The 10 best lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve, South Africa | Booking.com
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The best lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve

Check out our pick of great lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve

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Motswari Private Game Reserve by NEWMARK

Timbavati Game Reserve

Motswari is a luxury family-owned lodge situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.

C
Christopher
From
Australia
It was amazing. The rooms were excellent. With great views over the river, often frequented by animals. The food was terrific. Our guide and tracker, Noel and David, could not have been better. We saw the big 5 and much more- many giraffes, Zebra, hippo etc. we arrived about 1pm. Lunch is at 2.30, game drive 3.30-6.30pm, dinner at 7.30pm. On the day we left we did the normal 6.30-9.30am game drive, followed by a wonderful brunch at 9.30am. We left at 11. So you get a lot extra. For 3 nights we had 6 game drives. There was good hot water, comfortable beds, great leather chairs with a nice balcony. There is also a nice pool. All staff were super friendly and helpful.
Review score
Exceptional
288 reviews
Price from
MYR 3,375.31
1 night, 2 adults
Check availability

Umlani Bushcamp

Timbavati Game Reserve

Umlani Bushcamp is a classic African safari camp in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of Greater Kruger National Park. Game drives, bush walks and meals are included in the rate.

K
Klaus
From
Germany
- to be very close to the animals; we watched 15 lions including their babies eating two buffalos from a distance of less than 10m - awesome - highly motivated staff and guides - familar atmosphere - live in harmony with the nature
Review score
Exceptional
127 reviews
Price from
MYR 3,794.78
1 night, 2 adults
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Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp

Timbavati Game Reserve

Featuring mountain views, Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp in Timbavati Game Reserve features accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, a terrace and a bar.

m
mark
From
United Kingdom
Stunning location in front of a large dam/pool populated by hippos, not a puddle of a waterhole like many lodges. The camp is simple, 2 tented rooms either side of an open main lodge building leading onto a terrace with small swimming pool and overlooking the water. But what else do you need ? Small, intimate, and stamped with understated luxury the camp is exclusive. As a family we occupied 3 of the rooms and had the lodge to ourselves for 3 of our 6 nights. The 4 tented rooms were a perfect size and beautifully decorated. The food was delicious, great attention was paid to portion sizes, presentation and all our dietary needs and requests carefully addressed (peanut allergy) The staff are lovely, approachable, always on hand and very attentive. Charlie and Mish, the managing couple along with Courtney make you feel as though you this is your home. The guiding experience was probably my best ever, and thats after 25 years of safari, we had started going on courses as we had heard it all so many times before, but Charlies breadth of knowlege is astounding, he is a master of timing, keeps you engaged and doesn't overload you, I was learning information that I had never heard before. Needless to say the sightings were amazing; leopard, lion, wild dog, many birds and some fascinating small stuff as well. The traversing rights mean that there are very few vehicles in your area and some drives we didn't see any other vehicles at all. The game viewer seats 8. The middle seat is converted for storage so no one ever has to sit in the middle. We absolutely loved it and will return.
Review score
Exceptional
15 reviews
Price from
MYR 4,818.50
1 night, 2 adults
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Geiger's Camp in Timbavati Game Reserve by NEWMARK

Timbavati Game Reserve

Perched on a ridge within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Geiger's Camp is an exclusive family-owned lodge with panoramic views of the Nhlaralumi River and surrounds.

G
Gregory
From
Singapore
It felt very private, with only a few villas in the camp. It was beautifully designed and decorated. All of the staff were friendly and helpful.
Review score
Exceptional
65 reviews
Price from
MYR 6,509.69
1 night, 2 adults
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Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

Timbavati Game Reserve

Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is located in Timbavati Game Reserve which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Free WiFi access is available in this lodge.

R
Rachel
From
United Kingdom
Our time at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge was outstanding! The staff was exceptionally polite, and our guide and tracker worked tirelessly to show us as much as they could while providing detailed information. The butler was sweet and attentive, accommodating to our food restrictions. Our room was consistently spotless and cozy. We had a wonderful time and would love to come back!
Review score
Superb
44 reviews
Price from
MYR 8,928.39
1 night, 2 adults
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Kings Camp

Timbavati Game Reserve

Situated 4.6 km from Timbavati Private Nature & Game Reserve, Kings Camp offers an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi.

J
Jeremy
From
United Kingdom
We stayed 3 nights at King's Camp out of a total of 11 nights in South Africa and this was by far the best part of our entire trip. The place is immaculate - very large and comfortable rooms, extremely friendly staff and a beautiful location in the TImbavati game reserve. We were taken out for dawn and dusk game drives by our own dedicated ranger Cynet and spotter Sunnyboy, in vehicle we had to ourselves most of the time. All the seats were next to the side (so there were no obstructed views), there were warm blankets in the car for the cold and we stopped for sundowners every evening and watched the stars come out - and what stars - amazing views of the milky way. The game was excellent too - lions including cubs, leopard + kill, and all the rest of the big five (if that's what you're into), hyena and cubs. A big highlight was following a leopard through the bush in the car - simply unforgettable! Plus a multitude of birds from eagles to wax-bills - and our extremely knowledgeable ranger Cynet could identify them all! Our room was enormous and luxurious - private secluded pool and veranda area, carefully designed so that it was not overlooked but looked out into the bush with animals traipsing past! There's also a wonderful hide by the waterhole so you can watch the animals coming down to drink and mud-bathe - including a whole herd of elephants! The staff still have a sense of wonder about the animals they see and are just as excited as the guests. And there are steenboks and kudu who visit the grounds and wander around the rooms - and a lovely night-watchman who escorts you to and from your room after dark. The trouble with the food was that it was too good and too plentiful - hard not to gain weight! Well cooked, well presented and served by lovely, attentive staff. Every other night we had a buffet in the traditional "boma" around a fire with our guide.
Review score
Exceptional
22 reviews
Price from
MYR 8,172.55
1 night, 2 adults
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Simbavati River Lodge

