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Join us at Hilltop Lodge and Experience true Africalm

Hilltop Lodge

OVERVIEW

Romantic ambience

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge boasts one of the most breathtaking settings in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, a private and unfenced part of the Kruger National Park. Perched gracefully on a hillside, the lodge offers sweeping views of the untamed bush and the distant Drakensberg Mountains. Below, the expansive Mbali Dam and the Nhlaralumi River create a natural oasis where elephants and other wildlife frequently gather, providing a spectacular sight for lucky onlookers.

Designed with a light environmental footprint, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge blends luxury with sustainability, ensuring that it leaves no lasting impact on this pristine wilderness. The lodge features eight spacious and elegantly appointed tented suites, each offering a romantic, airy atmosphere with its own private plunge pool and deck, perfect for soaking in the tranquility and beauty of the surrounding landscape.

As part of the Greater Kruger Park, the Timbavati is renowned for its exceptional game viewing, including the Big Five, with frequent sightings of leopard and wild dog. Enjoy twice-daily game drives that bring you up close to the remarkable wildlife, from the smallest birds to the largest predators.

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is where luxury meets the wild, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Why we love it

Romantic Ambience

Romantic ambiance with luxurious, private suites overlooking the expansive Mbali Dam and the Nhlaralumi River 

Game Drives

Game drives are limited to a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring an exclusive experience

Private Decks

Each suite has a spacious private deck with a plunge pool and sala pavilion with daybed

Opulent Amenities

The lodge boasts an infinity swimming pool, a 360° view bar, and revitalising spa treatments, ensuring a truly indulgent stay

ROOMS

Relax in style

8 luxurious tented rooms offer a choice of King or twin beds. Each suite has glorious views over the bushveld, the dam and the Nhlaralumi River. French doors open out onto an expansive viewing deck, each with its own private plunge pool and a sala pavilion with double day bed for an afternoon read or snooze.

The en-suite bathroom tent is connected to the bedroom tent via a small passage. On the deck is a double ’rain’ shower with views over the dam.

Simbavati Hilltop - tsala
Luxury Safari Tent
Hilltop Luxury tent
Hilltop Luxury tent
Simbavati- Hilltop Lodge
Simbavati- Hilltop Main area

ESSENTIALS

The Need to Knows

Simbavati Hilltop - Private Decks & Views
Private deck with a plunge pool and sala pavilion with daybed

Top Reasons to Visit

Setting

The Setting

There’s not much that beats this elevated setting in the Greater Kruger with near and distant views over one of the foremost private game reserves in terms of wildlife concentration and habituation to game vehicles. The design makes the most its location, affording a great outlook from every part of the lodge: the pool, the bar, dining tent and sitting areas.

Romance

Celebrate the big moments

All the best associations of being under canvas in a wildlife paradise with none of the rustic homeliness of safari camps of old, Hilltop is modern and architecturally playful in style. Not only private and spacious but also light-filled and light-hearted. It’s a pared down luxury where nature is the star. But you can feel suitably indulgent if you are celebrating one of life’s big moments.

firepit

Dancing Flames

Sometimes the romance of the dancing flames and the glittering dark skies of the southern hemisphere are all we want. Evenings around the Hilltop firepit encourage tall tales from rangers and guests alike, ghost stories, yarns and friendship.

Simbavati Hilltop - firepit
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Nestled in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Our exclusive lodge provides unmatched views, diverse wildlife, and a luxurious retreat in the African bush – any photographer’s dream come true.

The Allure of Timbavati

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve forms part of the renowned Greater Kruger National Park and is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the Big Five. Its sprawling landscapes, from dense woodlands to open savannahs, create the perfect canvas for capturing Africa’s beauty. With no fences between Timbavati and Kruger, wildlife roams freely, offering photographers endless opportunities to witness and document rare sightings.

Here, the landscape transforms with the seasons, each one offering unique photographic opportunities. Whether it’s the lush greenery of the rainy season or the golden hues of winter, Timbavati provides a dynamic backdrop that guarantees stunning shots.

The Magic of Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

Perched atop a ridge, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge offers panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld and the meandering Nhlaralumi River. From your private deck, equipped with a plunge pool, you can watch elephants, antelope, and an array of birdlife move through the landscape below. The lodge's elevated position means you’ll be able to photograph wildlife in natural light from dawn until dusk without ever leaving your suite.

