Simbavati Hilltop Lodge has one of the finest settings in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, an unfenced but private part of the Kruger Park. It’s perched on the hillside with wide-angle views over the bush and views to the distant mountains of the Drakensberg escarpment. Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers an exclusive, authentic, and unforgettable African safari experience.
Savor magnificent views of the bushveld, the Nhlaralumi River, and the distant foothills of the Drakensberg Mountain Range from the comfort of the lodge.
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge boasts eight individual Luxury Tents that are positioned to offer guests privacy. Each suite comprises two individual tents: one featuring the main bedroom and the other a separate bathroom. These two tents are linked by a passage that can be opened up on one side, allowing for an indoor or private outdoor shower experience.
The lodge facilities include: - A lounge with a selection of books and board games - A curio shop - A dining area and bar - A covered pool lounge - A game-viewing deck overlooking the river - Wi-Fi connectivity in the reception, lounge, and deck areas - An infinity pool with stunning views of the bushveld and the Drakensberg Mountains.
Currently, over 40 mammal species reside in the Timbavati, including the Big 5—Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo, and Elephant—as well as endangered species such as Wild Dogs and Cheetahs. The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is one of the few places in the world where you have the opportunity to see the unique white lion in its natural environment. Additionally, the reserve is home to an abundance of birdlife, with a total of 360 species recorded.
Enjoy early morning and late afternoon game drives conducted in open 4x4 safari vehicles and led by professional rangers.
For the more adventurous traveler, bush walks can be arranged prior to arrival. These walks are an excellent way to discover the smaller, wondrous creatures of the bush and to learn more about the fauna and flora.
Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is ideal for solo explorers, couples, and families looking for an authentic tented safari experience.
May 26, 2025
Responsive, Customized Trip
Mel was great, understood exactly what we were looking for and helped customize our trip. Very responsive to questions.
May 22, 2025
Mel has been exceptional in helping us…
Mel has been exceptional in helping us book our trip to South Africa. She gave me insight about what to do and where to go and put up with my 1000 changes to the trip. I highly recommend working with her and I cannot wait to make it to the actual trip. Im so excited!
May 21, 2025
Mel was fantastic but do your research!
Mel from Safari.com went above and beyond to ensure that our entire trip went smoothly. We visited both South Africa and Zimbabwe. We had a few hiccups along the way, as we were initially assigned another agent (who no longer works there) and unfortunately gave us high expectations and promises that weren’t fulfilled. She promised us a Ngala / Sabi safari type of experience in South Africa but booked us a lodge called Kusudalweni (which was no where near that type of experience! The service, food, location, and planned activities were all beyond disappointing. Would definitely avoid this place!!). Mel was not familiar with this lodge and unfortunately just followed along the previous agent. Mel tried her best to arrange another lodge and offer us other game drives but unfortunately the lodge was extremely difficult to deal with. Although, she organised the lodge in Zimbabwe and that was incredible! She was extremely responsive throughout our entire trip and ensured to contact our hotels, guides, etc. anytime we had a problem, it was such a relief to not have to worry about any of the hassle while we were there. My biggest recommendation is making sure to do your research about the lodges / hotels that are offered and see if they align with the type of “luxury” experience you are expecting. Mel was definitely great at ensuring we knew exactly what we were getting and I would definitely recommend requesting her specifically. Mel deserves a 5 star rating but unfortunately, due to the issues we had with the previous agent at this company, I had to give it an overall 4 star review.