3 Day - Timbavati Explorer Safari
3 Days / 2 Nights Days
Johannesburg, South Africa → Johannesburg, South Africa
From
USD $1,555
per person
Why Choose This Safari?
Few safari reserves in South Africa sit so close to Kruger while staying privately owned. The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve covers about 534 square kilometres on Kruger’s western edge, and its fences with the national park were removed in 1993, so wildlife moves freely between them. The reserve has been protected since 1956 and is home to the Big Five, along with lions, leopards, cheetahs and spotted hyenas. The journey begins on the Panorama Route, where you stop at God’s Window, where the cliffs drop about 700 metres, and at Lisbon Falls, which falls about 92 metres near Graskop. Entrance fees are included, and your days are spent in open 4x4 vehicles.
Safari Highlights
- We may have to re-route the itinerary or accommodation in similar Lodges/Tented Camps in case of non – availability
- Upgrades is available for Mid – Range or Luxury Accommodation Safari
- Tour above can be customized based on your needs or requirements
Destinations to Travel
Johannesburg · Panorama Route (God’s Window, Lisbon Falls, Graskop) · Timbavati Private Nature Reserve · Mbombela (Nelspruit)
Itinerary
Day 1 — Panorama Route and Afternoon Game Drive
Your road transfer from Johannesburg follows the Panorama Route, with comfort and photo stops at God’s Window, Lisbon Falls and Graskop. All entrance fees on the route are included. You arrive at your lodge in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, where the staff welcome you and you have time to settle in and rest. You then set off on the afternoon game drive. The reserve has a high concentration of wildlife, and late afternoon into the evening is a good time to see animals. You return to the lodge for supper and a relaxed evening.
Day 2 — Timbavati Safari Day
You are greeted with coffee before the morning game drive in an open 4x4 vehicle, in the hope of seeing the Big Five. You may choose a morning bush walk instead. Back at the lodge, you have a leisurely breakfast and the rest of the morning to sleep, rest or relax by the pool. Lunch is served, and then you have time to unwind before the afternoon sunset drive with your guide. The sunset is spent in the bush, and you return to the lodge for supper and a free evening.
Day 3 — Final Morning Drive and Return to Johannesburg
You set off early for one last morning game drive, to look for the animals you have not yet seen on your safari. You return to the lodge for breakfast and check out. Your driver transfers you back to Johannesburg via Mbombela (Nelspruit).
What's Included
Rate Includes
- Accommodation
- Game drive
- Optional Bush Walks
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
Rate Excludes
- Accommodation before and after safari
- International flights (from/to home)
- Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day)
- Easter, Christmas & New Year’s supplements may apply
Best Time to Go
This safari can be taken all year round. In general, the drier months from May to September are often the best for game viewing, because the vegetation is thinner and animals gather around waterholes. The wetter months from November to March bring lush landscapes and plenty of birdlife, though afternoon storms are common. Our team can advise on the best dates for your trip.
Pricing
From USD $1,555 per person
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the safari start and end, and how long does it last?
It starts and ends in Johannesburg and lasts three days and two nights. You travel along the Panorama Route on Day 1, spend Day 2 in the Timbavati reserve, and return to Johannesburg via Mbombela on Day 3.
Is Timbavati part of Kruger National Park?
No. The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is a privately owned reserve on Kruger’s western edge. The fences between the two were removed in 1993, so wildlife moves between them. Please ask our team whether any Kruger entry fees apply.
Can we swap a game drive for a bush walk?
Yes. On Day 2 you can choose a morning bush walk in place of the morning game drive. Please let us know your preference in advance.
Will we see the Big Five?
The reserve is home to the Big Five, and your guide will look for them on the drives. Sightings can’t be guaranteed.
Do we need a visa for South Africa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Please check the current requirements for your country before you travel, as the visa fee is not included in the rate.