Tanda Tula Safari Camp is situated in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park.
As one of South Africa's most luxurious tented bushveld lodges, we offer our guests an unforgettable experience in game viewing, warm hospitality and award-winning cuisine. Consisting of 12 luxurious tents, Tanda Tula Safari Camp exudes elegance and combines comfort and style with African roots. The open plan lodge, which is completely unfenced, merges luxury with the natural environment.
Tanda Tula Safari Camp is sanctuary to Africa's Big Five, with traversing over more than 20,000 ha of wilderness and undisturbed biodiversity. As there are no fences between the Timbavati and Kruger National Park, game are able to roam freely between the two, offering guests an incredible, unforgettable African wildlife experience.

Our highly skilled ranger and tracker teams guide our guests in the early mornings and evenings, in open Land Rovers or on foot. Tanda Tula Safari Camp is also proud to be the first in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve to offer a unique, Overnight Walking African Safari experience.
Tanda Tula is the oldest safari camp in the Timbavati. Steeped in history, our routes go back many generations linking conservation and the Shangaan culture, and our joy is sharing it with the world. The Timbavati is also home to the very rare white lions.

Set on the banks of the Nharalumi riverbed in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Tanda Tula Safari Camp is shaded by majestic trees and overlooks a watering hole that attracts wildlife from dawn till dusk. Each of the 12 luxury tents is completely private and surrounded by lush riverine bush overlooking the riverbed, epitomising the ultimate African wildlife experience. Each tent has its own private deck complete with comfortable loungers, which offers guests an opportunity to relax, on their own, and absorb the beauty and tranquility of the African bush.
Each of our tents features a beautiful en suite bathroom with a traditional Victorian bathtub and romantic outdoor shower, overlooking the African bush and riverbed. The interiors are furnished in sheer elegance and comfort, ensuring that you will enjoy a true African experience in complete luxury.
The infinity pool overlooks a large watering hole which is often frequented by a variety of African wildlife, including the Big Five. The bar and lounge are always open, and our superb barmen, Harry, Smiling and Thabo, will gladly bring you your favourite drink while you relax and immerse yourself in the serenity of the African Bush.
Tanda Tula, ‘’To Love the Quiet’’

TRUE AFRICAN DINING

In the evenings, guests can enjoy a superb dinner in the boma, under the stars in the garden or, for the more adventurous, in the riverbed which runs alongside our safari camp. Here you will enjoy quintessential African cuisine prepared by our highly trained and award-winning chefs. Sumptuous bush breakfasts are served daily at our bush site and after breakfast, guests can arrange a guided walk back to camp with their ranger.

MACHATON HIDE

Out in the bush, we have a lovely hide on the Machaton Dam where private picnics and 'Starbeds' can be arranged, bringing you even closer to the wilderness. The Machaton Hide also forms part of our Overnight Walking Safari experience.

GAME DRIVES

The highly skilled ranger and tracker teams at Tanda Tula Safari Camp guide guests in the early mornings and evenings, in open Land Rovers or on foot.
Each of our Safari Camp's rangers and trackers are amongst the most highly qualified in Africa, assuring that your game experience will be unforgettable, exciting and informative. Each member of our team has extensive experience and training so that we can offer our guests an incredible African bush experience.
The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve (forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park), is known for its vast variety of game including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino). The Timbavati is renowned for its numerous lion prides as well as the famous White Lions of the Timbavati.
The Timbavati is also recognised for its low human impact. With only 8 lodges in more than 50 000 hectares, guests experience the bush at its most pristine. The lodges have mutual traversing and co-operate well with each other in animal sightings during all game drives.

