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Motswari Private Game Reserve
Motswari Private Game Reserve, situated within the Timbavati and Umbabat Private Nature Reserves, spans 18,000 hectares. This reserve, whose name means “to conserve and protect” in Tswana, provides exceptional viewing opportunities of majestic wildlife, including the Big Five, in their natural habitat.
The Main Camp features 15 bungalows, each decorated in a style that captures the vibrant essence of South Africa while maintaining a refined, elegant atmosphere. These bungalows, set amidst the bushveld, provide a private retreat where you can unwind in comfort. At night, rangers will escort you to your room, offering both safety and a deeper connection to the environment.
As a family-owned and operated luxury safari lodge with over forty years of history, Motswari is renowned for its personal touch and warm hospitality. During your stay, you’ll enjoy a range of amenities, including a refreshing swimming pool with views of the Sohobele River, two relaxed bars, and the option to indulge in in-room massages. The lodge also offers a laundry service for your convenience. Meals are a highlight, with each one crafted to celebrate the flavors of traditional South African cuisine, turning every dining experience into a special occasion.
For those eager to explore, the reserve offers thrilling game drives led by knowledgeable guides who will introduce you to the region’s rich wildlife, including the iconic Big Five. If you prefer a more intimate encounter with nature, guided safari walks are available, offering a chance to learn about the smaller creatures and plants that are often overlooked on drives. These walks also provide insights into local traditions and survival skills, enriching your understanding of the African wilderness.
Whether you’re exploring the Timbavati and Umbabat Nature Reserves, venturing into the Greater Kruger National Park, or simply relaxing at the lodge, Motswari Private Game Reserve promises an unforgettable African adventure.
Wildlife:
- High concentration of Big 5 with large herds of elephant and buffalo, as well as large lion prides.
- Other wildlife include but are not limited to the hippopotamus, giraffe, zebra, cheetah, African wild dog, hyaena, warthog and many other cat and antelope species.
- Large antelope herds support the populations of predators in the reserve.
- Over 500 bird species have been recorded in the region. Many can be seen in the reserve.
Game Drives:
- Game drives take place twice a day in the early mornings and afternoons for a duration of 3-4 hours.
- Game drives are led by an experienced guide and tracker team.
- Vehicles are allowed to go off road to track and follow the wildlife.
- Strict traverse rules are in place and vehicle numbers are limited in each reserve. A maximum of two vehicles are allowed at any sighting.
- Night drives and guided bushwalks are permitted.
Activities & Facilities:
- Game drives
- Guided bushwalks
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Giraffe Nest sleepout
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
- Open-air African Boma
- Spa treatments
- Viewing deck
- Bar & lounge
- Library
- Art gallery
Highlights:
- A family-owned and operated luxury safari lodge.
- Over forty years of history, Motswari is renowned for its personal touch and warm hospitality.
- Accommodation is offered in 15 stylish Bungalows.
- Inter-leading Bungalows are perfect for families.
- Swimming pool surrounded by lush vegetation overlooks the Sohobele River.
- Two bars complement the relaxed atmosphere of the dining area.
- Evenings are spent dining in the bush or in the open-air traditional African Boma under the stars.
- The Giraffe’s Nest Hide offers a unique sleep out experience in the reserve.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives with game rangers and trackers.
Getting there:
- Hoedspruit (HDS) is the closet commercial airport to the Motswari Game Reserve, daily flights operate from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit or private airstrip: 60 minutes.
- Flight time from Cape Town to Hoedspruit: 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Road transfers from Hoedspruit to Motswari takes 90 minutes.
Location:
- Located within the Timbavati and Umbabat Private Nature Reserve, this area further lies in the western region of the Greater Kruger and borders the Kruger National Park, Klaserie Game Reserve, Thornybush Game Reserve.
- The Kruger National Park is almost 2 million hectares and lies in the north-eastern corner of South Africa in the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces.
Special offers:
- Enjoy 10% off your accommodation for stays of 3 nights or more.
- Special offers valid all year round.
Child Policy:
- Motswari welcomes children from 6 years.
- Children under 6 years cannot participate on the game drives unless a private vehicle is hired.
- 2 children in an inter-leading room pay the single occupant rate.
- Children 6 – 11 years pay 50% of adult rate when sharing a room with 2 adults.
- Children under 16 years are not permitted on the bushwalks.
- Children under 18 are not permitted at Giraffes Nest.
Inclusions & Exclusions:
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, guided bush walks, all meals, soft drinks, selected alcoholic beverages, and private airstrip transfers.
- Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, commercial airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Rates:
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 50% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 30 November 2025.
Seasons:
- Peak season: 01 December – 01 April
- High season: 01 July – 30 November
- Low season: 01 May – 30 June
Accommodation Options
Bungalow
Sleeps 2 Adults
Fifteen bungalows boast traditional decor with neutral tones and classic elegance. Each bungalow is in a secluded position and features en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning and a range of luxury amenities.
Refer to T&C's above
Peak R 9,720 per person, per night
High R 9,000 per person, per night
Low R 6,525 per person, per night
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