1. Where is Timbavati Private Nature Reserve located?

Timbavati is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, located in Limpopo Province, South Africa. It shares an unfenced border with Kruger, allowing animals to roam freely between the two areas.

2. What makes Timbavati different from Kruger National Park?

Timbavati is a private reserve, offering a more exclusive safari experience. There are fewer vehicles, access to off-road game viewing, and more intimate wildlife encounters than in the public areas of Kruger.

3. Is the Big Five found in Timbavati?

Yes. Timbavati is home to all of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—along with many other species like giraffe, zebra, hyena, wild dog, and diverse birdlife.

4.What is included in the safari package?

The package includes: Park entrance and conservation fees 2 nights’ accommodation Daily morning and afternoon game drives All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) Round-trip road transfers from Johannesburg

5. What’s not included in the package?

Exclusions typically include: Optional gratuities Drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks) Travel insurance Personal expenses

6. What kind of accommodation is provided?

Guests stay in budget-friendly bush lodges within Timbavati, offering en-suite rooms, comfortable beds, daily housekeeping, and a tranquil atmosphere close to nature.

3 Day Kruger Timbavati Budget Safari | African Safaris Direct

Included/Exclude

Includes

2 nights’ accommodation in Timbavati
Daily morning and evening game drives
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Park entrance and conservation fees
Return road transfers from Johannesburg or OR Tambo Airport

Excludes

Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
Items of a personal nature
Travel insurance
Optional gratuities or additional activities

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day safari through the breathtaking Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, a renowned part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem. This affordable safari is perfect for travelers looking to experience authentic wildlife encounters in a private game reserve without the premium price.

The tour includes guided game drives in open safari vehicles, comfortable accommodation in a rustic bush lodge, and close-up encounters with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife—including the Big Five. With fewer crowds than Kruger National Park itself and access to private roads, Timbavati offers a more exclusive and intimate safari experience.

Tour Highlights

Explore the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger area
Guided game drives with experienced trackers and rangers
High chance of spotting the Big Five
Stay at a budget-friendly lodge with authentic bush vibes
All meals and return transport from Johannesburg included

Tour Plan

Expand all

Step into the heart of the African wilderness on this 3-day safari adventure through the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the legendary Greater Kruger ecosystem. Known for its exclusivity, fewer crowds, and exceptional wildlife sightings—including the Big Five—Timbavati offers a more intimate and authentic safari experience at a budget-friendly rate.

Your journey begins with a scenic transfer from Johannesburg to the bushveld region of Limpopo, where your rustic yet comfortable safari lodge awaits. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into your accommodation and head out on your first afternoon game drive, guided by professional rangers who know the terrain and animal behavior intimately.

Day two is packed with wildlife adventure. From early morning to late afternoon, you'll enjoy two exciting game drives in open safari vehicles. These drives offer the best chance to spot lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and more in their natural habitat—without the crowds of public parks. Between safaris, you’ll have time to unwind at the lodge, relax by the pool, and enjoy hearty meals made with local flavors.

Day 01 :

Johannesburg to Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Early Morning:

Depart from Johannesburg or OR Tambo International Airport around 6:30 AM.
Travel through the scenic Lowveld region toward the Greater Kruger area.
Enjoy a comfort stop en route for refreshments and rest.

Afternoon:

Arrive at your bush lodge in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger.
Check in, settle into your room, and have lunch or a light snack (depending on arrival time).

Late Afternoon:

Head out on your first afternoon game drive in an open 4x4 vehicle with an experienced ranger.
Enjoy a chance to spot the Big Five and other wildlife in a private, uncrowded reserve.

Evening:

Return to the lodge at sunset.
Freshen up and enjoy a delicious dinner served under the stars or in the dining area.
Overnight in your cozy bush accommodation.

Day 02 :

Full Day of Safari in Timbavati

Early Morning:

Wake up with the sounds of the bush and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea.
Depart for a sunrise game drive—prime time for spotting predators and early animal activity.

Mid-Morning:

Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and some leisure time—relax by the pool, read a book, or enjoy the natural surroundings.

Afternoon:

Light lunch is served at the lodge.
Later, embark on your second afternoon game drive, exploring different parts of the reserve.

Evening:

Return at dusk and enjoy another flavorful dinner.
Share stories with fellow guests around the fire.
Overnight at the lodge.

Day 03 :

Morning Safari & Return to Johannesburg

Early Morning:

Optional short morning game drive or bush walk (depending on the lodge's schedule).
Final chance to spot more wildlife before departure.

Morning:

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge.
Pack up and check out.

Late Morning to Afternoon:

Begin the return journey to Johannesburg.
Drop-off at your hotel or OR Tambo International Airport by late afternoon (approximately 5:00–6:00 PM).

3 Day Kruger Timbavati Budget Safari

Duration

Group Size

3 Day Kruger Timbavati Budget Safari