Timbavati Private Game Reserve is famous for being the home of the world’s last wild white lions, of which only a handful remain. In addition to these incredibly rare, majestic cats, the reserve boasts more than 40 mammal species, including the Big Five, and the highest density of giraffe in Africa. Birding enthusiasts will be well catered for with over 350 species recorded, most notably an impressive number of ostriches, owls and other birds of prey. With only twelve lodges in this exclusive reserve, guests are guaranteed an intimate safari in an unspoilt wilderness.
Must see: Don’t miss the opportunity to spot one of the world-famous, and exceptionally rare, Timbavati white lions.
The Kruger National Park experiences two distinct seasons: a dry winter from May to October and a wet summer from November to April. As the area is a year-round destination, when you choose to go largely depends on the type of experience you wish to have.
We rate the dry winter season as ideal for game viewing and safari walks. During this period, the vegetation thins out significantly and animals congregate around permanent waterholes, making them easier to spot. This is also a pleasant time to visit as there are relatively few mosquitoes and little to no rain. Day-time temperatures during winter are warm but not stiflingly hot. Visitors will need warm clothing for the chilly evenings and early-morning game drives.
At the end of the winter season, from around September to October, conditions can become very hot and humid. Concentrations of animals around water sources are at their peak, resulting in exceptional game viewing.
The summer rainfall period typically begins in November and continues until about April. The park is at its most beautiful as the vegetation becomes lush and green, providing an ideal backdrop for wildlife photography. This is also the calving season, when baby animals abound, and bird watching is at its best with the arrival of summer migrants. If you’re keen on combining your Kruger safari with a classic South African beach holiday, this is the time to visit.
Travellers looking to avoid the crowds should avoid Kruger during the peak tourist seasons from July to August and during the December/January South African school holidays.
May 16, 2024
Trip planning made easily and with kindness!
I was in need of help quickly to book a place to stay for 6 people. I wasn’t sure if I should drive or fly and Pascal helped me so quickly and was so kind and patient. He texted with me, called me and was wonderful to work with. He provided me with 2 quotes and helped me through the booking process. Looking forward to our trip!
May 16, 2024
Safar.com review. Victoria falls Safari
Leigh Anne was a pleasure to deal and worked tirelessly to make sure we had the best experience. Thank you.
May 16, 2024
Great customer service
Heleen went out of her way to find us accommodation. We left our planning way to late and were looking at the busiest time of year yet she worked her magic.
May 15, 2024
Sara - great travel agent!
Sara was amazing to work worth and was very quick to respond with any questions I had!! She put together multiple safari packages for me to choose from and guided me every step of the way. I highly recommend working with her!
May 14, 2024
Helpful
Helpful, friendly
May 14, 2024
Tanya from Safari were a great help at such short notice. Her friendliness, kindness and great service are much appreciated. 5 Stars for Tanya
Tanya from Safari were a great help at such short notice. Her friendliness, kindness and great service are much appreciated. 5 Stars for Tanya
May 13, 2024
I highly recommend Shann Shaw
Shann Shaw has been great to work with and she has tried her best to try to meet our budget expectations. She is very kind, responsive and detailed in her explanations and really, really helpful. When I told her I decided to book through expedia or booking, she still explained how everything worked and how these websites sometimes don't have all the details you need, yet, she work hard in getting us our flights and the hotel that we really wanted for this experience. I couldn't be happier with her service and dedication and highly recommend her services!
May 13, 2024
Candis was lovely to work with and…
Candis was lovely to work with and super quick to respond. The entire process from when we first reached out to her to inquire about a trip to when we confirmed the quote and booking was under a week. We sincerely appreciated having all of these details taken care of for us and the all of the attention she took in answering our questions and adjusting our trip to work within our timeline.
May 13, 2024
Safari
Candis was brilliant in assisting us to organise our safari. Highly recommended!