Simbavati River Lodge is situated along the Nhlaralumi River within the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park. One of its standout features is the popular waterhole located just below the dining deck, a favorite gathering spot for elephants. Between game drives, you can enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing right from the deck as animals come to the waterhole.
This lodge blends traditional safari charm with a modern, relaxed style in its décor, appealing to a wide range of guests. Accommodation options include both tented suites and chalets, making it ideal for couples, honeymooners, and families. The lodge offers a safari spa and a fully equipped fitness center, while the two-bedroom chalets and Cubs Club kids center are particularly favored by families.
As part of the Greater Kruger Park, the Timbavati Game Reserve provides outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the Big Five, especially leopards, and the chance to see wild dogs.
2 Tented Pool Suites
These suites feature a king bed (convertible to twins), an en suite bathroom with a shower, double vanity, and separate toilet, a dressing area with ample storage, a game viewing deck, a plunge pool, and an outdoor shower.
6 Luxury Safari Tents
These tents offer a king bed (convertible to twins), an en suite bathroom with a shower, double vanity, and enclosed toilet, a dressing area with ample storage, a game viewing deck, and an outdoor shower, with views of the riverbed or surrounding bush.
3 Bedroom Family Chalets
These chalets include a king bed (convertible to twins), twin beds in the second bedroom, one bathroom with a bath and double shower, a game viewing deck, and views of the riverbed.
Game Drives
Morning and late afternoon game drives in Timbavati take advantage of the times when wildlife is most active. An English-speaking guide, together with a local Shangaan tracker, ensures that guests have an enriching and educational experience, maximizing wildlife sightings. Guides, often passionate photographers, are mindful of helping guests capture the perfect shot. The evening drive extends into dusk, giving a glimpse into the nocturnal life of the bush, with the possibility of spotting elusive nighttime predators with the aid of a spotlight.
Boma and Campfire Dining
Several nights a week, dinner is served in a traditional "boma," a circular enclosure reminiscent of early safari days, lit by lanterns and set under the stars. The campfire atmosphere adds an authentic touch to the dining experience.
Sundowners
A cherished part of any safari, sunset drinks are enjoyed at a scenic spot chosen by your guide, where guests can step out of the vehicle, stretch their legs, and savor a drink as the sun sets.
Spa and Wellness
The calm, unhurried hours between game drives offer the perfect opportunity to unwind with a spa treatment or simply relax with minimal distractions.
October 17, 2024
Mel is friendly and patient
I would usually book my trips myself. Lucky for me I sent off an enquiry to Safari.com and received Mel's wonderful help. Mel responded quickly and made me feel comfortable with Safari.com. organising my trip. Later on, when I realised my dates didn't work with the rest of my trip, Mel gave me my options and costings and rebooked for me. Mel was very patient and friendly. I wouldn't hesitate to use Mel again.
October 9, 2024
Mel was a wonderful way to book my trip…
Mel was a wonderful way to book my trip on safari.com.
October 1, 2024
Mel de Toit is definitely worthy of…
Mel de Toit is definitely worthy of FIVE stars. She has helped us put together a trip of a lifetime. Our first safari is at Simbavati and the second is at Chief's Camp, in the Okavanga Delta. In addition she has arranged flights to various destinations and a wonderful stay with various side trips in Cape Town. We can't wait to start our journey and know that thanks to Mel, it will be the trip of a lifetime!
Oct 23, 2024
Shann @ Safari.com is fantastic!
We worked with Shann Shaw and she was amazing! As someone who usually books my own travel I was a little bit skeptical at first... But safaris are not like a typical vacation and there are just SO many different options. Shann was incredibly patient in answering all of my questions, and eventually found the perfect safari lodge for me and my family. I really don't think I could have done it without her help. Highly recommend working with her!
Oct 23, 2024
Service was excellent
Service was excellent, and I was sent a reminder when the balance was due.
Oct 23, 2024
Booking with Leigh-Ann Croeser
Thank you for this fantastic booking experience. Leigh-Ann Croeser did everything to let my wishes become reality. I wasn’t an easy customer, but he never let me feel that. She answered very fast to all my questions and helped me with everything so that we have the most of our trip. Thank you very much for organizing our dream Safari. I can only recommend it.
Oct 23, 2024
Sara
Sara, bent over backwards to give us what we wanted as we changed our minds more than once
Oct 23, 2024
Very Responsive and Patient w/ Our Needs!
Anja has been great in making our travel reservations! She is very quick and responsive (at all hours, I'm not sure when she sleeps)! We went back and forth on 39 emails. Yes, 39 emails for a couple of weeks. She made several different itineraries in ranging prices, types of accommodations, and locations. She was patient through the whole process and provided so much information. We finally decided on our perfect trip!
Oct 21, 2024
Friendliness
Friendliness, quick response to my request and understanding of my needs It was only a pleasure dealing with Tanya Lomas.
Oct 21, 2024
Excellent, fast, helpful service
The service from Leigh-Ann has been exceptional. No matter the difference in time zone, her responses and suggestions are always fast and helpful. When we’ve asked for changes to the itinerary, there has never been a problem. Highly recommended.
Oct 18, 2024
Cannot recommend enough
Cannot recommend enough! Contacted at 6pm night before and Dorothy was helpful friendly and managed to book a safari trip with transport for 6 people! She was contactable on the day too and very very helpful!
Oct 17, 2024
Aquilia Safari trip
Re: Safari from Cape Town to Aquilia. Fadiel was very helpful and organised our trip for us. We were picked up by Joe, who was our driver for the day. Joe is born and raised in Cape Town. He was prompt and was very friendly and informative. There was a good choice of food at Aquilia and had choices for my husband too who is Coeliac.