Ultimate Big 5
Embark on the ultimate African adventure as we seamlessly combine the untamed beauty of the Timbavati Game Reserve with the world-renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve, offering an unparalleled safari experience like no other.
Prepare yourself for an extraordinary journey through vast wilderness, immersing yourself in all the wonders Africa has to offer, from encounters with the majestic Big Five to the enchanting Little Five and everything in between.
Throughout your stay, we spare no effort to elevate your experience to new heights. Carefully hand-picked, our exquisite lodges are designed to immerse you in luxury and comfort. Savor the tantalizing flavors of our gourmet cuisine, unwind with a drink by the crackling fire as the African night comes alive, and find serenity amidst the breathtaking beauty of the natural surroundings.
At dawn, your senses awaken as you venture out on game drives, the air cool and tinged with the earthy scent of dew on dry grass. The sky glows softly, shifting from inky blue to the warm amber of a new African day. As the bush stirs to life, there's an almost sacred stillness—until the first stirring of hooves, wings, or a distant call breaks the silence.
You drive through golden light, scanning for the flick of a tail or the silhouette of an elephant moving through the morning mist. Your guide reads the land like a book, picking up on the smallest details: a paw print in the sand, a bird's alarm call, the sudden hush of antelope. There's an anticipation in the air, the feeling that at any moment, the bush will reveal something extraordinary.
It might be a pride of lions sprawled across a termite mound, warming themselves in the sun, or a crash of rhino moving slowly through the undergrowth. Sometimes it’s not the Big Five, but something quieter that stops you in your tracks—a leopard tortoise lumbering along the path, or a lilac-breasted roller catching the light just right.
After a few hours, you stop in a quiet clearing for coffee and rusks or a full bush breakfast, the hum of insects and the call of a hornbill your only soundtrack. It’s in these still moments that you feel it most—that deep connection to the land, the privilege of being a part of something ancient and wild
AT A GLANCE
Length of Safari
7 Days
Where is it
South Africa
Cost
Starting at €3420 pp
Experiences
Big 5 Areas, Private Guides, Incredible Wildlife
The Trip
Welcome to the untamed beauty of Sabi Sands and Timbavati Game Reserves, where the magic of the African wilderness comes alive. Sharing a rich connection with South Africa's iconic Greater Kruger National Park, these reserves offer a truly authentic and unforgettable safari experience.
Sabi Sands and Timbavati are more than just destinations; they are journeys into the very heart of Africa’s soul. These reserves invite you to reconnect with nature, where time slows down and the raw beauty and primal energy of the wild take center stage. Whether you're an avid wildlife enthusiast, a family seeking an educational adventure, or a couple looking for romance amidst the untamed landscape, Sabi Sands and Timbavati welcome you with open arms
Trip breakdown /
Day 1 - Arrival in Johannesburg
Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure as soon as you touch down at the airport in Johannesburg. Your own personal guide will be waiting to greet you and take you on a comfortable road transfer to Timbavati Game Reserve. Your lodge boasts breath-taking views and promises an experience unlike any other. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a refreshing beverage and escorted to your luxurious accommodations, where you can relax and unwind in style.
Day 2 +3 – Timbavati Game Reserve
For the next few days, bask in the breath-taking natural wonders of Timbavati Game Reserve as our expert safari guide takes you on a journey of discovery. Rise early for morning game drives and watch as the sun casts a golden glow over the savannah. Take in the breath-taking scenery and spot the diverse wildlife, including the majestic Big Five - elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos.
In the afternoons, venture out once more for exhilarating game drives, catching glimpses of graceful giraffes, zebras, and a myriad of antelope species. Between adventures, luxuriate in the peaceful tranquillity of the lodge's surroundings, or take a dip in the sparkling pool. As night falls, savour delicious dinners beneath the twinkling stars and share unforgettable tales around the crackling campfire.
Sabi Sands
Step into the enchanting world of Sabi Sands Game Reserve, where luxury meets untamed wilderness to create an unparalleled safari experience. Located in the heart of South Africa's Mpumalanga province, this world-renowned destination invites you to indulge in the magic of Africa like never before. Embrace the thrill of encountering the iconic Big Five and a diverse array of wildlife during expertly guided game drives and immersive bush walks. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone seeking an escape from the ordinary, Sabi Sands Game Reserve promises an experience that will touch your soul and leave you with cherished memories to treasure for a lifetime
Day 4 – Transfer to Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Early morning rise to squeeze in one last game drive to cherish before leaving Timbavati. After a hearty breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to your first home-away-from-home and head to the next stop on your adventure - the magnificent Sabi Sands. Your luxurious lodge is located in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is renowned for its exceptional game viewing opportunities. Upon arrival, settle into your room and take a refreshing dip in the pool before heading out on an afternoon game drive.
Day 5+6 – Sabi Sands
Indulge in the enchanting magic of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve over the next two days, guided by our expert safari guide. Embark on exhilarating morning and afternoon game drives and immerse yourself in the vast, untamed wilderness. Here, you'll encounter an array of magnificent wildlife, including the elusive leopard, which the area is renowned for. As the sun begins to set, unwind with sundowners at breathtaking locations and let the peaceful surroundings soothe your soul. Savor delectable meals prepared by our talented chefs and relish in the luxurious amenities of the lodge, which will make you feel pampered and revitalized. Prepare to be swept away by the sheer beauty and majesty of the region.
Day 7 – Return to Johannesburg
As your adventure draws to a close, savour every moment of your final morning game drive in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, taking in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness one last time. After a sumptuous breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to the wild and return to Johannesburg. Our expert team will ensure a seamless transfer back to the city, with ample time for you to catch your flight home. Reflect on the incredible memories you've made during your Wild Emerald experience, from thrilling game drives to luxurious lodgings and everything in between. We hope that this journey has left an indelible mark on your soul and a yearning to return to Africa's wild embrace.
What's Included:
All transfers in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle
Full board and teas/coffees
All safari activities
Beautiful accommodation in private camps
What's Excluded:
International Flights
Bar drinks
Gratuities and personal purchases