Discover a world of adventure and natural beauty with many things to do in Sabie.
Nestled in the picturesque Drakensberg escarpment, this guide unveils the finest offerings of this charming small town. From captivating waterfalls to enchanting caves, Sabie presents an array of experiences waiting to be explored.
If Sabie was but a passing mention until today, let it now emerge as your potential holiday haven, promising outdoor wonders and captivating attractions to create lasting memories.
Also read: 10 Top Resorts in Nelspruit for 2023
1. Forest Falls, Sabie
Step into the serene woods along the Panorama Route and reach Forest Falls.
Be sure to inhale the pure air and feel the gentle breeze of this charming waterfall tucked just 18 km from Sabie en route to Graskop, at the heart of this province.
Forest Falls is a hidden gem, reachable only on foot, a scenic circular path spanning 7 km. Traverse South Africa’s timber-rich woods while marvelling at diverse trees and birds. The falls captivate your vision as water cascades elegantly.
If you’re in the mood, dip in the pool or find solace on the banks. Nearby Mac Mac Falls complements the journey. The picnic area boasts lavatory facilities, and you need a R20 hiking permit from Forestry Museum.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm
Address: Main Rd, Sabie
Contact: 013 590 5452
2. Komatiland Forestry Museum
Nestled near Sabie Motors, the Komatiland Forest Industry Museum beckons as a self-guided journey awaits.
Discover South Africa’s forestry past through the many prominent exhibits, illustrating technology’s role in its evolution.
This museum is a fountain of forestry industry wisdom, revealing the sector’s growth.
Its vintage treasures reveal wooden shoes, a relic from an Anglo-Boer prisoner on St Helena, and a century-old handcrafted Irish clothes peg. Witness the oldest South African frame saw, a testament to time.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm; Saturday, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm; Sunday, Closed
Address: 10th &, 7th Ave, Sabie
Contact: 013 764 1058
3. Kestell Adventures
Embark on exhilarating adventures with Kestell Adventures, where excitement and nature converge within South Africa’s forestry.
Delve into canyoning, tubing, abseiling, and caving, exploring the heart of Mac-Mac Canyon’s hidden gems. Feel the adrenaline rush through your body as you plunge into rock pools, navigating pristine waterfalls.
Conquer fears by abseiling down Sabie Falls, water gently caressing your face. Take some time to discover Sabie’s mysterious caves, with candles lighting your way through the muddy tunnels and vast chambers (be prepared with a muddy excursion).
Or opt for a forest cruise with a 4×4 vehicle, revealing breathtaking views of the lush landscape.
Tube along the Sabie River’s exhilarating rapids, engaging in a unique face-to-river journey.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:00 am – 5:00pm
Address: C/O Louis Trichardt Street & R536, Wild Fig Tree Centre, Sabie
Contact: 072 351 5553
4. Sabie Valley Coffee
Take a glorious whiff within the brewing haven, Sabie Valley Coffee, a family coffee business based 35 minutes from Sabie.
Tucked away in the misty mountains of Sabie Valley, this shop produces unique caffeine.
Initially growers in Hazyview, the owners decided to grow coffee themselves. The homemade roaster became the foundation, ensuring every roast was perfect.
The magic of their flavourful cups lies in the roasting – a technique honed over many years. Four roasts, from subtle to lively, cater to all tastes. But Sabie Valley Coffee overs more than beans. Their espresso bar is a haven for coffee lovers, accompanied by homemade treats.
Explore our gift shop, filled with coffee wonders. Barista training and coffee tours ensure they share their passion for coffee production with all who enter.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm; Saturday, 9:00 am – 3:00 pm; Sunday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Address: B1, Casterbridge Lifestyle Centre, White River
Contact: 013 737 8169
5. Alpha Omega Cave
Step into the enchanting setting of The Alpha Omega Cave, a 2-hour drive from Sabie.
Created by visionary artist Ron van Zyl, immerse yourself in his spiritual inspiration.
The artist meticulously crafted 7 underground chambers, each a canvas for his divine vision. The passionate creator poured 3 years into every meticulous detail, bringing to life a sacred narrative on the cave walls.
The cave was completed in 1999 and has attracted many visitors since. These mesmerising tours unfold over an hour, Guided by Ron and his children, Michell and Aldo, unveiling every sculpture’s essence and spiritual significance. The cave’s revelations birthed books, paintings, and wood carvings, a testament to Ron’s spiritual enlightenment.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 9:30 am – 3:30 pm; Saturday – Sunday, 9:30 am – 3:00 pm
Address: R36 Mainroad, 1122 Ohrigstad Settement, Mpumalanga
Contact: 013 238 0304
6. Echo Caves
Discover the captivating wonder of Echo Caves, located a 1 hour 31 minute drive from Sabie.