Each of the lodge's luxurious tents is thoughtfully positioned to provide maximum privacy and uninterrupted vistas of the landscape. The fusion of modern comfort with the wild outdoors creates a unique experience where you can relax while also being immersed in nature.

Photographic Opportunities at Every Turn

Simbavati Hilltop - tsala
  1. Golden Hours: The lodge's positioning allows for some of the best sunrise and sunset views in the region. The golden light during these times offers ideal conditions for landscape photography, giving your images warmth and depth.
  2. Wildlife Encounters: With guided game drives twice a day, you have front-row seats to some of Africa's most iconic animals. Your experienced guides will ensure you’re in the best spots to capture those unforgettable moments, from lion prides lounging in the sun to a lone leopard on the hunt.
  3. Birdlife: Timbavati is also a birder's haven. Over 360 bird species call this region home, making it a paradise for capturing rare and beautiful birds in flight or perched against striking backdrops.
  4. Night Photography: Simbavati Hilltop Lodge's remoteness means little to no light pollution, perfect for astrophotographers aiming to capture the starry African skies or nighttime wildlife.

Why Choose Simbavati Hilltop for Your Next Holiday?

Simbavati Hilltop - at night
  • Exclusive & Remote: With only a handful of tents, Simbavati Hilltop offers an intimate and private experience, ensuring you feel like you have the bush all to yourself.
  • Perfect for Couples & Honeymooners: The lodge's romantic setting makes it an ideal destination for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect in nature.
  • Tailored for Photographers: Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or a beginner, the lodge's surroundings and amenities are designed to help you capture stunning images at every turn.
  • Luxury Meets Nature: Enjoy the perfect balance of luxury and wilderness, where you can indulge in gourmet meals and pampering spa treatments after a day of photographing the incredible wildlife and landscapes.

Getting Ready for Your Trip to Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

Preparing for a trip to Simbavati Hilltop Lodge involves ensuring that you’re well-equipped to make the most of your safari experience. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready for your stay:

  1. Packing Essentials
  • Clothing:
    • Neutral Colours: Opt for light, neutral-colored clothing that blends with the environment, such as khaki, beige, and olive. Bright colors can attract insects and disrupt wildlife.
    • Layers: Pack layers for varying temperatures. Mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday temperatures can be quite warm. Include a light jacket or fleece for cooler temperatures.
    • Comfortable Footwear: Bring sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking safaris and casual wear for relaxing at the lodge.
  • Accessories:
    • Sun Protection: Pack a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen to protect yourself from the strong African sun.
    • Insect Repellent: Essential for warding off mosquitoes and other insects. Choose a repellent with DEET for effective protection.
  • Personal Items:
    • Binoculars: Useful for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. While the lodge provides binoculars, having your own can enhance the experience.
    • Camera: Bring a good quality camera with a zoom lens to capture wildlife and scenic views. Remember extra batteries and memory cards.
  • Health and Safety:
    • Medications: Pack any personal medications you might need, including a basic first aid kit for minor injuries.
    • Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and loss of belongings.
  1. Travel Documents and Essentials
  • Reservations: Confirm all your travel and accommodation bookings. Keep copies of your reservation details and any required permits or vouchers.
  • Identification: Carry a valid passport and any necessary visas. Ensure your identification documents are easily accessible.
  • Currency: Bring some cash in local currency (South African Rand) for small purchases or tips. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand is useful.
  1. Health Precautions
  • Vaccinations: Check if any vaccinations are required or recommended for travel to South Africa. Consult with a healthcare professional well in advance of your trip.
  • Malaria Prevention: Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is in a malaria-risk area. Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis and follow their advice on prevention.
  1. Safari Preparation
  • Game Drive Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with basic safari etiquette, such as staying quiet during game drives, avoiding sudden movements, and respecting wildlife.
  • Respecting Nature: Follow the lodge’s guidelines on respecting the environment and wildlife. This includes not littering and adhering to park rules.
  1. Before You Leave
  • Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your credit or debit cards while abroad.
  • Home Preparations: Arrange for someone to take care of your home and pets while you’re away. Ensure your home is secure and that you have everything in place before departure.
  1. Arrival and Check-In
  • Transfer Arrangements: Confirm your transfer arrangements to the lodge. Most lodges provide transfers from designated airports or nearby towns.
  • Arrival Information: Upon arrival at the lodge, you will be welcomed with a briefing on safety, lodge facilities, and safari activities.

