Key Takeaways
- Wildlife and birding
- Game drives and walking safaris
- Bush Hide
- 5-star luxury
- Unfenced lodge
- Traversing in both Timbavati and Klaserie Reserve
Lodge Information
- Lodge type; Safari Lodge
- Location; Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
- Lodge size; 8 Safari Suites
- Recommended stay; 2-5 nights
An Unforgettable Kambaku Safari Experience Awaits You at River Sands Lodge In The Timbavati
Nestled between majestic Leadwood and Jackalberry trees, the unfenced Kambaku River Sands is often claimed as the most frequented safari lodges in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. The lodge allows guests to experience free-roaming wildlife from their private room deck.
Space and time take on a new perspective at Kambaku River Sands, allowing guests to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the here and now. From the spacious rooms to the enchanting public spaces, the lodge encourages guests to immerse themselves in the vastness of the surrounding bushveld and nature.
The Timbavati Reserve gives way to encounters of indigenous wildlife thriving in their natural habitat—a place of sanctuary for Africa's Big 5, diverse flora and birdlife.
Reserve Information
The Timbavati Game Reserve reserve covers approximately 60 000 hectares of pristine African bush adjacent to the world-famous Greater Kruger National Park. All fences between the Timbavati, Kruger, Klaserie and Umbabat have been removed for years now, and wildlife moves freely between areas as it once did.
The Timbavati Game Reserve, in which Kambaku is located, is famed for its birdlife (over 360 species) and wildlife (over 40 species of mammal), including white lions and the famed "Big 5".
Kambaku River Sands is the only lodge to be able to traverse in both the Timbavati Reserve and Klaserie Reserve, giving it a traversing area of over 12000ha.
Rooms And Suites
Eight luxury air-conditioned suites are spaced around the main public areas of Kambaku River Sands. Each en-suite bathroom with spa bath, indoor double shower, and outdoor shower gives complete privacy in the African bush.
River Sands has individually decorated rooms with luxurious finishes and light-filled spaces to relax in and soak up the blissful solitude of the bushveld.
Butlers Tray / Mini Bar and 220V power supply with adapters are standard throughout the suites.
Cuisine And Wine
One can expect world-class cuisine while staying at River Sands. Dine alfresco with nature or alongside dry river beds surrounded by campfires; unique dining opportunities await. An all-inclusive five-star experience with specialist wine tastings, unforgettable dinners, boma evenings and renowned warmth and hospitality.
The sunken Kambaku River Sands wine cellar not only houses a selection of South Africa's best but is ideally positioned to view the waterhole; a private dining experience here is the ideal way to celebrate in style.
The kitchen at Kambaku strives to cater to all tastes and dietary requirements and will happily cater for vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free and Halal. Please note that they are, however, unable to cater for Kosher dietary requirements.
A range of dining areas, from the traditional African Boma to the well-stocked wine cellar, allows guests to have diverse cuisine experiences.
Lodge Facilities
The majestic main lodge area at Kambaku River Sands features two fireplaces, a Matumi wrap-around bar, and a guest library, all of which overlook a fantastic waterhole. Being an unfenced lodge means wildlife regularly wanders through, enhancing the safari experience.
The main deck houses an infinity pool, perfect for cooling off from the hot afternoon African sun.
WiFi is available in the main reception area, and although there are no landline telephones, there is limited cell phone reception. A limited laundry service is included in your stay.
Safari Activities
Morning and afternoon game drives allow guests to witness the unique wildlife representing a large part of the African continent. Wildlife and birdlife that is so distinctive to the destination are characterised by biodiversity and natural abundance. The twice-daily activity invites guests to travel the paths of some of the most majestic animals and explore the natural environment they call home.
Guest numbers are limited on game drives to ensure all receive maximum viewing opportunities. Well-trained, experienced local guides and trackers take guests through this conservation area and furnish you with all the information you need to feel at one with nature.
The ultimate 'intimate encounter' with the indigenous beauty of the bushveld; a guided walking safari. Learn more about the environment you have been encountering on your drives, sample wild fruits and learn to identify animal spoor. A walking safari is one of the most riveting experiences in the Timbavati Reserve.
There is a hide at Twins Dam, which is particularly good for birdlife. Raised on slits and with a thatch roof, the hide is an excellent place to spend a few hours overlooking the dam in search of birds and wildlife. Sleepouts here can also be arranged.
Photographic Safaris and curated Art Safaris take place occasionally at Kambaku River Sands, a unique way to enhance your skills and fully appreciate your natural surroundings. Private safari vehicles and rangers are also available at additional cost.
Family Friendly
Only children over 12 years of age can be accommodated.
Please note that there are no family suites; however, a foldaway bed is available should a child wish to share with their parents.
Spa And Wellness
Wellness at Kambaku River Sands; spa, pool, sauna, steam rooms, and a well-equipped gym.
The Sunset Spa features:
- Two treatment rooms
- A fitness centre
- Refreshing plunge pool
- Gents' & ladies' steam
- Sauna rooms
In Conclusion
Kambaku River Sands is a luxurious safari lodge that allows guests to experience Africa's Big 5, diverse flora and birdlife in their natural habitat.
The Timbavati Nature Reserve provides plenty of opportunities for game drives, walking safaris and unique bush hides where you can observe animals up close.
With its top-notch facilities and experienced staff, Kambaku River is an ideal destination for reconnecting with nature while enjoying five-star luxury accommodations.
Whether it's a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Kambaku River Sands has something for everyone!
Rates from R12 305.00 per person
- Kambaku River Sands Rates
- Per person per night sharing (pp)
- Rates are in South African Rands
- *Rates may vary according to season
- Accommodation
- Two daily game drives and bush walks/walking safari
- All meals, teas and coffees
- House wines, beers, spirits and soft drinks
- Unlimited WiFi
- Laundry
- Use of the gym facilities
- Cellar wines and Champagne
- Cigarettes and cigars
- Spa Treatments
- Private safari vehicle (with a ranger)
- Curio shop purchases
- Gratuities
- Entrance fee and Conservation levies
- Transfers and optional activities
Private Game Lodges Near Kruger National Park
A trip to Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa is an unparalleled experience, allowing visitors to observe some of the world's most spectacular wildlife in their natural habitat.
With access to exclusive areas of the park, luxurious accommodations, expert guides and personalised service, these private game lodges provide guests with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore and enjoy the African wilderness.
Singita Sweni Lodge Review
Are you looking to immerse yourself in a once-in-a-lifetime African safari experience? Look no further than the iconic Singita Sweni Lodge.
As one of South Africa’s premier safari lodges, Singita Sweni offers stunningly luxurious accommodations and an abundance of exciting wildlife sightings that will create memories to last a lifetime.
Greater Kruger Family Safari
"How many more sleeps?” this became our son's wake-up call as the days neared his first ‘safari’ to the Greater Kruger National Park.
James and I had decided to combine a bit of family time with a quick update of the 'family friendly safari lodges' in the greater Kruger area.
My 4 Day Kruger Adventure
My 4-Day Kruger Adventure was one of the highlights of my travelling; having not visited the area for such a long time, the Kruger National Park was stunning.
Leaving Cape Town and flying north to OR Tambo and then a 5-hour drive to the Kruger from where we stayed in parks board accommodation.