After a complete refurbishment and new ownership, Tulela is both a world away from modern life and thoroughly steeped in luxury – not excessive, but discreet and respectful of its natural surroundings. Discretely tucked in the trees on a bend in the seasonal Ntsiri River on the western edge of the Greater Kruger region, Tulela sits in the Klaserie Private Game Reserve (one of the largest privately owned sanctuaries in South Africa), at the heart of the country's most iconic wildlife area. See the Big Five along with the other major players – wild dog, cheetah, giraffe, and a host of birds.




A spacious thatched structure at the camp's heart incorporates inspiration from the bush alongside contemporary furnishings. Here, guests can lounge at the bar or in several seating areas, inside and out; dine at intimate or communal tables; and generally feel compelled to linger. Foldaway glass doors open to an enormous wraparound shaded deck, and a rim-flow pool and sundeck that overlook the camp’s private waterhole. Quiet types can browse the library; there's a track and volleyball court for fitness fans.
With just five guest suites, Tulela is blissfully intimate. Boardwalks lead from the main area to the suites, which are strung along the tree-line within the foliage. Although some rooms are spaced side by side, they're cleverly staggered, so you're ensured privacy – always a non-negotiable prerequisite. All suites have king-sized beds and en-suite bathrooms. Family suites are essentially two rooms with an interleading doorway, and they and the honeymoon suite have an outdoor shower and large bathtub.
Whether your time in the bush is action-packed or low-key, nothing beats getting out there as often as possible. Tulela organises two activities a day, a game drive or bush walk, at sunrise and sunset. There's no guarantee you'll see predators tracking prey, but with the abundance of wild cats and the density of general game, you're bound to see good interactions. And do take a guided walk – it'll remind you of your place in the natural order.
Tulela 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 Tulela 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 Tulela start from around $590, or US$590, 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 spectacular wilderness area where intimate animal encounters are par for the course.