By preparing thoroughly, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at our Simbavati Hilltop Lodge. From packing the right gear to understanding safari etiquette, being well-prepared will help you fully embrace the magic and wonder of your safari adventure.

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Honeymoons and Romance at Simbavati Safari Lodges

Hilltop Lodge

Simbavati Hilltop: A Photographer's Paradise

WP_Post Object
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    [ID] => 5082
    [post_author] => 9
    [post_date] => 2021-09-06 07:10:40
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    [post_content] => 

Our ‘Secret Seven’ wildlife species in Africa are rarely seen and elusive animals. Well, the name says it all.

These are the most secretive animals and even many frequent visitors to National Parks and wildlife reserves haven’t been fortunate enough to see them all.  The secret seven comprise aardvark, African wild cat, civet, large spotted genet, pangolin, porcupine and serval.

In a lifetime career working in the bush I’ve been lucky enough to see six of our Secret Seven. But one I am yet to see in all my years..

The main reason these guys are such a rare ‘spot’ is due to the fact that they are mostly nocturnal, solitary and shy animals. Let’s run through our list so that you’ll be ready to share in the excitement if you do spot one. It’s usually quite a fleeting sighting and they are certainly camera-shy!

Aardvark

Afrikaans Name: Erdvark

This animal has long ears, a long pig-like snout and a very thick tail. Their skin is almost bare and of a yellow-grey colour while the hair on the legs is generally darker in colour. Plus their hindquarters are also much heavier than the front quarters and their shoulders are much lower than the crop. Their limbs are extremely powerful and the feet, especially their front feet, have strong claws adapted for digging and for breaking into anthills. The aardvark is very adaptable and occurs in areas where the soil is not very compact and where a sufficient number of termites are. 

Male aardvarks are slightly more heavily built than the females. Both are generally solitary. They range widely seeking food, with those noses of theirs held close to ground as their sense of smell is amazing. They are nocturnal (active at night) and usually sleep in a hole that they fill up behind them.

Speaking of their holes. You may be surprised that they have three holes with three different uses:

Hole 1: They live in this hole as well as give birth to their young in this hole. They give birth to a single young and they are born from July to September after a gestation period of +-7 months.

Hole 2: This acts as a temporary shelter from bad weather or unexpected weather or if they travelled a bit too far they will seek shelter before moving back to hole 1.

Hole 3: A small excavation for seeking food.

They can dig at unbelievable rates. Sometimes when they are done with their holes, if they are in good condition, then other animals will move in! They'll make & shape them into dens or shelters for themselves.  All and all, you can call the Aardvark the architect of bush.

African Wild Cat

Afrikaans Name: Vaalboskat

The second of our secret seven wildlife species is a slender animal resembling a grey house cat! Their colour varies from grey to dark grey, from reddish to dusky red stripes on their legs and tail. African wild cats are larger than small spotted cats and they usually have more spots. These cats can easily interbreed with domestic cats, but the cross-breeds will have shorter legs and lack the reddish tinge on the back of their ears which African wild cats are known for, however the cross-breeds will have a red nose instead of the normal black nose. You can find these cats everywhere, provided there is sufficient dense thicket, tall grass and rocks for shelters.

These shy, cunning animals are usually solitary, except for mating season when one or more males will be around a single female. 2 to 5 young are born any time of the year with the peak being between September and March, after a gestation period of +-2 months. They are mainly nocturnal. But you may be lucky and see them in the late afternoon at sunset. They are very territorial and both sexes will defend their areas. Although these cats are mainly terrestrial they are very good climbers, especially if they are being pursued. They also sometimes hunt from trees. I have been very lucky to have seen them, but only 2 individuals in my career.

African Civet

Afrikaans Name: Siwet

This cat-like animal is a whitish-grey with indistinct spots on the forequarters and regular black spots which merge into stripes on their hindquarters. Their legs are black and their tail white, bushy and ringed with a black tip. These animals prefer woodlands with thick undergrowth. They also like to be in well-watered surroundings. African civets are exclusively nocturnal and are most active during the early hours of the evening or just before sunrise. 

They are mainly solitary animals. Civets can climb trees but they mostly move on the ground, you will find these guys usually along footpaths and walking purposefully with their heads held down. They are extremely shy animals. If you disturb them, they will either stand motionless or lie down on the ground. Depending on good camouflage rather than fight. One to four young are born between August to December after a gestation period of +-2 months. These animals can live up to 12 years if they don’t get killed by lion, leopard or pythons.

