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Simbavati River Lodge

Riverfront Safari on the Nhlaralumi in Big Five Timbavati

Simbavati River Lodge pairs a prime Nhlaralumi River setting with relaxed contemporary comfort. Eleven units — eight luxury tents (most with private plunge pools) and three two-bedroom family chalets — line the riverbank for constant wildlife interest at the deck and waterhole. Each day unfolds with two guided game drives, often ending after dark, and several evenings a week feature starlit boma dinners. Between drives, unwind at the safari spa or fitness center, cool off in the pool, and let younger travelers explore the Cubs Club. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the main area.

Price Per Person Sharing From:

USD 774 - 1,138

Rating | Personal and Comfortable

Couple by the fireplace in the thatched lounge.

Highlights & What to Expect

Eight luxury safari tents and three two-bedroom family chalets (11 units in total).
Most tents feature private plunge pools; all units include air-conditioning and private decks.
Two guided game drives daily (early morning and late afternoon; after-dark return as conditions allow).
Starlit boma dinners several nights a week; convivial riverfront deck and waterhole viewing.
On-site safari spa and fully equipped fitness center; swimming pool and small safari shop.
Family-friendly focus with the Cubs Club kids’ center and tailored between-drive activities.
Chance — not a guarantee — to encounter Timbavati’s famed white-lion genetics on drives.

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Overview of Simbavati River Lodge

Set along the Nhlaralumi River inside the unfenced Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati River Lodge occupies a classic riverine corridor within the Greater Kruger ecosystem.

Location & Setting

The elevated deck overlooks a seasonal riverbed and a permanent waterhole where elephants and general game gather throughout the day. Riverbank woodland attracts prolific birdlife, adding constant movement between activities. While remote and truly wild, the lodge balances immersion with comfort, offering easy access to dawn and dusk drives that explore Timbavati’s Big Five terrain linked ecologically to Kruger National Park through open reserve boundaries.

Rooms

Accommodation comprises eight luxury safari tents and three family chalets positioned for privacy and river or bush views. Tents include en-suite bathrooms with indoor and outdoor rain showers, and most add private plunge pools. The thatched family chalets provide two bedrooms with a shared bathroom, ideal for parents with children. All units are air-conditioned and typically include a private deck, minibar, tea and coffee facilities, ceiling fan, secure safe and winter electric blankets. Recent refurbishments elevate finishes while preserving an authentic, close-to-nature safari atmosphere throughout the camp.

Facilities

The heart of the lodge is an open riverfront deck with lounge and bar spaces that flow to the boma for starlit dinners. Between drives, guests split time between the swimming pool, the on-site safari spa and a fully equipped fitness center; a small safari shop adds convenience. Families benefit from the Cubs Club children’s center and guided, age-appropriate activities. The daily rhythm balances early-morning and late-afternoon drives with relaxed midday hours and convivial evenings by firelight. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the main lodge area rather than in rooms.

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