Simbavati River Lodge is situated along the Nhlaralumi River within the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park. One of its standout features is the popular waterhole located just below the dining deck, a favorite gathering spot for elephants. Between game drives, you can enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing right from the deck as animals come to the waterhole.
This lodge blends traditional safari charm with a modern, relaxed style in its décor, appealing to a wide range of guests. Accommodation options include both tented suites and chalets, making it ideal for couples, honeymooners, and families. The lodge offers a safari spa and a fully equipped fitness center, while the two-bedroom chalets and Cubs Club kids center are particularly favored by families.
As part of the Greater Kruger Park, the Timbavati Game Reserve provides outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the Big Five—especially leopards—and the chance to see wild dogs.
2 Tented Pool Suites
These suites feature a king bed (convertible to twins), an en suite bathroom with a shower, double vanity, and separate toilet, a dressing area with ample storage, a game-viewing deck, a plunge pool, and an outdoor shower.
6 Luxury Safari Tents
These tents offer a king bed (convertible to twins), an en suite bathroom with a shower, double vanity, and enclosed toilet, a dressing area with ample storage, a game-viewing deck, and an outdoor shower, with views of the riverbed or surrounding bush.
3-Bedroom Family Chalets
These chalets include a king bed (convertible to twins), twin beds in the second bedroom, one bathroom with a bath and double shower, a game-viewing deck, and views of the riverbed.
Game Drives
Morning and late afternoon game drives in Timbavati take advantage of the times when wildlife is most active. An English-speaking guide, together with a local Shangaan tracker, ensures that guests have an enriching and educational experience, maximizing wildlife sightings. Guides, often passionate photographers, are mindful of helping guests capture the perfect shot. The evening drive extends into dusk, giving a glimpse into the nocturnal life of the bush, with the possibility of spotting elusive nighttime predators with the aid of a spotlight.
Boma and Campfire Dining
Several nights a week, dinner is served in a traditional "boma," a circular enclosure reminiscent of early safari days, lit by lanterns and set under the stars. The campfire atmosphere adds an authentic touch to the dining experience.
Sundowners
A cherished part of any safari, sunset drinks are enjoyed at a scenic spot chosen by your guide, where guests can step out of the vehicle, stretch their legs, and savor a drink as the sun sets.
Spa and Wellness
The calm, unhurried hours between game drives offer the perfect opportunity to unwind with a spa treatment or simply relax with minimal distractions.
Time is luxury. We streamline your choices for the perfect safari.
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August 20, 2025
Booked 3 days trip to Victoria Falls
We just completed booking the 3days /2nights trip to Victoria Falls through Safari.com and with the great help from Mel Du Toit. Mel gave us great suggestions on accommodations and places of interests in the area and helped us with detail requirements of the booking process, she answered all our questions promptly and with great details. We cannot thank her enough for all the help. Thank you Safari.com and Mel Du Toit !!!
August 20, 2025
Please book with Mel, she is absolutely Great…
Mel was very helpful in my booking process, and now I understand why they have such high recommendations and stars. Mel provided me a customized itinerary right away for Rwanda. Very quick to respond and answer all questions in detail and reachable by email or Whatsapp. The email to book provided me detailed steps and even offered insurance options, which was greatly appreciated.
August 20, 2025
Very pleasant booking experience
Mel Du Toit, the agent we have been dealing with, is very efficient and attentive to details. She responded to all our questions very quickly and provided all required information and guided us through the whole process of booking