10 hotels in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve: Best hotel deals for 2023

Simbavati River Lodge is situated in the northern sector of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, and surrounded by 12 000 hectares of wildlife and rich wilderness in which you can experience an authentic and affordable African safari. The design of this family friendly intimate lodge is contemporary, warm and welcoming. Guest common areas offer a generously proportioned lounge, bar, boma and extensive decks with breathtaking views overlooking the Nhlaralumi river where regular wildlife sightings take place and guests can unwind. Accommodation consists of eight luxury tents and three chalets, all are privately situated, comfortably furnished and with en-suite facilities.

An African dream beckons – one that is defined by extraordinary scenery, an authentic atmosphere and warm hospitality. This is Motswari Private Game Reserve, a family-owned and operated luxury safari lodge. Here, majestic creatures, including the Big Five, offer incredible viewing opportunities as they bask in their natural habitat. Motswari means “to conserve and protect” in Tswana and that is what the reserve aims to do. Motswari Private Game Reserve, located within the Timbavati and Umbabat Private Nature Reserve, stretches out over 150 square kilometres. It has been in existence for over four decades and its friendly staff members are intrinsic to its success. Great emphasis is placed on personal attention, ensuring that each guest instantly feels at home in this stunning setting. Artworks by owner, Marion Geiger-Orengo, additionally bring the lodge to life and add to its visual appeal. "Arrive as visitor, leave as a friend."

Shindzela, named after the honey badger in the Shangaan language, is an unfenced tented camp within the world-renowned Timbavati Private Game Reserve forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. Our safari style tents are situated under thatch (grass roof) structures and can be made up in either twin or double-bedded accommodation. Enjoy your morning coffee on your wooden deck or freshen up in your semi open en-suite bathroom (shower, W.C. and hand-basin) We strive to offer an affordable wildlife safari during which you can explore the African wilderness on game drives in open 4x4 vehicles (don’t forget your sunscreen) and/or on foot during a walking safari. Our safari activities are conducted by professional, knowledgeable and fully qualified guides. The camp can accommodate a maximum of 16 guests in total, (8 safari tents) where you will be treated with our warm South African hospitality, a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy and soak up the true African wilderness

The small, intimate Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp is situated within the world-renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park. Here you can relax under canopies of canvas and enjoy views of the dam below your feet, the bushveld beyond and the Drakensberg mountain range on the horizon. Accommodating only 8 guests in 4 luxury safari-style tents, Thabamati offers a timeless safari feel with some modern elegance. Each Java safari-style tent lies next to the dam and has a view of the water. The tents comprise a writing desk, seating area, bedroom, en-suite bathroom with a wooden closet, WC, bath and an inside and outside shower. Amenities with the scents of Africa are provided for your enjoyment. Entering the main area at Thabamati, you will find a spacious open-plan reception and lounge area designed with nature in mind. The camp’s main area comprises an infinity pool, viewing deck with seating areas, sunken boma, library corner, curio shop, bar, lounge and dining area.

Machaton Private Camp is an intimate and sole-use, exclusive camp offering a secluded and private safari experience. Next, to owning a private safari lodge, there is no more private way to enjoy a safari in the Timbavati. The camp consists of a main building which features a lounge, kitchen and covered verandah, as well as 3 individual luxury suites.

Kambaku Safari Lodge is nestled in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which can be found within the world renowned Greater Kruger National Park.The camp is well situated in this unspoilt natural wilderness area, home to an astonishing array of animals including the Big 5. Kambaku provides the ultimate escape from busy schedules, with eight well appointed thatched chalets overlooking our own private waterhole.Attracting guests from around the world, Kambaku offers superior standards in all of our facilities yet always maintaining a high level of environmental consciousness. Our dedicated staff will cater to the individual needs of our guests making for a truly memorable stay. With scrumptious bush cuisine in a relaxed, rustic setting our guests can truly unwind and immerse themselves in the restorative powers of nature.

Kambaku River Sands is an unfenced camp perfectly situated on the banks of a dry river bed allowing animals to roam freely around and through the camp. The suites are set spaciously apart, allowing for secluded views of the unspoiled bush. The main lodge has a spacious lounge with two enormous open fireplaces, a pool and bar overlooking the waterhole, and well stocked wine cellar. This more exclusive lodge offer a bush spa and gym, spa baths and outdoor showers. Come and experience classic luxury in a pristine setting…with traditional Kambaku style and hospitality.

Umlani Bushcamp, a rustic yet exclusive lodge, accommodates guests in cozy en-suite reed and thatch rondavels. Early morning and evening game drives are in open four wheel drive vehicles accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers offers exceptional game viewing opportunitys. Umlani makes the whole event personalized and specializes in escorted walks into this unspoiled wilderness. Umlani, meaning Place of Rest, was established in 1990 by Marco and Marie-Louise Schiess, in the central section of the Timbavati Nature Reserve, which is part of the greater Kruger National Park. Umlani is the perfect nature lovers choice.