Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

5.0 star property
Luxury lodge with 3 restaurants and full-service spa
your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Exterior
Aerial view
Game drive
Game drive
Dwyka Tented Lodge 1

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Pool
    Pool
  • All-inclusive
    All-inclusive
  • 24/7 front desk
    24/7 front desk
  • Breakfast included
    Breakfast included
  • Spa
    Spa
  • Parking included
    Parking included

Explore the area

Map
R62 between Montagu and Barrydale, Barrydale, Western Cape, 6720
  • Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
    2 min walk
  • Swellendam Golf Course
    69 min drive
  • Bontebok National Park
    96 min drive

Room options

Gondwana Lodge 1

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Air conditioning
Heating
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Separate bedroom
Rainfall showerhead
Private bathroom
  • 57 sq m
  • Valley view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Single Beds

Tilney Manor

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Fireplace
Air conditioning
Heating
Separate bedroom
Premium bedding
Blackout curtains
Rainfall showerhead
  • 60 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Single Beds

Dwyka Tented Lodge 1

Highlights

Balcony or patio
Private plunge pool
Air conditioning
Heating
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Separate bedroom
Rainfall showerhead
  • 65 sq m
  • Mountain view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed OR 2 Single Beds

Similar properties

About the area

Barrydale

A luxury stay in Barrydale awaits you at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. You'll be 0.1 km (0.1 mi) from Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and 12.6 km (7.8 mi) from Cape Floral Region Protected Areas. Highlights at this boutique lodge include 3 restaurants, a full-service spa and an outdoor swimming pool. .A day of pampering can include deep-tissue massages, body scrubs and mani/pedis. The fine-dining restaurant, Gondwana Family Lodge Res, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Enjoy the seasonal outdoor swimming pool and pool loungers as well as access to a safari and a wildlife and game drive. Plus you'll find free Wi-Fi in public areas and laundry facilities. Each morning free full breakfast is offered between 6:30 AM and 9:30 AM. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .With a stay at this 5-property class Barrydale lodge, you'll be 30.3 km (18.8 mi) from Wilderbraam Berry Estate.

What's nearby

  • Sanbona Wildlife Reserve - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Drostdy Museum - 65 min drive - 70.4 km
  • Swellendam Golf Course - 69 min drive - 72.9 km
  • Marloth Nature Reserve - 72 min drive - 73.2 km
  • Bontebok National Park - 96 min drive - 74.6 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Joubert-Tradauw - ‬21 min drive
  • ‪Karoo Saloon - ‬18 min drive

About this property

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve

Luxury lodge with 3 restaurants and full-service spa
Some rates at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve are all-inclusive. These rates include on-site meals and beverages, and may include taxes and gratuities. Additional charges may apply for meals at some restaurants, special dinners and dishes, certain beverages and other amenities.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers its guests a full-service spa and an outdoor pool. There are 3 restaurants on site. Free breakfast is served daily. WiFi is free in public spaces.

Spa services, a library, and a terrace are also featured at the luxury Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Self parking is free.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this Colonial Barrydale lodge.

  • 1 floor
  • 27 guestrooms or units
  • 3 buildings
  • 3 dining venues
  • Built in 2001
  • Full breakfast (free)
  • Poolside lounge chairs
  • Umbrellas for the pool
  • Dry cleaning
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Staff members are multilingual
  • Front desk safe
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Library
  • Terrace
  • Garden
  • Gift shop
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Television in lobby
  • Smoking in designated areas
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers 27 air-conditioned accommodations with minibars and complimentary bottles of water. Rooms open to balconies or patios. Beds feature premium bedding. Business-friendly amenities include desks, safes and telephones. Bathrooms include a separate bath and shower with a deep soaking bath and a rainfall showerhead. Bathrooms are also outfitted with dressing gowns, slippers and designer toiletries. Additionally, rooms include a hairdryer and free toiletries. A nightly turndown service is provided and housekeeping is offered on a daily basis.
The on-site spa has couples treatment room(s). Services include deep-tissue massages, facials, body scrubs and body treatments.

Languages

Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
  • 3 restaurants

Restaurants on site

  • Dwyka Tented Lodge Rest
  • Gondwana Family Lodge Res
  • Tilney Manor Restaurant

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Outdoor pool
  • Playground

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Safe at front desk

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance
  • Turndown service

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • In the mountains
  • Outdoor entertainment area
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Pool loungers
  • Pool umbrellas
  • Terrace
  • Vegetable garden

Full-service spa

  • Body scrubs
  • Couples treatment rooms
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Manicures/pedicures

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No lift
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 1 floor
  • 3 buildings
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Banquet hall
  • Built in 2001
  • Colonial architecture
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Deep soaking bathtub
  • Designer toiletries
  • Dressing gowns
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Shampoo
  • Slippers
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Electrical adapters
  • Heating
  • Laptop workspace
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Recycling
  • Safe
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: noon; check-in end time: 11:30 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Late check-in subject to availability
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 48 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Resort fee (May 01 – April 30): ZAR 190 per person, per night

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts major credit cards and cash
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. This property accepts major credit cards, Visa, Mastercard and cash. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector in all accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • The seasonal pool will open on 01 September and close on 31 March.
  • Reservations are needed for massage services and spa treatments. For reservations, contact the lodge before arrival using the contact information on the booking confirmation.

National rating

Quality graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organisation.

