Luxury Lodges · Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
Simbavati River Lodge
Overview
Simbavati River Lodge, set along the Nhlaralumi River in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, offers an intimate and immersive safari experience in the Greater Kruger Park.
One of its standout features is the waterhole below the dining deck, a constant draw for elephants and other wildlife, allowing guests to enjoy remarkable game viewing without leaving the lodge. The lodge blends traditional safari charm with modern elegance, featuring open-air lounge and dining areas that seamlessly connect with the surrounding bush.
Accommodation options cater to different travelers, from luxury tented suites and thatched chalets to spacious family chalets. Guests can enjoy twice-daily game drives with expert guides, offering exceptional Big Five sightings, especially leopards and wild dogs, as well as off-road tracking for closer encounters. For a deeper connection to nature, guided bush walks highlight the smaller details of the ecosystem.
Beyond game viewing, the lodge provides a well-equipped fitness center, a safari spa for relaxation, and a Cubs Club for children. Whether watching wildlife from the deck, indulging in a spa treatment, or exploring the bush, Simbavati River Lodge delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure, comfort, and warm hospitality in the heart of the African wilderness.
Children of all ages welcome. Children 6 years and over are permitted on gamedrives.
Suites & Rates
Choose how you stay
2-bedroom Family Chalets
There are three family chalets. Each has a main bedroom with a king-sized bed, the second bedroom with twin beds, and one bathroom with a bath and double indoor rain shower. the shared bathroom...
Luxury Safari Tent with Pool
Six luxury safari tents have a king-sized bed (or twin) and a beautiful game-viewing deck with either a river or bush view and a private plunge pool. There’s a spacious ensuite bathroom and dressing...
Tented Pool Suite
Our Tented Pool Suite is in a more secluded location. They have a king-sized bed (or twin) and a beautiful game viewing deck with a private plunge pool. There’s a spacious ensuite bathroom and...
Details
Good to know
Accommodation & amenities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, Fan, Hairdryer, Hand Towels, Heater, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Telephone, Wardrobe
Languages spoken
English
Ideal for
Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
On-site activities
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, High Tea, Natural History Tours, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided), Wildlife Tours
Services
24-hour Security, Airport Shuttle (Available), Airport Shuttle (Complimentary), Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available)
Nearby activities
Big 5, Bird Watching, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, General Sightseeing, Hiking, Historical Tours, Safaris, Wildlife Tours
Property facilities
Accept Credit Cards, Air conditioner, Baby Sitting, Bar, Business Centre, Children Friendly, Children Play Area, Eco Friendly, Gym / Fitness Centre, Gym on property, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service, Library, Licensed, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa, Vegetarian
Location
Where you'll be
Video
See the stay
Activities
What you can do
Game Viewing
Game drives take place in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are naturally most active. Key to the experience are your English-speaking local guide, working with a tracker from the local Shangaan community. This duo pool their knowledge, experience and fresh observations to maximise your wildlife sightings, not only in terms of how much you see, but also make it informative and fun. Your guide is often a keen photographer and will be conscious and considerate if your mission is to capture sightings on camera.Your mode of transport, is an open-sided 4×4 game vehicle with 3 rows of comfortable bucket seats in tiers. You generally head out with a maximum of 8 guests. This offers safe, yet close wildlife encounters. Guests sit up high for the best ‘spotting’ of birds and animals. There are no sides to inhibit your views and you naturally feel more in tune with nature. In the summer month, a shade top is added to protect against the African sun, but in winter it is open to the skies for the best bird-viewing and for stargazing.
Ready to plan your stay?
Tell us your dates and we'll handle the rest — flights, transfers and the lodge itself.
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