Nestled in the mountains, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offers a tranquil retreat with game and wildlife viewing. Unwind at the spa with a massage or facial, indulge in African cuisine at one of 3 on-site restaurants, and enjoy free WiFi by the firepit. The helpful staff has left a lasting impression on previous guests.
Reviews
Loved by guests
9.8 out of 10, Loved by guests
Top-rated by travellersTop-rated by travellers
Popular amenities
Pool
Free breakfast
Spa
Free parking
Free Wi-Fi
Main amenities (12)
Daily housekeeping
Restaurant
Outdoor pool
Seasonal outdoor pool
Spa services
Terrace
24-hour front desk
Air conditioning
Garden
Library
Lobby fireplace
Front-desk safe
Feel at home (6)
Playground on site
Private bathroom
Separate bathtub and shower
Garden
Terrace
Daily housekeeping
The current price is ₹85,800
₹85,800
₹1,01,199 total
includes taxes & fees
19 May - 20 May
Why we love this property
African cuisine and views
Experience African cuisine at the restaurant, overlooking the garden and pool. The lodge offers free full breakfast with vegan and vegetarian options.
Nature safari getaway
This lodge, situated in a national park within the mountains, offers safari experiences and game drives. A terrace and firepit complete the outdoor adventure.
Poolside bliss
The luxury property's outdoor pool area offers comfort with loungers and umbrellas. Guests can dine at the onsite restaurant with pool views.
R62 between Montagu and Barrydale, Barrydale, Western Cape, 6720
What's nearby
Wilderbraam Berry Estate - 36 min drive - 37.0 km
Montagu Golf Club - 46 min drive - 56.9 km
Montagu Museum - 47 min drive - 57.2 km
South Africa's Peace Pagoda - 51 min drive - 54.9 km
Montagu Hot Springs - 53 min drive - 60.9 km
Getting around
Cape Town Intl. Airport (CPT) - 111 miles/178.6 km
Restaurants
Joubert-Tradauw - 21 min drive
Akkerboom Farm Stall - 14 min drive
Karoo Saloon - 18 min drive
About this property
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
When visiting Barrydale, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a great choice to consider. You can indulge in deep-tissue massages or facials, then grab a bite to eat at the restaurant. Other highlights at this luxurious lodge include an outdoor pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a terrace. Fellow travelers say great things about the helpful staff.
All-inclusive
This lodge is all-inclusive. Onsite food and beverages are included in the room price (some restrictions may apply).
Food and beverages
All à la carte meals and snacks included
Activities and facilities/equipment
All onsite activities and use of facilities and equipment are included.
At a glance
DONE
Hotel size
27 rooms
Arranged over 1 level
DONE
Arriving/Leaving
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 time is 11 AM
Contactless check-out
DONE
Special check-in instructions
Guests must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions; front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
DONE
Required at check-in
Credit card, debit card or cash deposit required for incidental charges
Government-issued photo ID may be required
Minimum check-in age is 18
DONE
Children
No cots (infant beds)
DONE
Pets
Pets not allowed
WIFI
Internet
Free WiFi in public areas
LOCAL_PARKING
Parking
Free on-site self-parking
DONE
Other information
Designated smoking areas
Property amenities
Food and drink
Free full breakfast each morning 6:30 AM–9:30 AM
Restaurant
Traveling with children
Playground
What to do
Safari
Wildlife viewing
Services
24-hour front desk
Concierge services
Tour/ticket assistance
Dry cleaning/laundry services
Multilingual staff
Pool loungers
Pool umbrellas
Facilities
3 buildings/towers
Built in 2001
Safe-deposit box at front desk
Garden
Terrace
Library
Fireplace in lobby
Television in common areas
An outdoor pool
Spa services
Vegan dining options
Vegetarian dining options
Humane treatment of captive wild animals
Local artist showcase
At least 10% of profits reinvested in community & sustainability
Local culture & ecosystem education
Double-glazed windows
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Comprehensive food waste policy
Comprehensive recycling policy
Banquet hall
Firepit
Outdoor entertainment area
Outdoor furniture
Colonial architecture
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Room amenities
Home comfort
Air conditioning and heating
Minibar
Electric kettle
Bathrobes and slippers
Sleep well
Blackout drapes/curtains
Turndown service
Premium bedding
What to enjoy
Balcony or patio
Freshen up
Private bathroom
Deep soaking bathtub
Separate bathtub and shower
Rainfall showerhead
Designer toiletries
Hair dryer
Towels
Toilet paper
Stay connected
Desk
Phone
Electrical adapters/chargers
Food and drink
Free bottled water
More
Daily housekeeping
In-room safe
LED light bulbs
Recycling
Water-efficient showers only
Water-efficient toilets only
Special features
Spa
Guests can pamper themselves by indulging in the onsite spa services. There are 2 treatment rooms. Services include deep-tissue massages and facials.
