5-Day MalaMala and Timbavati Luxury Safari

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Safari itinerary · Mala Mala

5-Day MalaMala and Timbavati Luxury Safari

Experience an exquisite 5-day safari combining the elegance of Simbavati River Lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve with the unrivaled luxury of MalaMala Camp in the MalaMala Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, vast stretches of untamed wilderness, and an abundance of wildlife. Delight in exceptional dining, whether under the stars in the boma or within the refined ambiance of the lodges.

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From R 97 870 per person

Duration5 days
Your staySimbavati River Lodge + MalaMala Camp
From, per personR 97 870
Flights & transfersIncluded

The journey

About this itinerary.

Experience an exquisite 5-day safari combining the elegance of Simbavati River Lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve with the unrivaled luxury of MalaMala Camp in the MalaMala Game Reserve. Immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, vast stretches of untamed wilderness, and an abundance of wildlife. Delight in exceptional dining, whether under the stars in the boma or within the refined ambiance of the lodges.

Where you'll travel: Mala Mala Timbavati

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Simbavati Safari Adventure

Begin your journey with a flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, where you'll be met for a scenic transfer to Simbavati River Lodge, located in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Settle into your luxurious accommodations and enjoy a delicious lunch before embarking on your first thrilling afternoon game drive.

Explore the diverse wildlife of the Timbavati, home to the Big Five, with experienced guides who share their insights into the ecosystem. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner under the stars, followed by a relaxing evening soaking in the serene ambiance.

Arrival and Simbavati Safari Adventure

Day 02

The Timbavati Safari Experience

Wake up to the sounds of the bush and head out on an early morning game drive. Witness the beauty of the wilderness as it awakens, with opportunities to see predators on the move and herds grazing in the golden light. Enjoy a hearty breakfast upon your return.

Explore the lodge or enjoy some downtime and a delicious lunch. Embark on another game drive, where you may spot elusive nocturnal creatures as the day transitions into night. End the day with a delicious dinner and a cozy evening by the fire.

The Timbavati Safari Experience

Day 03

Transfer to MalaMala and Afternoon Game Drive

After breakfast, bid farewell to Simbavati as you transfer to MalaMala Camp, situated in the renowned MalaMala Game Reserve. Upon arrival, settle into your luxury room and enjoy lunch overlooking the bush.

In the afternoon, meet your ranger and set out on an exhilarating game drive in an open 4-wheel-drive safari vehicle. Marvel at the incredible wildlife and dramatic landscapes that make MalaMala one of the premier safari destinations in the world. Return to camp for an elegant dinner and relax under the vast African skies.

Transfer to MalaMala and Afternoon Game Drive

Day 04

Big Five Safari at MalaMala

Begin your day with an early morning game drive, guided by experienced rangers who will track wildlife and provide fascinating insights into the reserve's flora and fauna. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast and some leisure time. During this time, you can unwind or explore the camp's surroundings on a guided nature walk.

In the afternoon, head out for another game drive, where you'll have another chance to spot the Big Five and other remarkable animals. Conclude the day with a delectable dinner and a toast to your incredible safari experience.

Big Five Safari at MalaMala

Day 05

Farewell and Departure

Enjoy one last morning in the bush with a game drive or a leisurely breakfast before checking out. Transfer to the Skukuza airport, taking in the final views of the reserve. From Skukuza, board your flight back to Johannesburg, reflecting on the unforgettable memories of your luxury safari adventure.

Stay4 Pay3 Special Offer applied to the valid date 1 Nov - 15 Dec 2026

Farewell and Departure

The complete package

Everything included.

Stay

Simbavati River Lodge

  • 2 Nights in 4-star in Timbavati Game Reserve
  • All meals and beverages

MalaMala Camp

  • 2 Nights in 5-star* in MalaMala Game Reserve
  • All meals, snacks and drinks

Experiences

Simbavati River Lodge

  • Two safari activities per day

MalaMala Camp

  • Two daily game drives and nature walks

Travel

  • Transfer from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) to Simbavati River Lodge
  • Transfer from MalaMala Camp to Skukuza Airport (SZK)
  • Flight from OR Tambo Airport (JNB) to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS)
  • Flights from Skukuza Airport (SZK) to OR Tambo Airport (JNB)

The same as booking direct

Rates and dates.

Per person sharing for the complete package. Final pricing depends on dates, room category and party size.

Valid until 20 Dec 2026

Show prices in

Green season

1 Mar 2026 – 20 Dec 2026

R 97 870

per person

International flights excluded

The rate is for the complete package, per person sharing. A single supplement may apply for solo travellers. We offer a price match guarantee, just ask your specialist.

Your specialist for this itinerary

Nerine Du Plessis

Nerine Du Plessis

Safari Specialist - Southern Africa

Knows 5-Day MalaMala and Timbavati Luxury Safari backwards. Your direct contact from first enquiry to the day you come home.

Pascal JohnZene Devine

With Pascal and Zené across the team.

"Very helpful with itinerary and excellent arrangements of transport from and to Cape Town, and Idubi in Sabi Sands and Lukimbi in Kruger. Although a rep for Safari.com said a letter from a doctor was not required, such a letter IS REQUIRED to go on bush walks if older than 65. Fortunately, we checked the reserve web site and had a doctor's letter."
August 2026 · Verified on Trustpilot ↗

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Example: 14–21 Nov 2027 · 2 adults · departing NYC · Big Five focus.

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