Timbila Game Lodge
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  • THE CAMP

    The camp is modern yet intimate. Featuring only six accomodations, a blend of thatched-roof chalets and African tents.

  • THE CAMP

    The camp is modern yet intimate. Featuring only six accomodations, a blend of thatched-roof chalets and African tents.

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About the Camp

The luxury camp is built opposite a rocky headland at the foot of which lies a magnificent fish-filled pond. Furthermore, it consists of a large Lapa with kitchen and bar, three African chalets and three luxury safari tents with showers and private bathrooms. There is a pool under a rock formation, a braai, a fishing area, and a training ground for archers. The lodge can also be fully privatized.

The Lapa

A lapa is an open-sided structure, often thatched, used as an outdoor living space. It’s typically made of natural materials like wood, reeds, and grass, and is designed to provide shade and a cool area outdoors. Our lapa is used for social gatherings, barbecues (known locally as “braais”), and other outdoor functions.

The Pool

Our pool is wild, built against the rock with an artificial waterfall. It is one of a kind.

The Braai

A “braai” is a term deeply embedded in South African culture, referring to a barbecue. The word comes from the Afrikaans language and is pronounced “bry”, rhyming with the word “cry”. A braai is not just about grilling meat; it’s a social event, a gathering of friends and family around an open fire. The act of cooking and eating together is an integral part of the experience in Timbila Game Lodge.

The Fishing Area

The camp has a fishing area, with equipment available for rent. The pond is teeming with three varieties of fish, and it is possible to cook your fish on the Braai or have them prepared by the Chef.

Archery training

The camp has targets set up for guests to enjoy an outdoor activity.

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African Chalets

Welcome to our charming chalets, each with a stylish, natural thatched roof. They’re the perfect mix of traditional African vibes and modern comforts. Each chalet has its own bathroom with a shower, making it easy to relax after a fun day.

Plus, there’s Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected in comfort. Located right by the social spots of the camp—the Lapa and Braai—you’re just steps away from all the action.

Come stay in our chalets for the perfect blend of privacy and fun, all in the heart of our welcoming camp. It’s the ideal spot for a memorable getaway!

Safari Luxe Tents

Our Luxury Safari Tents combine vintage style with modern comfort, featuring amenities like running water, electricity, and Wi-Fi. Each tent has a private bathroom and a comfortable bed, ensuring a blend of wilderness feel with home comforts.

There are three tents in total, ideal for couples or solo travelers. Additionally, all tents have an option for privatization, offering a more secluded and exclusive safari experience for groups.

They are located about thirty meters from the Lapa, in the bush and between two rocky outcrops. Feel nature knocking on your door!

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How to get hereWhen to comeWhat to packTravel Tips for you
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How to Get There

By Air

Timbila Game Lodge is located in the Limpopo province in South Africa, 40 minutes by car from Hoedspruit Airport and 20 minutes from Phalaborwa Airport.

There are daily scheduled flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town to Hoedspruit. We are able to arrange road transfers to and from the local airport to the camp.

By Road

The journey from Johannesburg to Timbila Game Lodge takes about 6 to 7 hours, with the roads being mostly tarmac and in good condition, and the route well sign-posted.

Alternatively, a daily air-conditioned shuttle from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit is available for those who prefer not to self-drive. The shuttle journey also takes around 6 to 7 hours and includes two 15-minute stops for refreshments and a break.

GPS Coordinates

24°03’47.8″S 30°57’30.1″E 

When to Come

In Southern Africa, the seasons are opposite to those in the northern hemisphere, but the local climate allows you to come all year round.

Spring is from September to November, summer from December to February, autumn from March to May, and winter from June to August.

Autumn and winter are dry, with annual rains typically starting around October or November, leading to hot and humid conditions with intense storms.

During late autumn and winter, mornings and evenings can be cold, requiring warm clothing, especially for open safari vehicle drives.

Daytimes are usually sunny and warm, but temperatures drop quickly after sunset. In contrast, spring and summer bring considerably higher temperatures, often reaching the high 30s to low 40s °C, with warmer evenings and frequent summer storms from late October to March.

