Camp George
OVERVIEW
Oasis of tranquillity
Immerse yourself in the legendary heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve at Simbavati Camp George, an exclusive oasis of tranquility designed for the discerning traveler. Here, the legacy of founder George Huysamer harmoniously blends with the pristine wilderness, offering an authentic safari experience that captures the essence of Africa’s raw beauty. With intimate luxury suites that promise serene views and private decks, your stay with us is an invitation to witness the majestic wildlife of Kruger while enveloped in the utmost comfort.
Step into a world where art, nature, and heritage intertwine to give you a unique front-row seat to the untamed. Our curated gardens, adorned with rare South African cycads, set the stage for tranquil moments, while the thrills of game drives and bush walks await to quench your thirst for adventure. At Simbavati Camp George, every detail is crafted to ensure your safari is not just a holiday, but a moment in time where luxury and the wild dance in perfect harmony.
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Why we love it
Refined Luxury
Refined bushveld retreat offering stylish suites
Art & Décor
The perfect mix of authentic tradition with a modern twist. A bespoke collection of local art, both indoors and outdoors.
Fenced Garden Oasis
Peaceful indigenous gardens with huge fever trees & rare collection of cycads
Food & Wine
Imaginative cuisine with fresh seasonal produce, paired with fine South African wine
ROOMS
Eight Luxury Suites
Eight luxury suites with their own private deck overlook the dry riverbed. Each has a beautiful wall mural which adds a unique touch of style to the room. Each of the air-conditioned suites has a king-sized bed (convertible to twin).
It is elegantly furnished with beautiful indigenous wood furniture. There’s a large and indulgent bathroom with deep soaking tub, indoor and outdoor shower and separate toilet.
GALLERY
Step into Camp George
ESSENTIALS
The Need to Knows
Top Reasons to Visit
Cycads and garden
Cycad Tranquility
The tranquil gardens of Camp George are certainly a distinguishing feature with many mature fever trees and baobab trees. Birdlife is naturally attracted to the flowering shrubs so relaxing in the garden with some binoculars can be an enjoyable and restful activity. Within the garden is a rare collection of cycad species.
There are myriad ways to relax at Camp George; lounge around the expansive swimming pool, leisurely game-viewing by the waterhole. Or why not indulge in a garden picnic under the beautiful, almost luminous fever trees.
ART WORK
Local artists
Camp George showcases a good collection of modern African art with local artists.
CUISINE
Chef’s Island
Get personally involved with the chef in preparing South African dishes around the Chef’s island or in the Boma over an open fire. Choose a wine from our wine collection to compliment the dish.
PICNICS IN THE GARDEN
Garden Picnics
One of the special elements of Camp George are its garden picnics. Perfect for those celebrating a special anniversary but available to all romantics. You enjoy a picnic under the shade of the fever trees overlooking the productive waterhole just beyond the garden confines. Perhaps follow it up with a short siesta as the fenced garden means that you can truly relax.
Related Stories
- Game Drives for All Ages: Children of all ages are welcome on game drives, with special considerations made to keep them engaged. Guides often tailor the experience to make it fun and interactive, including animal-tracking exercises and storytelling.
- Guided Bush Walks: For older children (typically 12 and up), guided bush walks provide an opportunity to experience the African wilderness on foot. Kids can learn about animal tracks, insects, and the smaller wonders of the bush that are often missed from a vehicle.
- Wildlife Photography: The reserve’s diverse landscapes and abundance of wildlife provide incredible opportunities for budding photographers in the family to capture stunning images.
- Relaxation and Play Areas: The camp’s serene environment and spacious accommodations allow families to enjoy downtime together. Whether lounging by the pool or enjoying a book on a private deck, there’s plenty of space for relaxation.
4. Comfortable and Spacious Accommodations
The camp’s luxury suites are designed with families in mind, offering spacious rooms with king-sized beds (convertible to twin beds for siblings) and a private deck overlooking the dry riverbed. The en-suite bathrooms include indoor and outdoor showers, perfect for refreshing after a day of safari adventures.
5. Delicious and Kid-Friendly Dining
Camp George offers a delightful dining experience with delicious, wholesome meals that cater to all ages. The chefs prepare fresh, seasonal cuisine, and special meals can be arranged for picky eaters. Al fresco dining under the stars is a highlight, creating magical family dinners surrounded by the sounds of nature.
6. Safety and Convenience
Safety is a top priority at Simbavati Camp George, ensuring that families can relax and enjoy their safari with peace of mind. The camp is fenced, allowing kids to move around safely, and experienced guides and staff are always available to assist.
