chapter for Sabi Sabi Collection
Although Sandringham is a newcomer to South Africa’s luxury safari landscape, it enters the market backed by the expertise of a brand with more than four decades of experience.
This combination may be one of the property’s greatest strengths: the excitement of discovering something new without compromising on the expertise, hospitality and knowledge that Sabi Sabi Collection has developed throughout its history.
For travellers planning a safari in South Africa and seeking a more exclusive experience, deeply connected to nature and supported by a compelling conservation story, Sandringham emerges as a particularly attractive choice.
After all, in the words of its first guests, “Sandringham is not a place. It is a feeling, an emotion.”
