Sabi River Sun Resort

We were really looking forward to our stay, having visited just over a year ago and thoroughly enjoyed it then. Unfortunately, this visit was bitterly disappointing and fell far short of the standards we expected from a Southern Sun Resort. The room maintenance was clearly neglected. The shower water fluctuated from freezing cold to boiling hot, making it impossible to enjoy a comfortable shower. We did report the shower issue, however, nothing was done about it. The fridge was not working, the air conditioner was faulty, and the utility plug at the desk was loose and coming out of the desk. What has happened to basic maintenance checks before guests arrive? Although maintenance staff came to fix the fridge and plug when we called, this should have been done prior to our arrival — we should not have to spend our holiday time waiting for repairs. To make matters worse, there were cockroaches in my daughter’s room, which is completely unacceptable. Our first dinner was also disappointing. We were told we had to pay cash for drinks as the resort no longer allows charges to be billed to the room due to some guests not settling their accounts. Surely taking credit card details at check-in and settling outstanding amounts on check-out is standard practice at reputable resorts? On Friday evening, chaos ensued at dinner. A matric dance was being held in the courtyard next to the restaurant, and when we arrived, we were told there were no tables available and had to wait in the bar. When I asked the manager why we weren’t informed to book a table, he simply said it was “first come, first served.” After about 15 minutes we were finally seated, but just as we sat down, the matric guests descended on the buffet. The restaurant was swamped, queues stretched through the entire space, and it was nearly impossible to get food. There was very little left of the main dishes, and the dessert station was completely empty. It was obvious that the kitchen had severely underestimated the amount of food required to cater for both regular guests and the large matric group. The experience was extremely unpleasant and poorly managed. What was once a relaxing and enjoyable destination has clearly deteriorated. From poor maintenance and hygiene to disorganized dining and questionable management decisions, this visit was far below expectations. We left feeling disappointed and frustrated On the positive side, the staff were still great — friendly, helpful, and doing their best to accommodate us despite the circumstances. It would seem, however, that management is the real problem and no longer prioritizes guest satisfaction. This resort also hosts numerous overseas tour groups, and I can only imagine what a disappointing impression this must leave on international visitors. Sadly, our recent experience has made us question whether we would return. This is not what we expect from a Southern Sun Resort.

Not the first time at the Resort, but this time we rented one of their Time Share Bungalows. Sleeps 4 in 2 rooms, plus a Mezzanine level with two beds (mainly for children), and 2 bathrooms. We stayed in one on the far side of the hippo pond. It was a great spot, quiet, and excellent accommodation. Interior felt like it had been recently upgraded and decorated. We stayed for 1 week and went into Kruger 3 times via the Phabeni and Kruger gates. Phabeni is only about 20 minutes from the hotel, so quick access into Kruger Park. 18 hole golf course is available for the golfers (though I did not use it this time). Would also recommend booking for the Bird Walk if you have a chance. I would also recommend a trip to Graskop Gorge and God's Window. Close enough for something different! Wonderful, relaxing and a great way to spend a week!

Only draw-back was the noise factor. Grounds/golf course maintenance starts at 5:30 a.m. and the birds start earlier.

Our room was not ready on time and we had to wait to be able to check in. The room itself was very dated and very small. There was an old-fashioned timber cupboard which looked completely out of place in the room . Our bathroom smelt of sewage the whole time. Unlike other places we have stayed in Africa, the staff did not seem to be happy. The bar staff did not appear to be well trained. The dinner buffet was definitely 2 out of 10 none of our group enjoyed their meals all the options available. The breakfast buffet had plenty of choices but the hot breakfast items were barely warm. They do not offer a shuttle service into town and it is quite a distance from town so you would need to be happy to spend any spare time at the resort if you stayed here . On the plus side, the grounds were nice the monkeys entertaining and the swimming pool area quite comfortable. The health spa there offers good service with reasonable prices.

An above-average resort located between the Kruger airport and Kruger NP. Fields of bananas and macadamia trees line these highways. The resort has a par-71 golf course, tennis courts, bowling greens, and other activities. You may spot hippos at the far end of the course around dusk. Numerous bars and a restaurant give the resort that holiday feel. An enjoyable base from which to access the many daily safaris into KNP.