TIMBAVATI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE ǀ GREATER KRUGER

ABOUT KAMBAKU

Situated on the banks of a dry riverbed, the majestic Kambaku River Sands is an unfenced bush retreat in the heart of the Timbavati Private Game Reserve located within the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Kambaku derives its name from one of the so-called “Magnificent Seven” tuskers that used to roam the Kruger Park in the previous century. These giants were renowned for their impressive tusks, with one tusk weighing in at just over 60kg!

This pristine lodge is completely unfenced, allowing an array of wildlife species to move freely around and through the camp. This creates up-close-and-personal experiences with Africa’s wildife in the heart of African wilderness for those in search of something different.

The Timbavati boasts a wealth of incredible biodiversity – both fauna and flora. Here guests are assured of exceptional safari experiences while relaxing in utter luxury and comfort. A sighting of the amazing White Lions of the Timbavati truly counts as a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Apart from the majestic Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo, African wild dog, cheetah, hippo and crocodile, as well as a wealth of antelope species, call this pristine wilderness home. The Timbavati also has a reputation as a bird-lovers paradise, with a rich variety of recorded species for avid birders to enjoy.

The Main Lodge

The main lodge with its impressive thatched roofs and raised decking, overlooks a very busy waterhole. Earthy tones, plush furnishings and exquisite decor, merge seamlessly to create tranquil spaces in which to relax and unwind. From the beautiful lounge to the expansive raised deck with breathtaking views of the African wilderness, Kambaku’s architecture oozes sophistication and tranquillity.

The sunbeds, next to the sparkling infinity pool, invites weary travellers to relax and unwind, while immersing themselves in the magnificence of this bush landscape. However, don’t be surprised if you have to share the pool with a few thirsty elephants at times!

The Matumi wrap-around bar with ice-cold beer on tap, is the perfect oasis in which to enjoy some cool refreshments after a hot day out in the bush. Those with more discerning palates can indulge in a wide array of premium wines from the sunken cellar with its beautiful views of the bush.

In the winter months, the two impressive fireplaces offer warm refuges from the cold.

Stellar service by the very capable staff contingent completes the service offering at Kambaku. Here local and international guests can feel completely at home in the heart of the African wilderness.

ACCOMMODATION AT KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS

Kambaku Kruger Luxury Suites

Guests can choose from 10 opulent private suites, each with its own seating area, private viewing deck and en-suite bathroom. The latter has his-and-hers basins, a spa bath and in- and outdoor showers, and comes with an array of bathroom amenities.

An extra-length king-size bed (which can be converted to twins), beautifully draped in mosquito netting, offers refuge to weary souls. Here you can unwind in stylish comfort. Air-conditioning creates a cool escape away from the heat of the bush, and a minibar, butler’s tray and tea-and-coffee making facility will keep you hydrated.

Complimentary Wi-Fi complete the service offering.

Luxury suite facilities

• Air Conditioning
• Private deck
• En-suite bathroom with spa bath and in- and outdoor showers
• Bathroom amenities such as dressing gowns and hairdryer
• Complementary Wi-Fi
• Electrical outlets
• Complimentary minibar
• Mosquito nets
• Safe
• Tea/coffee making facility

FACILITIES AT KAMBAKU RIVER LODGE

• Activity desk
• Bar
• Battery charging facilities
• Business centre
• Chapel
• Communal dining
• Conference centre
• Gym (nearby)
• Internet access (Complimentary)
• Library
• Meals on request
• Mobile connectivity
• Pool
• Private vehicles
• Restaurant
• Secure parking
• Spa

CUISINE

Dining at Kambaku River Sands Kruger is a festive occasion. Whether it is a scrumptious breakfast, tasty lunch or delicious three-course dinner, wilderness cooking here has a special flair.

Tasty food is enhanced by good company and fine wines.

Whether served on the deck, the dining room or the privacy of your suite, a culinary feast awaits. A romantic dinner for two can even be arranged in the unique wine cellar.

Available Services

• Airport shuttle service
• ATM
• Chauffeur service
• Credit card facility
• Foreign exchange
• Room service
• Travel desk.
• Laundry service

KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS LODGE ACTIVITIES

At Kambaku Timbavati guests can enjoy a wide range of activities, of which the various luxury Kruger safari experiences are the most popular. Up close and personal experiences with elephant, buffalo and bushbuck – to name but a few – from the private decks or main lodge area, make this Kruger Park luxury lodge a one of a kind in every sense.

Bush Walks

A walking safari is the most authentic way in which to experience the essence of the African wilderness from a whole different perspective, as it activates all the senses. Feeling the pulse of Africa under your feet opens up a whole new appreciation of nature and its wonders.

