Things To Do
in Sabie
Sabie is a scenic town in Mpumalanga set in a lush valley along the Sabie River. It serves as a gateway to the region’s waterfalls, forests, and the escarpment highlands, making it a magnet for nature lovers. The town exudes a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe with pine plantations, cosy cafes, and markets that showcase local crafts.
Visitors often use Sabie as a base to explore the nearby Kruger Park, Blyde River Canyon, and the Panorama Route.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with an early morning drive to Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons on Earth. Enjoy the breathtaking views from various viewpoints, such as God's Window and the Three Rondavels. Make sure to have your camera ready to capture the stunning landscapes.
After a morning of exploration, indulge in a packed picnic lunch while soaking in the canyon's scenic beauty. Spend your afternoon hiking one of the many trails or embark on a boat ride on the river to see the canyon from a different perspective. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you trek through this pristine wilderness.
Return to Sabie as the sun begins to set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Choose a local eatery for dinner to sample traditional South African cuisine, such as bobotie or boerewors. Wind down your day by reflecting on the beautiful sights you've witnessed.
Start your morning with a refreshing hike to the picturesque Sabie Waterfalls, including the popular Lone Creek and Bridal Veil Falls. The sound of cascading water and the lush forest surrounding you create a serene atmosphere perfect for nature lovers. Bring a light breakfast along to enjoy in this beautiful setting.
Spend your afternoon touring the charming town of Sabie, where you can visit local craft shops and cafes. Don't miss the chance to sample some delicious homemade treats, such as biltong and koeksisters. Take a leisurely stroll down Main Street to appreciate the town's welcoming vibe.
As night falls, join a guided night hike in the surrounding areas to witness the vibrant nocturnal wildlife. After your adventure, head back to your accommodation and enjoy a cozy dinner under the stars. Share stories with your fellow travelers about your experiences in Sabie.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee at local cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs/market purchases | $5-25 |
| 🚕Short taxi/ride share | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to multiple waterfalls and scenic drives
- Relaxed, family-friendly town with easy access to nature
- Moderate costs and friendly local culture
- Limited nightlife and few high-end dining options
- Weather can be variable with sudden showers
- Some attractions require day trips to Graskop/Blyde Canyon
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Ngiyacela usizo" - Please help
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Inani lento leli?" - What is the price of this?
- "Ngicela amanzi" - Water, please
Places to Visit in Sabie
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic waterfall set in lush forest with a short, easy walking trail.
Scenic waterfall near Sabie with a short, family-friendly trail and viewpoints.
Craggy cliff overlooks along the Sabie River offering dramatic downstream views.
Panoramic escarpment viewpoint with sweeping valley views.
Iconic canyon scenery with dramatic rock formations and depth along the Panorama Route.
Food in Sabie
Sabie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced minced-meat dish with a custardy egg topping, commonly found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Traditional grilled sausage served with pap or chakalaka, a staple at many restaurants and lodges.
Creamy mielie pap served with a tomato-bean relish; a simple, hearty staple.
Grilled or roasted game meats reflecting regional hunting traditions.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Saturday morning market offering fresh produce, crafts, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people kindly with a smile; English is widely spoken, but isiZulu and Afrikaans are commonly heard.
Respect park rules, keep a safe distance from animals, and avoid feeding wildlife.
English is the common lingua franca; learning a few words in local languages is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Sabie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included; round up for small services and tip guides generously.
Cash (South African rand) and card payments are widely accepted; ATMs are common in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with potential afternoon thunderstorms; carry sunscreen, hat, and a light rain jacket.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage along forest trails; great for hiking and photography.
Cool to chilly nights with pleasant days; dress in layers and bring a warm jacket.
Mild and fresh with blooming flora; ideal for outdoor activities and nature photography.
Sabie at Night
Hiking in Sabie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, family-friendly hike to a scenic waterfall near Sabie.
Moderate hike with forest scenery and waterfall views.
Panoramic escarpment viewpoint with sweeping valley views.
Iconic canyon views along the Panorama Route, including the Three Rondavels.
Airports
How to reach Sabie by plane.
Regional airport near White River/Mbombela; connects to Johannesburg and other SA destinations; about a 1.5-hour drive from Sabie depending on traffic.
Inside Kruger National Park; limited regional flights; typically used for safari itineraries; longer drive to Sabie from the park gate.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Black South Africans, White South Africans (including Afrikaans-speaking), and residents from various backgrounds.
Tourists staying in lodges and guesthouses across Sabie and nearby areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational and club sport with weekend matches.
Common sport in SA with local teams and school-level play.
Numerous forest and canyon trails attract hikers and runners year-round.
Sabie River and tributaries offer trout fishing with permits and guides available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sabie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy fresh vegetables, salads, grains, mushrooms, and legumes; ask for vegetarian curries or grilled veggies without meat.