The lodge is also easily accessible, with flights from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Airport, followed by a short road transfer to the camp.
Tips for a Successful Family Safari at Camp George
1. Choose the Right Time to Visit
The best time for a family safari at Camp George depends on your preferences:
- Dry Season (May – September): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around waterholes. The cooler temperatures make it comfortable for kids.
- Green Season (October – April): Lush landscapes and baby animals make it a beautiful time to visit. There’s also excellent birdwatching, though some days can be hotter.
2. Pack Wisely for the Whole Family
Packing the right gear ensures a comfortable and enjoyable safari. Essentials include:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
- Warm layers for early morning and evening game drives
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sunscreen and hats
- Binoculars for spotting animals
- Camera for capturing memories
- Books or activities for kids during downtime
3. Engage Kids with Safari Activities
To keep children entertained and engaged, encourage them to participate in safari-themed activities such as:
- Keeping a wildlife journal to record animal sightings
- Learning basic tracking skills with the guides
- Playing a safari-themed scavenger hunt (spotting different animals, birds, and trees)
4. Book a Private Vehicle for Game Drives
For families with younger children, booking a private safari vehicle allows for more flexibility. This way, game drives can be adjusted based on the children’s energy levels and interests.
5. Teach Kids About Wildlife Conservation
A safari is a great opportunity to teach kids about conservation and the importance of protecting wildlife. Camp George is committed to sustainable tourism, and children can learn about efforts to preserve the ecosystem and support local communities.
6. Embrace the Slow Safari Experience
A family safari isn’t just about spotting the Big Five—it’s about enjoying the beauty of nature, spending quality time together, and appreciating the little moments, from watching elephants drink at a waterhole to hearing the distant roar of a lion at night.
The Climate at Simbavati Camp George: What to Expect on Your Family Safari
At Simbavati Camp George, we’re lucky to be situated in the heart of the Klaserie Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Our climate is typical of the African savanna—hot summers, mild winters, and a fantastic year-round safari experience. Whether you're visiting for the lush beauty of the green season or the incredible wildlife sightings of the dry season, each time of year offers something special.
Our Seasons and What You Can Expect
- Summer (November – March): This is our rainy season, when the bush comes alive with vibrant greenery, dramatic afternoon thunderstorms, and an abundance of newborn wildlife. Temperatures can climb above 30°C (86°F), but the occasional rain cools things down. Bird lovers will be in their element, as migratory species arrive in full force.
- Autumn (April – May): As the rains taper off, the landscape begins to dry, making it a little easier to spot wildlife. Temperatures remain warm, but mornings and evenings start to feel cooler—perfect for those crisp early game drives.
- Winter (June – August): This is dry season safari perfection. With little to no rain, the vegetation thins out, and animals gather around water sources, making for unforgettable game viewing. Mornings can be chilly (sometimes as low as 5°C/41°F), but by midday, you’ll enjoy pleasant temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F).
- Spring (September – October): The bush is at its driest before the rains return, meaning wildlife sightings remain spectacular. Temperatures start to rise, and this is one of the best times to see predators in action.
When’s the Best Time to Visit?
If you’re visiting us for the first time—especially with your family—the dry winter months (June – August) are ideal. The weather is comfortable, and wildlife viewing is at its absolute best. But if you’d love to see the bush in its lush, green glory and witness newborn animals taking their first steps, the summer months (November – March) are a magical time.
No matter when you choose to visit Simbavati Camp George, the ever-changing African landscape and incredible wildlife encounters will make your safari one to remember!
Plan Your Family Safari Today
Simbavati Camp George offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family bonding, making it an ideal destination for a family safari. Whether tracking wildlife on game drives, enjoying quality time in luxurious accommodations, or learning about the wonders of the African bush, every moment is crafted for an unforgettable experience.
For families seeking a unique and meaningful escape, there’s no better place than Simbavati Camp George. Book your family safari today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
[post_title] => An African Safari at Simbavati Camp George: The Perfect Escape [post_excerpt] => A family safari is more than just a vacation—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, bond with loved ones, and create lifelong memories. Simbavati Camp George, nestled in the heart of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, offers the perfect setting for an unforgettable family adventure. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => family-safari-camp-george [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-04-03 15:20:53 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-04-03 13:20:53 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20257 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )
Camp George
An African Safari at Simbavati Camp George: The Perfect Escape
- A private veranda for uninterrupted wildlife viewing
- Spacious en-suite bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and outdoor showers
- Air conditioning and ceiling fans for year-round comfort
- King-size beds draped in high-quality linens for restful sleep
- Complimentary Wi-Fi to stay connected while embracing the wilderness
Unforgettable Safari Experiences
A stay at Simbavati Camp George is all about immersion in nature. The lodge offers a variety of safari activities designed to bring guests closer to Africa’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Big Five Game Drives
Twice-daily game drives, led by expert guides and trackers, take you deep into Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem. The reserve is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino), along with a diverse array of plains game and over 350 bird species. Morning and evening safaris offer unique encounters with nocturnal predators and diurnal species alike.
