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.
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.