Dining
Onsite venue - Overlooking the pool, this fine-dining restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Tilney Manor Restaurant - Overlooking the pool and garden, this fine-dining restaurant specializes in African cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Open daily.
Onsite venue #3 - Overlooking the garden, this fine-dining restaurant specializes in African cuisine and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Open daily.
Fees & policies
Mandatory fees
You'll be asked to pay the following charges by the property at check-in or check-out. Fees may include applicable taxes:
Resort fee (May 01 - April 30): ZAR 220 per person, per night
Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)
The seasonal pool is open from September 01 to March 31
Policies
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
This property does not have elevators.
Guests can rest easy knowing there's a fire extinguisher and a smoke detector on site.
This property accepts credit cards and cash.
Credit cards accepted: Visa, Mastercard
Cashless transactions are available.
National rating
Quality Graded by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) – South Africa's official quality assurance organization.
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
Does Sanbona Wildlife Reserve offer free cancellation for a full refund?
Yes, Sanbona Wildlife Reserve does have fully refundable room rates available to book on our site. If you’ve booked a fully refundable room rate, this can be cancelled up to a few days before check-in depending on the property's cancellation policy. Just make sure to check this property's cancellation policy for the exact terms and conditions.
Is there a pool at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Yes, there's an outdoor pool.
Are pets allowed at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Sorry, pets aren't allowed.
Is parking offered on site at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Yes, there's free self parking.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Check-in start time: noon; Check-in end time: 11:30 PM. Check-out time is 11 AM. Contactless check-in and check-out are available.
What is there to do at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve and nearby?
Onsite recreation at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve includes game viewing, a wildlife and game drive, and a safari. Enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or use the lodge's other amenities, which include a seasonal outdoor pool and spa services. Sanbona Wildlife Reserve also has a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near Sanbona Wildlife Reserve?
Yes, there's an onsite restaurant that offers African cuisine and garden views.
Does Sanbona Wildlife Reserve have rooms with private hot tubs?
Yes, each room has a deep soaking bathtub.
Does Sanbona Wildlife Reserve have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, every room features a balcony or patio.
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Reviews
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.More informationOpens in a new window
9.8
Cleanliness
9.6
Location
9.8
Staff & service
9.8
Property conditions & facilities
Popular mentions
Service staff
Animals
Room
Accomodation Type
Lodge
Food
Reviews
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
25 January 2026
Great service, beautiful rooms
Tate
Tate, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
24 September 2025
Incredible stay, everything from food to staff to safari was amazing. The staff went above and beyond to ensure we had a fantastic stay
Christopher
Christopher, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
25 November 2025
Everything about our stay at Tilney Manor was fabulous. The staff, the beautiful room, the terrace, the pool and the visiting wildlife! Breakfast, lunch and dinner were plentiful and superb. But most of all, the safari drives were unforgettable. Our guide, Rigchter was knowledgable, so enthusiastic and the wildlife we experienced was incredible.
Sophie
Sophie, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
13 October 2024
Stunning property in an amazing setting!
Britta
Britta, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
8 February 2025
The best hotel ever stay. I could not say enough how much I enjoy this hotel, staffs are so kind , food is exceptional excellent !! Strongly recommend to stay two nights or more. Will definitely come back !
christy
christy, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
16 March 2025
Sanbona was amazing! They are very focused on the conservation of plants and animals, but manage to do this while offering the utmost luxury! We loved our stay at Sanbona!
Dawn
Dawn, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
2 November 2025
Absolutely faultless from start to finish. We had the best experience possible thanks to the wonderful team at Tilney Manor and Jordan, our amazing guide.
Jordan went to every effort to make our game drives as intersting and as tailored as possible. His knowledge and skills are brilliant.
Thank you Sanbona for the memories that will last a lifetime.
David
David, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
13 May 2024
60th Birthday trip
The most amazing experience our guide Marco was so well versed with all the animals.
Gary
Gary, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
27 January 2025
A truly wonderful place.
Sanbona is truly a magical place. The Dwyka Tented Lodge is so wonderfully crafted that you did really feel that you are the only people there. The game drives/guides are fantastic and knowledgable about all the animals and the area itself. The staff at the reserve are second to none and we could not rate than higher. We had the most wonderful time and can’t wait to go back.
