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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The main area is a spacious, open-plan room under one high thatched roof. Two seating areas, each with its own hanging fireplace, are perfect for relaxing and evening chats. There's one long, communal dining table inside, though meals often take place elsewhere, like on the deck or in the riverbed under the stars. The wraparound bar overlooks the bushveld, the deck and the lovely rim-flow pool. Try the fine wines and ease tired muscles with a massage at the spa.
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.
Timbavati's unfenced border with Kruger allows unrestricted movement of game over an area of more than 20,000 square kilometres, so there's no shortage of game (it's not unheard of to spot three leopards in a morning!). Look for lions in the long grass on game drives, conducted in open-topped vehicles that are perfect for viewing the Big Five and all their companions. Focus on the wilderness's smaller treasures on a bush walk, and enjoy the plentiful birdlife.
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.
A collection of private reserves with exceptional wildlife viewing and a delicious selection of lodges.