What to Pack

While it is possible to buy anything you have forgotten in one of the nearby towns, it is recommended to come prepared.

Any time of Year

• Three of four tee-shirts & Two long-sleeved shirts
• Two or three pairs of shorts
• Two pairs of long pants

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• A lightweight windbreaker or rain jacket
• A few light sweaters
• Swimsuit & Hat
• Sunglasses & Flipflops
• Walking shoes & Open walking shoes

• A tropical mosquito repellent that is allowed on the plane, so no aerosols (it is possible to buy it on site, and even recommended, as the products are adapted to local mosquitoes). Our chalets and tents are equipped with repellent.

Winter (June to September)

• Light fleece or puffer jacket
• Beanie hat, scarf and gloves
• Thermal underwear
• Warm socks
• Walking boots

Personal effects

• Cosmetics
• Toiletries and personal items
• Sunscreen
• Moisturiser
• Medicines

Note: It’s important to make copies of your prescriptions for any scheduled medicines you have, especially when traveling, to show as proof if needed.

Travel Tips

Some general tips to help you effectively prepare for your trip.

Dietary Requirements

Please tell us early if you have any special diet needs or foods you can’t or don’t eat. Because our lodge is in a remote area, we need extra time to plan and make sure you get great meals that fit your diet.

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Passports and Visas

To enter South Africa, you will need a passport that’s valid for at least 30 days after your planned return home with at least two clear-facing pages. Please check with South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs to see whether you will require a visa for entry into the country.

Money

In South Africa, the currency is South African Rand (ZAR) . There are ATMs across South Africa and all major credit and debit cards are accepted (please ensure your card is activated for international use if you are visiting from overseas). All major banks offer foreign exchange services and there are bureaux de changes in major urban centres. Don’t carry large amounts of cash on you, but rather withdraw as needed. Keep your debit and credit cards separate from your cash.

Tipping

When out and about in restaurants and cafés the custom is to tip between 10% and 20% of the bill. Tipping at our lodge is a meaningful way to acknowledge the hard work of our staff, including guides, housekeepers, and kitchen workers. These tips greatly support our staff, many of whom work long hours away from their families in remote areas and support up to 10 family members. Your generosity makes a significant difference in their lives. For guidance on tipping amounts, feel free to speak with us.

Connectivity

Cell phone coverage in South Africa is generally reliable, but Wi-Fi isn’t as widely available as in Europe or the US, and data roaming can be costly. In remote areas like the Greater Kruger National Park, there’s no cell phone reception. However, at our lodge and tents, including the communal areas, you will have connectivity.

Health

In the malaria-prone Greater Kruger National Park region of South Africa, doctors often recommend to take anti-malarial medication and use mosquito repellent, especially during late afternoons and evenings. Wearing long sleeves and trousers can also help prevent bites, though this may be less comfortable in the summer heat. Mosquito activity is highest in the rainy season and less of a concern in autumn and winter. Packing antihistamine tablets and ointment for bites is advisable.

Be mindful of the strong African sun; sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential to protect against sunburn, and it’s important to stay hydrated. In case of a medical emergency, South Africa have excellent medical services, but ensure your travel insurance covers medical evacuation, as hospitals may be far and require airlift.

Safety

When traveling, it’s crucial to be cautious about personal safety and minimize the risk of crime. Avoid displaying cash and valuables; carry only small amounts of money and wear minimal jewelry, especially since dressing up isn’t necessary on a safari.

Secure valuables in your room’s safe or locked luggage, or entrust them to the management. Additionally, be wise and respectful around wildlife. Stay within the camp or lodge during the day unless you’re on an organized activity, and avoid approaching wild animals. Our team is always ready to assist and answer any questions about life in the African wilderness.

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To request a quote or check availability please contact us by filling our form or by email on timbilagamelodge@gmail.com.

GPS COORDINATES: 24°03’47.8″S 30°57’30.1″E | Find us on Google Maps

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Timbila Game Lodge. Copyright 2025 | All Rights Reserved. The game reserve land is owned by a community in Limpopo: the Bamakome Communal Property Association.
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