To the west of Kruger National Park is a lovely, and world-famous, private reserve. Its landscape is dominated by undulating acacia scrub, several seasonal rivers and streams, and animals that roam freely across the unfenced border with Kruger. The reserve is Timbavati, of white lion fame, and home to Kambaku River Sands. This luxury lodge, named for a famous (now sadly dead) elephant known for its huge tusks, sprawls along a dry riverbed with superb views of the bushveld and its animals. You'll see the Big Five here, and much, much more besides. No wonder we love it so...
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Ten large suites range along the riverbank and beneath the trees. While your comfort and convenience are of prime importance, the main focus is the views – and the huge glass sliding doors to the front and sides of the suites ensure you get the very best. The net-draped beds are large and comfortable, with fabrics combining crisp white with vivid African. There's a small sitting area and a spacious en-suite bathroom with glamorous facilities, and an outdoor shower too.
Watching a herd of elephants splash about in the pool while you sip something cold at the bar is an experience that never gets old...
Book a night in the overnight hide on the banks of Nduna Dam. It's a three-tiered sleep-out deck with a king-sized bed under the stars, an en-suite bathroom, a fire pit, and hyenas calling in the background. What's not to love?
The camp is completely unfenced. While we think this is a major drawcard, it does mean you'll need to be escorted back to your suite each night.
Kambaku River Sands can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made South Africa trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended South Africa trips featuring Kambaku River Sands or get advice and suggestions from one of our South Africa specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Kambaku River Sands start from around $1.1K, or US$1.1K, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
A collection of private reserves with exceptional wildlife viewing and a delicious selection of lodges.
