Reflecting the charm and romance of a bygone era in a pristine corner of unspoilt Africa
Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in South Africa, Kings Camp Lodge boasts spectacular views over an open savanna plain with a waterhole in the heart of the African wilderness. It is a pristine bush landscape frequented by a wide variety of wildlife species, both day and night.
Kings Camp in the Timbavati forms part of the world-famous Kruger National Park, which covers an area of 2,2 million hectares. This magnificent LoTimbavati Safari Lodge is a wildlife paradise with an astounding diversity of wildlife, including the famous Big Five – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and buffalo. With 100km² of bush to traverse, nature lovers have plenty of space in which to view Africa’s wildlife in open safari vehicles or even on foot!
Kings Camp has seven Luxury and Family Suites and two exquisite Honeymoon Suites. All offer opulent luxury in the heart of the bush, and boast modern amenities such as air-con, a fully stocked minibar and a private verandah with breathtaking views. Rejuvinate and relax in the en-suite bathrooms, each with a Victorian ball-and-claw bath and indoor and outdoor double shower. Both honeymoon suites have a private verandah with large plunge pool overlooking the African bush. For those in search of intimacy, seclusion and the ultimate African Safari Experience, Waterbuck Private Camp at Kings Camp, is a four-bedroomed villa with its own game-viewing vehicle, game ranger and tracker, as well as a villa attendant and chef. This capable staff contingent will take care of your every need!
In the Main Camp, a thatched viewing deck overlooks a busy waterhole. The stylish open-plan lounge and bar are perfect for relaxation and soaking up the tranquillity of the African bush at this Timbavati Safari Lodge. Sumptuous cuisine is served in the spacious dining room with its breathtaking views of the African bushveld. The camp’s hearty and welcoming ambience will leave an indelible impression on those who appreciate simple but sophisticated style and elegance.
Our Story – Unlock the beauty of the Timbavati
Where it all began…
Kings Camp Private Game Reserve is situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park. The Timbavati was founded in the 1950s by a group of conservation-minded landowners who combined forces to protect this pristine wilderness area from destructive crop and cattle farming practices. In 1993, the Timbavati’s importance as a wildlife haven was recognised, and its fences with the Kruger National Park were removed to encourage the natural migration of indigenous wildlife.
Kings Camp Timbavati Game Reserve was established just two years later – in 1995 – and has since evolved into a premier eco-tourism destination in South Africa. This slice of African paradise was purchased by Joof Alberts, and after undergoing extensive renovations, it officially opened its doors in October 1995. Together with the Kruger National Park, the total area under protection comprises a mind-boggling 2.2 million hectares of African wilderness. It is considered a lesser-known private reserve, offering exceptional and highly exclusive game-viewing safaris in the Greater Kruger Area of Southern Africa.
Not only is Kings Camp a world-class luxury Kruger safari destination, but also home to an incredible team of proud and dedicated staff. The lodge is managed by husband-and-wife team, Warren and Lisha Moore, who have been nurturing Kings Camp Timbavati Game Reserve since 1998, as if it was their own. In 2011, the magnificent Waterbuck Private Camp was officially added to the Kings Camp Portfolio, as a luxurious private camp for families and small group safaris within the Timbavati.
Supporting Warren and Lisha, is our passionate and experienced team of safari guides and trackers – a group of very knowledgeable individuals who are all highly skilled in revealing the wonders of the African bushveld to guests during game drives and guided walking safaris. One of our guides, Remember Mashele, has been with Kings Camp for almost 15 years, starting his career as a tracker and eventually qualifying as a guide. We believe that the strength of our team is the foundation of King Lodge’s success story.
Kings Camp forms part of the Seasons in Africa group, a premier tourism marketing and management company comprising luxury game lodges, hotels and adventures throughout Southern Africa. Each of the properties within the Seasons group offers top quality facilities and friendly service.
Our Community – Working towards a brighter future
THE TIMBAVATI FOUNDATION
In the spirit of Ubuntu
The primary objective of the Timbavati Foundation is to reach out and provide funding for educational, training and sustainability programmes for underprivileged communities in the greater Hoedspruit area surrounding Kings Camp, Timbavati.
