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 3, 2024
Exceptional Planning and Service by Shann & Safari.com
I had an exceptional experience working with Shann as my travel advisor for planning my upcoming trip to Kruger, Botswana, and Victoria Falls. She was incredibly attentive and accommodating, seamlessly tailoring the trip to fit our budget and preferences. Shann’s meticulous attention to detail in the planning process has given us complete confidence that our trip will be smooth and memorable. She is always prompt in her responses and available to answer any questions we might have. I highly recommend her and safari.com
May 3, 2024
Leigh-Ann was amazing.
Leigh-Ann was amazing. She worked incredibly hard to provide us with our complex safari in Botswana and our travel and accommodation in South Africa. Leigh-Ann was always very helpful and encouraging which must have been very difficult for her as we were within a very tight time schedule to arrange our holiday. She was very thoughtful and even included a list of the things we would need to take. I am so happy with the final outcome and I am very thankful to Leigh-Ann and the other Safari.com team members who worked so hard to make our dream safari a reality.
May 2, 2024
Super!!!
Shann is great. From the first moment we got in touch. Very friendly, helpfull, patience and always available. We have a very good feeling. Looking forward to everything she arranged. Not only the safari, but also the rest of the holiday. I am sure it will be unforgettable. Thank you sooo much.
May 2, 2024
Dolan is Prompt and Knowledgeable
Dolan provided prompt and knowledgeable service. He determined what we were looking for and put together a safari that met those requirements. He is obviously knows the safari business and is very easy to work with.
May 1, 2024
Shann could not have been more helpful
Shann could not have been more helpful. I enquired through WhatsApp from the UK and she responded quickly and efficiently to my questions. It was great to have my enquiry dealt with in such an efficient manner.
Apr 30, 2024
Customer service a welome surprise!
The website was easy to use, I made a double payment in error and they were super helpful and refunded me within two days cheerfully. It was an absolute pleasure dealing with them.
Apr 28, 2024
Great service
Great service. The staff are so helpful and accomadating. I would highly recommend them.
Apr 28, 2024
Shann was great
Shann was great. Answered all questions promptly and setup the trip to Kruger last minute for us with ease.
Apr 28, 2024
Shann was amazing
Shann was amazing. Really knowledgeable and helpful. Nothing too much trouble.
