Simbavati River Lodge, set along the Nhlaralumi River in Timbavati Private Game Reserve, offers a unique safari experience. A popular waterhole below the dining deck attracts elephants and other wildlife, providing continuous game viewing between drives. This idyllic location combines stunning river views with the charm of close-up wildlife encounters.
The Timbavati Private Game Reserve, bordering Kruger National Park, is a wildlife haven named after a Shangaan phrase meaning "something sacred came down to earth." Home to the Big Five and species like giraffe and zebra, it also protects endangered animals like rhinos and pangolins, embodying a magical and untamed wilderness spirit.
Simbavati River Lodge offers a delightful culinary experience blending traditional South African flavors with international influences. Meals are prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients and served in scenic settings. Guests enjoy a relaxed dining atmosphere, with options to dine under the stars, enhancing the lodge’s authentic safari experience.
Simbavati River Lodge, located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, offers an authentic safari experience with luxurious riverfront accommodations. Guests enjoy daily game drives, bush walks, and stunning wildlife views. The lodge features a pool, spa treatments, and exquisite dining. Ideal for families and couples, it combines adventure, relaxation, and the beauty of the bush.
Each room at Simbavati River Lodge offers a private viewing deck and a luxurious bathroom—chalets include a bath and indoor shower, while tents feature indoor and outdoor showers. Amenities include eco-friendly products, minibar, tea/coffee facilities, air-conditioning, electric blankets (winter), a mini safe, hair dryer, laundry bag, and ecofriendly insect spray.
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Main lodge, with a deck enjoying expansive views of the river and waterhole.
Sitting area, with books and board games.
Complimentary Wi-Fi in main lodge area only.
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Outside dining area.
A refreshing swimming pool with sun loungers.
A well-stocked bar offering drinks and relaxation.
A tranquil safari spa for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Open air boma & camp-fire overlooking the river.
A fully equipped fitness centre for guests.
Cubs Club (children’s discovery centre and play room).
A safari shop offering souvenirs and essentials.
Game drives morning and evening
Star-gazing under African skies
Campfire dining under the stars
Sundowners in scenic bush settings
A thrilling family safari adventure experience.
Relaxing spa and wellness treatments
Each room at Simbavati River Lodge features a king bed (convertible to twin), en suite bathroom with shower, double vanity, and ample storage. Select rooms include plunge pools, outdoor showers, or twin beds in a second bedroom. Game viewing decks offer stunning views of the riverbed, bush, or surrounding wilderness.
Simbavati River Lodge features 11 rooms, including Two-Bedroom Family Chalets, Luxury Safari Tents, and Tented Pool Suites. Welcoming children of all ages, those 6 and older can join game drives. Ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and explorers, the lodge caters to the active and adventurous, offering a memorable safari experience.
Start your day with early morning tea or coffee before a 3-hour game drive. Enjoy a midmorning breakfast on the dining deck, followed by relaxation at the spa, fitness center, or pool. After lunch and afternoon tea, embark on an evening game drive, ending with dinner on the deck or in the open-air boma.
Simbavati River Lodge is approximately 1 hour from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, accessible by car. It’s a 6.5 to 7-hour drive (505km) from Johannesburg, 3.5 hours (210km) from Kruger Airport, and 3 hours (160km) via the R40 from Hazyview, making it convenient for both self-drivers and fly-in guests.
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4.9 / 5 Based on 1,464 reviews
Oct 2024
Candy and Mabee were the best hosts I’ve ever had on a tour like this. Mabee even sang for us. The entire day was well organized it would be hard to pick one thing that was the best.Read More
Feb 2019
We had a super trip with Joseph as our guide. He was very informative and we had the perfect amount of time at each stop. A great way to see the different sites and fantastic views.Read More
April 2022
Rodney was such a funny and kind tour guide. He makes an effort to find animals for you and is approachable to answer any questions.Read More
Nov 2023
A great tour, felt like we had plenty of time at each stop and our guide, Rodney, was absolutely fantastic. Really informative, relaxed and made the most of our day for us!Read More
Jan 2025
Fabulous trip with many photo stops and wonderful views. Candy and Mabee did a great job of looking after the group (8 of us) and making suitable adjustments to the order of stops to avoid road works and associated traffic queues. Read More
March 2025
It was perfect from start to finish! The wonderful Candy picked us up from our hotel and for the next 9 hours she looked after us like we were family. Read More