The Foundation is currently actively involved in the Timbavati Bush School, various sustainability programmes in neighbouring communities, as well as outreach and educational programmes at primary and secondary schools in the area. At the moment a total of 29 High Schools benefit from the programme and the number of Primary Schools is also growing.
As a Timbavati Trust donor you will enjoy… the satisfaction of knowing that your generous contribution will be utilised – in the spirit of Ubuntu – to give underprivileged South Africans a grounding in environmental education and access to improved healthcare. It also promotes sustainable living practices by offering communities the opportunity to make their mark in our young democracy.
Conservation – Treading lightly
Promoting and protecting the wilderness of the Timbavati
Since its inception in 1995, Kings Camp has been committed to creating a safari experience that is both indulgent and enlightening. We offer an experience that combines luxury, flexibility – and above all – a responsible approach to tourism. Kings Camp is committed to practices which materially benefit our neighbouring communities and encourage environmental awareness in the Timbavati.
The Timbavati Conservation Fund is used for the management of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. The management of a large wildlife area – 54 300 hectares in total – is costly as it needs numerous vehicles and staff to for its day-to-day activities. The reserve is enclosed on two sides by game fences, covering approximately 60km. These fences have to be maintained and checked daily. The reserve management also maintains 120km of boundary- and internal firebreak roads, which is done using heavy machinery that run at a high cost.
Kings Camp Game Reserve also has a dedicated ecological division that oversees the monitoring of ecological processes and animal populations. This monitoring system is extensive and informs management decisions. One such monitoring event is the annual aerial game survey, during which all large animals are counted to record animal population growth and numbers. Annual veld condition assessments and elephant impact monitoring surveys are also conducted. Another integral part of ecological maintenance is an ongoing erosion reclamation programme in which all human-induced erosion is actively mitigated.
The Timbavati Conservation Fund has a dedicated anti-poaching team, who is responsible for all area integrity related actions. Due to the size and shape of the reserve, many kilometres – boundaries and intenal areas – have to be patrolled daily. This is very time consuming. As the Timbavati has been declared a protected area in South Africa, a myriad of legislative requirements has to be adhered to, resulting in a huge increase in the administrative load.
In addition to the massive task of maintaining the reserve, the Timbavati Conservation Fee, paid by guests visiting the lodges, also finances another vital community outreach project – The Timbavati Foundation.
Our Location – Game viewing at its finest
Explore the untamed wilderness of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Kings Camp is located in the northern corner of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the world-renowned Kruger National Park in South Africa. The Timbavati is situated approximately 450km north-east of Johannesburg. The Timbavati Reserve area transverses the Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces of South Africa. Nowadays, this great wilderness area is often referred to as the Greater Kruger Conservancy.
Kings Camp in the Timbavati Reserve characterised by Mopane Woodlands, overlooking a waterhole frequented by a wide variety of wildlife. This Timbavati Lodge was established in 1995 as a premier eco-tourism destination. In 1992 the western boundary fence separating the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati Private Game Reserve was removed to create a 2.2 million hectare open natural ecosystem to enhance and promote natural ecological cycles and to encourage wildlife migration.
Luxurious tranquillity in the heart of the magical Timbavati.
Comprising 6 Luxury Suites, 1 Family Suite and 2 lavish Honeymoon Suites, Kings Camp Lodge offers the perfect Kruger Park Safari Escape. The lodge is positioned on the edge of a savanna plain and the grounds are dappled with the shade of Acacia trees. A vast array of wildlife frequents the watering hole on camp grounds both day and night, allowing for spectacular up-close game-viewing opportunities.
The high, thatched ceilings of the spacious luxury suites keep the rooms cool, while the dark wood and neutral colour palette mirror the natural colours of the bush. The opulent yet earthly decor of these elegant suites, creates the perfect ambience in which to relax and unwind, whether it be on your private verandah or stretched out a comfy couch in the large lounge.
Ideal for small families or groups travelling together, the family suite is made up of two adjacent luxury suites joined by an inter-leading door. These unique suites are equipped with all the facilities and amenities of the free-standing suites, and the additional shared space offers added peace of mind of having family close at hand.
