hics in the Greater Kruger Borderlands Geography and Natural Features The Sabi Sand Game Reserve itself is a protected, no-hunting area spanning over 65,000 hectares along the western boundary of Kruger National Park. However, hunting takes place in adjacent buffer zones, private lands, and community-managed concessions located just beyond the reserve. These areas share the same lowveld ecosystem—thornveld bush, mopane woodland, acacia savanna, and seasonal river systems such as the Sabie and Sand Rivers—supporting free-roaming wildlife populations with Kruger and Sabi Sand. Hunting Population in the area Hunters in this region typically fall into two categories: experienced safari clients seeking free-range buffalo or elusive leopards, and international plains game hunters who want a challenging, authentic African safari. The proximity to Kruger and Sabi Sand also draws conservation-minded hunters looking for fair-chase experiences that contribute to local community development and ecological balance. Hunting Features in Sabi Sand The hunting here is demanding and deeply immersive. Game is wild and smart, often moving between hunting zones and protected lands. Walk-and-stalk is the dominant method, particularly for kudu, buffalo, and nyala. Leopard and bushpig hunts use blinds and bait. Night hunting—regulated with permits—is used for species like caracal and hyena. Close encounters are common, especially along riverbeds and in dense bush. There are no high fences, and no artificial game introductions. Types of Hunting and Game Species Plains Game: Kudu (noted for excellent horn genetics), impala, nyala, bushbuck, warthog, duiker, and steenbok. Dangerous Game: Cape buffalo are the prime draw, freely moving from Kruger into huntable land. Hippo and crocodile are hunted in selected river-based concessions. Predators: Caracal and hyena are available under permit, while leopard hunting is quota-based, CITES-regulated, and extremely limited. Lions, elephants, and rhinos are not hunted in this area due to strict conservation policies near Kruger. Hunting Seasons in Sabi Sand The dry season, from May through October, is optimal: May to July: Best for buffalo, kudu, and leopard tracking. August to September: Bush opens up, and waterhole hunts become more productive. October: Hot, but active—especially near rivers. The rainy season (November to March) is less favorable due to heat, thick vegetation, and unpredictable game patterns. Hunting Organizations and Clubs Outfitters in the region are vetted and operate under permits from Mpumalanga or Limpopo provincial authorities. Leopard hunts require special CITES import/export documentation. Community-based operations must meet conservation compliance and social benefit guidelines. All hunts must be guided by licensed Professional Hunters (PHs), especially for dangerous game. Hunting Regulations in Sabi Sand Minimum caliber for buffalo: .375 H&H or equivalent. Leopard: Requires 14-day minimum safari, government-issued quota tag, and CITES permit. Night hunting: Allowed for certain species with a provincial permit. Legal hunting areas: Must be outside the Sabi Sand boundary and authorized by the landowner or leaseholder. Law enforcement: Strict; illegal hunting or poaching is prosecuted without leniency. Hunting Traditions This region reflects the "Greater Kruger ethic"—a deep respect for wilderness, skill-based hunting, and ecological integrity. Most outfitters focus on low-impact hunts, mature animals, and sustainability. The tradition emphasizes tracking, patience, and a quiet presence in the bush. In some community-based camps, local guides and trackers bring indigenous knowledge into the hunt. Interesting Facts Despite its prestige, no hunting is allowed inside the Sabi Sand reserve itself. The buffalo populations in surrounding concessions are genetically linked to Kruger’s massive herds. Leopard hunts, when legal, occur in wild settings with no bait-and-switch setups—success relies entirely on real tracking. Sabie River Edge Safaris is known for producing exceptional nyala and kudu trophies in true wilderness conditions. It's not uncommon to hear lion roars at night, even though lions are fully protected in this zone.