BUSH WALKS

Each day, guests are offered the option to either experience the Timbavati Private Nature reserve on foot or in an open Land Rover. Bush Walks provide a unique opportunity for nature lovers and adventure seekers to experience the beautiful African wildlife on foot and up close.
Each bush walk is led by one of Tanda Tula Safari Camp's highly qualified ranger and tracker teams, ensuring that our guests safely experience the African bush and wildlife.
Sunrise bush walk (3 hours)
Guests will kick-start the day with steaming hot coffee and homemade rusks, before venturing out on the game walk. They will depart at sunrise on foot from our safari camp and make their way to our bush breakfast site where our master chef will prepare a scrumptious meal in true African style. All sunrise bush walks are to be booked in advance.
Mid morning bush walk (1 hour)
After bush breakfast guests may return to camp on foot with their ranger, where they will have the opportunity to experience the African bush at a slower pace.
All bush walks are available for children aged 14 years and older.

STAR BEDS

Spend an incredible night out under the stars at Machaton Hide, overlooking the spectacular watering hole on the banks of the Machaton riverbed. After an evening game drive, guests will be taken out to the hide with a delicious packed picnic dinner.
Special preparations will have been seen to, the oil lanterns lit, comfortable camp beds made with linen and duvets, hot water-bottles (in winter) and your favourite night-cap. A game viewing spotlight will help the guests spot the nocturnal visitors to the dam, and a radio with direct connection to the camp will ensure that they feel secure.
In the morning, after coffee and rusks, the ranger will collect the guests and the group will immediately head out on a game drive. This experience is available at no extra cost to all our guests.
It is limited to couples or friends and family travelling together. Machaton Hide can accommodate a maximum of four guests. Please note that bookings are subject to availability as well as weather conditions permitting.

OVERNIGHT WALKING SAFARI EXPERIENCE

Tanda Tula is proud to be the first in the Timbavati to offer a remarkable once-in-a-lifetime experience: the overnight walking safari.
The Overnight Walking Safari provides an opportunity for nature lovers and adventure seekers to experience the beautiful African wildlife on foot and up close, and to sleep under the stars, exactly as the early explorers did. This experience is ideal for guests who love to hike, enjoy bird watching, flora and fauna and game tracking on foot. Each Walking Safari itinerary is individually tailored to suit guests' requirements.
On foot and up close!

BUSH PICNICS

At Tanda Tula Safari Camp guests can experience a variety of bush picnics where they will enjoy a scrumptious picnic lunch in the riverbed, out in the bush or at the Machaton hide which is frequented by a variety of wildlife, including the big five.
A bush picnic is a very relaxing way to spend the afternoon, away from camp in complete privacy and enjoy the African wildlife, while enjoying a picnic lunch prepared by our experienced chefs. Once guests have relaxed and enjoyed their bush picnic, they will be collected by one of our experienced rangers to set off on a game drive.
This experience is available at no extra cost and is limited to couples or friends and family travelling together. All picnics are subject to availability and weather dependent.

ROMANTIC PRIVATE DINNERS

Tanda Tula Safari Camp is widely known as the ideal romantic bush getaway, where privacy, luxury and a unique game experience is the order of the day.
At no extra cost, guests can be treated to a romantic turndown and special dinner, in complete privacy on the deck of your very own secluded luxury tent.
Overlooking the Nlharalumi river, you will be spoilt with fine dining and magnificent bubbly while listening to the night sounds of the African bush. After dinner, you and your loved one can relax in a candle lit bubble bath.

COLONIAL ROMANCE

                                                         

Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Kings Camp reflects the charm and romance of a colonial past in a pristine corner of unspoilt Africa. Kings Camp is situated facing an open savanna plain with a waterhole, which is frequented by a wide variety of wildlife, day and night.
The size of the reserve covers about 60 000 hectares of pristine African bush, part of the world famous greater Kruger National Park. The Kruger National Park itself is a further 2 million hectares in size, which is about the same size as Israel or Wales. In the early 1990’s the boundary fence between the Kruger National Park and adjacent private game reserves, namely Timbavati, Sabi Sands, Klaserie, Umbabat and Manyaleti was removed to create the greater Kruger National Park, covering an area of 2.2 million hectares. The reason being conservationists wanted to re-create ancient migration movements of wildlife from the
Kings Camp is situated in the northern corner of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve and has been in operation as a game lodge since 1995. Our commitment to our guests is to freely share in the experience in a manner that is both enlightening and relaxing. We are further dedicated to a gracious style of hospitality from a bygone era, combined with a flexibility that puts the comfort and requests of our guests first. But above all, we will do this in a manner that will never compromise our environment, instead it will materially benefit our surrounding community culturally, environmentally and economically.