The 2 Kings Camp Honeymoon Suites are the perfect havens from which to embark on your new life together. Exquisitely decorated, and featuring a romantic open-plan layout, these palatial suites boast expansive views of the Timbavati bush, and have their own private plunge pools, perfect for intimate bonding and relaxation.
The warm afternoons in the bush can be spent lazing around on the thatched viewing deck overlooking the active waterhole, or in the cool interior of the open-plan lounge and bar enjoying a refreshing cocktail. Those who love to immerse themselves in a good book, will appreciate the array of novels, autobiographies and guide books available in the Library. A morning of pampering at the Kings Camp Spa will take rejuvenation to a whole new level. And then, at the heat of the afternoon, a splash in the pool will get your re-energized in no time. Those who love to work up a sweat, no matter the weather, can indulge in a vigorous workout in the gym. The diverse range of luxurious amenities at Kings Camp truly cater to every mood and whim.
Our spacious dining room, positioned on the doorstep of the expansive bushveld, is a stunning setting from where to enjoy decadent, mouth-watering cuisine throughout the day. With the wide variety of Dinner Venues on offer at this Timbavati Lodge, tantalising your taste buds have never been this rewarding. Whether served under the vast African sky in our traditional boma, in the garden under the large latern-lit knobthorn tree, at the swimming pool, or on the terrace with its breathtaking view of the spot-lit waterhole, our superior cuisine will set your African adventure in motion.
Luxury Suites – Recline in luxurious comfort
Kings Camp offers the ultimate in deluxe safari accommodation
With exquisite interiors inspired by the bygone era of the great African explorers, the 6 generous Luxury Suites and 1 Family Suite are the pinnacle of luxurious accommodation in the Timbavati. The walls are adorned with historical relics and traditional local artwork, reflective of our colourful past. Far removed from the hustle of city life, losing yourself in the tranquillity of the bush is pure bliss. Stretch out on the expansive four-poster, king-sized bed, draped in a regal mosquito net, and fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush.
The luxurious suites are expertly designed to invite nature indoors. Luxurious amenities such as an en-suite bathroom – complete with outdoor shower and a Victorian bath tub – make these suites a blissful retreat after a day out in the bush. Not only is each suite in this Timbavati Game Lodge positioned to ensure utmost privacy, but they all have breathtaking views of the African wilderness.
For families or intimate groups, there is the family suite which comprises 2 luxury suites joined by an interleading door, creating the ideal balance of space and convenience.
Each suite is equipped with air-conditioning, ball-and-claw bath tub, indoor and outdoor shower, and a private verandah overlooking the bush. The pinnacle of Timbavati accommodation, Kings Camp, offers unsurpassed luxury to the discerning traveller. Convenient amenities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, robes, mosquito nets and repellent, a minibar, tea and coffee facilities, a hairdryer, safe and a telephone.
AT A GLANCE
• 6 Luxury Suites
• An interleading luxury family suite
• Private verandah with hammock
• Air-conditioning & heating
• Victorian ball-and-claw bath & double basin
• Indoor & outdoor showers
• Spacious lounge
• Stocked mini-bar
• Tea & coffee facilities with a Nespresso coffee machine
• Robes, hairdryer & umbrella
• Digital safe & telephone
• Animal reference guides & magazines
• Complimentary sherry & fruit platter
• Wi-Fi connectivity.
Embark on a new chapter
At Kings Camp newly-weds can indulge in a romantic candlelit dinner whilst soaking up the glorious bush environment on their private verandah of our Honeymoon Suite.
The spacious, open-plan design of the 2 air-conditioned honeymoon suites creates an intimate and romantic ambience in the heart of the African bush. Two sets of double doors open onto a private verandah and frame the breathtaking views of the wilderness to perfection. The open-plan lounge and en- suite bathroom with its indoor and outdoor shower, offer a wide range of luxurious amenities and fittings to ensure utmost comfort.
Recline on a plush armchair or stretch out on the luscious four-poster, king-sized bed, with front-row seats of the surrounding bush. Setting the benchmark in luxurious safari hospitality, the team at Kings Camp is proficient in treating the honeymoon couple like true royalty, creating a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave indelible memories.