Freddie
Freddie, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
29 January 2025
This was a very unique holiday break for 2 days. The service and facilities was excellent and all of the staff were wonderful. Our game reserve guide Jaylee Pietersen, who was very knowledgeable and courteous. It made our wedding anniversary a very memorable experience. Thank for a lovely stay and would recommend to anyone.
David
David, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
23 September 2024
Wonderful experience! Stayed at Tilney Manor - room was exceptional. Food outstanding and staff warm and welcoming! Our safari guide (Adrian) went out of his way to find the animals we were interested in seeing and was very knowledgeable with a great sense of humor. We appreciate the philosophy of the reserve and the good work they’re doing. Highly recommend!
Gustavo
Gustavo, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
31 May 2025
First Safari!
The property is amazing, eco friendly, 10 star comfort, and food.
Friendly and supportive staff. The cottages are incredible!, clean, large super comfortable quarters! very spacious.
The Location is spectacular with incredible views.
The safari excursions are fabulous. The Guides are great. Our guide Nicole was fabulous, friendly and informative.
This is the way to safari!!! Its a must for everyone, especially families! You'll remember this forever!!!
carlos
carlos, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
16 May 2024
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.
Amy
Amy, 3-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
25 September 2024
Unforgettable experience
Stayed in Tilney Manor which was adult only. Very well organised - food excellent with a different choice every lunch and evening meal. Room was large with bath, shower and outdoor shower. Very comfy bed. Alarm call each morning to be ready for the morning game drive at 6.30am. Excellent all round - can not fault them.
Carol
Carol, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
13 November 2023
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!
Ellen
Ellen, 1-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
21 December 2023
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.
Kim
Kim, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
16 September 2025
Wonderful Experience
This was our first safari experienced in Africa and loved every minute. We loved the whole ethos of Sanbona .... they are creating a wildlife reserve that is a true representation of the semi-arid Little Karoo. There may not be as many animals here as on other large-scale reserves further east but we were privileged to see many species, including witnessing lions chasing an Eiland through the gorge. Our guide, Ryan, was wonderful ... SO knowledgeable, calm, funny and totally passionate about the animals and the whole ecology of the reserve; their ethos surrounding sustainability is outstanding. The scenery is both vast & beautiful.
Rooms were extremely comfortable, service from all staff excellent; we felt valued as guests, particularly regarding the "extras" we received as celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary; a big "thank you" for that.
One small area of disappointment was that the food was a little lacking at times, in comparison to other venues we have stayed on our trip.
We would return in a heartbeat!
Deborah
Deborah, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
23 October 2024
Great two night stay at Sabona.
We had a great 2 night stay at Sabona Wildlife Reserve.
Especially our game tour guide Nicole gave us three fantastic game drives. She was able to answer any question re. the animals and the plants in the park.
Luckely we saw the BIG FIVE.
The rooms had comfortable beds, a large balcony with perfect wievs of the surrounding area.
Overall the staff was helpful and friendly. The restaurant offered a perfect breakfast and the dinner on the first evening had a good choice of meals. 2.nd evening dinner unfortunately gave us no choice.
Overall we had a very good stay at Sabona Wildlife Reserve.
Nels Kristian
Denmark
Nels Kristian
Nels Kristian, 2-night trip
Verified
10/10 Exceptional
27 October 2025
Our stay at Sanbona was truly magical. From the moment we arrived at the main entrance up to the moment of exit we were treated to wonderful hospitality, service and awesome wildlife viewing experiences. We stayed in Tilney Manor for 3 nights and during that time enjoyed 5 safari drives. Although on the drives we had very cold windy conditions this was a small price to pay to be able to see elephants, giraffes, black rhinos, lions, kudu, eland, klipspringer, oryx, springbok, baboons and even cheetah. All of this was sandwiched between superb meals and wonderful service from staff that make you feel part of the family. We were celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary and were treated to extra special touches to recognise this. By staying for 3 nights we were able to skip one safari drive and enjoy the spa facility and the accommodation to the full. All of the staff were exceptional including the staff at the welcome lodge and transfer drivers - one of whom stopped for us to view some Zebra that we encountered as he was transferring us for our departure. This made the day for another group travelling with us as the Zebra was the only animal they hadn’t seen!! Such service and experiences provided by a non profit organisation dedicated to conservation and rejuvenation of the area. What more could you ask. You simply must go!!