If you are heading to Lower Sabie Rest Camp soon, plan your meals a little differently. The Mugg & Bean restaurant on the river deck has permanently closed, and the space is being renovated for a new restaurant. While the work is underway, you are not left without food: the new Sabie River Café is already serving guests from a temporary setup in the camp.
What Is Open Right Now
Sabie River Café (temporary setup)
- Where: Lower Sabie Rest Camp, Kruger National Park
- Hours: open daily, 07:00 to 20:00
- On the menu: coffee, fresh sandwiches, wraps and salads, burgers, hearty meals, and food cooked over an open flame
- Updates: @sabierivercafe on Instagram
The café describes itself as "a relaxed new stop in the Kruger" and says it is working "towards something even more special" while the renovations continue. In other words: for now you are eating at the temporary setup, while the new restaurant is being completed.
How It Affects Your Day
Early game drives. Kruger gates usually open long before 07:00 (see gate times). If you want to be out at first light, the café will not be open yet. Make your coffee and a quick breakfast in your unit, or pack something for the road and stop at a picnic site mid-morning.
Lunch between drives. This is where the café's quick options shine: sandwiches, wraps and salads are quick to grab before you head out again.
Dinner. With service until 20:00, you can return from your afternoon drive before the camp gate closes and still get a hot meal. On busy holiday evenings, go a little earlier rather than right before closing.
Braai as a backup. Lower Sabie is a classic self-catering camp. If you prefer to cook, bring supplies and plan a braai at your unit. Our fuel, shops and camp logistics guide has tips on stocking up.
What We Do Not Know Yet
There is no confirmed opening date for the new restaurant yet. Before your trip, check the café's Instagram page or ask at Lower Sabie reception for the latest status. We will update this article when the new restaurant opens.
Planning a Stay at Lower Sabie?
Lower Sabie is still one of the best bases in the south, with river views and excellent game viewing on the H4-1 and around Sunset Dam. Read more:
- Lower Sabie camp guide and community ratings
- A day between Lower Sabie and Crocodile Bridge
- Compare Lower Sabie with other camps
Stayed at Lower Sabie recently? Rate the camp, including the restaurant, so other travellers know what to expect.