Enjoy a tailor-made and intimate dinner on your private verandah. Candle-lit moments spent under the the stars in the middle of the African bush are the stuff memories are made of. Our expert spa therapists’ rejuvenating massages in the privacy of your suite, will round off your safari experience to perfection.
Some of the other stellar amenities at this Timbavati Game Lodge include en-suite bathrooms with free-standing Victorian ball-and-claw bath tub and double basins, Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee machine, fully stocked minibar, robes, mosquito repellent, an umbrella and a hairdryer. Suites is also equipped with its safes and telephones.
AT A GLANCE
• Private verandah with hammock and plunge pool
• Air-conditioning & heating
• Victorian ball-and-claw bath & double basin
• Indoor & outdoor showers
• Spacious lounge
• Stocked mini-bar
• Tea & coffee facilities with a Nespresso coffee machine
• Robes, hairdryer & umbrella
• Safe & telephone
• Animal reference guides & magazines
• Complimentary sherry & fruit platter
• Wi-Fi & iPod docking station.
Waterbuck Private Camp – Unwind in stylish sophistication
This ultimate luxury game lodge experience exceeds all expectations…
Situated in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Waterbuck Private Camp is set on the banks of the dry Nhlaralumi River, offering excellent game-viewing opportunities. Subtly sculpted into the natural environment, this private camp reflects the charm and romance of Africa’s luxurious colonial past and is a standout among lodges in Timbavati.
Waterbuck Private Camp encompasses opulent luxury, with all the modern conveniences and a dedicated team to cater to your every need. Complete with its own private game vehicle, ranger, tracker, villa attendant and chef available throughout your stay, you can indulge to your hearts content and set your own pace for your own exclusive safari experience.
Boasting a 4-bedroom air-conditioned villa that accommodates up to 8 guests, Waterbuck is available for exclusive bookings only. It offers the ultimate in safari privacy; making it perfect for families and small-group safaris.
LUXURIOUS COMFORT
Accommodation comprises of an opulent Master Suite with an open-plan bathroom and a comfortable viewing lounge on the top floor. On the ground floor, 2 Luxury Suites – on either side of the lounge and kitchen area add to this luxurious offering. A detached Luxury Garden Suite completes the accommodation for a maximum of 8 guests.
The suites all overlook the private gardens, swimming pool and viewing deck perched over the dry riverbed and the bush beyond. The villa is air-conditioned and each bathroom is equipped with a Victorian bath, indoor shower and double basins. The downstairs suites have indoor and outdoor showers. Each suite is equipped with a flat-screen television, DVD player, satellite network, telephone and a safe for your valuables.
FACILITIES & SERVICES
Waterbuck Camp is luxuriously decorated in rich tones of antique wood and thatch, and relics representing the area’s history, creating and authentic old-worldly feel. Raised above a dry riverbed overlooking the savanna plains, the outdoor living area features a sparkling pool and a viewing deck, complete with a fireplace and a generous dining area – the ideal retreat after an exciting day in the bush.
The fully-equipped modern kitchen flows into the air-conditioned open-plan dining area and lounge but can be closed off from the living area by huge sliding doors for additional privacy. A library offers the perfect retreat for those who love a good book. Here guests also have access to 2 personal computers with Wi-Fi to keep them in contact with the outside world. Sumptuous world-class cuisine, prepared by our creative chefs, can be enjoyed in the elegant dining room, boma or on the private viewing deck under the open African sky. Waterbuck Private Camp counts, without doubt, among the most stunning lodges in the Timbavati.
Along with a well-equipped gym, Kings Camp (adjacent to Waterbuck) offers an array of pampering treatments, which can be enjoyed at the Kings Camp Lodge Spa, or in the privacy of your suite at Waterbuck – an absolute must to round of your rejuvenating safari experience.
Waterbuck Private Camp – Private, Family & Small Group Safaris – Explore in your own way…
Set your own pace on an exclusive African safari
Accommodating up to 8 guests in an opulent Villa, Waterbuck Private Camp offers exclusive and private Timbavati Lodges accommodation for small groups and families. At Waterbuck you set the pace for your safari experience. A villa attendant, chef, luxury open safari vehicle, ranger and tracker are all at your disposal for the duration of your stay, giving you carte blanche to design your own experience in this wonderful corner of Africa.
