So you’ve narrowed down your choice of family safari destination to the Timbavati Nature Reserve. Great choice!
But now to find the perfect Timbavati family accommodation. It can be an overwhelming task due to the many enticing lodges available.
However, not all of the Timbavati lodges are family-friendly so we are here to help you navigate through the choices and find the best fit for your family’s safari adventure.
With a deep love for African safaris and firsthand experience traveling with our children, we have gained valuable insight into what makes a safari lodge truly family-friendly.
My husband now works in the safari industry which has helped us select the most family-friendly safari accommodations in Timbavati that cater specifically to families with kids.
If you haven’t quite decided on Timbavati, we have more recommendations for South African safari lodges for families in other locations and here are the other game reserves bordering the Kruger that are great for families.
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If you are looking to pull together a South African family itinerary, we highly recommend speaking to Go2Africa. We book a lot of our family holidays through them as they are experts in their field. They have won numerous industry awards, particularly in the area of luxury safaris.
Read our honest Go2Africa review to find out all about them.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Before going into the family-friendly safari accommodation in Timbavati I want to first provide a little information on Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.
It is 131,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness and lies within the Greater Kruger National Park open system. The open system means that animals are free to come and go between the private reserves and the Kruger.
Whilst animal sightings are never guaranteed on safari, there is a huge diversity of animals within this biosphere to potentially see because of their ability to roam freely.
The family lodges in Timbavati are all around 1 hour transfer from Hoedspruit Airport or a 6 hour drive from Johannesburg International airport.
Note: There is a Timbavati conservancy fee and entrance fee that needs to be paid on entry to the reserve. Most lodge prices do not include this.
Timbavati is one of the most visited private game reserves bordering the Kruger.
You can read more about Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.
Timbavati family accommodation
For each Timbavati family accommodation option we will provide a quick summary of their family-friendly facilities.
These are our top family-friendly safari lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve (ordered by price range).
Umlani Bushcamp
Price: Mid-range
Umlani Bushcamp is a mid-range safari lodge which welcomes families with kids of all ages.
There are family huts (traditional thatched rondawels) available that sleep families of 4. There is also a treehouse available for sleepouts (weather dependent) – although this may not be suitable for younger children.
There is a deck with game viewing and a pool. Please note that this is an eco-lodge running off-grid so don’t bring your hairdryer.
It runs on a full-board basis (not all inclusive) so you will be expected to pay for drinks. Kids meals can be requested.
There are some age related restrictions in terms of game drives. Generally game drives are for kids over 6 but children under 5 are allowed on game drives if this has been pre-arranged or if there is a specific family drive available.
If there is time (I imagine if camp is not busy) then rangers will take younger kids on walks around camp showing them animal tracks.
Make sure to read our guide on what clothes to pack for kids on safari.
Check here for Booking.com rates for Umlani Bushcamp.
Kambaku Safari Lodge
Price: Mid-range
Kambaku Safari Lodge is a family-run lodge that places a strong emphasis on creating a welcoming environment for families having raised their own kids in the bush.
It is one of the best value Timbavati family safari lodges offering all-inclusive (with house wines / spirits).
On arrival kids will receive a backpack with age appropriate safari related activities.
The lodge offers spacious family chalets and interleading suites.
There is also a refreshing pool and a nearby waterhole that attracts the Big Five.
One of the standout features of Kambaku Safari Lodge is its Kids Kubs program, designed to educate and entertain children while teaching them about wildlife conservation. Young guests can train to become junior rangers, an experience that is both fun and educational. At the end of their stay they will receive a Junior Ranger certificate.
Families with kids under four who wish to participate in game drives will need to hire a private vehicle (at an additional cost).
You can read more about Kambaku Safari Lodge here.
Kambaku Safari Lodge is also available to book on Booking.com.
RockFig Safari Lodge
Price: High-end
RockFig Safari Lodge is an intimate and stylish lodge that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
With only six suites, it provides a more personalized experience, making it an excellent choice for families who prefer exclusivity. Large familes or groups of friends can book the lodge exclusively with up to 16 person capacity.
Children 0-2 years old stay free when accompanied by two adults and children from 2-12 years pay 50% of the adult price. Family rooms can accommodate up to four guests and stays are all-inclusive (including local drinks).
Families of four or more automatically receive a private safari vehicle at no extra cost, meaning that you can customize your game drive experience to suit the needs of your kids. Children of all ages are welcome on game drives.
Animals that you may see here are the Big 5 as well as wild dog and cheetah. If you are very lucky you may see the snow white lions with blue eyes.
You can read all about Rockfig Safari Lodge here.
Simbavati River Lodge
Price: High-end
Simbavati River Lodge is a top choice for families, offering a fantastic blend of comfort and adventure.
The lodge is nestled along the Nhlaralumi River and guests can enjoy fantastic wildlife viewing without leaving camp as the dining deck overlooks the waterhole.
Simbavati offers spacious two-bedroom family suites with private decks overlooking the river with a spectacular view of wildlife.
Children up to the age of 3 stay free while children under 12 pay 50%. Accommodation is booked on an all-inclusive basis (includes house drinks).
A highlight of Simbavati River Lodge is its dedicated kids’ club, known as Cub’s Club, which includes a discovery center and play area.
Children over six years old can join game drives, while younger kids can participate if parents opt for a private vehicle at an additional cost. You can read more about family safaris at Simbavati here.
You can read more about Simbavati River Lodge here.
Simbavati River Lodge is also available to book on Booking.com.
Other family-friendly safari lodges in Timbavati
- Motswari Game Lodge – mid-range lodge which welcomes children over 6. Also check rates on Booking.com.
- Kings Camp – High-end luxury Timbavati lodge that welcomes kids over 6 years old (although no kids club available). Also check rates on Booking.com.
Family-friendly safari lodges near Timbavati
If Timbavati doesn’t fully meet your needs, consider exploring other excellent family-friendly safari lodges in nearby reserves.
Thornybush Game Lodge in the neighboring Thornybush Game Reserve is a luxurious option featuring family suites with day beds, private decks, and plunge pools.
The lodge offers child-focused activities such as nature walks and bushcraft workshops, ensuring an enriching experience for younger guests. We loved our stay here.
You can read more about Thornybush here.
Thornybush is also available to book on Booking.com.
Timbavati safaris with kids
Hopefully one of these Timbavati lodges for families has piqued your interest.
Before going on safari, you might find some of these guides we have written about going on safari with kids helpful especially if this is your first family safari holiday.
Firstly, this is a generic guide to work out how much a family safari costs. And if that is a little offputting, we also have a guide on how to organize a budget family safari.
Here’s our guide covering what you need to pack for a family safari and some spotting animals on safari tips.
Tips for visiting Timbavati Nature Reserve
- Malaria: One crucial aspect to consider when planning a visit to Timbavati Game Reserve is that it falls within a malaria-risk area. If you are looking for a safari in a malaria-free zone, check out our guide on malaria-free safari destinations in Africa. Our last visit to Kruger National Park was in November, which marks the end of the dry season and when malaria levels are at their lowest. Do make sure you consult with a healthcare professional about your own anti-malarial medication needs.
- Timing: Timing is everything when planning a safari so be sure to review our guide on the best time to visit Kruger National Park, as this can impact wildlife sightings and weather conditions.
If you plan to combine your luxury safari in Timbavati with a self-drive safari around the Kruger, make sure to read our self-drive tips for an African safari.
Timbavati Nature Reserve offers some lovely family-friendly accommodations in various budget categories so there should be something for everyone.
