Are you thinking about visiting South Africa this holiday season? If you are, then you have the right idea. The list of advantages when visiting South Africa is endless. Not only is it great fun, but when you are in South Africa, you will be given the opportunity to try all kinds of things that you would never have thought you would be doing. It is one of the very best places to go with your friends and family, and if you still need a bit more convincing about whether or not to book that trip to South Africa, you should continue reading and we are sure that at the end of this article your decision will be made.

1. Beautiful landscape, a mix of culture, and mind-blowing wildlife

Apart from the fact that sunny South Africa is the most modern country in Africa, there is a variety of attractions that draw the attention of people towards the beautiful country. South Africa has a very vibrant culture with great outdoor attractions and many different species of untamed wildlife that you will only be able to find in Africa. You can have a tour guide to take you through these wonderful places in the country and enjoy the time spent with your friends and family.

2. The Kruger National Park

If you enjoy the thrill of discovering new wild animals that you may never have seen before, then Africa is most definitely the place for you. The Kruger National Park is situated in South Africa and it is one of Africa’s oldest game reserves. In the park, you will find 145 different types of mammals, 34 types of amphibians, 114 types of reptiles, over 335 species of trees, 49 types of fish, and 507 kinds of birds that will leave you in disbelief.

3. Visiting South Africa is affordable

The currency of South Africa, which is the South African Rand, is considered quite weak when you compare it to Pounds, Dollars and even Euros. This offers a big advantage to people from other countries as it gives them a lot more buying power. With such a big currency conversion, you are bound to experience the most amazing parts of South Africa without having to spend your entire year’s savings.

4. Language is not going to be a problem

When visiting South Africa, you will not need to worry about a language translator as most people speak English. If you are able to speak English, then you will not have to face any awkward communication issues, which allows you to have the best experience because you will be able to easily mix and mingle with the people in South Africa and therefore have a better holiday.

5. South Africa is the Home to Excellent Biodiversity

Regardless of the fact that South Africa owns less than 1% of the land surface of the entire world, it does, however, have 10% of the world’s fish, birds, and plant species, as well as 6% of the world’s mammals. South Africa is the one country you will visit that owns a floral kingdom of its own. The Paleo tropical floral kingdom extends part vast areas of Africa, the Pacific Ocean, and Asia. It has 9600 different species of plants and out of that, 70% are completely unique and do not grow anywhere else in the entire world, only Africa! In addition to this, it has penguins! Yes, penguins! Large colonies of Jackass Penguins live right outside Cape Town. Many are surprised by this fun fact, but people just cannot seem to get enough of these little creatures.

6. South Africa and its Vibrant Culture

South Africa is known to have a unique and great blend of different people, people of African, Asian, and even European cultures. South Africa is often referred to as The Rainbow Nation, and that is exactly what it is. South Africa does not only have a variety of people but food as well. You would find food items being sold in South Africa, which will allow you to try many new things, such as cured biltong, curries, and samosas. Another great element of South Africa is its art.

7. The Beautiful South African Beaches

Coffee Bay is a great option for you and your family to visit if you are looking for a beautiful day at the beach. Apart from this beach, there are many more beaches in South Africa that are famous for their breathtaking blue waves that break on the shore. Arguably, Cape Town has some of the very best urban beaches in the world, from Boulders Beach with its comical colony of endangered African Penguins waddling about, to the fashionable Camps Bay, which is close to the city Centre. The beaches do not end there, all along the South African Garden Route and KwaZulu-Natal’s Indian Ocean coastline, you will find wonderful long stretches of pristine golden sand that are lapped by waves that only become warmer and warmer as you keep going further north, you will even find tropical coral reefs and beautiful snorkelling and diving at Rocktail Bay.

8. The South African Climate

Sunny South Africa is a country that experiences over 300 days of sunshine every year. However, it has a very warm and inviting climate, even during the winter months. Many would say that South Africa has the perfect climate because it is not too hot and not too cold.

9. South Africa is A Modern Country

There is so much to see in South Africa, especially with the advanced services appearing at every place you go. Cities like Cape Town, Pretoria, and Johannesburg have the restaurants, services, entertainment and offerings that you would expect in European and African cities.