The length and duration of your safari game drive are also up to you. You can even spend the entire day out in the bush on an open safari vehicle, stopping for a decadent picnic or even a dinner in a dry riverbed. The more adventurous will enjoy the guided bush walks, and those in search of relaxation can opt to spend the entire day lazing around the pool while soaking up the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Here, privilege of choice is an added luxury.
Perfect for intimate family and friends getaways and celebrations, or exclusive small-group safaris, Waterbuck offers it all and so much more. This luxurious African Eden offers the best of local hospitality, specialised game viewing and premium placement, so you can focus on the ones you love.
We are also happy to accommodate the needs of those in search of a more family-orientated bush experience. The camp offers tailor-make activities for children of all ages, optimising their stay in the bush and creating lasting memories. We even have baby-sitting services to offer parents more time to relax.
WHY WATERBUCK PRIVATE CAMP?
• Private air-conditioned villa accommodating up to 8 guests
• Villa attendant & chef
• Private state-of-the-art game viewing vehicle, ranger & tracker
• Superb facilities & amenities
• Baby-sitting services available.
Kings Camp reflects the charm and romance of a bygone era
Kings Camp Lodge offers a range of comfortable, open-air living areas in which to relax and soak up the tranquillity of the African bush. The raised viewing deck, sheltered from the sun by a thatched roof, overlooks a very busy waterhole. This is an ideal spot to while away the hours as it offers the best vantage point for surprising wildlife sightings.
The open-plan lounge and bar are perfect to escape from the heat of the day while enjoying an ice-cold cocktail. Alternatively, a dip in the swimming pool, positioned only metres away from the waterhole, offers a wonderful respite from the warm summer temperatures for which the Greater Kruger National Park is known.
Elegant and central, the spacious dining room has stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The exquisite chandelier creates a feel of sophistication, while the shaded verandah embraces the spectacular natural beauty of the outdoors.
A library full of verse and history awaits those yearning for knowledge of the African continent. Browse the shelves filled with a wide collection of fictional and non-fictional books. Sit back and immerse yourself in the world of adventure. For those wanting to keep in touch with their loved-ones back home, a desktop with wireless internet connection is available in the library 24/7. A television will keep you informed of world news and sports games.
Apart from a well-equipped gym where the more energetic can spent some pent-up energy, Kings Camp Lodge offers an array of pampering treatments at the luxurious spa, designed to rejuvenate the soul and round off your bush experience to perfection.
Guests are welcome to browse daily through a comprehensive selection of traditional African artworks and gifts. Here you will find that perfect give to take home. Apart from local arts and crafts, the shop is also stocked with an assortment of beautiful safari gear.
AT A GLANCE
• Lounge, dining room & bar
• Superb South African wines
• Terrace and thatched viewing deck overlooking waterhole
• Swimming pool
• Massage & treatment sala
• Well-equipped gym
• Library with computer & Wi-Fi
• Satellite television
• Traditional boma
• Well-stocked curio shop with safari gear and local arts & crafts.
Seasons in Africa Lodges are backed by the service of Africa SAFE-T – a Remote Risk and Emergency Medical Company providing a comprehensive on-call paramedic service – giving guests peace of mind while on safari.
• GPS Co-ordinates: 24°16’33.9″S 31°18’26.8″E
• 53,392 hectares, forming part of the Greater Kruger Park.
• Over 100 km² of traversing.
• A 6-hour drive from Johannesburg.
• A 1h30 scheduled flight direct from Johannesburg.
• Private runway and helipad.
• There are no fences between the Timbavati Private Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park.
• Geography comprises “savanna bushveld’ with 6 different landscape types.
• Breeding territory of the endangered African Wild Dog.
Explore the wildness of the Timbavati on a Kings Camp Safari
Those who plan a Kings Camp Safari in the Timbavati, can look forward to twice daily game drives in custom-designed safari vehicles, night drives with a spotlight in search of nocturnal creatures, guided bush walks and specialised bird-watching safaris with expert guides. The Timbavati is famous for its frequent elephant sightings, as well as leopard and the elusive African wild dog. It is also home to more than 350 bird species, making it the destination of choice for keen bird watchers.