LUXURIOUSLY EQUIPPED

                                                     

The eleven generously spaced thatched colonial suites luxuriously equipped with romantic soft cascading mosquito nets, remote controlled air-conditioning, tea and coffee facilities, Victorian ball-and-claw bath, indoor and outdoor double shower, fully stocked mini-bar and private verandah with hammock, all combine to make Kings Camp the ultimate in luxury accommodation. Dark tones of wood and thatch offset the natural colours of the bushveld.
For your comfort and convenience, other room amenities include robes, mosquito repellent, an umbrella, hairdryer and a torch. Your suite is also equipped with its own safe and telephone.

CELEBRATION – WEDDING PACKAGE

At Kings Camp Private Game Reserve, your wedding ceremony will become a subtle stroke of Colonial grace and charm. Each wedding takes place in a dry riverbed sculptured by the NhlaraluMi River, surrounded by African bushveld. Defined by its careful attention to presentation, service and co-ordination, Kings Camp will lend a stylish yet relaxed and generous atmosphere to your exclusive wedding. A wedding at Kings Camp is more than just a ceremony; it is a celebration of the love between two people…

GAME DRIVES WITH KNOWLEDGEABLE RANGERS

Morning and afternoon game drives with knowledgeable rangers in open vehicles. You will be served tea, coffee and biscuits on your morning game drive and drinks and canapés on your afternoon game drive. Your afternoon game drive gets back after dark, which gives you the opportunity to spot our nocturnal animals with a spotlight.

        

WALKING SAFARIS

Walks through the bush take place just after breakfast, on request, and is the best way of experiencing the “finer” aspects of the bushveld. Your knowledgeable ranger will guide you through the fauna and flora of the Timbavati Nature Reserve, pointing out insects, grasses, trees and the smaller species that are all an integral part of the Timbavati Nature Reserve

DININGROOM IN THE BUSH

On warm evenings, guests may be treated to a three course meal in the heart of the bushveld. As guests complete their evening game drive, they will be enticed by the essence of a burning fire, to arrive to a hurricane lit “dining room” in the bush.
With the finest in cuisine and service excellence, guests will enjoy an unforgettable feast under African starlit skies.

FACILITIES

Lodge facilities include a dining room, bar, swimming pool, library and conference room with internet access, boma, game-viewing deck overlooking a very active waterhole, a curio shop, gym and massage tsala.

ACTIVITIES

Game drives in open vehicles with knowledgeable rangers, guided walks, and game viewing deck, bush breakfasts or dinners. We offer masseuse treatments in the privacy of your suite or in the massage tsala. (Additional charge applies).
Private game drives can also be arranged at an additional cost of R3500-00 (non-commissionable).

CUISINE

We offer true South African cuisine in a homely atmosphere comple- mented by an exceptional wine cellar. Specialized dietary requirements will be catered for subject to prior notice.

CHILDREN

Children aged from 6 and above are permitted at the Lodge. Children ages 6-11 years can share a room with their parents. Children sharing a suite with 2 full paying guests will pay 50% of the adult sharing rate. We regret we do not allow children under the age of 6, unless the whole camp is booked. However children of all ages are welcome at Waterbuck Camp.

Timbavati nestles among glades of mature, exquisite indigenous trees, and is a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. Our colourful, traditional Ndebele rondavels are spaced out amid beautiful shady trees, and offer our guests’ en-suite, comfortable and clean accommodation in a truely African ambience.

