Timbavati Game Reserve
Renowned for its vast natural beauty and untouched wilderness, Timbavati Private Game Reserve offers an unforgettable African safari experience.
Everything you need to know
A truly pristine wilderness, the Timbavati bushveld spans 53,000 hectares and is home to a wealth of wildlife, including the elusive and rare white lion. Its name, meaning “the place where something sacred came down to Earth from the heavens,” reflects the reserve’s majestic essence. As a private reserve not open to day visitors, Timbavati offers an extraordinary and intimate safari experience.
Where is the Reserve located?
The Timbavati is located in Mpumalanga province, South Africa, between Hoedspruit and Acornhoek. Positioned on the western boundary of Kruger National Park and north of Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Timbavati is part of the Greater Kruger National Park following the removal of its fences to neighboring reserves.
What can you expect from the terrain?
Unlike many restored lands in the region, large portions of Timbavati have remained untouched and sparsely inhabited, preserving its genuine wilderness. Characterized by its savannah bushveld and woodland terrain, similar to the neighboring Sabi Sands, Timbavati’s remoteness offers a heightened sense of exclusivity and a profound feeling of being truly immersed in the wild.
What type of wildlife will we see?
The primary attraction of Timbavati is the opportunity to spot the rare white lion, a sacred animal in African tribal lore and indigenous to the region. The reserve also boasts a rich array of wildlife, including the iconic Big Five and a variety of plains game such as wildebeest, giraffe, waterbuck, kudu, and the endangered African wild dog. Game viewing at Timbavati offers an exceptional and intimate experience with its remarkable inhabitants.
Top experiences to enjoy at Timbavati Private Reserve
A photographic safari at Timbavati is essential, particularly if you have the rare chance to spot the endangered white lion—an unforgettable experience. Personalized game drives and bush walks offer exceptional ways to explore the bush, while a unique 3-day yoga safari at King’s Camp provides a rejuvenating connection to nature, enriching your mind, body, and spirit.
When to visit
The dry winter months offer the best wildlife viewing in Timbavati, as animals frequently gather around waterholes and rivers, and the thinning bushveld makes game spotting easier. In contrast, the summer season is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with Timbavati hosting one of the highest concentrations and diversities of bird species in the region.
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