Best hotels in Timbavati

*Closed for extensive refurbishment from 18 March to 20 September 2024* This well-appointed and intimate tented camp is located in Ngala Private Reserve within Timbavati, the first private nature reserve to remove the fences that separated it from its neighbour, Kruger National Park. This satellite camp to Ngala Game Lodge is set beneath giant shady trees on the banks of the seasonal Timbavati River, and is known for its Big Five and wild dog sightings. Game, walking and photographic safaris are led by expert guides and trackers, who make sure that no rock is left unturned in pursuit of the animals.

Kambaku Safari Lodge lies within the Timbavati Game Reserve on the western, unfenced border of South Africa's much-loved Kruger National Park. The 540-square-mile amalgamation of private reserves offers an exclusive game-viewing experience that is far less-crowded than the adjacent National Park. It is also home to the infamous white lion population, thanks to a naturally-occuring recessive gene which gives the lions their pale, pearly coat. Besides the spectacular, undulating terrain, ranging from savanna bushveld to various kinds of woodland, the region offers potential sightings of the Big Five, as well as wild dog, cheetah, and plenty of other animals.

RockFig Safari Lodge is the product of a long romance, conceived over two decades. It is the expression of family's love affair with South Africa's Lowveld region, specifically the 530-square-kilometre Timbavati Private Nature Reserve on Kruger Park's western edge. The absence of fences separating this reserve from the national park means that wildlife roams freely between them, and that guests reap the rich rewards. You'll see all the Big Five here, including Timbavati's famed white lions. Round it all off with exceptional guides and superb staff to care for you in camp, and you have a thoroughly good safari.

Umlani Bushcamp is situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger Park, and is renowned for its world-class game viewing. The camp has been designed to operate in an eco-friendly manner, and reflects the traditional African style - simple, yet comfortable, with just the right degree of rustic. Accommodation ranges from reed and thatched huts for couples and families, to the slightly more luxurious Eco Hut, plus a secluded treehouse a short distance from camp if you feel like a sleep-out. The extra feel-good factor of being environmentally responsible is what makes this camp so special.

Relaxed King's Camp gives you a real sense that you've travelled not only to another place, but to a more elegant era. There are just a few bungalows, all beautifully furnished, and the books, old cameras, typewriters and silver that are used in the decor throughout give a Downton Abbey touch. The lodge overlooks a watering hole that draws a steady stream of animals, so you can breakfast while watching elephants and their skittish young at the water's edge below. Your surroundings? The famed Timbavati Private Game Reserve, home to the Big Five, the small creatures and much more.

Ngala means 'lion' in Shangaan, the traditional language of the local people, and it's an apt name for this beautiful lodge set in the heart of Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, known for sightings of the Big Five, wild dogs and a host more species. Decorated in chic minimalist style, Ngala Safari Lodge is an exclusive destination sheltered by spreading mopane and tamboti trees beside a well-frequented waterhole. The lodge and its sister tented camp are perfectly placed to explore this wild region adjacent to Kruger National Park. Experience excitement, Africa-style, on game drives and walking safaris.

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...

This exclusive lodge is tucked away within the Timbavati Private Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger Park, and with just five luxury suites, makes a classy choice for families or small groups of friends. It holds a commanding position on a rocky ridge, with stunning views over the surrounding wilderness. This was once a family home, and personal touches are evident in the quirky décor and African artwork throughout. In this scenically beautiful game-rich area you’ll be treated to some exciting viewing, and the chance to explore on foot with highly trained guides and trackers is to be recommended.

Makanyi Private Game Lodge is located in the Timbavati region of the Greater Kruger National Park. Timbavati is translated as, “The Place Where Something Sacred Came Down to Earth”, and Makanyi Lodge is certainly a heavenly place! Located in open, acacia woodlands and constructed of natural woods, thatch and stone, the lodge blends perfectly into the picturesque environs and has extensive views over a dam. It's one of very few commercial lodges in the area, and offers a truly wild yet personalised and private experience - and did we mention the fabulous Big Five game viewing?

A hornbill's flight away from the Timbavati River, your oasis awaits amongst the mopane trees in a private corner of the Ngala Reserve. Taking the meaning of 'treehouse' to an entirely new level, this one comes in the form of a four-storey tower with explorer-chic style and a well-stocked bar...we can taste those sundowners now! With no fence separating the reserve from Kruger National Park and access to 36,000 acres of unbroken wilderness, your days will be filled with tracking members of the Big Five on foot and epic game drives - that is, when you can tear yourself from your rooftop perch.

Nestled in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Amaya Safari Lodge is a sanctuary for those seeking the wild’s rhythm in quiet luxury. With just eight guests, enjoy an intimate experience with safari game drives and evening fireside chats amid Africa’s untamed beauty.