10. Cape Town

People absolutely love Cape Town. And understandably so, it is one of the most beautiful cities in the entire world, with natural beauty, great western influence, and the wonderful African culture. Cape Town is the sister city of San Francisco.

11. South Africa Have Got the Big Five

In case you are unsure, the big five includes the lion, the Cape buffalo, the elephant and the rhino. And there are so many more amazing animals to see such as hippo, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, wild dogs, meerkats, hyenas, kudu, and ostrich.

12. South Africa Offer One of the Very Best Train Trips in the World

Got some money to spare? The one of a kind, luxury Blue Train route covers the 994 miles between Pretoria and Cape Town in 27 hours, there is one stop in each direction, this fashionable old town of Matjiesfontein in the Karoo on the northbound journey, and the mind-blowing, historic diamond-mining town that is Kimberly on the way back. Mark Smith who is the man who was sitting in seat 61 said that drinks, meals and even Montecristo Havana cigars are all included in the train fare, and there is quite an extensive list of African wines available to choose from. You are most probably not going to be able to drink your money’s worth by the time you reach your destination, but you can have a great time trying to.

13. South Africa is a Family Friendly Country

You kids are absolutely going to love it in South Africa! There are many child-friendly restaurants, accommodation and many great options for a family trip. The Garden Route and Cape Town are quite popular for families who are looking for a beach break. If you are looking to have a family safari, we would recommend Limpopo, Madikwe, Pilansberg or one of the beautiful Eastern Cape reserves, they all offer superb game viewing. If you are looking for loud, whoops of joy have a look at thrill-a-minute Sun City, which is a fantasy resort that even has its own sandy “beach” and “ocean” which was built right in the middle of the bush, and this gem in the bushveld is less than a 3-hour drive from Johannesburg.

If you are taking the whole family on a safari holiday for the first time, ask your Africa Safari Expert to find you a lodge that accommodates kids, many lodges in Africa have great junior ranger’s programmes, educational games, shorter game drives and special play areas with trained nannies. The longer game drives can be a bit tough on children but short nature walks with trained nannies that guide and teach them about birds, bugs, and blooms can be quite exciting.

14. Water-based Experiences

The landscapes in Africa will delight in every way, but the water-based activities and experiences are not to be forgotten. Dhow sailing in the Quirimbas Archipelago right off of the northern coast of Mozambique with just the local fishermen for the company and the stirring of the sails is as real as your African sailing experience can get.

You should definitely opt to soak up some sun on Kenya’s East Cost or to island-hop off Madagascar’s Nosy Bay. Some of the other great water experiences include dugout or Mokoro canoe trips in the Okavango Delta. It is also known as the “jewel of the Kalahari”, and this is on most safari enthusiast’s bucket list and when you arrive there, you will know exactly why. The important wetlands and the unique oasis is home to 2500 different species of plants, 20 herbivores, 65 fish and their predators, and over 450 types of birds.

15. In Africa, You Have the Opportunity to Do Good

There are a few programs that allow people to give back and volunteer in the communities that you pass through or visit. Either way, plant a tree in order to combat the carbon footprint of your flight with Greenpop, fill your backpack with educational supplies in the spirit of Pack with a Purpose, and support the local arts and crafts stores instead of shopping for imports.

Limpopo is a must-see when visiting Africa, below is a bit more about Limpopo:

The capital city of Limpopo is Polokwane, and it shares its borders with neighbouring countries Mozambique, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, as well as neighbouring South African provinces, Gauteng, North West, and Mpumalanga. A lot of the Limpopo Province has remained pretty much the same as is has been for centuries, offering people who love nature the perfect opportunity to experience the embellished beauty of Africa. Those who tour the Limpopo Province will find that it’s very diverse terrain is very scenic, which provides varied habitats that support abundant animal and birdlife.

When it comes to local fresh produce, Limpopo is the place to be. You are bound to notice the abundance Amarula and Mopane trees, so much so that the district was even named the Mopane District. The marula fruit from the famous Amarula tree is harvested and then turned into the Amarula liqueur we all know and love. Your trip to this area will not be complete without a trip to the Amarula Lapa in Phalaborwa, where visitors who are of age can enjoy an educational tour and a tasting, or they can browse through the curio shop.