Our 35 rooms and lodge facilities are well equipped for large groups and ideal for Tour Operators, corporate functions, conferences, weddings and most special occasions, up to 120 guests.

No matter how intimate or how group-oriented your visit, we'll strive to ensure the perfect mood and an altogether wonderful experience. Our magnificent bar and large pool, are the perfect cure for dry throats and dusty bodies. Guests can relax in our cozy lounge or stretch out under the African sun on one of our pool side lounges.

Enjoy a braai in our reeded boma, under a canopy of African starlight, the aromatic scents of venison and hearty ‘potjie’ linger around a roaring open fire, while the calls of nearby wildlife enhance that unmatchable sense of mystery of the African bush. Game viewing on foot or in an open vehicle (with spotlights at night) is a must for every visitor.

Enter the world famous Kruger National Park with one of our highly trained guides, and experience the rush of adrenalin that comes with sighting Africa’s Big Five up close in their natural surroundings.

Guests may choose to spend their time exploring the rest of the Lowveld bushveld by visiting places such as the Blyde Canyon, Bourkes luck potholes, the three rondavels, God’s Window, Pilgrims Rest, The Hoedspruit endangered species centre, Moholoholo rehabilitation centre and the Kamahi Reptile Park.

There is also opportunities to indulge in a variety of extreme adventure sports for the brave and tough such as white water rafting, paintball, micro light flights, hot air ballooning and much, much more… We at Timbavati take pride in offering our guests relaxed, unconditional hospitality. Any special requirements you may have will be catered for to the very best of our ability.

ACCOMMODATION

Africa's old pioneers had a saying: "Any fool can be uncomfortable in the bush."

We at Timbavati believe in creature comforts, and do our utmost to ensure that you, as our guest and friend, enjoy a stay that's as memorable for comfort and tranquility. We offer a selection of chalets and rondawels painted with unique Ndebele traditional art work, all with, en suite shower, washbasin, toilet and fitted with mosquito nets. The rondawels and chalets, set amid beautiful shady trees, have been designed and situated to convey an atmosphere of happy relaxation and peacefulness in a true African Ambience.

Most rooms are either one double or two single beds, however there are a few rooms with a third and fourth bed. Some of the chalets rooms are connected through inter-leading doors to allow for families and guests that would prefer to be close by one another.

Timbavati Safari Lodge is nestled among glades of mature, exquisite indigenous trees, and these are home to a variety of birds and other life. You can't fail to be enchanted by the call of the Woodland Kingfisher, the chorus of Francolin's as the sun sets over the tree-line, and the calls of owls and nightjars as the night deepens and the African starscape explodes across the sky, with the distant call of hunting lions. Guests share the lodge area with the local inhabitants such as Bushbabies, Giraffe, Impala, Wildebeest, Bushbuck, Duiker, Warthog, who graze on the lush green grass and can regularly be seen from the verandas of the rooms.

FACILITIES

The Lodge hosts a number of facilities and services available to our guests.
Any special or tailored requests will be catered for to the best of our ability.

Laundry Service
Public Telephone
MTN, Vodacom and Cell C reception available
Internet
Swimming pool
Bar & Satellite TV
Lounging area
Restaurant
Curio shop
24hr security
Baby sitting available on request
Car hire available on request

LOOKING FOR A WEDDING VENUE

Surrounded by mature trees and indigenous bushveld, Timbavati serves as an ideal natural setting for the perfect wedding.
We can host up to 120 guests and accommodate up to 70 guests sharing.
If more than 70 guest need accommodation, Timbavati will source alternative accommodation at other lodges in the nearby vicinity.
We also have a list of local service suppliers like Photographers, Hair stylists, Cake Artists, Florists, Beauty and Spa Salons available.
AFRICAN WEDDING WITH THE BEAUTY OF NATURE and CULTURAL DANCERS making your special day unforgettable.