Your experienced guide will share astonishing details of nature’s intricacies in an informative manner, focussing your attention on the smaller things which usually slip by unnoticed when driving through the bush.

Under the watchful eye of your bush expert, a simple termite mound suddenly becomes a micro-cosmos of pure wonder. You will even develop a whole new appreciation for animal dung! Here, big and small all have the same value within the greater scheme of things.

Walking safaris usually take place in the early mornings, before the heat of the day, and last from 3 to 4 hours. It usually replaces the early morning game drive. Hats/caps, sunscreen, neutral-coloured clothing, and closed shoes are absolute necessities. And don’t forget those cameras and binoculars!

You will feel secure in the knowledge that your guide is equipped with a “walking stick” (rifle) and backpack with a support radio, first-aid kit, water and even some snacks.

Early morning safari

Walking up at dawn to a steamy cup of coffee will quickly get you energised for an exciting morning safari in an open safari vehicle. At this time of day, the bush is most alive and the possibilities for rare sightings are endless. With huge expanses to traverse, your guide and tracker will share their wealth of knowledge in a way that will keep you spell-bound. Back at the lodge it will be time to indulge in a scrumptious brunch before retreating to your suite to laze the day away.

Late afternoon/evening safari

After tea and delicious home-baked treats it is time for the evening safari. Watching an African sunset whilst sipping on a cocktail gives one a renewed appreciation of the magnificence of Mother Nature.

Photographic safari

Whether a novice, or experienced, lovers of photography will absolutely love the Kambaku River Sands photographic safaris.

Although the lodge’s professional guides are all adequately trained in all aspects of wildlife photography, guests have the option to request a professional photographer to accompany them on safari. This will allow the guide to focus more on finding game and securing the best possible angles for that perfect shot.

Any equipment you might need can be arranged by lodge management, subject to prior notice. On a Kambaku River Sands photographic safari, you have the perfect opportunity to capture that one-in-a-million shot that will bring you a lifetime of pleasure.

Private vehicles are also highly recommended as it gives you the opportunity to spend the time you need with subjects in order to get the photos you are looking for.

Bird watching

Kambaku Timbavati is a bird lover’s paradise. A wealth of bird species will offer hours of entertainment through your binocular lenses. Birders can watch their favourite species at play at the local hide at Twins Dam.

Kambaku sunset spa

The lodge spa boasts a sauna and steam room (gents and ladies), as well as a plunge pool, and is the perfect haven for those in search of utter rejuvenation and pampering. A comprehensive range of treatments by experienced spa therapists can be enjoyed. Why not spoil yourself?

Those who prefer to work up a sweat can do so in the well-equipped gym.

Boma and bush dinners

Delicious local African dinners are served around the open-air boma bonfire. Here guests can enjoy bush hospitality at its finest. Scrumptious local African cuisine, paired with the perfect wine, can be enjoyed under the starry sky. The boma is where stories about the bush are shared and memories are made. Entertainment in the form of traditional singing and dancing will add even more spice to the evening.

Meals are all-inclusive and the lodge caters to most dietary preferences.

Library

Those who love to immerse themselves in a good book can choose from a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books from the library.

Curio Shop

The curio shop stock a wide range of safari gear and local traditional art. Here you can find the perfect gift for a loved-one back home.

Kiddies programme

Children are welcome at Kambaku.

Child-friendly facilities include a pool, play corner, a variety of children’s books and board games, as well as art accessories. The curio shop also stocks a range of children’s goodies. Child-minding services are available at an additional charge.

Outdoor Children’s Activities… Choose from a range of fun activities including:

• Bow- or kite-making
• Spoor casting
• Frogging and birding
• Dung spitting
• Jewellery-making
• Star talks
• Bug / ant-lion catching.

Each child will receive an age-appropriate gift back upon arrival.

* Children under 4 are not allowed on game drive unless a private vehicle is booked.

MORE ABOUT THE KAMBAKU LODGES

Kambaku owners, Bryce and Nicola, invite guests to experience the warmth and hospitality of their bush home, Kambaku.

Kambaku Lodges are highly sought-after by local and international guests because of their prime location within the highly acclaimed Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Being part of the world-renowned Kruger National Park, the Timbavati enjoys a wealth of incredible biodiversity, in both its fauna and flora. The amazing White Lions of the Timbavati will leave nature lovers enthralled. Kambaku offers guests exceptional safari experiences, either in open safari vehicles or on foot.

A new addition to the portfolio is Kambaku @ Sea boutique B & B, situated in what is arguably one of the most spectacular locations along the Garden Route. Just a stone’s throw from Knysna, Oudshoorn and George, this is an ideal location to use as base whilst exploring the beauty of this pristine coastline.