Property is also known as

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Barrydale
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Lodge Barrydale
bona Wildlife Reserve Barryda
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Lodge
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Barrydale
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Lodge Barrydale
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Lodge
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Barrydale
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Lodge Barrydale

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

As of 24 Nov 2024, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve on 26 Nov 2024 start from AU$1,814.20, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Yep, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve has a free self car park.

Is there a spa on site at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Yep, there is an onsite spa at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. You'll enjoy heaps of services like body scrubs, facials and body treatments, as well as deep-tissue massages.

Does Sanbona Wildlife Reserve have a pool?

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve has a seasonal outdoor pool. Grab your bathers and lounge poolside while enjoying under the shade of an umbrella. The pool is open from September 01 to March 31.

What luxury perks are available at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve features a full-service spa, an outdoor pool and 3 restaurants. All guestrooms come with deep soaking tubs and premium bedding.

What makes Sanbona Wildlife Reserve a romantic place to stay?

Couples spa treatments and garden-view dining, as well as deep-soaking baths and premium bedding in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.

Are there hot tubs in the rooms at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

No, but there are deep-soaking baths in the guestrooms.

Does Sanbona Wildlife Reserve serve breakfast?

Sure does, free full breakfast is offered daily from 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

No, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve does not offer an airport shuttle service.

Is there a bar or restaurant at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Yep, you can grab a meal at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve's onsite restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

What time are check-in & check-out at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

Check-in begins at noon. Check-out time is 11 AM.

Are pets allowed at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?

No, pets are not allowed.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 111 out of 129 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 14 out of 129 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 129 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 129 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 129 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.8/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Amy

Travelled with partner, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I have never gone on a safari and Sanbona exceeded my expectations! The staff was very friendly and the rooms were gorgeous. I would recommend our safari guide Josh to anyone. He was very knowledgeable. I would definitely come back.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Fiona

Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

wang fung

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful Experience !
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Matthew

Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Highlight of our trip
This was without doubt the best part of our two week stay in the Cape Area. We stayed in the Tilney Manor part of the reserve in one of the best rooms we have ever stayed in. There were only 6 couples in the Tilney Manor so it was very personalised service. The staff including the guides were excellent as was the food. We were only there two nights but packed in so much. We did four drives in the Game reserve and got very close to a host of animals. I would thoroughly recommend this to anyone.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

8/10 Good

Verified traveller

Travelled with family
Liked: Staff & service
Food not 5 star
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ellen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stay here....you won't be disappointed!!
An absolute amazing stay from beginning to end!! We stayed in one of the tents and it was absolutely gorgeous!! The service was top notch and a big thank you to Julio who took such good care of us in the dining room! The Safari's were incredible with Josh as our guide. He had such passion and was so interesting and knowledgeable. My only regret was that we were only there for one night. This was definitely one of the main highlights on our 3 week vacation in south Africa!
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2023

8/10 Good

Saroj

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Gerald

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mike

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
An amazing experience from start to finish, every aspect of the stay was special and the attention detail was superb. In addition, the safari itself was wonderful, Josh our guide/ranger was extremely knowledgeable and engaging. This will be an experience that we will always remember. Mike and Michelle
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Darren

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff were all very helpful and friendly. Accommodation was fabulous and the whole experience great
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ann

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
An exceptional safari experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

8/10 Good

Erik

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carl

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Staff was excellent. Cannot say enough about them. Everyone is friendly and goes above and beyond from the moment you get there. The guides are great and knowledgeable. The property and room/tent is beautiful.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Amazing game reserve
We had just the best time at Sanbona we stayed in the Tilney part of which at the most is 12 people it feels very exclusive. Our rooms were just magnificent it was a shame we didn’t have more than one night. The reserve is huge but feels like a proper game reserve hunting for the animals is a true Safari experience. The staff were all very friendly and the game drives were fun. Keep up the good work can’t wait to come back.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jonathan

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fabulous experience. Accommodation 1st class. Staff exceptional.

10/10 Excellent

Jose

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was an amazing experience, the beautiful tented lodge, the game drives with Josh, the landscape, the excellent service an attention to detail. Looking forward to returning in the not so distant future.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Neil

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was an excellent experience - authentic and unspoiled, but with all the creature comforts at the lodge. The accommodation was luxurious! We got a great amount of time 'in vehicle' and saw lots of animals in their natural habitat. Would hugely reccomend.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Oliver

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
This place is amazing. Did not want to leave!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Meredith

Travelled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
My husband and I had the most memorable experience at Sanbona. There are truly no words to describe how much we enjoyed our time at the reserve. The service at the lodge was impeccable, the room was gorgeous, and our guide on the game drives was extremely knowledgable. Even more, Sanbona is clearly committed to sustainability. I cannot recommend Sanbona enough!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stan, London

Travelled with family, Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff were fantastic, accommodation was excellent and the guide of the game drives was incredible.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Keith, Springfield, MO

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful location and unique and private tented lodges.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property. Very large rooms. Excellent spa. Food was distinctly average
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Barbara, Cupertino, California

Travelled with family, Travelled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Reserve is amazing! The rooms were gorgeous, the food excellent and the staff were all friendly and went out of their way to be helpful. Our guide, Chris, was incredible, extremely knowledgeable about all of the wildlife and he went out of his way to make sure we saw all of the animals. It was a wonderful experience!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020