Hilltop Lodge

Set high on a hill with commanding views of the bushveld below, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is one of the most scenically situated lodges in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, a pristine and unfenced section of the world-renowned Greater Kruger National Park. This exclusive lodge offers a luxurious yet sustainable safari experience, with the untouched wilderness of the Timbavati unfolding in every direction — and the majestic Drakensberg Mountains painting a dramatic backdrop in the distance.

Directly below the lodge lies the expansive Mbali Dam and the Nhlaralumi River, a vital water source that draws an ever-changing cast of wildlife, from herds of elephant to elusive predators. Guests often enjoy unforgettable wildlife sightings right from the comfort of the lodge — no game drive required.

Thoughtfully designed to sit lightly upon the land, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge blends contemporary design with an eco-conscious ethos. The lodge comprises eight luxurious tented suites, each a private sanctuary elevated above the bush. These elegant suites are spacious, serene, and flooded with natural light. French doors open onto a generous viewing deck, where guests can take a dip in their private plunge pool, lounge in the shade of a sala pavilion, or simply soak in the sweeping views with nothing but birdsong for company.

Inside, the suites are appointed with a choice of king or twin beds, quality linens, and a soft, neutral palette that complements the surrounding landscape. A passage connects the bedroom tent to an en-suite bathroom tent, complete with a double vanity, indoor shower, and a spectacular outdoor ‘rain’ shower overlooking the dam — a sublime experience under the African sky.

The lodge’s design celebrates its elevated setting, offering uninterrupted views from nearly every space — whether enjoying a drink at the bar, lounging beside the central swimming pool, dining beneath canvas, or relaxing in the open-plan sitting area. The style is modern and playful, with a gentle nod to traditional safari aesthetics, but without the rustic austerity often associated with tented camps. Instead, Hilltop is light-filled, private, and quietly indulgent — a place where luxury feels natural, and nature is the true star of the show.

Guests at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge are treated to twice-daily game drives led by expert rangers and trackers, exploring the wildlife-rich landscapes of the Timbavati. As part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem, the reserve is home to the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — and also offers exceptional sightings of wild dog, cheetah, and a wide array of birdlife. The area is especially renowned for its leopard sightings and habituated wildlife, offering thrilling and intimate encounters.

Whether celebrating a honeymoon, an anniversary, or simply seeking a soulful retreat in nature, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers a safari experience that is as luxurious as it is unforgettable. With its effortless elegance, breathtaking setting, and exceptional wildlife viewing, it is a destination that speaks to both the heart and the senses.