Located in South Africa’s Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati River Lodge is a family-friendly camp that is built on the banks of the Nhlaralumi River.
This backdrop is a beautiful watercourse in the summer months when rain is plentiful, and a dry riverbed in the drier winter months. The lodge is built around old Jackalberry and Leadwood trees, making guests feel they are really a part of nature.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park, was initiated in 1956 by a group of landowners which was concerned about the degradation of this once pristine wilderness area. Timbavati is dedicated to conservation by maintaining the biodiversity of species and is also involved in different research projects.
The Lodge
The 4-star Simbavati River Lodge is warm and welcoming, with a generous contemporary design and accommodation for guests in luxury tented rooms or thatched chalets. The name Simbavati comes from the local Shangaan language, translated as “the place where the lions come down from the stars”. While the lodge offers excellent big-5 game viewing and breathtaking views, it is well known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff in an environment where guests are made to feel comfortable and relaxed from the moment they arrive.
The size of the camp gives an intimate safari experience, with just eight luxury tents and three chalets. All accommodations are privately situated and comfortably furnished with en-suite facilities. Guest common areas offer a generously proportioned lounge, bar, boma and extensive decks with breathtaking views overlooking the Nhlaralumi river where regular wildlife sightings take place and guests can unwind.
The Rooms
Perfect for families, couples and even the solo traveller, the accommodation at Simbavati River Lodge has something to fit all travellers. There are eight luxury tents for the ultimate glamping experience. Fully furnished with en-suite facilities, this is a great option for couples looking for privacy. Families can enjoy more space with the chalets and children of all ages welcome. Large travelling groups are welcome with an exclusive use lodge rate on offer. All rooms have filtered water at no additional cost.
The Dining
Guests can enjoy an authentic dining experience at Simbavati River Lodge. Due to early morning departures on game drives, a morning cup of coffee/tea with rusks are served before leaving the lodge. After the morning game drive, breakfast is served outside on the wooden deck. A light lunch is served just before the afternoon game drive. Dinner is alternatively served around the campfire in the open-air boma or in the thatched dining area and consists of an African and Western cuisine with exciting tastes for the more adventurous as well as various conventional options. This is the perfect opportunity to unwind and discuss with your guide and other guests what you experienced during the game drives. Special dietary requirements will be catered for subject to prior notification. There is a bar that caters for alcoholic beverages and also includes a wide selection of fine South African wines.
Activities
Simbavati offer game activities in the early morning and evening when game viewing are most active. Game drives are conducted by experienced field guides and Shangaan trackers in open 4X4 vehicles, with excellent photographic opportunities. This gives the opportunity for guests to spot the big-5 lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo as well as other species such as kudu, zebra, warthog, giraffe, monkey to name a few.
The details
Website – https://www.simbavati.com/LODGES/RIVER-LODGE
Phone – +27 (0)87 151 4520
Booking – Book through your preferred wholesaler or contact info@simbavati.com