The Sunland Baobab is reason enough on its own. The Sunland Baobab comes from Limpopo, famous for being the widest of its kind in the entire world. This tree has been carbon-dated to be over 1700 years old and it is home to birds and other species. For a small price, you, your friends and your family can enjoy a full day having a braai under this beautiful tree.

Timbavati Safari Lodge is nestled among glades of exquisite, mature indigenous trees; it is a paradise for all bird watchers and nature lovers. Our traditional, colourful Ndebele rondavels are spaced out in the shady trees and offer all of our guests comfortable, clean, en-suite accommodation in the African ambience.

• The South African scenery supplies to memorable outdoor weddings. If you are interested in waterside venues, then the coast provides endless options. For those who are looking for a uniquely African experience, there is no end of bush wedding venues on offer. In order to assist your decision whether a beach or bush wedding is for you, here are a few tips to consider:
  Advantages of Bush vs Beach Weddings
• Intimate Wedding: Destination weddings, like the bush and beach, usually require a smaller guest list because of the distance to be travelled, this results in a really special wedding experience.
• Inspired Setting: There is something extremely magical about having a wedding surrounded by nature. Whether it’s the waves crashing on the rocks, or the sound of birds chirping in the trees, you can’t help but find your happy place when celebrating such an amazing memory in such a beautiful setting.
• Beautiful Photograph: Whether it’s the beautiful sunset glowing off the bush, or the crisp ocean background, both venues offer a unique opportunity for stunning wedding photos.
• Comfortable Attire: Not only are the guests able to wear something comfortable, but the bridal couple can get away with wearing comfortable attire in a more traditional setting.

Bush Wedding Benefits

Increase the fun – gathering everybody to the bush usually means a little travel time for the guests so it’s worth booking out the venue for the weekend and persuading everyone to stay over. This results in more time with friends and family, rather than a rushed chat on the wedding night.
Game drives – YAY! Whether you are a local resident or a visitor, there is always something enchanting about viewing the wildlife in their natural habitat. Game drives are always an excellent activity for guests and create fun and memorable experiences.
An element of surprise – Being close to wildlife, there is always a sense of danger and emotions which makes the wedding so much more fun.
Both beach and bush weddings have their own number of unique elements that result in being in-demand wedding options and, at the end of the day, your wedding will be unforgettable.

If you are looking for a beautiful wedding venue in the bush, visit Timbavati Safari Lodge for the best rates! Surrounded by mature trees and beautiful animals, Timbavati serves as an ideal setting for the perfect wedding location. Visit our website for more information today!

Timbavati Safari Lodge does not disappoint. Combining native tradition with abundant comfort and making full use of the famous South African “one year summer” , the lodge, managed by Kylie McGuirk and her husband Ryan McGuirk, has become a destination of choice for the traveller seeking something memorable. The grand African elephant, cheeky hyenas and the occasionally spotted leopard certainly aren’t easy to forget.

Only 20 minutes from the centre of the Kruger National Park, one of the largest and certainly one of the most important wildlife reserves in the world, Timbavati provides a real taste of Africa for the international and local traveller. Able to accommodate 120 guests, with facilities suitable for large groups or independent travellers, it offers 30 traditional Ndebele rondawels and four family chalets.

“We knew from the start that space and shade would be important to our guests,” says Kylie McGuirk, “Rooms are arranged to enable guests to embrace the bush and natural surroundings, without feeling in each other’s space.”

THE STAY

The traditional rondawel is a round structure and is a hallmark of any traditional African hut. Often very vibrantly painted, they are as synonymous with the region of Southern Africa as the tipi is for the native Indians of North America.

Like any premium hospitality business, the lodge requires constant upkeep, not only in terms of the rooms, chalets and rondawels but also the grounds. With approximately 10,000 guests per year, each of which staying anywhere from two to four nights, the lodge is always busy, so much of the maintenance is done in the background.

“Every year we are renovating something within the lodge surroundings,” Kylie reveals, “This is not restricted to accommodation, but all the important facilities for the guests. We thoroughly inspect all the beds each night for any bed bugs or insects, as a good sleep is important for enjoying your time here.”

