Discover the Diverse Wildlife of Sabi Sand Game Reserve
As part of the Sabi Sand Reserve and greater Kruger National Park, Arathusa is located in one of the world’s most abundant natural wilderness areas where hundreds of animal species roam free.
Including the much acclaimed Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo – the five most dangerous animal species to be hunted on foot). Leopards, in specific, are abundant in this region with perhaps the globe’s highest population. Arathusa prides itself on its leopard viewing. As these elusive cats are territorial, their regular appearance in the area enables us to plot their movements, and to observe their behaviour. Many of the animals become familiar and are easily recognised. Approximately 14 leopards are seen in the area in which Arathusa operates, six of which are seen on a regular basis.
There are also a number of different lion prides in the area, as well as a few nomadic males. Over 90% of guests will experience sightings of The Big Five – very often in one day, and sometimes on one drive! General “lowveld” game species are abundant in this section of the Sabi Sand Reserve, including giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala, and more.
Arathusa Safari Lodge is unique and highly sought-after by visitors because of its prime location within the Sabi Sand Reserve, adjacent to the unfenced Kruger National Park. Together these two areas comprise one of South Africa’s most incredible and pristinely preserved wilderness sanctuaries.
There are twelve Suites, eight of which face the waterhole in front of the lodge, and four of which are remotely located within the bush a short distance from the lodge.
Arathusa’s is an intimate environment. It’s open-plan design and natural décor mean that it blends seamlessly with the African bush surroundings. The main living area is intended for comfort. The infinity swimming pool overlooks the waterhole, and is the perfect spot for wildlife viewing while cooling off on a sweltering African summer’s afternoon.
Arathusa’s Safari Spa offers guests a luxurious spa experience with a range of treatments and natural spa products. Couples treatments are available too.
There are twelve Suites available – 8 Suites are centrally located and offer views across the waterhole whilst 4 Suites have a more private bush setting and include their own plunge pools.
Each Suite is uniquely designed, with fresh interiors and a focus on light and space. Each of the four remote Suites also has its own plunge pool, and affords guests the ultimate privacy, and each suite has a bathroom en-suite, with shower, as well as a private outdoor shower and verandah. Amenities include a minibar (stocked with a selection of beverages on request), an electronic safe, hairdryer, air conditioning, direct-dial telephone, mosquito net and tea/ coffee making facilities.
Game drives, in an open safari vehicle, are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon every day in search of animals – both large and small. This means that about 8 hours of every day are spent in this natural sanctuary, in search of the creatures who call it home.
The more active will enjoy a guided bush walk with one of Arathusa’s experience rangers.