DINING AND AFRICAN CUISINE

              

Breakfast is served as a full continental. Their is a wide variety and selection of fruit, Cereal, fresh Yogurt and ice cold Juice, Tea and Coffee is available. Breakfast is served in the dining room.

Dinner is served as a buffet in true African style in the open-aired traditional boma or alongside our pool with our magnificent bar, only an arm’s length away. Taste the flavours of the African cuisine whilst dinning under the stars with the sounds of the wild in the background and the smell of African wood burning in the centre.
Dinner is served as a three course meal comprising of an entrée, followed by a main with desert to finish. Our large selection of wine offers the perfect complement to your meal. Our menu changes daily to ensure that guest staying for more than one night, don’t eat the same meal twice.

GAME DRIVES AND BUSH WALKS

Our area is an interesting niche eco system with some smaller wild game and prolific bird life, together with the smaller inhabitants of our bush. Flora and fauna is varied but you can expect to see Zebra, Kudu, Blue-wildebeest, Impala, Grey duiker, Bushbuck, Warthog and occasionally Leopard and Hyena. Bird life is seasonal and the following species can be found: Purple-crested Turaco, Grey Go-away bird, Levaillant’s Cuckoo, African Emerald Cuckoo, Wood owl, Scops owl both Southern white-faced and African, Woodland kingfisher, African pygmy-kingfisher, Black cuckoo shrike. Flycatchers, and many more.

Umlani Bushcamp is a highly recommended, classic African safari camp located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park.

See the real Africa at Umlani Bushcamp, enjoy the ultimate experience of true wilderness and seclusion in a camp that accommodates just 16 guests, in traditional African reed and thatch huts.

Umlani Bushcamp offers an exciting, safe experience in Big Five territory. View lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino, in more than 10 000 hectares (24 000 acres) of traversing area. The camp is also home to more than 40 mammal species and 350 bird species.

Experience the thrill of game drives in open Land Rovers, guided bush walks and tracking game on foot with highly experienced rangers and trackers. At Umlani Bushcamp you are guaranteed an adventure of a lifetime in one of Africa's world-renowned, unspoilt wilderness reserves.

FACILITIES AVAILABLE

Umlani Gift Shop for all your Umlani souvenirs.
Traditional African Boma Restaurant serving award winning meals.
Laundry service
Pick up and drop off airport services.
Secure personal Safes.
Pristene pool to cool you down on hot days.
Bush bar and deck overlooking the nearby waterhole.
Exclusive Tree house 2.5 kms away from camp for a true bush experience.

ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE

Umlani is renowned for their outstanding Shangaan rangers and trackers, who will not only find you the game, but will also introduce you to the wealth of flora, fauna, bird life and cultural heritage of the region.

You will be taken out on two game drives per day, in open top Land Rovers. The morning game drive will leave at dawn and the night drive will leave in the late afternoon. There is always a ranger on stand-by for an optional morning bush walk.

During the day you can go on short walks with the ranger after breakfast, or lounge in the double hammocks around the swimming pool sipping your favourite drink. Alternatively, laze away the day in our spacious bush bar and deck overlooking the riverbed and watering hole. For exclusive tranquillity there is a tree house about 2.5 kms from the camp overlooking a dam, where we can leave you for an hour or two with blankets and big comfortable pillows as well as a cooler box with drinks.

In the evening you will be treated to pre dinner drinks in the traditional boma around the fire, followed by one of Umlani's award winning meals in the candlelit dining room, or out in the open riverbed surrounded by flares and cauldron fires.

BIRDWATCHING AND GAME VIEWING AT UMLANI BUSHCAMP

Birdwatching at Umlani Bushcamp is just as spectacular. In this luxury camp in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the northern part of the Kruger, birdwatching rarely disappoints due to the vast number of species associated with birding in the Kruger Park.