Kylie and her staff often spend nights in the guest rooms, to ensure that things are working and that the facilities are still comfortable. She also insists that either she or one of her front-of-house colleagues meet each of the guests as they arrive, to introduce them to Timbavati Safari Lodge properly.

ADVENTURE

For hundreds of years, South Africa has offered the promise of adventure and has lured many travellers to venture there, to seek it out, but at Timbavati Lodge, if you wait too long it might come find you, “On the property we have what we call general game which include impala, zebra, warthogs, kudu and monkeys,” Kylie says, “But we are so close to the Kruger National Park and Big 5 reserves* that we are always aware of our surroundings. It doesn’t happen often but we have had at different times leopards, elephants, cheetahs and hyena come onto the property.”

While guests can be enamoured with the idea of animals roaming the grounds, these are still wild animals and should be admired from a safe zone, while they are professionally returned to the reserves.

“We have 24hr security which is very reliable and able to protect the guests; always on standby for any help that’s needed.” Kylie reveals.

Anyone who has spent time in South Africa knows that you need to plan ahead. It would takes weeks, if not months, to see everything that there is to offer, even if you isolate just one area. To ensure that time is well spent and that guests get the most out of their time, Kylie explains that many travel plans are arranged before guests even arrive.

“90% of our guests communicate via email or through the group guide, before arriving, about what they would like to participate in,” she says, adding, “This also gives us the chance to recommend certain activities that we know will make their adventure all the better.”

The advice would be well heeded as Kylie’s top three favourite things to do include game viewing, finding wild and secluded places where you can switch off without technology and travelling with a rooftop tent.

RUNNING TIMBAVATI

Originally from New Zealand, Kylie McGuirk has been with the lodge for ten years after coming to the country for a six-month field-guiding course. Her family is experienced in the hospitality industry and she freely admits that this industry is a 24/7 vocation.

“We are a family-run lodge and everyone is very passionate. This industry has to be your lifestyle and not just a job, if you want to shine above all others. Although everyone has tough days, we really love what we do and would not change it for any other work.”

It has paid off, as Timbavati has some of the best reviews to be found online.

“Authentically perfect,” says one.

“Love, Love, LOVE, this place.” Says another

The busiest times to book are actually the coolest, temperature-wise. July to November covers winter and spring in South Africa. To make sure you get your preferred time, you also have to book at least 12-18 months ahead.

Thanks to sites like Tripadvisor and booking.com, the process of booking has become far easier for international visitors to make arrangements, iron out travel details and prepare for their great African adventure. It’s interesting to note that, according to Kylie, other websites like the peer-to-peer Airbnb.com has not affected the business at all.

“The lodge owner is the marketing director,” Kylie reveals, “And participates in a lot of road shows worldwide. Because he is passionate about the lodge, which he has grown up in for most of his life, it comes through when presenting the lodge to interested people.”

The staff are trained through mentorship and onsite/offsite training courses and management are sure to look hard and filter through a lot of candidates to find the perfect additions to the Timbavati family. It is very much a case of taking the time to fill the positions with the right people; no shortcuts.

Everyone working at the lodge needs to be on the same page because there are a lot of very real responsibilities that need to be taken care of. Also, it is a place where culture meets safari and the team have to do their best to avoid disrupting the natural surroundings. Working WITH them is the key.

THE ALLURE OF TIMBAVATI SAFARI LODGE

Timbavati has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, having not sacrificed personal touches and comfortable communication with guests. That’s quite a rarity, given the size of the lodge. Kylie explains:

“We do not want people to feel lost, so whether you are travelling alone, with friends, family or in a large tour group, the manager on duty will always be around and checking on everybody’s comfort. It doesn’t cost anything to communicate and this is very important to ensure a guest’s stay is the best it can be.”

South Africa has always been abundantly blessed with great destinations and tourist attractions making it one of the top travel destinations in the entire world. The Kruger park is one of the largest and most animal populated game reserves in Africa and is situated in the northern parts of South Africa. Timbavati safari lodge is situated within the park which contains the big 5 as well as many unique species of insects, birds and fauna & flora. In this article, we will take a look at the various forms of safaris on offer within the Kruger park and Timbavati Safari lodge.