Guided Bush Walks
For a deeper connection with nature, guided bush walks provide an up-close look at the smaller wonders of the African wilderness, from intricate insect life to medicinal plants and animal tracks. These walks allow guests to experience the bush from a different perspective, heightening their senses to the sounds and scents of the wild.
Photographic Opportunities
With breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and golden light at sunrise and sunset, Camp George is a paradise for wildlife photographers. Your guides understand the best angles and locations for capturing unforgettable shots. Whether you're an amateur or a professional, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to document your safari adventure.
Wellness and Relaxation
After an exhilarating game drive, unwind with a soothing spa treatment or a refreshing dip in the pool. Camp George provides serene spaces to relax and rejuvenate, from shaded lounge areas to tranquil garden settings.
Dining and Hospitality
Dining at Simbavati Camp George is a culinary journey that blends African flavors with contemporary cuisine. Guests enjoy delicious meals under the stars, fireside boma dinners, and alfresco breakfasts overlooking the bush. The lodge's well-stocked bar offers a selection of fine wines, craft gin, and cocktails to toast to another perfect day in the wild.
Private Dining Experiences
For those seeking a more intimate experience, Camp George offers private dining options, whether it’s a romantic candlelit dinner on your veranda or a picnic-style lunch in a secluded part of the reserve.
Conservation and Sustainability
As part of Simbavati Lodge Collection, Camp George is deeply committed to sustainable tourism. The lodge follows eco-friendly practices, including:
- Responsible water usage to minimize environmental impact
- Solar energy initiatives for sustainable power
- Supporting local conservation projects that protect wildlife and uplift surrounding communities
By staying at Simbavati Camp George, guests actively contribute to the long-term protection of Klaserie’s wildlife and help preserve this extraordinary ecosystem for future generations.
How to Get to Simbavati Camp George
Camp George is easily accessible by air and road.
- By Air: Guests can fly from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Hoedspruit Airport, followed by a short 45-minute road transfer to the lodge.
- By Road: A scenic 6-hour drive from Johannesburg through South Africa’s breathtaking Lowveld region provides an opportunity to witness the country’s diverse landscapes before arriving at the lodge.
The Ideal Safari Escape for Every Traveler
Simbavati Camp George is perfect for:
- Honeymooners seeking a secluded and romantic retreat
- Families wanting an intimate and educational safari experience
- Solo travelers looking for a peaceful escape into the wild
- Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers eager to capture Africa’s raw beauty
Book Your Safari Escape at Camp George
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Simbavati Camp George offers an unforgettable safari experience. Escape to the wild and immerse yourself in the magic of the African bush.
[post_title] => Simbavati Camp George: A Tranquil Safari Escape in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve [post_excerpt] => Experience the charm of Simbavati Camp George in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve. Discover an intimate safari retreat with luxury accommodation, Big Five game drives, and breathtaking wilderness views. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => simbavati-camp-george-a-tranquil-safari-escape-in-klaserie-private-nature-reserve [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-03-19 14:42:45 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-03-19 12:42:45 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20248 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )
Camp George
Simbavati Camp George: A Tranquil Safari Escape in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
/ Camp George
REGIONS
Getting There
Simbavati Camp George is approx 60 to 90 minutes from Hoedspruit Eastgate airport, depending on how comfortable you are driving on gravel roads. It can be accessed via a rental car.
Directions from Hoedspruit Airport
As you exit the Airport, turn left for Klaserie Game Reserve onto Argyle Road. Continue until you reach the Enkhulu control gate of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Please note that continuous cell phone reception ends here.
At this gate you will tell security you are going to Camp George/Amani/Homestead in the Klaserie. You DO NOT pay an entrance fee at this gate. Immediately after the gate, there’s a cattle grid in front you. Do not cross this grid. Instead you turn immediately left before the grid and follow the road as it doubles back on itself and then curves to the right to head to the Klaserie main gate (Incheni Gate). This takes about 10 to 15 mins drive.
At the gate, you will be required to pay an entrance fee in cash. (This changes on a yearly basis). This gate is open from 6am to 6pm. The lodge would have at this stage sent a QR code to the gate for your entry (Passport or SA ID information is required for your QR code).
