1 / 12
Simbavati Trails Camp is a truly unique experience, offering a luxury-yet-back-to-basics walking trails camp located in a secluded area of the Timbavati Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger region. A stay here is all about immersive safari walks with expert guides, where guests will be able to explore an unspoiled, unfenced wildlife area home to spectacular African landscapes, elusive species, and the Big Five.
With only four tents sleeping up to eight guests at a time, Simbavati Trails Camp is intimate and simple in design yet comfortable. The camp has no WiFi or cell phone reception, allowing guests to fully connect with nature in the heart of the bushveld. Each tent features comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms, and a private shaded outdoor area with seating, while the main area is host to a swimming pool an boma for delicious meals prepared over an open fire by an expert cook.
Considered one of the largest and oldest safari areas in South Africa, the Greater Kruger region is made up of Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, Timbavati Game Reserve, as well as the surrounding private game reserves. The entire area is one of the best places to view free-roaming game, experience guided walks and explore some of the wildest areas in the country.
The Timbavati is a premier wildlife viewing destination for those hoping to witness the Big Five without the crowds of some of the bigger reserves. Located in a secluded area of the reserve, Simbavati Trails Camp is an authentic, back-to-basics tented safari experience for those looking to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the African bush.
Please note: The camp is only operational from March to November during cool weather.
Dahyah S.
Stayed at: Simbavati Trails Camp
Bush Break
Excellent service, authentic bush experience and unforgettable memories. Walking in the raw African wilderness brings a whole new perspective to a safari, one which we will never forget. Shout out to our excellent guides as well as the thoughtful chef for preparing halaal meat for us.
Simbavati Private Nature Reserve, Hoedspruit, 1380
DULLSTROOM ROUTE: (Please be aware that this road has some very bad stretches with potholes, but it is still the fastest and most preferred road by regular travellers).
From Johannesburg take the N12 to Witbank (Emalahleni) and continue on the N4. From Pretoria, take the N4 to Witbank (Emalahleni).
Follow the N4 and turn left to Belfast (Offramp R33/R540). Once in Belfast, turn right into Voortrekker Street and continue straight with the R540 to Dullstroom. Drive straight through Dullstroom and continue to Lydenburg (Mashishing) on the R540. At the Tjunction turn left into Lydenburg (Mashishing) into Viljoen Street (R36). Turn left again into Voortrekker Street. Turn right into De Clercq street and follow the R36 through Ohrigstad. After the Abel Erasmus pass, the R36 turns left to Tzaneen. Do not turn left here, but continue straight on the R527 until you reach the town of Hoedspruit. (The distance between Ohrigstad and Hoedspruit is ±85 km).
Once in Hoedspruit, continue straight. After the bridge crossing the railway line, turn right at the fourway stop and stay on the R40 South towards Hazyview and White River. Drive ±6.5 km and then turn left on the D1909 (Argyle Road). The signage reads Timbavati and Eastgate Airport.
After about 300 m. you will get to a control gate, where you pass through. Continue straight and enter Hoedspruit Eastgate on the Right.
Scheduled Transfers are COMPULSORY (no private cars can drive to the camp). Collection Time from Simbavati Hilltop Lodge – 13:45. Departure Time from Simbavati Trails Camp – 11:00. Kindly note that there is only one daily return transfer from Simbavati Hilltop Lodge. Selfdrive guests will also have to use this transfer. The transfer time is approximately 1½ hour.
There are no game drives available at the camp as the safari experiences provided are daily guided walks