Author: Timbavati

Its never too early to start planning for your company’s end-of-year function, and like every year, the sheer choice between venue types can be a bit of a daunting choice to make.

What type of environment, and with which activities do you want to bring the year to a close for your team this year?

Well, we at Timbavati Safari Lodge recommend something a little different this time around. How about a year end function that is nestled in the heart of the African bushveld in Hoedspruit?

Complete with a myriad of activities, fine dining, and an open-air setting that inspires mystery, magic, and utter enjoyment, bush function venues offer a unique way to treat and build the team that still falls well within the company budget.

Activities & Team Building

Keeping teams busy and active is easy and fun at bush function venues thanks to a profound assortment of things to do and see.

The most obvious of these is game drives, which will be soaking up plenty of hours while keeping staff on the trail of adventure. Of course, these can be substituted for walks and hikes if your staff is up to the challenge.

Aside from that, our year end function venue offers scores of exciting activities to organise, including horseback safaris, boat cruises, hot air ballooning, paintball, and more, all of which can be requested by you when arranging packages.

Conference Facilities

Its not all about fun and games, debriefing the year, giving out awards, making announcements, and having group discussions are often an integral part of year-end functions, which means that conference facilities are something you will need to account for. Fortunately, we at Timbavati Safari Lodge provide for this.

Our conference facilities can cater for up to 80 guests and can provide you with an open-air gathering and conference point where your staff will be kept comfortable in a beautiful setting, fully kitted out with everything you need for a successful conference.

Entertainment & Dining

In the same token, our conference facilities offer everything you need where dining and entertainment are concerned.

Eat in an open-air African style boma as you enjoy delicacies from an assorted buffet or three-course meal.

Drinks, of course, are also available, which includes a large selection of wines. From there, you can spend the evening relaxing or taking part in more events as the night wears on before everyone is finally ready to settle in for the night.

Accommodating Teams

Speaking of which, the Timbavati Safari Lodge is likely a way off from your offices, so ensuring that your staff have a place to stay for the night or weekend might be a priority.

Nothing to worry about, we offer exceptional accommodation facilities that are perfect for the event.

We offer a range of ways to stay the night, from luxury bungalows with all their creature comforts, to glamping in a more natural setting.

We will make sure that everything is provided for, that your guests are warm and comfortable, and that everyone gets a sound and safe night’s rest, before either embarking the next day, or continuing the adventure with more activities.

Book with Timbavati Safari Lodge Today

If you would like to find out more about our year end function venue, be sure to visit the Timbavati Safari Lodge website today.

Getting out into the African wilderness is an experience enjoyed by many, both locally and for those that travel to South Africa with the express purpose of taking part in Big-5 Kruger Park safari tours and packages.

But whether you’ve been on numerous game drives through the park or are looking for a more exciting way to spot game, you might be wondering how many different ways you can take part in a safari adventure, see a side to nature often unseen, and personalise your experience when doing so.

Fortunately, there are plenty of different ways to enjoy a Big-5 safari tour that break away from the traditional driving experience.

Let’s look at a few of them here…

Wilderness Trails or Guided Walks

When people think of safari tours, the term ‘stretching your legs’ isn’t always the first thing to come up. Most people associate safari tours with hours spent in a car, driving slowly through the terrain with eagle eyes at the ready to spot an exciting encounter.

As one of the oldest and noblest ways to tour the park, there is nothing wrong with doing it by car, but why not get a little closer to nature with wilderness trails and guided walks.

Get the blood flowing and get closer to the excitement with an experience tailored to those looking for a more intimate experience that is a little more secluded.

Take in the details that you would miss in a car and get hands-on with the Bushveld with wilderness trails and rest camps that are close to the following Kruger National Park gates:

• Malelane
• Numbi
• Orpen
• Phalaborwa
• Punda Maria

Early morning and late afternoon guided walks are also a great way to relax and enjoy a safari on foot, where you can explore areas surrounding nearby camps, where you can glean insights about the local fauna and flora from experienced guides, while coming face-to-face with large game in the area.