Go through the gate and continue straight on the main road for quite some distance (approx 20 minutes) until you reach a big cell/radio tower. At the cell tower you will find a sign on a stone plinth on your left saying Northumberland/Fife/Klaseriemond/Durham/Dundee East. Turn right.
Follow the powerline on your left for approx 3.2km. Where the powerline heads away from the road, you will find a sign on your rights saying Camp George/Amani Safari Camp. Turn left here.
Continue until the next sign (on a stone plinth) and turn right here. At the next stone plinth/sign, you continue straight on for Camp George. At the triangle, keep right. The fork will fork again and you keep left. At the next fork, keep right. This will take you to Camp George down the hill.
Aim to arrive by 2.30pm, if possible so that you have ample time to settle in before the game drive. If you are going to be late due to unforeseen circumstances, please let us know on (015) 004 1400
Note: Please do NOT rely on your GPS after Hoedspruit. It will lead you onto the incorrect roads where you could get loss and stuck!
Timing
From Johannesburg Airport – ± 6½ to 7 hours’ drive (505km)
From Kruger Airport – 3 + hours (190km)
From Hazyview – 2 to 2 ½ hours (140km via the R40)
From the Three Rondavels view point (last point on the Panorama route, 145km) – 2½ hours (so depart by 12 noon latest).
Directions from Johannesburg to Simbavati Camp George (± 6½ – 7 hour drive)
The most direct route is via N4 then Dullstroom to Lydenburg and Ohrigstad and onto Hoedspruit. However some people prefer to take the northern route via Polokwane and Tzaneen as there are fewer potholes. See Downloadable Directions.
From Johannesburg take the N12 to Witbank (Emalahleni) and continue on the N4 towards Nelspruit. (From Pretoria, take the N4 to Witbank). Follow the N4 and turn left to Belfast (Off ramp R33/R540). Once in Belfast, turn right into Voortrekker Street and continue straight on the R540 to Dullstroom.
Drive straight through Dullstroom and continue to Lydenburg (name change to Mashishing) on the R540. At the T-junction turn left into Lydenburg (Mashishing) into Viljoen Street (R36). Turn left again into Voortrekker Street. Turn right into De Clercq Street and follow the R36 through Ohrigstad. After the Abel Erasmus pass, the R36 turns left to Tzaneen. Do not turn left here. Instead continue straight on the R527 to Hoedspruit.
In Hoedspruit, continue straight. After the bridge crossing the railway line, turn right at the four way stop and continue south on the R40 for another 6.4km. Turn left onto the D1909 (Argyle Road). The sign says Timbavati/Eastgate Airport road. Then follow the Hoedspruit directions to the Lodge.
Directions from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport or Hazyview
KMIA – 3+ hours (195km) * Hazyview – Allow 2½ hours (140km)
The most direct route from Kruger Intl Airport is via the R40 thorough White River and Hazyview. Similarly if you are staying in or near Hazyview, the R40 north is the direct route. Just 6.5km south of Hoedspruit. You turn right onto the Timbavati/Eastgate Airport road. Allow 1½ hours to get from Hazyview to the Timbavati turnoff. Then another hour to get to the Lodge. Once on the Timbavati Road, you immediately pass the Eastgate Airport. Then follow the Hoedspruit directions to the Lodge.
Alternative Panorama route if staying at a Hazyview Lodge:
The R40 is a difficult road given the number of slow trucks and cars as well as many pedestrians. It takes longer than you would expect.
So if you have time, we recommend enjoying a tour of the Panorama route via the Blyde River canyon. Note that this is a longer route (240km from Hazyview to your Lodge (or 3¾ hours driving). En route you can stop off at the Bournes Luck potholes, Gods Window and the Three Rondavels
TIP: It takes approx 2½ + hours to get to the camp from the Three Rondavels viewpoint. So don’t leave the Three Rondavels later than 12 noon. Assuming you spend 1½ hours at the various stopping off points, we recommend leaving your lodge by 8.30am.
ROOMS & FACILITIES
Each of the eight luxury suites has a king-sized bed (which can be converted to twin), dressing table, minibar, air conditioning, ceiling fan, and a full en suite bathroom with oval bath tub, double vanity, separate toilet, indoor shower. Outside is a private terrace with al fresco shower. Two inter-leading units are available for families traveling together (to make a two bedroom, two bathroom unit).
