Tilney Manor at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

There are over 600 types of flora within Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Various species bloom at different times throughout the year, but, in this region, flowering occurs more prolifically between August and September. Sanbona is at the forefront of an on-going conservation project that aims to restore the ecological balance in the area. Approximately half of the surrounding landscape used to be livestock and agricultural farms, which have since been removed which has allowed the various floral kingdoms that make up the reserve to flourish. Plant life that inhabits this region of the Western Cape includes Acacia Thickets, Renosterveld, Succulent Karoo and Central Mountain Fynbos. Species of succulents are especially varied and fascinating with names like Baby’s Bottoms, Ostrich Toes, and Pig’s Ears. As part of our conservation efforts, we have reintroduced animals that once roamed the area freely but were eradicated due to farming. The Big 5 and various other species such as gemsbok, springbok, hartebeest, eland, kudu, and zebra can now all be seen on Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Other animal species that continue to thrive thanks to the efforts of Sanbona include natural small game such as the jackal, caracal, duiker, aardwolf, aarvark, brown hyena, grey rhebok, steenbok, klipspringer, and grysbok. A Riverine Rabbit population was discovered on Sanbona in 2006, and as these animals are only known to exist in the central Karoo, they are incredibly rare. Moreover, this species of rabbit is the 13th most endangered mammal in the world. Sanbona is currently only one of two protected areas that provide Riverine Rabbit populations with sufficient space and diversity for their ecological processes to function naturally.

Bar / Lounge Secured parking Free parking Restaurant Spa WIFI

Wifi Yes, public areas only

Sanbona boasts an impressive collection of succulents and wildlife, including, elephant, lion, cheetah, buffalo, and numerous antelope species, which are all free roaming within this privately owned 62 000-hectare reserve. You will traverse this wild landscape with a qualified ranger in a comfortable open land cruiser. During the drive, either in the early morning or at sunset, numerous species of plants, animals, big game, and birds can be seen. Take it all in when you visit Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. We encourage our guests to jump at the opportunity to discover everything the Little Karoo has to offer in terms of fauna, flora, and majestic landscapes. The entire reserve offers an array of nature walks, hiking and wilderness trails for you to explore. Well-informed and experienced rangers can indicate points of interest while divulging important and interesting information about the area. Let yourself and your family or travelling companions experience Sanbona Wildlife Reserve from a different angle. With the vast and impressive Bellair Dam situated on the property, guests can enjoy our boat safari activities, from the comfort of our spectacular vessel, The Peregrine. This tour is subject to water levels in the Bellair Dam as Sanbona is situated in a water-scarce area. One of the great wonders to experience at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the night sky. Free from light and city pollution, the Klein Karoo offers some of the finest stargazing in Southern Africa and is an ideal activity for all guests to enjoy. Back at the lodges, take time for yourself to enjoy our Relaxation Retreat with an extensive menu of therapies and treatments, a serene ending to a fun-filled day.