Off-Road & Eco-Trails

Getting your hands on a 4WD vehicle opens up quite a few entertaining options for those looking for Big-5 safari tours and packages with a bit more of an edge and challenge. One such offer embarks from Crocodile Bridge (starting on the first Sunday after 1 April and ending on the last Sunday in October), moving through to Pafuri.

This particular trail takes five days to complete and takes you on an adventure through tricky terrain, steep slopes, muddy banks, and genuinely untamed African wilderness.

Keep in mind though, that this trail is not available during the rainy seasons, since rain makes large portions of it completely inaccessible and unsafe to traverse.

For something a little more relaxed, but still steeped in adventure, consider the Mafunyane Eco Trail that goes between the Olifants and Luvuvhu Rivers over a 270km distance.

You will be required to drive your own 4×4 on this route, however. But even though it has steep inclines, streams, and mud, the road conditions are reasonable for those with even a little experience.

Mountain Biking

Head to the Olifants Camp to take part in mountain biking activities that let you explore certain areas of the Kruger National park by cycling. You will be taken to the start of the trail on a game-viewing car, bikes in tow, either in the morning or late afternoon.

These trails do present a bit of a challenge for cyclists, which means that those with the experience and fitness to make the most of them, will be treated to an unforgettable experience. You can use your own bikes, or hire ones available at Olifants Camp.

Keep in mind, though, that you need to be over the age of 16 years to participate.

Immerse Yourself in Africa: Stay at Timbavati Safari Lodge

With so many wonderful ways to enjoy Big-5 Safari tours and packages in and around the Kruger National Park, you’ll want to find hospitable accommodation that makes staying in the area easy and comfortable.

Visit us here at Timbavati Safari Lodge for accommodation that fits perfectly with your next Kruger Park adventure.

SA culture tours and safari excursions sit squarely on many a bucket list for a good reason. This land is
home to so many mysteries and experiences that its rich history is still unknown to much of the planet.

From the oldest stories about South Africa through to modern accounts, the ancient land of our country
is something magical and memorable to experience. Iconic high plateaus, sprawling grasslands, and
rolling hills paint a majestic and iconic landscape, the very features of which have not only supported
one of the planet’s most diverse and vibrant collections of animal, bird, and plant life, but has given
form and a unique sense of value to each of the eleven official cultures still thriving in South Africa.

Children Of The Land

South African languages, our ways of life, and our understanding of the world around us are so closely
tied to the land itself as to have shaped nearly all aspects of South African life. Our very ways of
speaking were born out of a need to navigate and survive our terrain; a terrain that has had as much to
do with shaping the various African cultures present in our country, as causing an adaptation of the
European ones which would grow into a smaller part of this whole.

Heritage, in South Africa, can be a tough thing to define, despite the importance that all cultures in the
country place in their individual identities. Across all the value-systems in South Africa, each of which
represents a wholly different perspective set against a different cultural background; all of them have
one major thing in common; a need to describe, manipulate, fashion, and live with the often-challenging
landscapes we call home.

Beauty Found In An Unforgiving Climate

There is a hidden well of life behind the dryness; a majestic beauty, patience, and pride behind the
thorny Wag `n Bietjie bushes; something of a lullaby behind the haunting nightly calls of jackal, hyena,
and wild dogs of the bushveld. Our symbiotic relationship with one of the planet’s hardiest terrains
speaks volumes about the durability, tenacity, and adaptability of all South African cultures, something
that has surely given each one the grit needed to make it through our tumultuous history in the way
that we have.

The melting pot of different South African cultures didn’t only learn to live and survive here; we were all
born from an intimate understanding of its dangers, mysteries, and bounties. The land has taught us
about sustainability, necessity, survival, and the unrelenting power and beauty of nature.

We have formed partnerships with our wildlife to keep them protected, to learn from them, draw
bounties from them, and to help them flourish from one generation to the next.

