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Simbavati Hilltop Lodge, Timbavati | Timbuktu Travel
Timbavati

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

Travel and Leisure Worlds Best Awards for number 1 tour operator in the world 2024 and number 2 tour operator in the world 2025
We're one of the World's Best Tour Operators!
Named three years running in Travel+Leisure World's Best, including No.1 in 2024

About Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

A chic tented hilltop camp in South Africa’s famous Timbavati Game Reserve
The Timbavati Private Game Reserve is an exclusive 12,000 hectare concession within the ever-famous Greater Kruger conservation area in South Africa. The varied landscape of rocky ridges and open plains is a sanctuary for wildlife of all shapes and sizes, including the famous white lions of the Timbavati that can't be found anywhere else. Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is located in the far north of the reserve, with knock-your-socks-off views of the seasonal Nhlaralumi River. The eight pavilion-style tents offer the last word in contemporary style in a truly magical setting - a luxury South African safari at its best.
Timbavati , South Africa
From $1.3K per person/per night
None
8 Rooms
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Property details

The property

The main lodge sits midway up the rocky hillside facing out across the river, and consists of a huge open-plan lounge and dining room, and a stunning circular bar. Interiors are warm and inviting, with classic safari-style tones and textures brought to life by splashes of citrus and quirky African artefacts. The infinity pool and sun deck (with shade if you'd like it) juts out over the valley in front, and just below is a traditional open-air boma where you'll dine on fabulous pan-African cuisine under the stars.

The rooms

The eight luxury tents have an unusual pavilion-style design: two individual tents are joined by a screened walkway, with an air-conditioned bedroom on one side, and an ensuite bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower on the other. The elegant interiors and creamy swathes of canvas are super stylish, and the earthy colours and the warm glow of the timber blend seamlessly with the surrounding bush. Each has a private viewing deck overlooking the river. An in-suite massage or hot stone treatment is also a must.

Activities

Game viewing activities follow the traditional format of early morning and late afternoon drives, with the privilege of being able to stay out after dark in search of leopard, lion, and rarities like African wild dog and pangolin. A highlight here is the possibility of encountering Timbavati’s famous white lions, which only occur in this area. They even provide hot water bottles for those chilly morning drives.
Why we love it

Why we love it

The lodge overlooks a seasonal river in the valley below – enjoy some great views of splashing elephants and wallowing hippos from your vantage point on the hillside.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

Don't miss Afternoon Tea on the deck at Simbavati. It's an institution, and you'll be spoiled with fresh scones, chocolate brownies, banana cake, cucumber sandwiches, sausage rolls…And more!
Something to think about

Something to think about

Due to its hilltop location and elevated tents, any mobility challenges will need to be considered, but the lodge is more than happy to help – just be sure to mention it beforehand.
Plan your stay

How to book Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

How do I book Simbavati Hilltop Lodge?

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge 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 Simbavati Hilltop Lodge 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.

How much does it cost to stay at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge?

Stays at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge start from around $1.3K 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.

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

South Africa

Timbavati

A collection of private reserves with exceptional wildlife viewing and a delicious selection of lodges.