Simbavati River Lodge

Kruger National Park


One of the loveliest lodges anywhere in the Kruger area, Simbavati has gorgeous, open-sided public areas, classy safari tents and beautifully designed family chalets. The location, in Timbavati's north, is excellent, too. One of the safari tents serves as a mini-spa with African massages a highlight.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Kruger National Park attractions

1. Klaserie Private Nature Reserve

6.83 MILES

A 600-sq-km (or 60,000 hectare) private wildlife reserve in the greater Kruger area, Klaserie has strong conservation credentials.

2. Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

6.92 MILES

Timbavati abuts Kruger National Park's western boundary and has an excellent mix of wildlife, conservation and good accommodation. Its accommodation…

3. Timbavati Picnic Area

17.05 MILES

One of Kruger's designated picnic spots. Northwest of Satara. Have a late lunch here as a prelude to a loop along the S127 and S39.

4. Thornybush Private Game Reserve

17.28 MILES

This 13,816-hectare reserve is a collaboration between 12 lodges (the number keeps going up every year), with a focus on high-end comforts and excellent…

5. Bobbejaankrans

18.22 MILES

This overlooks a section of the Timbavati River that animals often visit to slake their thirst. It's especially good early morning or late afternoon.

6. Kapama Private Game Reserve

23.35 MILES

With four luxury lodges and the Big Five in residence (as well as occasional passing wild dogs and great birding), 13,000-hectare Kapama gets all of the…

7. Nsemani Dam

24.44 MILES

Nsemani is always worth a stop between Satara and Orpen. Hippos, birds and elephants are often present.

8. Amarula Lapa

25.29 MILES

The best way to enjoy a glass of creamy Amarula liqueur is to visit the Amarula Lapa, located next to the production plant, 10km west of Phalaborwa…