I have been lucky enough to see four individuals and the last one was my best sighting; a civet being chased by a leopard! He survived due to the fact that the leopard wasn’t hunting or anything. It seemed that they just accidentally walked into each other in tall grass. Personally, I think the leopard got just as much of a fright as the civet.

Large Spotted Genet

Afrikaans Name: Grootkolmuskejaatkat

The fourth one in the secret seven roll-call is a rather small, cat-like animal. The large spotted genet are white or greyish-white with dark spots and stripes. Their tail is long and dark with white rings. The species has been split into the Large spotted genet with black spots, stripes and rings. And the Rusty-spotted genet with rust-brown stripes and spots. These animals like to be in well-watered areas with sufficient undergrowth. 

Usually solitary animals, but they can sometimes be found in pairs. They are nocturnal animals and will emerge a few hours after sunset. During the day they sleep in old aardvark holes (our architect of the bush, remember?), spring hare holes or sometimes they will sleep in hollow tree stumps. They are mainly terrestrial but will either take shelter or hunt in trees. Their movements are watchful and furtive and when they run they keep their heads down and their tails horizontal.

These animals love dog pellets so people that live on farms where they keep dogs have to keep the dog food inside or they end up stealing the dog pellets.

Porcupine

Afrikaans Name: Ystervark

These guys are the largest rodent in the region. Their bodies are covered in quills, spines and flattened black bristles. Quills are generally black and white and very distinctive.

Porcupines are usually solitary but three or more can be found using the same shelters. Sometimes at the holes you will find bones which the porcupines drag to the shelters where they gnaw on the bones for calcium.

These guys are very adaptable and you can find them everywhere except in forests and desserts. So you may see them away from conservation areas. Indeed they are the worst enemy to veggie gardens and agricultural lands and cause a lot of damage.   

They can travel long distances looking for food at night. These guys might look slow but they can run really fast if being pursued by a predator. Speaking of dangerous encounters for porcupine, they are pretty feisty. The quills by the neck and hindquarters are longer and thinner. They raise these up to make the porcupine look bigger and more fearsome to its enemies.

Look at this encounter between a leopard and a porcupine in the Kruger...

Quills cannot be shot out or released as folklore says, (cool though that would be). They actually back up into the predator where the quills will stick and remain in the predator. Lions and leopards struggle after an altercation between them and a porcupine as the quills cause infections and festering sores, making it difficult to hunt, eat or even drinking water, so they become weak and easy targets to their own enemies. Some people working in the bush actually refer to porcupines as the serial killer of the bush.

Serval

Afrikaans Name: Tierboskat

The serval is a slender animal with long legs, a rather small, rounded head and large ears. Colour varies from dull white to light golden-yellow with black stripes down the neck and irregular black spots on the body. The serval is sometimes confused with a young cheetah cubs as they look very similar. Yet so different if you know what to look for. Servals prefer thicker, more humid types of woodland with sufficient shelter and water. 

These animals usually forage alone, although pairs sometimes hunt together, even in swampy areas. They are mainly nocturnal but you may see them in the early morning and late afternoon. They can run fast for short distances. At night they range far in search of food, using roads and footpaths to avoid difficult terrain. Although they are excellent tree climbers they are mainly terrestrial. These guys can live up to +-12 years unless their predators like lion and crocodile get to them first.

Pangolin

Afrikaans Name: Ietermagog

And last, but not least, in our secret seven line-up is probably the animal that most keen safari visitors would LOVE to see. These guys have got very hard, dark grey-brown scales which cover the body like roof tiles, their defining characteristic. It’s a very odd animal. You very rarely see them, being even more elusive than the other secret seven clan.

Pangolin walk on their hind legs with the front legs held off the ground, only touching now and then. The front feet have long, curved claws which are used to dig. They like sandy soil in dry fairly humid types of savannah with adequate shelters.

Pangolin are usually solitary animals and move about noisily as they brush against bushes and branches. They are also mainly nocturnal but you can occasionally see them during the day. If they suspect any intrusion they will stand on their back legs supported by their tails. When threatened they will roll themselves into a ball. They live in old Aardvark holes and hunt for food at night. They eat mainly ants and sometimes termites. Intriguingly they also emit a really foul odour when threatened.