Different Types of Safaris:

• Full Day Kruger Park Safari – Our full day safari takes you through the extraordinary landscapes of the Kruger National Park in the company of one of our vastly qualified guides and drivers of the bush tailored game cars. The guides are experts in sensing and following the movements of wildlife, so there are excellent chances of an abundance of spectacular wildlife sightings and rare photographic and video memories.
• Elephant Back Safari – Clients are seated on a comfortable canvas-covered saddle attached behind an experienced elephant handler. From this vantage point, they are able to view game, antelope, giraffe and zebra up close as the elephants move without a sound in single file through the bush. It is also promising to see the Big Five as the reserve contains lions, wild elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo.
• Walking Safari – The game rangers begin each walking safari with an all-inclusive briefing on how to behave when facing animals on foot as they are frequently sighted on these safaris. Witness the glorious sunset whilst getting up close and personal with the unbelievable wildlife. The walks always cover new terrain, ensuring a complete experience.
• Hot air balloon safari – It is never possible to guarantee any sighting of any game, but your chances greatly increase when taking to the skies on one of these amazing safaris. Experience watching wild animals go about their daily business while taking in one of Africa’s breathtaking sunrises to boot.

Timbavati Safari Lodge

With top quality accommodation, food, activities as well as having friendly, qualified and experienced guides, Timbavati is sure to provide you with the ultimate African safari experience.

The Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most beautiful destinations. Situated in the northern parts of South Africa, this Highveld based park contains vast amounts of rolling hills, dry grasslands, and long, lazy rivers all lit up by the beautiful African sky. With very few places in the world able to boast such an abundance of wildlife and beauty, the Kruger could possibly be your next vacation destination. Here are a few interesting facts about this majestic area to help you with your next destination choice.

• The Kruger National Park spans across two of South Africa provinces – Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces – and together offer the opportunity to experience and enjoy South African Safari.
• The Kruger National Park stretches 350km from the Limpopo River in the north to the Sabie River in the south.
• A range of two 2 million hectares is enclosed in this vast Kruger Park –
  It is projected to be the size of Wales.
• The Kruger National Park was founded in 1898.
• It is one of the planets largest game sanctuaries/ wildlife sanctuaries/ safari sanctuaries.
• Within these expanses of natural wildlife, you will find three distinct habitats, comprising of the deciduous treed and grassy southern region; the central savannah region and lastly the arid mopane scrub land in the north.
• The legendary Big Five can be found in the Kruger Park – lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and the rhino.
• Visitors to the Park are encouraged to conform to the speed limits – so as not to frighten the animals and respect them in their surroundings.
• Your Kruger Park Accommodation will back the advice and instruction to never leave your vehicle under any circumstance.

Timbavati Safari Lodge

If you are looking to visit this one of a kind park and experience the most incredible vacation or getaway of your lives, look no further then Timbavati Safari Lodge. We have luxury accommodation that will cater to your every need situated inside this amazing national park. Visit our site and book online today.

As South Africans, we have a connection with the proud land on which we live. However, most of us live in cities and suburban areas where the closest thing we get to the big five is the neighbour’s cat. That is why so many South Africans head to the bush at the first chance they get, so that they can reconnect with nature and enjoy the many bounties of our county. So, if you are planning a safari trip and are wondering where to go, here are some of the most admirable reserves in South Africa.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier park

Kgalagadi Transfrontier park lies in the Kalahari Desert regions of South Africa and Botswana while bordering Namibia to the west. At 38000 km squared, this reserve’s dry red dunes are home to a series of migrating beasts including Springboks, wildebeest and black-maned Kalahari lions.

The park is also home to a number of lodges, both luxury and rustic that provides the perfect getaway for safari enthusiasts who are looking for epic game drives and guided hikes with rangers.

Pilansberg Game Reserve

Just to the northwest of Johannesburg, the Pilansburg Game Reserve provides the perfect bush escape for those who are looking for a safari experience a little closer to home. This game reserve has as much to offer in natural beauty and landscape as it does in its variety of animals. This reserve which is not far from Sun City, is set in an extinct volcanic crater where it is host to an abundance of life which include rhinos, leopards and lions.

