The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is a slice of Lowveld heaven that shares a border with the mighty Kruger National Park in South Africa. Game thrives here and sightings of the Big 5 – lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino – are among the most regular and reliable in the world. For true nature lovers, nothing can beat leaving the 4x4 behind and setting out on foot with a knowledgeable guide to discover Africa’s incredible fauna and flora. Whether it is the 360 recorded bird species, including herons, kingfishers, weavers and raptors, or a glimpse of a rare white lion, there is very little to rival a walking safari in 11 000 hectares of the Timbavati.
Simbavati Trails Camp welcomes guests over the age of 14 to its four Meru-style tents. This is an old-school safari that offers up bucket-showers, meals cooked on the campfire and a complete digital detox thanks to no electricity or mobile phone reception.
Your days will pass blissfully as you set out in the coolness of the morning while the dew is still on the grass, nocturnal animals are backing away into their burrows and dens, and diurnal ones are sauntering down to waterholes to slake their overnight thirst. After a 4-hour walk, you will break for a brunch back at camp followed by a nap in the shade of an obliging tree or your tent before walking to a sublime spot to take in the sunset. A vehicle will the waiting to drive you back to camp for dinner under the stars.
With only eight beds available, Simbavati Trails Camp is perfect to be booked in its entirety by families or groups who enjoy hiking, birding, camping and photography.