Timbavati Game Reserve

In the heart of the Timbavati Game Reserve, the Simbavati River Lodge offers the chance of a face-to- face encounter with Africa’s incredibly varied wildlife from the lodge’s private viewing decks.

J
JAN
From
Singapore
Location was amazing to see all the wild life. We saw the Big 5 within the first 2 days. Every single staff was highly professional. The lodging was simply luxurious and amazing. Great attention to detail from start till the end of our stay. Free shuttle to and fro to airport. We were upgraded to the Mvubu Cottage - we had a private chef and all guests also had a butler, a tracker and a guide for the game drives.
Review score
Superb
79 reviews
Price from
MYR 5,905.02
1 night, 2 adults
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Simbavati Trails Camp

Timbavati Game Reserve

With Timbavati Private Nature & Game Reserve reachable in 8.5 km, Simbavati Trails Camp offers accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace and a bar.

T
Tjaart
From
South Africa
Location: right in the middle of the African bush. Very peacefull. Food: Top notch. Typical African cuisine. Staff: Extremely friendly and catering to every need. Chef, butler, camp hand, guide, cleaner Activities: Twice daily walks in the veld with the armed guide, who is extremely knowledgeable. Very educational. The highlight undoubtedly was the elephants comeing to drink from the camp pool (dry season), literally metres away - hugely thrilling.
Review score
Fabulous
20 reviews
Price from
MYR 3,755.59
1 night, 2 adults
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Africa on Foot

Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (Near Timbavati Game Reserve)

Africa on Foot is located in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. The rustic-style camp features thatched chalet accommodation, a bar and a viewing deck with splash pool and sun loungers.

E
Eric
From
Mauritius
The walk and drives with the rangers Charlie and Julian were exceptional. They are passionate and extremely knowledgeable. They went the extra mile to provide us with a rich experience of the bush. Close encounters with Lions, Leopards and all the other wild animals were really thrilling! The staff at the camp were all very friendly and welcoming.
Review score
Exceptional
136 reviews
Price from
MYR 2,480.11
1 night, 2 adults
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The Orpen Kruger

Welverdiend (Near Timbavati Game Reserve)

With Orpen Gate reachable in 8.7 km, The Orpen Kruger features accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a terrace. Complimentary WiFi is offered throughout the property.

M
Meredith
From
Switzerland
Staffed mainly by the local villagers who have a majority stake in the hotel making for an authentic experience. Veronica gets a special mention for her attention to detail for the guests and smooth running of the hotel. Food is fabulous and the orpen gate around the corner.
Review score
Exceptional
61 reviews
Price from
MYR 1,442.36
1 night, 2 adults
Check availability
All lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve

Looking for a lodge?

Ideal for nature-lovers looking for a self-sufficient getaway, lodges are fully furnished and self-catered. Usually made of wood and surrounded by forests or mountains, lodges can be part of a group or a single unit. More remote than holiday homes, lodges are popular for safari trips.

Most booked lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve this month

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Enjoy breakfast in Timbavati Game Reserve!

  • Review score
    Exceptional · 288 reviews

    Motswari is a luxury family-owned lodge situated within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.

    Guest review
    The tour guides were amazing & the staff was so friendly and welcoming
  • Review score
    Exceptional · 65 reviews

    Perched on a ridge within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Geiger's Camp is an exclusive family-owned lodge with panoramic views of the Nhlaralumi River and surrounds.

    Guest review
    Everything was fresh and delicious served in a beautiful setting.
  • Review score
    Superb · 44 reviews

    Offering an outdoor pool and a restaurant, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is located in Timbavati Game Reserve which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Free WiFi access is available in this lodge.

    Guest review
    Views, Clean, Privacy, the Staff. Just everything was outstanding.
  • Review score
    Fabulous · 20 reviews

    With Timbavati Private Nature & Game Reserve reachable in 8.5 km, Simbavati Trails Camp offers accommodation, a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace and a bar.

    Guest review
    authentic, great food, good field guides and great service

  • Offering river views, Simbavati River Sands in Timbavati Game Reserve offers accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a garden and a bar.

  • Review score
    Exceptional · 127 reviews

    Umlani Bushcamp is a classic African safari camp in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of Greater Kruger National Park. Game drives, bush walks and meals are included in the rate.