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

This reserve in Mpumalanga is situated just next to the Kruger National Park, just to the west of the Kruger gate and Skukuza camp. It is one of the most popular destinations in South Africa for locals and tourists alike who are searching for adventure in an epic game park. Characterised by lush views and luxurious resorts, it’s no wonder that this game reserve is a South African favourite.

Shamwari Game Reserve

For many years, Shamwari Game Reserve has been voted as the world’s leading game reserve and conservation company. Situated 75km outside of Port Elizabeth, this reserve is home to a massive array of indigenous animals, birds and plant-life. They also boast extreme luxury in terms of lodging and dining, making for an unforgettable experience.

Timbavati Private Game Reserve

We’ve saved the best for last. The Timbavati private nature and game reserve takes the business of conservation very seriously, and it is through their provisions of luxury accommodation that they have been able to complete ground-breaking research that aids conservation of indigenous plant, bird and animal life in their park. There are a number of safari lodges in the park as well, each suited to specific types of people, which means there is a little something for everyone in the reserve.

The last few years have been a time where South Africans have come together in a desperate attempt to try and counteract rhino poaching in and around our borders. The majestic rhino horn has had the grave misfortune of being associated with traditional medicine, particularly in Asian countries, which have pushed back against the world’s pressure to stop buying rhino horns, especially considering there is no evidence whatsoever that there are any medical benefits to it. However, despite incredible efforts and investments into anti-poaching schemes by African countries, poaching is still a serious problem.

In light of this, lets discuss the composition of the rhino horn. What does science say about this remarkable animal’s appendage that can set the record straight about what it is actually made of, and why it should be considered utterly useless on the black market.

Common myths about the uses of rhino horns

There are so many myths surrounding the medical application of rhino horns that it can be difficult to tell which of them are the most prominent. A common belief is that consumption of the horn can improve virility in men; another believes that because of its high keratin content, that a rhino horn is ideal for reducing fever. The truth behind the matter is that there is no determinable medical application for them, and quite frankly, the rhino that grew it needs the horn far more than any human could.

Are they just modified bone and hair?

Many horned creatures in the animal kingdom have horns that are made up of a similar substance to our own hair and nails, albeit quite a bit denser and harder, and for a long time it was believed that rhino horns were no different. However, after a team in Ohio University studied horns through a CT scan, they found something quite different.

These studies found that rhino horns have a dense cluster of calcium and melanin running through the centre of the horn. While the calcium gives the horn its remarkable strength, the melanin protects it from the ravages of the sun. The outer, lighter parts of the horn are much softer (by comparison), so that they can be shaped through scraping on rocks, the ground and vegetation, or through clashes, to give the horn its unique shape.

This study conducted by the Ohio University has revealed the horn to have absolutely no health benefits for humans. But even with that truth-bomb, the popularity of a poached rhino horn still hasn’t come down. But why?

Status trumps reason

The reasons behind wanting a rhino horn has changed over time, but that still hasn’t eliminated it. Even if people are starting to distrust the rhino horn as a medical solution, there is still a strong sense of status surrounding them in Asian countries, particularly China and Vietnam. And since it is being peddled to those with high statuses and wealth, combatting the problem is becoming even trickier.

Call Timbavati today

If you would like to take part in an authentic African safari, or would like to know more about animal conservation in this great country of ours, feel free to visit the Timbavati private nature and game reserve website today.

SHANGANA CULTURAL VILLAGE

Shangana Cultural Village is situated between Mpumalanga’s picturesque Blyde River Canyon and the world-renowned Kruger National Park , making it a perfect pit-stop on a South Africa safari. Shangana consists of a group of Shangaan villages centered around a main market village.

The idea of the village is to plunge oneself in the Shangaan culture, witnessing artisans practicing their everyday crafts with the informative assistance of a guide. Participants will meet with families in the villages and learn about their customs and traditions. The most fascinating encounters are with the village chief and sangoma (traditional healer) with his mystical medicines.