South Africans Are The Land We Live In

As a source of much mystery and adventure to the global world, the South African landscape can never
be removed from the cultures it has nurtured. A landscape steeped in rich history, stories of the natural world, the discovery of minerals that would
change its course through history, and a stage for countless conflicts that would lay the foundation for a
unified South Africa. A culture that, through the commonplace love of our land could bind eleven major
and often conflicting worldviews into a harmonious cultural symphony.

Unsurprisingly, then, one of the best ways for travellers to get an inclusive experience of the African
landscape, is to immerse itself into its many supported cultures. Getting a first-hand experience of a
community’s close relationship to the land demonstrates a symbiosis that, through centuries of adapting
and problem solving, has become a two-way path forged through the bushveld.

While South Africa provides what communities need for survival, we too have learned to take care of its
bounties to ensure that it can keep giving and thriving.

For travellers, being a part of this sustainable relationship draws out the most beautiful aspects of the
land, shows it off as the dynamic, life-supporting wonder that it is, which is why any SA culture tour
should be a part of a safari itinerary. The wildlife and landscape here doesn’t simply exist independently
from people, but forms part of an intelligent ecosystem.

The Shangaan Cultural Village: An Icon Of History & Sustainability

The Shangaan Cultural Village in Hazyview, just outside the Kruger National Park, is the perfect example
of this.

The Shangaan, by their very history, collates people from a mixture of the Nguni language groups,
including Swazi, Zulu, and Xhosa, as well as Tsonga speaking groups such as the Ronga, Ndzawu, Shona,
and Chopi tribes. This alone demonstrates the Shangaan Cultural Village as a completely multicultural
experience with rich and diverse worldviews working together.

The first of the Shangaan were believed to be traders in the 18th
century, who followed rivers inland to find communities where cloth, beads, copper, salt, and ivory could be traded.
This history alone speaks of a group of people who (in just one example of South African culture’s
dependence on the land) would source raw materials from plants, the earth, and animals, then use the
sprawling African landscape to navigate its terrain with certainty.

The cultures that would eventually become the Shangaan-Tsonga eventually settled in fertile plains,
adopting subsistence fishing and small-scale livestock farming. These cultures spread and split into
several independent chiefdoms more typical of central African societies; adapting in a way that
improved survival in the harsh African landscape

Living With The Land

These societies, like many early cultures in South Africa, laid out settlements in circular living areas
surrounded by wooden walls. This not only helped to protect its people from outside dangers, but
ensures the protection of territories, livestock, trading goods, and farms; a formation not just found in
history books, but also in pockets of civilisation across the country.

A Cultural Rooted In The Sky, Soil, & Rivers

Shangaan-Tsonga culture, despite having evolved substantially over the years, has its roots in ancestry,
where spirits of ancestors are believed to reside in sacred places throughout the African terrain.
With ancestral spirits being a crucial part of Shangaan culture, these sacred burial grounds are revered
and celebrated, pushing a more powerful bond to the land.

Having a society that includes both the living and the dead ensures that these sacred spaces are
preserved and used as they have been for centuries, for ritual ceremonies, sacrifices, and prayers; both
in times of celebration and when facing a crisis.

There is so much to learn about South African culture through its steeped and story laden landscapes,
through practices and beliefs that still endure today, through the long-standing relationships between
people, the land, and the living creatures that call it home.

Take It All In: Visit Timbavati Safari Lodge

Why not get an authentic South African experience, learn about the land from the societies that have
mastered it?
Speak to Timbavati Safari Lodge today to find out more about staying with us and embarking on an
unforgettable SA culture tour.

Why You Should Visit The Kruger

Climate

Whether you’re an overseas traveller or a local, when you decide to embrace the Kruger Park you’re also embracing the beautiful warm climate.

If hot days next to the poolside is what you are after then the Kruger is the right place to sit back and relax, enjoying the sun and nature which South Africa’s top national park. Timbavati Safari Lodge will supply you with the best luxury holiday experience.

On the flip side, if travelling and exploring the serenity of the land is what you are looking for, the Kruger Park has this on offer as well.

