Get in touch
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.
✅ Free travel insurance before 25 February 2026
✅ A safari specialist will reach out to you within 24 hours
✅ SAFARI.COM voted Africa's Leading Safari Company in the World Travel Awards 2024 + 2025
✅ Same price as booking direct, with expert care included
✅ With you before, during and after your safari
✅ We handle it all. Flights, transfers, lodging & activities

February 7, 2026
Super star Mel
Mel our booking agent has been absolutely fantastic. Nothing has been too much trouble for her no matter what time of day & how big or small our enquiry has been. She was brilliant when having to relocate us from Kruger due to the flooding, it was seamless from our end.
January 29, 2026
Booking through Safari.com
Your travel consultant, Mel de Toit was excellent. She was prompt, efficient, friendly and helpful. The only confusing thing was the 2% merchant charge. It actually turned out to be a charge of close to 4% even when using ZAR currency as instructed when booking.
January 22, 2026
Mel is wonderful!
Mel is wonderful!
Crafting your journey from a curated portfolio of Africa's 500+ finest lodges and operators.