    Guest review
    We loved Umlani - brilliant staff, amazing location and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Review score
    Exceptional · 15 reviews

    Featuring mountain views, Thabamati Luxury Tented Camp in Timbavati Game Reserve features accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, a shared lounge, a terrace and a bar.

    Guest review
    the feeling and experience you want and the staff where very welcoming
  • Review score
    Exceptional · 10 reviews

    Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kambaku River Sands features game drives and bush walks.

    Guest review
    The lodge was beautiful and the rooms incredible. Friendly helpful staff who couldn’t do enough for you. amazing food.

Save money on lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve – budget options available!

  • Kings Camp

    Timbavati Game Reserve
    Budget options available
    Review score
    Exceptional · 22 reviews

    Situated 4.6 km from Timbavati Private Nature & Game Reserve, Kings Camp offers an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and air-conditioned accommodation with a terrace and free WiFi.

    Guest review
    EVERYTHING PERFECT : THE ROOM, THE STAFF, THE FOOD AND THE GAMES...WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE!!
  • Review score
    Exceptional · 48 reviews

    Kambaku Lodge is located in the heart of Timbavati Nature Reserve and has a waterhole which attracts members of the Big 5. Each of the rooms and chalets feature African décor and a private patio.

    Guest review
    Incredible location and standards and very relaxed
  • Review score
    Superb · 79 reviews

    In the heart of the Timbavati Game Reserve, the Simbavati River Lodge offers the chance of a face-to- face encounter with Africa’s incredibly varied wildlife from the lodge’s private viewing decks.

    Guest review
    location the rooms the food quality the length of safaris

  • Tanda Tula Safari Camp offers all-inclusive luxury accommodation in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, situated within the Greater Kruger National Park.

FAQ about lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve

Lodges that guests love in Timbavati Game Reserve

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  • Kambaku Safari Lodge

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 48 reviews
    The safari's were incredible. The atmosphere in the lodge is incredible, just as the frinedliness of the staff.
    Guest review by
    Stefan
    Young couple

  • Motswari Private Game Reserve by NEWMARK

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 288 reviews
    this was our favorite out of the 3 lodges we stayed at in the greater Kruger area. staff was amazing. our guide Jeremy was truly incredible, he really clearly went above and beyond and cared so much about his job and this made our experience so much better. food was wonderful, a feast every day!! Rooms were nice & the views from the veranda were amazing. overall a magical experience because the people went above and beyond to make our stay wonderful.
    Guest review by
    Rajkumari
    Family with young children

  • Kambaku Safari Lodge

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 48 reviews
    Probably the best part of our South Africa trip! Everything was perfect! The safari drives were amazing (shout out to Eric and Gideon), the room was spacious and clean, the food was excellent, and the whole lodge is very well kept and maintained. Highly recommended!
    Guest review by
    Daniel
    Young couple

  • Kambaku Safari Lodge

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 48 reviews
    From the moment we arrived to the moment we left we were treated superbly by the lodge manager , safari guides and staff. Nothing too much trouble. The game drives were exceptional - Gideon and Eric were great company, very informative and tuned their information to the guests (we have been on safari many times) providing some real detailed knowledge. Food was great and a really great atmosphere to the whole experience.
    Guest review by
    Dawes
    Family with young children

  • Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Avg. price/night: MYR 8,928.39
    Review score
    Superb · 44 reviews
    Everything! This place is phenomenal: from the beautiful lodge, to the people, delicious food and knowedgeable + fun safari crew. Could not recommend it more.
    Guest review by
    Mihai
    Group

  • Geiger's Camp in Timbavati Game Reserve by NEWMARK

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 65 reviews
    Absolutely amazing location, fantastic safari drives with incredibly knowledgeable tracker, and brilliant hospitality back at the lodge. Couldn't ask for anything more.
    Guest review by
    Joseph
    Young couple

  • Motswari Private Game Reserve by NEWMARK

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 288 reviews
    This Reserve is just amazing. We had such a great time here. Such friendly staff, great lodges, awesome food and service. The best part were the Game drives - they were just amazing. We saw all big 5 and so many more great animals. Our guides went out of their way to make the time we had as memorable and enjoyable as possible. Highly recommend.
    Guest review by
    Filloreta
    Young couple

  • Kings Camp

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Exceptional · 22 reviews
    We were received very nicely. On the way to the lodge three leopards came towards us. That was an incredible experience. The food at the lodge was great. The safaris were impressive. A coffee stop while a herd of elephants with many baby elephants gather at the waterhole is an incredible experience. The rooms are very spacious, clean, nicely furnished and quiet. Nothing was missing.
    Guest review by
    Kurt
    Young couple

  • Simbavati River Lodge

    Lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve
    Review score
    Superb · 79 reviews
    Loved absolutely everything! The staff were exceptional & personable. The lodge and luxury tent was stunning, highlight was when a herd of elephants walked past as we sat on the deck! The safari and trackers were amazing, we learnt so much, they are so dedicated and talented! Epic G&T sundowners. Literally had a tear in my eye leaving it was that magical! Great for honeymooners, couples & families, we met lovely people!
    Guest review by
    Faye
    Young couple

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