The mix of heat from the sun and cool air flowing through the area is a nice blend for your holiday, although it is advised to bring a water bottle with you on your safaris.

The Size

With such a large area to cover in the Kruger Park, you will continuously find spaces to look at, finding new and interesting things to appreciate and take in.

Whether you’re staying in a safari lodge or not, the Kruger Park is a place where you might think you’ve covered it all, but there’s always something new to find.

The size of the park is what makes it so inviting as you can really take your time in exploring the place, coming home to Timbavati Safari Lodge when you’re ready to rest and relax.

Whether this is your first time or not, you can keep on coming back, with new adventures to be had each time.

Bird Watching

If bird watching is your passion, or simply a hobby, you will be able to see birds which you may never have seen before, all in their natural habitat.

The beauty of nature allows you to soak up the patterns and lives of the birds, as they soar high in the sky, sit in their trees and search for food.

If this is your first time waving birds, be ready to experience a variety of different types of bird species roaming in the area.

Buying yourself a bird guide would be your best bet in tracking which birds you are seeing in the Kruger Park.

Wildlife

If bird watching is not your cup of tea, then maybe the chance to see the wildlife in the area, including lions and Cape buffalo, two members of South Africa’s Big Five.

Timbavati Safari Lodge supplies you with the accommodation you need to rest and relax under the sun, while the Kruger Park offers you with the opportunity to see wildlife in their natural surroundings.

On top of this, with a safari lodge available, the next thing you should be looking to do is an actual safari itself.

Safaris are the best way to experience nature and animals in a safe and immersed way.

Walking Safaris

With options to do a driven or walking safari, you will be offered with two separate experiences.

Walking safaris takes you through the journey on specific paths with qualified guides alongside you, allowing you to go and see the animals of South Africa.

Much like driven safaris, the entire experience is made to be educational, promote awareness of animal cruelty and is safe.

Timbavati Safari Lodge will be able to point you to the right direction on where to find walk-in safari promotions, allowing you to simply go on the journey.

Walking safaris also provide a good form of exercise which is great in terms of being active while still enjoying the relaxation of your holiday.

Ecology

With your safari lodge in South Africa sorted, you can focus all of your attention on soaking in your surroundings and what it means to be in a place where animals are roaming free, existing and living their lives.

The Kruger Park is home to a large array of different animals and species which is why it is such an attractive destination for locals and international guests alike.

Whether your plan is to go on safari or simply hire out your own safari lodge, you will web able to see the beauty of animals in the area as you step outside to go and relax by the pool.

The Aesthetic

The natural beauty, with the light hitting the land with different hues at different times of the day is what makes the Kruger Park an art piece.

With oranges, reds, yellows, pinks and purples radiating throughout the land, you will be able to see the delightfulness of the South African landscape.

Whether in the daytime or at night, the aesthetic of the Kruger is why Timbavati Safari Lodge decided to build their business in the area.

With breathtaking scenery that you won’t want to miss, be sure to get into contact with Timbavati Safari Lodge to book your accommodation today.

Once In A Lifetime

Before you experience the Kruger Park you might not resonate with the claim that space and its adventure is a once in a lifetime experience.

In some ways you may be right as you there are so many once in a lifetime moments you will experience in the Kruger, however, when you decide to go for the experience, you’ll understand why this statement was made.

A safari lodge is just one of the many ways to experience South Africa, providing you with a home base as you go on your journeys.

10 Reasons To Go On A Safari

The Animals

The main reason why people go on a safari is to see the animals on offer, in their natural habitat, with the Kruger Park giving you the foundation to experience the animal life the right way.

With large and small animals scattered around the area, you’re sure to find all of the species you’ve seen on your television screen.

Timbavati Safari Lodge is more than capable of giving you the space you need to chill out after you get back from your adventures.

Cost

When you look at how much you get out of a Kruger Park experience, with a safari lodge base, kitted out with your needs and wants for a quality holiday, the entire cost is actually so fair it may seem unbelievable.

Transportation is available from and to the Timbavati Safari Lodge, housing an amazing pool overlooking the Kruger Park wildlife, you will be able to witness the real deal of nature around you.