Morning & Afternoon Game Drives
Safari drives are conducted twice daily at Kings Camp in luxury and custom-built open safari vehicles. Qualified and experience guides and trackers share their comprehensive knowledge of the intricacies of the African bush with a maximum of 6 guests per vehicle, ensuring that these outings remain highly exclusive. Tea, coffee and biscuits are served on morning drives, while guests can enjoy canapés and sundowners during the afternoon drives.
Private Safaris
Avid photographers and specialist birders can make use of a private guide and vehicle which is at guests’ disposal at Kings Camp. These private safaris offer ultimate flexibility and exclusivity, as you can stop wherever you want and explore those parts of the reserve you really want to see. Private safaris are also an excellent option for families with younger children. Activities can be tailored to their interests and timetables without hindering the other guests.
Game Walks
Game walks through the bush take place just after breakfast, upon request. Your knowledgeable ranger will guide you through the the smaller aspects of the bush, as well as the fauna and flora of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. This is the best way to experience the bushveld’s intricacies first-hand. You will be left in complete awe as you discover more about animal tracks, dung, insects, trees and birds and how they all interrelate in the intrinsic ecological web of life. For safety reasons, children under 16 years of age are not permitted on the walks.
Photographic Safaris
The Greater Kruger Park is renowned as one of the best locations in Africa to photograph the Big Five – elephant, rhino, leopard, lion and buffalo. The Timbavati is unmatched when it comes to extraordinary wildlife sightings. Rangers and guides are highly skilled at procuring an uninhibited view of your subject. Whether you’re interested in capturing birds, big game or even the beautiful landscape of the Timbavati on camera, photographic safaris at Kings Camp offer a world-class experience behind the lens.
Bird Watching
Avid bird-watchers will battle to find a more pristine location for bird watching than here in the Timbavati. The reserve is home to a great variety of bird species, both endemic and migratory, that are a must-see for keen birders. Sightings range from the largest flightless bird, the ostrich, to the smallest sunbirds. Highlights abound such as the black flycatcher, harlequin quail and little bittern.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Private nature reserve
• Unfenced border with Kruger National Park
• Big Five game viewing
• Highly knowledgeable rangers and trackers
• Custom-designed game-viewing vehicles.
Rhino-chipping Experience
Guest can participate actively in the conservation effort to save the rhinos of South Africa, a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience!
In an effort to help curb the rhino poaching epidemic in Africa, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve darts and microchips its rhino population so as to contribute to the national DNA database of South Africa’s rhinos. A microchip is implanted into the animals’ horn and its ear is notched. All the animal’s data is then carefully recorded for future reference.
Guests at Kings Camp are invited to participate in locating and darting the rhino and assisting with tasks such as keeping the rhino cool and checking its temperature during these procedures. An expert wildlife vet will be on hand to guide participants through the whole process, and guests will have the opportunity to take photographs with these endangered animals.
The primary objective is to gather enough information about each animal to enable law authorities to potentially build watertight cases against poachers targeting these animals. Any horns recovered by police in future would then be analysed by forensic laboratories, and then matched against the growing national database.
This project does not generate any income for the reserve but is a conservation-driven initiative with the protection of the species at its core. Your involvement in this anti-poaching drive will create lasting memories. Participation, however, needs to be booked and planned in advance, and is subject to availability.
The rhino-chipping experiences take place during the cooler months of the year – from May to September.
Weddings – Celebrate your love with us
A celebration of love in the heart of the Timbavati…
If you’re considering a safari wedding in Africa, look no further than Kings Camp in the Timbavati. Its romantic bush setting, stellar service and elegant accommodation options make Kings Camp the perfect choice as an intimate Timbavati wedding destination in the heart of South Africa.
The wedding ceremony usually takes place in a dry riverbed, the latter sculpted over millennia by the Nhlaralumi River. Right in the heart of the African bushveld it provides the idyllic location for an extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spotting a heard of elephant crossing the riverbed in the distance while taking your vows will is an experience that will leave lasting memories.
Kings Camp as a venue has a stylish, colonial feel to it and the surrounding wilderness creates the perfect backdrop to your special day. The events team at Kings Camp is renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, exceptional service and flawless presentation to make your day extraordinary.
