066 512 3093
info@siyezasafari.com
Sausage Tree is a luxury tented retreat offering an intimate and unforgettable safari experience. Located in the pristine Balule Nature Reserve, this exclusive camp is set amidst undulating hills, open plains, and riverine forests, with panoramic views stretching to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains.
At the centre of this untamed landscape flows the Olifants River, teeming year-round with wildlife. Hippos wallow in its deep pools, crocodiles bask on its sun-drenched banks, and over 500 bird species soar above—including rare sightings of the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. This vibrant ecosystem supports the Big 5, and sightings of lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo are frequent and exhilarating.
Each of the luxurious African-style safari tents is thoughtfully elevated for privacy and views, nestled between indigenous Marula, Knobthorn, Acacia, and Sausage Trees. These spacious tents feature en-suite bathrooms with elegant freestanding bathtubs, open-air showers under the stars, eco-friendly air conditioning (which doubles as heating in winter), and private viewing decks that open onto sweeping bushveld and mountain vistas.
This is ‘glamping’ at its finest—a perfect blend of luxury and authenticity where the sounds of nature lull you to sleep each night and awaken you with the rising sun.
The camp’s passionate and professional team deliver exceptional service with heartfelt hospitality. From Orlando and Pitso’s gourmet bush cuisine to the warm smiles and attention to detail of the front-of-house team, every moment is curated to make your stay deeply personal and memorable.
Game drives, led by highly skilled guides and trackers, go beyond just spotting wildlife—they share fascinating insights and conservation stories that bring the African bush to life. Morning and evening safaris reveal everything from stealthy predators to playful antelope, and no two drives are ever the same.
For those eager to explore more, Sausage Tree also offers private guided day trips to the world-renowned Kruger National Park, as well as excursions around Hoedspruit, a region known for its scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Begin and end each day immersed in the untamed beauty of the Balule Nature Reserve with expertly guided morning and afternoon game drives. Led by passionate and knowledgeable field guides and skilled Shangaan trackers, each drive is a deep dive into the wild rhythms of the African bush.
Your open 4×4 safari vehicle traverses diverse terrain—from dense riverine thickets to sweeping savanna plains—where the legendary Big Five (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion, and leopard) still roam free. Along the way, you’ll encounter a wealth of plains game including graceful giraffe, zebra, kudu, warthog, and impala, often just metres from your vehicle.
The reserve is also a birder’s paradise, with more than 300 species recorded. You might spot African fish eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, and even rare sightings like the Pel’s fishing owl. Every safari outing offers something new—whether it’s tracking fresh leopard spoor or witnessing an elephant herd quench its thirst at a waterhole under the golden African sun.
As the day fades, your evening drive reveals a different cast of wildlife—nocturnal predators, roaming hyenas, and the eerie calls of jackals and owls set the stage for thrilling night encounters. With each game drive, our guiding team offers insightful interpretations and fascinating bushveld stories that deepen your connection to this magical wilderness.
For an unforgettable wildlife experience, take time to explore the banks of the Olifants River, which winds through the Balule Nature Reserve all year round. This permanent water source attracts an abundance of iconic African wildlife, making it one of the best spots for relaxed and rewarding game viewing—especially in the early morning and late afternoon.
Keep your binoculars ready as you may witness hippos basking in the shallows, crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbanks, and elephants crossing through the water—all set against the stunning backdrop of the Northern Drakensberg Mountains.
This area is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. With over 300 bird species recorded in the region, patient observers may be lucky enough to spot the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl, a rare and highly sought-after bird that frequents riverine forests. Other avian highlights include African fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.
Pro Tip: Bring a good zoom lens or pair of quality binoculars to enhance your wildlife and birding experience, and don’t hesitate to ask your guide about river-specific behaviors or migratory species—local insights often lead to rare sightings!