With safaris available at great prices, both on and off-season, with promotions running throughout the year, be prepared for an authentic safari experience.

Seeing The Wildlife

Besides being surrounded by animals, some which you may never have seen before, or even heard of before, you will be able to go on a journey and actually be face to face with them, with some cases even being where you can interact with them, at your own risk of course.

When you are a few inches away from a wild animal, your senses are taken over by the reality of what these creatures are, both dangerous and yet altogether majestic.

The safari lodge will not be the only astonishing thing you will be seeing, with large open landscape and amazing wildlife to enjoy.

Educational Opportunities

When you bring yourself to the Kruger Park, you are not only going to experience the tranquillity of the beautiful space, but you will also be enjoying the educational aspect of learning about South Africa’s fauna and flora.

You will not only learn interesting facts about the space, but you will also learn about why these animals are indigenous to the area, as well as their migrating and hunting patterns.

On top of this, the opportunity to learn about all of the wildlife and plant life in the area will allow you to appreciate the Kruger for what it is, including why those in the area work so hard to preserve it.

World Heritage Site

Those working and living in the Kruger, including Timbavati Safari Lodge, care a lot about the preservation of the land, as well as the conservation efforts in keeping the animals safe and protected from poachers and other types of danger.

Instead of capturing and caging the wildlife, the focus is more on monitoring the area, ensuring that species, both those which are endangered and those which are not, are able to live their lives as wild animals, in their area and with no threat of human poaching interference.

Alternative Holiday Travel

Instead of going to a five-star hotel, in a city, surrounded by other buildings overlooking the beach, one which you might not even visit, the Timbavati Safari Lodge and Kruger Park offers an alternative holiday experience for you and your significant others.

With the South African backdrop right on your feet, you will have a different kind of fun, something which differs from the normal type of vacation style, usually you, poolside and in an air-conditioned area at all times.

Whether you are local or international, and whether or not this is your first time in South Africa or not, taking a trip to a safari lodge in the Kruger gives you comfort and a chance to find yourself in one of the world’s most renowned national parks.

Photo Worthy

Yes, as much as we might not like to admit it, we as humans love taking photos, especially when we’re on holiday.

Some may find it awkward, while others may find it to be normal, regardless of this the fact that the Kruger Park provides you with the opportunity to take pictures regardless if it is night or day will enhance your experience even more.

The memories you can store from your trip will last a lifetime. Some pictures you take may even be able to turn into an artwork, which you can hang up in your home.

Enjoy South Africa At Its Core

There are a lot of ways to experience South African culture, be it through Cape Town, Durban or Johannesburg, with some being more restaurant and festivals focused, while others are focused more on the nightlife and cultural education aspect.

Choosing to stay at a place such as Timbavati Safari Lodge in the Kruger, is a much more nature-based experience, being able to enjoy one of the richest sources of animals and vegetation that the world has to offer.

Support Conservation Efforts

When you decide to stay at Timbavati Safari Lodge, you are choosing to stay at a lodge which is focused on conservation efforts, with a sum of their profits going towards the protection of animals, with educational programmes being implemented.

Your holiday time is a way for safari lodges to also focus on the safety of the Kruger Park, where you are providing much-needed funding to their efforts.

Be sure to visit Timbavati Safari Lodge and see how you will be able to contribute in the efforts of the conservation of endangered and non-endangered animals.

Meeting New People

Finally, you will be able to explore the Kruger Park and South Africa in a way which helps you to meet new and interesting people from across the world.

Meeting new people and making new friends is always a great thing to do as everyone may be experiencing the same South African adventure for the first time.

Sharing your moments with others is an amazing way to get the full package from your holiday.

Another way to look at it is that you’re building relationships which may allow you to travel to other parts of the world, meeting up with your newly made friends.

Contact Timbavati Safari Lodge For More Information

If you’re looking for high quality and luxurious accommodation in the Kruger Park, contact Timbavati Safari Lodge today for more information.

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.