Timbavati means “the place where something sacred came down to Earth from the Heavens” and refers to the white lions. So, welcome to the home of the famous and distinctive white lion that made this reserve famous. First seen in TImbavati Private Game Reserve in 1938, these lions are born snow white, but are not albinos as once thought. Their condition is a rare double recessive gene mutation. They became famous in the 1970s when Chris McBride, a young zoologist, studied them and wrote his best-selling book, The White Lions of the Timbavati.
Years later, researchers considered the white lions to be extinct in the wild between 1992 and 2004. Then the Global White Lion Protection Trust successfully reintroduced white lions to their natural habitat and these prides have continued to hunt and breed successfully in the wilds of Greater Kruger and Timbavati.
Timbavati Game Reserve is home to more than 40 different mammal species(including the iconic big 5 of course), more than 360 bird species, 79 different reptiles, 49 fish species and 85 listed species of trees! Find this lush, preserved landscape north of Sabi Sand Private Game reserve on the western edge of Kruger covering an incredible 53 000 ha for wildlife.
With over 360 species of birds, this is a South African birding hotspot. Specials include regular sightings of Martial Eagles, and you are likely to see Pel’s Fishing Owl, Ground Hornbill and Kori Bustards plenty.
An authentic South African safari begins in the magical Timbavati Private game Reserve, forever an untouched wildlife haven and recognised biodiversity hot spot. Remember the days of lavish colonial safaris encompassing luxury tented suites, gracious furniture and luxury foods and wines. This region embraces the meaning of the word ‘safari’, an overland journey or hunting expedition in the African bush. Timbavati is the epitome of the South African safari in Kruger.
Safari Lodges in Timbavati Game Reserve
Our broad collection of safari accommodation in top safari lodges ranges from rustic traditional tents deep in the wilderness and authentic thatched rondavels with outside showers, to the top end of the scale with ultra-luxurious chalets and tented suites designed for visitors to feel like royalty and enjoy elegance like never before.