These guys can live a good life of over 12 years in the wild and have no natural enemies. Their worst enemies are humans, unfortunately. Sadly they are the most trafficked animals in the world, mainly sought after for their scales. Again, another sad story of ignorance, greed and misinformation about non-existent health benefits. This animal has evaded me watching to catch a slighting for 9 years and going. So Mr Pangolin, watch out! Our cat and mouse game ain’t over just quite yet. I’ve still got my eyes open and I will see you soon!

So as the sundowner drinks come to an end, and the night drive begins, keep your eyes peeled for one of these secret seven gems. 

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Secret seven wildlife - aarvark

Amani

Camp George

Hilltop Lodge

Homestead

Kruger Klaserie

Kruger Timbavati

River Lodge

Wildlife & Safari

Secret Seven wildlife of the Timbavati & Klaserie

WP_Post Object
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    [ID] => 5070
    [post_author] => 10
    [post_date] => 2021-09-06 06:47:10
    [post_date_gmt] => 2021-09-06 06:47:10
    [post_content] => 

A great lineage was left behind by an exceptional female leopard known as Ntombi. 

Ntombi was a very relaxed individual. But, as do we all, she aged and was forced to the south by younger, stronger competitors. 

Before she moved on, she had two cubs, both males. Both the cubs made it to adulthood which reflects the success of this female leopard as a mother. One of the males is now known by us as Ntima, meaning ‘black’, because of his dark nose. He carved out a piece of territory within his birth area. 

When I started working at Simbavati 3 and half years ago this was generally the leopard we got to see most frequently when out on game drives. Ntima is an absolute legend and definitely as relaxed as his mother. At the age of around five, he was the dominant male in our part of the Timbavati. Over the next few years, he grew both physically and in confidence. Though he has expanded his territory beyond our boundaries in order to continue spreading his genes, we still see him on a regular basis. 

I remember one of many incredible sightings I had with him. We went out on a morning game drive, not knowing what to expect, and that's the best part of it… The sound of hyena close by attracted our attention and we came across Ntima who had caught a warthog and was busy dragging it to a nearby tree. Before he could hoist it, 3 hyenas stole his hard- earned meal. 

Stoical, Ntima stuck around in the area, hoping to reclaim his prize. His patience paid off as the hyena got startled and left the warthog for only a few seconds. Ntima saw the moment of opportunity, came running in and claimed it back. Three hyena hot on his tail, he made it to the safety of a Marula Tree and could feed in peace. Today, he’s a very experienced leopard and in the prime of his life. Stay tuned for an update on his own lineage.

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Timbavati Game Reserve - leopard with a kill

Hilltop Lodge

River Lodge

Wildlife & Safari

Leopards of the Timbavati - Ntombi

/ Hilltop Lodge

REGIONS

Getting There

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge is approx 1½ hours from Hoedspruit Eastgate airport. It can be accessed via a rental car. 

FROM HOEDSPRUIT AIRPORT (±90 minute drive to Simbavati Hilltop)


Please DO NOT rely on your GPS after Hoedspruit. It will lead you to the wrong lodge which will mean a two-hour detour. Continuous cellular telephone connection ends at the Enkhulu Control Gate. There is no mobile network available within the reserve. As you exit the Airport, turn left onto Argyle Road which leads to the Timbavati Game Reserve. Continue straight for approximately
12km until you reach the Enkhulu Control Gate of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.
Here you will be required to pay an entrance fee. (This changes on a yearly basis). This gate is open from 6am to 6pm. Cash or card is accepted. Please note that continuous cell phone reception ends here. Aim to arrive at the gate by 13h00, if possible, so that you have ample time to have lunch and settle in before the game drive. If you are going to be late due to unforeseen circumstances, please let us know on (015) 793-9021 or (015) 793-9051.
Once you have entered Enkhulu Gate, continue on the tar road for approximately 26.5km until you see the River Lodge signpost on your right hand side. Please note there is a strict 50km speed restriction on the tar road once you have entered Enkulu gate that is enforced by speed cameras. Please do not get out of your vehicle or feed any animals. Turn right onto the dirt road and follow the River Lodge signage for approximately 5.5km until you see a Hilltop sign board indicating left. Speed limit on the dirt road is 30 km per hour. Please give way to all animals. Please keep a careful lookout for all signs within the reserve, as the elephants sometimes knock them over Turn left at the Hilltop signboard and follow the remaining signboards for Hilltop Lodge for approximately 2.5km until you reach Simbavati Hilltop Lodge