A Timbavati wedding is so much more than just a special occasion; it is a timeless celebration of the love that we look forward to sharing with you in our precious pocket of wilderness in South Africa.
Decadent Dining
Kings Camp Dining is an indulgence of the senses. Our dining options include fine dining in our elegant dining room, relaxed lunches on the patio overlooking a waterhole, traditional boma dinners, breakfasts in the bush and private romantic evenings on your private verandah.
Boma Dinner
Our traditional boma dinner is served in the thatched dining area surrounding the firepit at Kings Camp. Experience the essence of Kings Camp bush dining around the firepit in the boma. Enjoy scrumptious cuisine under the stars while you discuss the events of the day. Delicious meals are paired with fine South African wines and concluded with a delectable dessert. Conclude a delightful evening with a nightcap around the fire, before heeding the call of your comfortable bed.
Bush Dinners & Breakfasts
The sounds of the bush awakening to the new day, will have you eager to tuck into a hearty breakfast under the tree canopy on the deck at Kings Camp. A bush breakfast is the perfect way to conclude your early morning game drive. If it is romance you are looking for, consider a candle-lit dinner with your loved one in the bush. Delectable Timbavati Cuisine and stellar service make the Kings Camp romantic bush dinners unforgettable. Kings Camp dining sets the benchmark in African safari cuisine.
DINING EXPERIENCES
• Romantic candle-lit bush dinners
• Traditional boma dinner
• Hearty bush breakfast after a game drive
• Dinner under the stars at Kings Camp
• Fine dining in the elegant dining room
• Kosher safaris
KOSHER SAFARIS
Kings Camp offers the Kosher traveller a unique opportunity to enjoy the splendour of the African bush while indulging in top-quality gourmet Kosher Cuisine, freshly prepared on-site, under the strictest Kashrut regulations.
All catering is done through a licensed Mashgiach in our fully equipped Kosher kitchen, certified by the Beth-Din Council of South Africa. Meat and other products, as well as wines, juices, beers and other drinks are fully Kosher.
Kings Camp goes to great lengths to ensure your Kosher safari is perfectly aligned to your religious principles. We will establish your specific needs prior to your arrival to assure your stay is stress-free – leaving you with the freedom to soak up and enjoy this special corner of Africa which we call home. A surcharge applies for Kosher services.
Spa & Wellness – Wellness at Kings Camp – Indulge in ultimate relaxation
Peace, tranquility and luxurious pampering…
Tucked away in a discreet setting, surrounded by mopane trees, is the Timbavati Spa at Kings Camp. A paradise of peace and tranquility, reflective of the natural surroundings, the spa offers a range of indulgent skin- and body treatments to enjoy while on safari. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing massage or a rejuvenating beauty treatment, this Timbavati Safari Lodge Spa has something for you.
For ultimate privacy, there is also the option to retreat to your suite and enjoy an indulgent treatment in utmost comfort and privacy.
Those guests who does not want to slack on their fitness routine can enjoy a vigorous workout in the spacious, well-equipped and air-conditioned Kings Camp gym. The gym has recently been re-equipped with free weights, a bench press, treadmill, spinning and training bike, gym ball, gym mats and weight machines. Fresh towels and bottled water is provided for added convenience.
Make the most of your time in sunny South Africa…
Mpumalanga Helicopter Co. Flights
Experience breathtaking panoramic views over the Blyde River Canyon from a helicopter with Mpumalanga Helicopter Co. The route takes you over deep gorges, dramatic rock formations and cascading waterfalls. Experience the flight of a lifetime. The company is located just 2 hours from the Timbavati.
CASCADES & CANYON SPECTACULAR PICNIC FLIGHT
Soar above sheer cliffs and magnificent waterfalls of Blyde River Canyon. Explore the third deepest canyon in the world. Land at the ultimate picnic site overlooking the canyon.
Transfers available with flexible departure times.
Hot Air Balloon Flights
Watch a Lowveld sunrise over the Blyde River Canyon on a hot-air balloon flight near Kings Camp. The Blyde River escarpment forms a natural amphitheatre around the flight area, offering stunning panoramic views and unbeatable photographic opportunities. Hop aboard for the adventure of a lifetime.
