Timbavati Private
Game Reserve
Nestled in the western expanse of the Greater Kruger region, the Timbavati Private Game Reserve is a sprawling wilderness that shares its boundaries with the Kruger National Park, Klaserie, Umbabat, and Thornybush Game Reserves. Encompassing an impressive 54,300 hectares, its fencless border facilitates the unhindered movement of wildlife between itself and its neighboring reserves.
Situated within the Mpumalanga Province, the name “Timbavati” holds a deep significance in Xitsonga culture, translating to “the place where something sacred descended from the heavens.” This name pays homage to the legendary white lions that once roamed its lands. Home to an extraordinary biodiversity, Timbavati boasts over 40 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five, as well as 360 species of birds and 79 varieties of reptiles. The landscape is adorned with 85 species of trees, while numerous rivers and waterholes provide vital sustenance for the diverse array of wildlife that call this reserve home.
Timbavati is celebrated for its exceptional collection of luxury lodges. From exclusive adult-only retreats exuding an intimate ambiance to family-friendly lodges catering to all ages. With limited lodges and strict occupancy regulations, visitors enjoy uncrowded safari experiences. A variety of activities are offered in the Timbavati Game reserve, ranging from exciting off-road game drives and captivating night drives to walking safaris led by experienced guides. Additionally, guests can indulge in open-air dining experiences under the starlit African sky as well as an abundance of other enchanting experiences.
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.
Highlights
- 54 300 hectares in size.
- No fences which allows free movement of wildlife between the reserves.
- Nhlaralumio river is a prominent landmark, which spreads out over the reserve.
- Renowned for sightings of leopards and the wild African dog.
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Home to some of the counties best luxury lodges offering a diverse range of adult only and family options.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives with game rangers and trackers.
Getting There
- There are several private airstrips in Timbavati Game Reserve, two daily chartered flights from Johannesburg are operated by Federal Airlines.
- Hoedspruit (HDS) is the closet commercial airport to the Timbavati, 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 Skukuza: 2 hours 30 minutes.
- Road transfers from Hoedspruit to Timbavati take 30 – 120 minutes lodge depending.
Location
- Located in the western region of the Greater Kruger and borders the Kruger National Park, Klaserie Game Reserve, Umbabat Game Reserve and 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 a free night at select safari lodges during exclusive ‘Pay Stay’ periods.
- Celebrate your honeymoon in style with bespoke packages at select lodges.
Discover Safari Lodges
In Timbavati Game Reserve
Tanda Tula Safari Camp
Ages 6 years and older
&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge
All ages are welcome
&Beyond Ngala Tented Camp
Ages 12 years and older
Makanyi Private Game Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Kambaku Safari Lodge
All ages are welcome
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Kambuka River Sands Lodge
Ages 12 years and older
Simbavati River Lodge
All ages are welcome
Motswari Main Lodge
All ages are welcome
Simbavati River Sands
All ages are welcome
Safari Experts at Your Service
Guiding you to Africa’s finest lodges, wildlife encounters, and private safari experiences. Every journey is tailored, seamless, and unforgettable.
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