Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger, South Africa
There are no fences between the Timbavati and Kruger National Park, to allow for the free movement of wildlife. The reserve is known for its excellent sightings of the ‘Big Five’—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Diverse habitats from savanna and riverine forests to bushveld, support a rich variety of wildlife and offer a memorable safari experience.
Access
The most convenient way to get to Timbavati is to fly & transfer. Several airlines offer daily flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Hoedspruit. From Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, it’s a scenic 60-minute transfer to Kambaku River Sands.
It is also possible to self-drive from Johannesburg. The drive will take approximately 6-hours. The route takes you through beautiful landscapes and is well signposted.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Timbavati depends on what you are looking to experience:
Dry Season (May to September):
Weather: Cooler temperatures and dry conditions.
Wildlife Viewing: This is the prime time for game viewing. The sparse vegetation and limited water sources mean animals congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot.
Advantages: Clear skies, fewer mosquitoes, and excellent conditions for walking safaris and photography.
Green Season (November to March):
Weather: Warmer temperatures with afternoon thunderstorms.
Wildlife Viewing: The bush is lush and green, and many animals give birth during this time, providing opportunities to see newborns.
Bird Watching: This season is ideal for bird enthusiasts, as migratory birds are present, and the variety of species is at its peak.
Advantages: Fewer tourists, beautiful landscapes, lower rates, and a chance to see a different side of the African wilderness.
Note: April and October are transitional months offering a blend of both the dry and green seasons depending on the arrival of the rains. Look out for special offers and mid-season rates at these times.
Kambaku River Sands
This lovely lodge has 10 air-conditioned stone, timber & thatch suites in a classic but contemporary style using a palette of earthy tones. These spacious suites offer private decks with stunning views, indoor and outdoor showers, and elegant furnishings that provide a very calming environment and blend well with the surrounding bushveld.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including guided game drives led by experienced guides. There is also a spa and swimming pool to enjoy at the lodge.
Kambaku River Sands, along with family-friendly sister property, Kambaku Safari Lodge, offers good value in this exclusive safari area.
The lodge is offering a complimentary stay in its new overnight hide to guests booking a minimum 3 night stay this July or August.
New Overnight Hide at Kambaku River Sands
The new Overnight Hide is located on the banks of Nduna Dam, and the cool winter months of July and August are a wonderful time to experience the clear night skies and abundant wildlife drawn to the dam.
The hide is elevated and offers a spectacular three-tiered sleep-out deck, surrounded by the soft glow of lanterns.
The dam is on one side, with bushveld on the other. As well as a wonderful king sized bed, , and a pair of swinging chairs on the main deck, there is also an open air fire pit with seating – the perfect spot to enjoy a drink, take in the wonderful panoramic views and listen to the sounds of Africa as night descends.
There is also an ensuite bathroom, complete with flush loo, fabulous shower, robes and slippers so you can overnight in style and comfort.
Enjoy a steaming cup of coffee as dawn breaks with a chorus of birds and hippos, before being collected by your guide for the morning game drive.
Experience the wonder of Kambaku River Sands this July or August.
Guests booking a minimum of 3 nights at Kambaku River Sands receive a complimentary hide experience during their stay – perfect for close-up wildlife encounters at the waterhole.
Images: Kambaku River Sands
Images: Kambaku River Sands
To explore holidays to safari Africa, or to make a new booking, please contact sara@realworldconservation.org.uk or complete an Enquiry Form here.