• 1 hour from Kings Camp
• Watch the sunrise in flight
• Min 2- and max 12 passengers
• Transfers available.
Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is situated an hour and a half’s drive from Kings Camp at the base of the majestic North Eastern Lowveld Drakensberg. Moholoholo is a haven for the rehabilitation of abandoned, injured and poisoned wildlife species such as lion, rhino, leopard, servals, vultures, caracals, honey badgers, eagles and vultures.
Tours of the facility are conducted at 09h30 and 15h00, except on Sundays. The duration of a tour is approximately 2 hours.
Elephant Whispers
Elephant Whispers offers visitors an intimate experience with the giants of the African continent. The up-close encounter will leave you in awe and admiration of these gentle creatures. Running your fingers over their constantly curious trunks, touching their rough skin, exchange greetings and offering them tasty treats, while chance your perspective for ever. Experienced elephant handlers will share surprising facts about the African elephant that will leave you speechless. This Timbavati wildlife experience is a must-do when visiting Kings Camp.
Seasons in Africa Transfers & Excursions offers reliable and professional transfers and tailor-made day excursions throughout the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga and Limpopo.
All major airports, game lodges and hotels are easily accessible with vehicles based in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve and White River. Our air-conditioned vehicles, driven by experienced and knowledgeable guides, include transport permits and are covered by comprehensive passenger liability insurance to ensure your comfort and safety. Chilled bottled mineral water is provided on all transfers and tours.
ROAD TRANSFERS
• Private transfers to and from all regional airports – including Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Mbombela, Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit, Kruger National Park Gateway Airport in Phalaborwa and O.R.Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) in Johannesburg – to any destination within the Lowveld/Kruger Region.
• Baggage transfers
• Inter-lodge and hotel transfers
• “Meet-and-greet” services.
Seasons in Africa Transfers & Excursions also offer half- and full-day excursions in the area, so should you have the time, you can enjoy an excursion, such as a visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre or an elephant interaction at Elephant Whispers, either on your way to – or from – Kings Camp.
LODGE GPS CO-ORDINATES: S -24º 16’ 33.8664” E 31º 18’ 26.748”
AIR TRANSFERS
Flights to Hoedspruit
SA EXPRESS: Johannesburg to Hoedspruit – 2 flights daily
SA EXPRESS: Cape Town to Hoedspruit – 1 flight daily
CEMAIR: Cape Town to Hoedspruit – 1 flight daily.
Hoedspruit Airport is a ± 40 minute road transfer to the lodge.
Private charter, flight transfer, or helicopter transfers directly into Kings Camp are also options.
Should any flights not be available for your travel time, please contact reservations who will assist with other flight options.
Private Aircraft
Private landing strip at Kings Camp
Co-ordinates: S -24° 17’ 59.9058” E 31° 17’ 20.6262”
Length: 900 metres
Elevation: 1 500 feet
Heading: 33/15
Surface: Tar.
Kings Camp helipad
Co-ordinates: S -24° 16’ 33.8664” E 31° 18’ 26.748”
A subtropical climate with warm, wet summers and cool, dry winters
Timbavati weather is characteristic of that of most safari destinations in Southern Africa. The region experiences two primary seasons – summer and winter – with very short periods which could be classified as spring and autumn. The Timbavati has a typical subtropical climate with warm, wet summers and cool, dry winters.
Summer is between the months of October and March and this is also the rainy season in the Timbavati. Temperatures are moderately to very high with some humidity and occasional cloudy conditions. The rains, which vary between 450-550mm per year, start in November and usually continue until the end of March. The dry bush comes alive after the rains, offering spectacular vegetation and the onset of a new life cycle. Summers can get extremely hot with average temperatures of 38°C in the months of January to April.
Winter falls between April and September and is the official dry season. The Timbavati winter is cool to warm, with mostly clear skies and plenty of sunshine. We are privileged in South Africa to have some of the most hours of sunshine anywhere in the world. Winter is considered the best safari season as the animals can be viewed more easily in the dry bush and often stay close to water resources. During the winter months daytime temperatures in the Timbavati are pleasantly mild but can drop significantly during the late evenings and early mornings.