FROM JOHANNESBURG (± 6 1⁄2 – 7 hour drive)
N1 via Polokwane (Recommended Route)
The N1 route via Polokwane is an alternative from Gauteng to Simbavati. Although this way is ±50 km longer than the Dullstroom route and one pays more in toll fees, for some people this is a better option. It is a road with fewer potholes, and there are fewer delays due to heavy, slow-moving trucks. From Oliver Tambo International Airport follow the R21 north to Pretoria. Just before you reach Pretoria take the N1 North to Polokwane. (From Johannesburg, you follow the N1 North to Polokwane). Take the R71 to Tzaneen just before you get to Polokwane. Follow the R71 via Grobler Street through Moria to Tzaneen. Do not turn off the R71 until you get to the T-junction. Turn right onto the R36/R71 towards Tzaneen. Turn left onto the R71 at the first off-ramp and stay on the R71 through Giyani, Letsitele and Gravelotte until you reach the next T-Junction. At the T-junction turn right onto the R40 south towards Hoedspruit, White River and Mbombela. Continue straight through Hoedspruit. Drive ±6.5 km and then turn left on the D1909 (Argyle Road). The signage reads Timbavati and Eastgate Airport. Then follow the Hoedspruit directions to the Lodge.

Via Dullstroom
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 Hoed
spruit directions to the Lodge.

FROM KRUGER MPUMALANGA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OR HAZYVIEW
KMIA – 3+ hours (195km) * Hazyview – Allow 2 to 21⁄2 hours (145km)
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 11⁄2 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 (255km from Hazyview to your lodge or 4 hours driving). En route you can stop off at the Bournes Luck potholes, Gods Window and the Three Rondavels.

ROOMS & FACILITIES

In- room Facilities

  • Private plunge pool and viewing deck
  • Outdoor sala with daybed
  • Air-conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Minibar with drinks and snacks
  • Coffee and tea-making facilities
  • Bathroom – bath, double vanity with double outdoor shower for two
  • Complimentary eco-friendly amenities
  • Room equipped with electronic eco-friendly insect spray (1 min intervals) 
  • Hair-dryer
  • Electric blankets for winter 
  • Mini-safe for storing valuables 
  • Laundry service – laundry bag in room

8 luxurious tented rooms offer a choice or King or twin beds. Each suite has glorious views over the bushveld, the dam and the Nhlaralumi River. French doors open out onto an expansive viewing deck, each with its own private plunge pool and sala pavilion with double day bed for an afternoon read or snooze. The en-suite bathroom tent is connected to the bedroom tent via an open ‘breezeway’ or small passage. On the deck is a double ’rain’ shower with views over the dam.  

Note: Hilltop Lodge is not suitable for people who have difficulty with steps as each suite is accessed by a number of steps. However, two suites are considerably closer with fewer steps. So please mention any mobility issues when booking.

Lodge Facilities & Good to Know

  • Main lodge has wraparound decks with panoramic bush and distant mountain views
  • Sitting area and books and board games
  • Convivial bar with 360°views 
  • Dining tent and alfresco dining area
  • Infinity swimming pool
  • Seated firepit
  • Open air boma & campfire for dining under the stars
  • Spa treatments available in our luxury sala or in the privacy of your room
  • Safari shop
  • Complimentary Internet access – main lodge area only

OUR DETAILED

2024-2025 Rates

Enquire about our SA Resident offers.

Room TypeMax GuestBasis01 May 2024 – 05 Jan 202506 Jan 2025 – 20 Dec 202521 Dec 2025 – 04 Jan 2026
Luxury Safari Tent2 adultsSharing pp
Single
R17,500
R23,325
R18,900
R25,200
R20,790
R27,720

FINE PRINT

Inclusions

Booking Policy

General Information

Unfortunately Simbavati Hilltop Lodge does not take kids under 12 years of age. Please see our sister lodges, River Lodge, Camp George, Amani for family-friendly accommodation.

Alternatively – if you are a party of friends or family, you may like to take Amani or Homestead on an exclusive use basis?

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?

Is Hilltop suitable for mobility-challenged people?

Get in Contact

Managers

Colin Ahtom and Tiani van der Walt

Lodge telephone number: 015 793 9021 

Reservations: +27 87 151 4520