5-Day Essential Kruger Park Safari

$2,715 - $3,730

per person sharing
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Overview

Set in the northern reaches of the Timbavati Private Game Reserve – spanning over 12 000 hectares of verdant savannah – Simbavati River Lodge awaits for a 5-day safari in the Greater Kruger region. The lodge is perched on the banks of the Nhlaralumi River, bringing you tranquil views of birds weaving their nests in the tall grasses, while crocodiles and hippos glide silently along the waters.

The reserve shares an unfenced border with the famed Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely. Over four days, you'll explore diverse terrains including vast plains and open savannahs, as well as acacia woodlands and riverine forests on informative game drives. The reserve is blessed with fewer crowds, ensuring exclusive sightings.

As a Big Five safari destination, you're invited to pull out your checklist as you mark off unforgettable sightings of elephants, lions and buffalo, while the more elusive leopards and rhinos are a prized encounter.

This itinerary is ideal for the discerning traveller seeking luxury safari accommodation with a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere that features sought-after Big Five sightings typical of a Kruger National Park safari, while boasting the exclusivity of a private reserve. It works well as an add-on to a Cape Town or Victoria Falls holiday. Couples will enjoy access to therapeutic spa treatments and facials and the private romance of luxury safari tents on the riverbanks or tucked away in the bush.

Highlights & Activities

What's on offer whilst on this itinerary?
  • Set in a private reserve in the Greater Kruger region
  • Luxury safari tents with private viewing decks
  • Exclusive and informative Big Five game drives with experienced guides
  • Access to a spa for therapeutic treatments including massages and facials
  • A swimming pool and bar area for a laid-back afternoon
  • Lantern-lit bush dining for private romance under the stars
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Summary

Tour Duration: 5 days
Start: Kruger National Park, South Africa
End: Kruger National Park, South Africa

Destinations visited

A lion sits with an open mouth roar amidst grass with a golden glow | Go2Africa
Kruger Private Reserves
A large group of lions walk towards the camera on a sand track with a game vehicle following behind | Go2Africa
South Africa

Accommodations visited

simbavati-river-lodge_banner-3

Kruger National Park, South Africa

Simbavati River Lodge
4 Nights

Itinerary

Day to day
  • Wake up to picturesque views of nature...and elephants | Simbavati RIver Lodge
  • Spot the Big Five on game drives, including the endangered rhino.
  • simbavati-river-lodge-pool-suite-ext
  • Luxury Tented Suite interior.
  • Enjoy an 'armchair safari' from your Tented Suite's game viewing deck.
  • simbavati-river-lodge-pool-suite-ext
  • The reserve has a prolific leopard population.
  • The Kid's Club.
  • A romantic, lantern-lit dinner.
  • The swimming pool, lined by cushioned loungers.
  • Spot the Big Five on game drives, including the endangered rhino.
  • Elephant and other species enjoy a drink from the Pool Suite plunge pool in the drier months.
  • Dining on the deck.
"excellent"
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Avideh Denereaz
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Itinerary information

Upon arrival at Johannesburg International Airport, you'll fly to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, where a road transfer will take you to Simbavati River Lodge. You'll spend four nights in a Luxury Safari Tent, set on the edge of the Nhlaralumi River, with a private deck inviting you to sink into a chair with a glass of wine in hand as elephants pass by your doorstep. As a private reserve in the Greater Kruger, it offers an authentic Kruger National Park safari experience. With lower vehicle density, your drives feel relaxed and unhurried, deepening your connection to the wilderness.

Each morning begins with a sunrise game drive, featuring coffee and rusks in a secluded clearing, as the echoes of birdsong crescendo into a brand-new day. As you traverse the dense bush, keep an eye out for wild dogs travelling in their packs. Back at the lodge, a breakfast buffet awaits on the outside deck. As the day warms, find yourself next to the pool with a refreshing drink in hand, and the sun on your cheeks. The afternoons also offer a chance to indulge in a soothing massage or cleansing facial at the spa.

Later on, your sundowner game drives will see you setting out to find nocturnal hunters like lions and leopards, which are more active at this time. Each day is fuelled by the thrill of spotting one of the iconic Big Five. Evenings bring a delicious blend of African and Western cuisines, served in the open-air boma or beneath a thatched dining area. For couples, private bush dining can be arranged nestled next to an acacia tree, with lanterns scattered around to create a romantic ambience.

Simbavati River Lodge information

  • Excellent river front location - one of the best in the Timbavati

  • Welcoming and relaxed atmosphere

  • Expansive deck and lounge to relax

  • Perfect for families, with 2-bedroom chalets

  • Fantastic value for money

Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)

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"excellent"
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Itinerary information

After a final breakfast, a road transfer will take you to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport for your return flight to Johannesburg.

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Rates

Competitive rates for unforgettable experiences
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Date Price
2025-04-01 - 2025-10-31 $3,440
2025-11-01 - 2025-11-30 $2,715
2025-12-01 - 2025-12-31 $3,730

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Our rates are per person sharing unless we note differently.

Please treat all pricing as a guide only:
  • All rates are subject to availability and may change without notice.
  • Single supplements may apply.
  • Request a quote or speak to one of our African Safari Experts for the best, most current rates available.
Our Best Price Promise

If you’re able to find a better quote for your itinerary let us know and we’ll match it.

Expert Opinion

We know because we go
Meg van Niekerk

Meg van Niekerk

Africa Safari Expert

This 5-day Kruger safari is an add-on that just works—whether you're coming from Cape Town, Vic Falls, or even Botswana. Simvati River Lodge, set right on the Nhlaralumi River in Timbavati, offers that classic Big Five safari feel without the crowds. Mornings are all about crisp air, roaring lions and coffee in the bush, while afternoons bring hippo sightings from your deck and a spa treatment if you're in the mood. It's relaxed, comfortable and quietly luxurious—ideal for winding down (or ramping up) a longer African adventure.

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What’s Included?

  • 4 nights accommodation
  • Meals:
  • Simbavati River Lodge : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
  • All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
  • All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
  • 24/7 assistance and support during your trip
  • Complete financial protection with our Money-Back Guarantee

What’s Excluded?

  • Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
  • Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
  • Tips
  • Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs)
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