This underground adventure was unveiled in 1959 and is now a National Monument. With guided tours, accommodation, and more, immerse yourself in its enchantment.
Wander through the well-lit walkways, and gaze upon the breathtaking stalactite and stalagmite formations.
Although visitors will be mesmerised, Echo Caves will not compromise your safety.
Marvel at limestone artistry, spotting various shapes along the walkways. Madonna Chamber boasts a stunning stalagmite-stalactite Madonna statue framed by flowstone walls resembling frozen waterfalls.
Journey to an ostrich-like rock and enter the Elephant Chamber with its elephantine formations. The Crocodile and Samson’s Chambers await, revealing nature’s artistic side.
The Echo Cave is a 1 hour 31 minute drive from Sabie.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm; Sunday, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm
Address: Echo Caves, Ohrigstad
Contact: 013 238 0015
7. Shangana Cultural Village
Explore the vibrant world of Shangana Village through captivating guided tours, an hour’s drive from Sabie.
Embark on a journey from the bustling market, venturing into the heart of a Zulu village. Welcoming families reveal their culture, inviting guests to partake in their traditions and way of life.
Discover their rich history, adorned in traditional Zulu attire and warrior armoury, while learning about their unique homes, farming, and healing practices. Nyani Village, a true Shangaan gem, offers an authentic encounter.
Almost completely cut away from modern living patterns, it echoes the Shangaan life of half a century ago. Hosted by Axon Khosa, a descendant of the last chief, witness daily routines mirroring ways of days gone by.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Address: R535 Graskop road, Hazyview
Contact: 013 759 5300
8. Kaapsehoop Scootours
Get ready for an exhilarating escapade on top of the picturesque Lowveld Escarpment. Kaapsehoop Scootours beckon with a heart-pounding 6 km downhill joyride on their Monster Mountain Scooters.
Ride through Battery Creek Gorge, and zip past meadows, plantations, forests, and rock formations strewn along the path. The thrill begins in Kaapsehoop village, riding a game viewer to the launching point on the hill summit. Be on the lookout for the wild horses that roam around the pathway.
Speed along the 6 km trail, descending nearly 400 metres, surrounded by nature’s marvels. Reach Battery Creek’s end-of-trail rock pool to cool off.
These Swiss-designed scooters conquer mountains, and every tour is guided. Kaapsehoop Scootours are perfect for year-end bashes, team-building sessions, and unforgettable birthday parties.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Address: 1 Landsberg Street, Kaapschehoop
Contact: 083 576 6541
9. Lowveld National Botanical Garden
Venture on a 46-minute journey from Sabie and uncover the serene charm of Lowveld National Botanical Garden. Nature flourishes here, where a blend of Mixed Lowveld Bushveld and Sour Lowveld Bushveld paints the landscape.
Amidst the garden, discover sprawling lawns adorned with native flora, a testament to the garden’s love for indigenous plants. A sanctuary for South African trees, it proudly hosts a third of Lowveld’s tree species. The shade-loving Durban grass spreads across the grounds with elegance.
Wander through themed gardens, from medicinal to riverside plants. A total of 261 bird species, including African Finfoot and Crested Francolin, grace the haven. Reptiles slither, and amphibians hop, from the spitting cobra to the elusive twig snake. Vervet monkeys, bush babies, and even hippopotami might appear.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday (September – March), 8:00 am – 6:00 pm; (April – August), 8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Address: Emnotweni Ave, Riverside park, Mbombela
Contact: 013 752 8880
10. Sudwala Caves (45 min drive from Sabie)
Gear up for an epic underground escape at Sudwala Caves, 45 minutes from Sabie.
Dive 2000m deep into the mysterious heart of these caves. The awe-inspiring crystal chamber is littered with a breathtaking display of sparkling aragonite crystals.
Prepare for the crystal tour, tailor-made for daredevils – an orchestrated escapade encompassing rock scrambles, water wades, and tunnel crawls. You’ll emerge wet, dirty, and spellbound by the crystal wonderland.
Even if you’re no acrobat, the guide’s got your back through tricky spots. Squeeze through tight spaces, crawl on your belly, but beware – it’s not for those with heart or claustrophobia issues.
Leave back or knee problems at the entrance, and if you’re over 115kg or under 14 years old, sorry, this isn’t for you. Be sure to bring your own torch (headlamps rule), take your old clothes for a ride, and wear grippy footwear.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Address: R539, Nelspruit, Lowveld Legogote, Mpumalanga
Contact: 013 302 0995
Also read:
