Tanda Tula Safari Camp
A recently rebuilt, owner-run tented camp in the Timbavati, with plunge pools in every suite and some of the best walking in the Greater Kruger.
Overview
Tanda Tula Safari Camp sits among big riverine trees on the banks of the Nhlaralumi riverbed, in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger. It’s a much-loved, owner-run camp with a warm, personal feel, and it has a strong record on conservation and its local community. The camp was recently rebuilt as nine canvas-and-timber suites, each with its own plunge pool, so it now feels both more luxurious and more intimate. A camp waterhole keeps game coming past between drives. It suits couples, honeymooners and families with children over six.
At a Glance
Type: Luxury tented safari camp
Location: Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger, on the Nhlaralumi riverbed
Suites: 7 Safari Suites and 2 Family Suites (sleep 4), with a maximum of 22 guests
Suite features: Plunge pool on the terrace, indoor and outdoor shower, freestanding bath, fireplace, air-conditioning
Children: 6 and older
Included: All meals, morning and afternoon game drives (maximum 6 guests per vehicle), bush walks, laundry, mini-bar
Wi-Fi: Yes
Malaria: Low-risk area. Speak to your doctor before travelling
Best for: Couples, honeymooners and families with children 6+
Activities & Dining
Game drives run in the early morning and late afternoon, with sundowners and the occasional bush breakfast. Vehicles take no more than six guests, and private vehicles can be booked in advance. Guided bush walks are a highlight in the Timbavati, which is known for its open walking country. Between drives there’s a viewing nest over the camp waterhole, a library and map room, the pool and a small wellness area for treatments.
Meals are relaxed and generous, served inside, on the wraparound patio or around the boma fire. Private romantic dinners can be arranged.
Getting There
By light aircraft (quickest): Fly to Timbavati’s Rockfig airstrip, about 15 minutes from camp.
By scheduled flight: Daily flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Hoedspruit Airport, then a 45-minute road transfer.
By road: About 6 hours from Johannesburg via Hoedspruit. We can arrange a private transfer.
Insider Tips
Book a bush walk. The Timbavati is one of the best places in the Greater Kruger to explore on foot.
Families should book early. There are only two Family Suites.
Spend a midday in the viewing nest. The camp waterhole draws a steady stream of game.
Pair it with a Sabi Sand lodge for contrast: the Timbavati is wilder and quieter, the Sabi Sand is known for leopard.