Simbavati River Lodge is set on the banks of the Greater Kruger National Park's Nhlaralumi River in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve. The Timbavati offers exceptional game viewing including all the Big 5, most notably leopard. A flood-lit waterhole right in front of the lodge is frequently visited by herds of elephants
The lodge has a traditional safari ambience but with a contemporary twist in terms of décor. There are 11 rooms in total including Luxury Safari Tents, Tented Pool Suites and Family Chalets. The main lodge area has a deck with expansive river views, an outside dining area, bar and swimming pool. With its safari spa and fitness center the lodge caters nicely to honeymooners and couples but also appeals to families with its Cubs Club kids center and Family Chalets.
Special offers: Book for 4 nights and only pay for 3 nights. Honeymoon offer: Stay for 3 nights and one partner receives a 40% discount on accommodation. These offers are only valid between 01 November to 20 December 2025. Terms and conditions apply.
Watch elephants drink at the waterhole whilst dining on the deck
Exceptional, up-close game viewing, particularly the Big 5
Caters for both couples and families
Cozy, lantern-lit evening dining under the stars
At a glance
11 Rooms
All Ages
Open All Year
Family Rooms
All Inclusive
Safari
Our sustainable tourism rating
We handpick partners who share our commitment to protecting their environment, conserving wildlife and benefitting local communities.
Environment
Community
INSIDER TIP
"Simbavati River Lodge is a 1 hour drive from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, accessible from Johannesburg and Cape Town."
Indulge your passions
ACTIVITIES
Adventures and activities to ensure lifetime memories are made. From unforgettable thrills to indulgent relaxation, choose those that appeal most.
Big 5 Safari
Night Drive
Kids Bushcraft
Wellness/Spa
Picture yourself here
Gallery
Take a journey through Simbavati River Lodge to get a flavor of its unique style and character, designed to enchant every guest.
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TRIPS TO INSPIRE
From exhilarating wildlife encounters to out-of-this-world natural wonders, echoes of ancient empires, and rose-gold beaches, every bespoke Mahlatini journey is designed to immerse you in the extraordinary. Whether it’s a bucket list trip, marking a milestone, or a soul-stirring retreat, let this handpicked selection inspire your next escape.
At Mahlatini, we believe in making your journey effortless. Browse our website for inspiration or get in touch with us directly. Whether you already have a dream destination in mind or need some inspiration, our travel experts are here to create your custom itinerary. Serial safari-goer, Indophile or first-time explorer, your adventure starts with a conversation.
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Receive your Mahlatini travel documents, pack your bags and set off on your trip of a lifetime!
We routinely go the extra mile to ensure that you're in good hands at every stage of your journey.
Robert Procter, 2nd March 2025
vacation to Simbavati River Lodge
Neither Sophie or I had been on a proper safari before, and we didn't know what to expect from Simbavati. To start with, we weren't thinking that we would be lucky enough to go on a drive on our first afternoon, considering we arrived around 3pm, how wrong were we. From the first minute, everything…
This was hands down the highlight of our trip! Although we originally booked at River Lodge, we received an upgrade to the beautiful Mvubu Cottage due to possible construction. Mvubu Cottage, with its spacious two bedrooms and two bathrooms, is off-site but close to Simbavati Hilltop, which worked …
It was amazing! We loved the people, we loved the room, we loved the food! Absolutely incredible experience! The only awkward bit at the end was confusion around tipping the server, which we already talked about with Kitty.
We loved Simbavati River Lodge! The accommodations were impeccable. On our first day there, elephants walked directly in front of our tent! We saw elephants, impalas and kudu as we were having our meals. The meals were delicious. The team planned a romantic meal for us to celebrate our anniversary.…
+1 347-708-1755
11 Rooms
All Ages
Open All Year
Family Rooms
All Inclusive
Safari
Big 5 Safari
Night Drive
Kids Bushcraft
Wellness/Spa
