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Luxury Lodges » Timbavati Nature Reserve

Timbavati Game Reserve


Timbavati Nature Reserve - an unfenced, lush wildlife sanctuary orbited by the famous Sabi Sands and Kruger National Parks, this 53 392 hectare nature reserve was established in 1956. Completed in a colonial motif reminiscent of the extensive history of exploration and adventure associated with the area, this luxury reserve is home to seven unique safari lodges. Possessed of an authentic safari character,

Timbavati is considered by many to be South Africa’s premier game viewing area - with its indigenous group of specially introduced white lions, and a yearly rainfall of around 500 mm, both the area and the wildlife on offer are of unrivaled beauty. It is actually home to over forty unique mammalian species, complemented by a throng of more than 360 bird types, ensuring that any trip out into the surrounding bush will be met with a wealth of interesting sights and sounds. With eco friendly accommodation, authentic decor and an emphasis on hospitality, Timbavati Game Reserve is the full safari package with great Luxury Game Lodges.

Lodges within Timbavati Reserve


Motswari Game Reserve - Timbavati Game Reserve's round walled luxury reserve lives up to the translation of its name from the Tswana, "to preserve and to protect". This 15 000 hectare reserve is famous for its eventful, animal friendly bush walks and safari drives, in an environment where even the casual observer is treated to regular sightings of all the local fauna. From evening meals through safari sundowners, tailored safaris, and personalised service at every turn, your experience at Motswari will be unforgettable.

Gomo Gomo Game Lodge stands at 6 000 hectares in size, laying claim to a slew of enthusiastic reviews by guests. This lodge offers a subdued impression of the park, while still maintaining its wild edge - lodging is comfortable, luxurious and personalised, while trips out into the surrounds often take unique directions as rangers endeavour to find the animals requested by guests. With wildlife in great abundance, the landscape a backdrop to your evenings, Gomo Gomo Game Lodge is a safari dream come true.

Timbavati's Kings Camp's lodge staff, rangers and trackers make sure guests feel welcome and pampered for the duration of their stay. Animal spotting is made easy with a local watering hole situated just opposite the lodge swimming pool. Recalling the opulence and style of the area's colonial past, Kings camp is a wonderful five star venue. Fantastic cuisine is complemented by ambitious game drives, warm, rich decor is framed by striking vegetation, and the general atmosphere is one of an exuberant adventure.

Tanda Tula Safari Camp flanks the Nlharalumi river, one of Timbavati Nature Reserve's most attractive water courses. The bushcamp itself is decorated in an East African-style, with herds of elephant wandering across from the tented bushcamp. Bush camps are given an extra edge in that guests and their guides have the option of going "off road", in order to track down and view specific groups of animals. The entire area is domed by a leafy canopy of trees, home to the monkeys that inhabit this beautiful, serene area.

Kambaku Safari Lodge management endeavour, from the moment they greet guests at the door, to make everyone feel like part of the family. This courtesy extends to game drives, dinners, and near every aspect of day to day life at this cozy little lodge - Kambaku goes all out to be a home to its guests during their stay. This recently renovated lodge sports comfortable living and guest areas.


Simbavati River Lodge bares all the hallmarks of a classic, memorable safari camping venue, with a team of friendly and knowledgeable staff, access to a huge variety of large and small game on drives, fine cuisine, soothing views, and the crisp, bushveld air of the Timbavati. Accompanied by seasoned safari professionals with a keen eye and a taste for tall tales of adventure and discovery, it's not hard to get excited about a Simbavati safari.

Established over two decades ago, the diminutive Umlani Bushcamp is characterised by its pleasant atmosphere and romantic locale. Home to impressive and colourful bird populations, the flash of leopards disappearing into the surrounding bush, and gorgeous dusk-time conversations around a fire, while the park settles in for the night all around you. A guest favourite is the opportunity to spot wildlife from the vantage point of your own tree house, with the aid of a spotlight at night.

Shindzela Tented Safari Camp is a rugged, all adventure bush camp that deals away with the added extras, and pulls you into a genuine African bush story. From canvas tents on impressive stilts to the hands on experience of animal tracking under the guide of armed and trained safari field specialists, whether eating a warm meal together as the sun sets or waking up early for the delightful bush walk, Shindzela is a fantastic, no nonsense safari.