In- room Facilities
● Private terrace overlooking dry riverbed
● Air-conditioning – for cooling and heating
● Ceiling fan
● Minibar with drinks and snacks
● Coffee and tea-making facilities
● Bathroom – bath, indoor and outdoor shower, double vanity
● Complimentary eco-friendly amenities
● Hair-dryer
● Mini-safe for storing valuables
● Room equipped with electronic eco-friendly insect spray (10 min intervals)
● Laundry service – laundry bag in room
Lodge Facilities & Good to Know
● Main lodge with sitting area with books and board games
● Interesting collection of modern African art
● Complimentary wifi in rooms and in main guest areas
● Convivial bar (though the bar chairs are not made for small people)
● Dining room leading out to alfresco dining on the terrace
● Swimming pool set within in mature, fenced garden
● Open air boma around a campfire, overlooking the dry riverbed
● Safari spa – one treatment room
● Fully equipped gym
● Unique collection of Cycads
OUR DETAILED
2025-2026 Rates
Enquire about our SA Resident Offers.
| 01 May 2025 – 20 Dec 2025 | 21 Dec 2025 – 04 Jan 2026 | |
| Per Person Sharing | R12,500 | R13,750 |
| Per Single | R16,625 | R18,288 |
| Child | R6,250 | R6,875 |
FINE PRINT
Inclusions
Booking Policy
General Information
Children are welcome from 8 years upwards and can join the adult game drive. There are two inter-leading rooms so that a family of four can enjoy two bedrooms with two en suite bathrooms.
Note: There is no kids centre. So if you have younger kids, then you may wish to consider Simbavati River Lodge as alternative?
The Kruger is a malarial area so we recommend that you take anti-malaria prophylaxis. Mosquitos are less prevalent in the winter. We also recommend anti-mosquito repellent to stop you from getting bitten.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a typical pattern of safari activities?
What’s the ideal length of stay?
Is there wifi?
What should I wear for a game drive?
What should I wear for a bush walk?
Get in Contact
Managers
Inneke and Manie Esterhuizen
Lodge telephone number: 015 004 1400
Reservations: +27 87 151 4520
- Detailed description of services
Simbavati Camp George is a business in the Tourism industry that provides accommodation services. - Delivery policy
Subject to availability and receipt of payment, requests will be processed within 2 days and receipt confirmed by way of email. - Return and Refunds policy
The provision of services by Simbavati Camp George is subject to availability. In cases of unavailability, Simbavati Camp George will refund the client in accordance with our standard terms and conditions. - Customer Privacy policy
Simbavati Camp George shall take all reasonable steps to protect the personal information of users. For the purpose of this clause, “personal
information” shall be defined as detailed in the Promotion of Access to Information Act 2 of 2000 (PAIA). The PAIA may be downloaded from:
http://www.lawsofsouthafrica.up.ac.za/index.php/current-legislation. - Payment options accepted
Payment may be made via Visa or MasterCard or by bank transfer into the Simbavati Camp George bank account, the details of which will be provided on request. - Card acquiring and security
Card transactions will be acquired for Simbavati Camp George via PayGate (Pty) Ltd who are the approved payment gateway for all South African Acquiring Banks. DPO PayGate uses the strictest form of encryption, namely Secure Socket Layer 3 (SSL3) and no Card details are stored on the website. Users may go to www.paygate.co.za to view their security certificate and security policy. - Customer details separate from card details
Customer details will be stored by Simbavati Camp George separately from card details which are entered by the client on DPO PayGate’s secure site. For more detail on DPO PayGate refer to www.paygate.co.za. - Merchant Outlet country and transaction currency
The merchant outlet country at the time of presenting payment options to the cardholder is South Africa. Transaction currency is
South African Rand (ZAR). - Responsibility
Simbavati Camp George takes responsibility for all aspects relating to the transaction including sale of goods and services sold on this website, customer service and support, dispute resolution and delivery of the service. - Country of domicile
This website is governed by the laws of South Africa and Simbavati Camp George chooses as its domicilium citandi et executandi for all purposes under this agreement, whether in respect of court process, notice, or other documents or communication of whatsoever nature Portion 9 of Portion 7, Farm Northumberland, Number 31 Registered, Hoedspruit, Limpopo, 1380. - Variation
Simbavati Camp George may, in its sole discretion, change this agreement or any part thereof at any time without notice. - Company information
This website is run by SARO AI (Pty) Ltd based in South Africa trading as Simbavati Management Services and with registration number 2018/313230/07 and 3 directors. - Simbavati Camp George contact details
Company Physical Address: Portion 9 of Portion 7, Farm Northumberland, Number 31 Registered, Hoedspruit, Limpopo, 1380
Email: res@simbavati.com Telephone: 087 151 4520
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