In addition to a village tour, visitors to Shangana may choose to include a performance in the chief’s kraal to their visit. Performances range from dancing and singing to collaborative drumming or the musical stylings of the Marimba band. Opting for a performance is recommended, as it is these lively routines that may prove the most memorable part of your South African tour.

Timbavati Safari Lodge

With this mind blowing life and cultural experience available at Timbavati Safari Lodge as well as many other amazing activities unique to South Africa and in particular this area of the country, our luxurious accommodation and friendly staff will provide the perfect stay while you and your family experience all the wildlife and cultural wonders on offer.

The Panorama Route is a picturesque route along Mpumalanga Escarpment with Blyde River Canyon, the third biggest canyon in the world, central to it.

On arriving at the Panoramic Route via Long Tom Pass from Lydenburg, at 2,149 metres above sea-level you travel along the highest tarred road in South Africa. It gets its name from the cannons used by the Boers against the British in 1900.

From the top of Mount Anderson look down 1,000 metres to South Africa’s main man made forest and the town of Sabie which boasts the largest sawmill in South Africa.

Visit the Sabie Forestry Museum and see the three remarkable waterfalls, Horse Shoe, Lone Creek, and Bridal Veil. Between Sabie and Graskop be sure to pass Mac Mac Falls.

Pilgrims Rest is an old gold mining town frozen in time, now a national museum with an opportunity to try your hand at gold panning.

Graskop, located on the magnificent Drakensburg Escarpment above Kowyn’s Pass, is the doorway to Blyde River Canyon, the Pinnacle, God’s Window, Lisbon and Berlin Falls, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels.

Descend through the Abel Erasmus Pass to Blyde River Canyon to enjoy a barge cruise on the dam.

Just before Acornhoek is the wildlife rehabilitation centre Mholo Holo.

Hazyview is the springboard to the Kruger National Park and the world famous private reserve Sabi Sand. A visit to the Shangana Cultural Village, with its Marula Market featuring beautiful craftwork, its day tours and its evening festivities, is a “must”.

White River is part of a sub route of potters, artists, furniture craftsmen and sculptors called the Artists’ Route.

Timbavati Safari Lodge

With pre-arranged tours of the amazing panorama route as well as luxurious accommodation be sure to visit us for your next vacation in the Kruger Park Area. Enquire today!

For so many people, being in the bush can be rather addictive and we get withdrawal symptoms when it’s been too long since our last outing. We have a sense of wishing we could bottle the many magical moments we experience on a safari, so that we can revisit them as needed when we return to our normal lives. In the wild life of the bush we seem to be able to live more naturally, in the moment, immersed in whatever is or isn’t happening. Just like mindfulness, yoga and meditation, being more in the moment delivers great benefits for our minds, bodies and souls.

Living in the moment means that we’re genuinely disconnecting both literally, such as, not even connecting to the WiFi and figuratively, such as, from our everyday lives. We feel free from all our normal pressures and responsibilities. Relaxation comes naturally when put into an environment with nature. Because our days on a safari or at a lodge follow a more natural rhythm and we exist more in the moment, we function at a much slower pace. This adds to our sense of wellbeing and means that we have more time for the things and people most important to us.

Pausing to notice small details and finding joy in simple things, something we can’t or don’t always make space for in our frantic daily lives, is genuinely enriching and calming. It sounds rather obvious, but when on a safari or lodge we spend a lot more time outside than we do normally. In addition to, the benefits of breathing in lots of fresh air and absorbing some vitamin D, our souls are fed by being in much closer touch with our simpler, more primitive needs such as food, shelter, and warmth.

For most of us, the game lodge environment is also more multi-sensory than our normal lives. We engage and rely on our five senses much more than usual, especially when walking and sleeping in the bush. This is more stimulating and yet also more calming, and enhances over all wellbeing.

Being in the company of wild life game, even from the comfort and safety of a game viewer car, and in the hands of an expert guide, there is that slight element of danger, that tremor of vulnerability and sense of adventure that makes us feel more alive. Being closer to nature makes us more aware of our connection with animals, other people, our surroundings and the Earth.

Timbavati Safari Lodge provides an authentic experience: genuine, warm hospitality that molds to the guests; a holistic safari which encompasses geology, history, culture, astronomy and other aspects as well as wildlife.