The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve was established in 1972 as part of the greater Kruger National Park. It is one of the largest private reserves in South Africa, being 60,000 hectares (or 148,000 acres). This vast tract of preserved land has some beautiful trees and riverine vegetation near the magnificent Klaserie River. It has an open fenceless border to the Kruger National Park in the north, and the Timbavati to the south-east.
This river is a mecca for a vast array of wildlife which includes the Big Five, namely lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. At the river, you may see large herds of elephant and buffalo as well as many hippo pods. The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve offers a diverse habitat, from flat plains to rocky outcrops to hilly landscapes. Here you’ll encounter a wonderful supporting cast of giraffe, zebra, warthogs, hyena and many antelope species.
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve also protects sustainable populations of many endangered species such as wild dog, saddle-billed storks and southern ground hornbills
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Sustainable game-viewing protocols
The pristine Klaserie Private Nature Reserve has always fiercely protected its bushveld and wildlife with a small number of Klaserie safari lodges and low vehicle density. It has strict, ecologically sensitive game-viewing protocols. Low vehicle numbers mean more time spent with the wildlife and no more than two vehicles are allowed at any sighting. Drives, in open-top 4×4 game vehicles take place in the early morning and late afternoon. This is when wildlife is most likely to be active. Being a private reserve, you can enjoy night drives and sometimes follow wildlife off road.
The ambience found in the Klaserie allows you to observe the natural relationship between wildlife. Interactions between predator and prey are often witnessed at close quarters. Lion, leopard, hyena and even wild dog are seen frequently. After sundowners on safari drives, you may be lucky to spot nocturnal animals after dark, including many smaller cat species, like African wild cat.
Klaserie bush walks
Many of the Klaserie safari lodges offer bush walks as an alternative to a game drive. Exploring this beautiful reserve on foot allows you to enjoy the serenity and tranquillity of the bushveld. It will also help you to savour not only its wildlife, but the trees, insects, sounds and birds of the bush. The region boasts around 118 reptile species, more than 30 amphibians, over 235 grasses, over 336 tree species and thousands of insect species.
Why are open (fenceless) borders important?
No fences mean that the wildlife can freely migrate between the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve and the Kruger. Some animals, such as elephant and large herds of buffalo, need vast areas to roam in order to eat and drink as they wish. Wild dog also travel many kilometres during the night. That’s why a fenceless reserve creates a perfect environment to see large herds of animals and a good diversity of animals. Not just the high profile animals but also a massive supporting cast of giraffe, zebra and hyena.
Why we love it
Beautiful Nature
Stunning terrain with lots of mature Leadwood and Tamboti trees
The Big Five
Big Five Reserve, see elephants, rhino, lions, leopards and buffalo.
Bush Walks
Focus on bush walks as well as game drives at many Klaserie lodges
Giving Back
Home to several conservation and community empowerment projects
It is a classic safari escape, set alongside a dry riverbed and within lush indigenous gardens Designed for couples, family and friends, this intimate lodge comprises eight luxury suites, each with its own private deck.
The spacious Simbavati Homestead is our self-catered Lodge…
Combines the intimacy and warmth of a holiday home, with the game experience of a traditional safari lodge. Here, in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, you can have the freedom of the African bush and its magnificent wildlife. But on your terms.
Simbavati Amani is a charming, intimate safari villa in the peaceful heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, perfect for couples or exclusive use. Though there are only four luxury suites within the homestead, a magnificent double volume sitting room, mezzanine library area, interactive kitchen and bar mean there is generous space to relax.
Flanking a large dam in the southern Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, this intimate luxury lodge enjoys the most beautiful setting, while a vast array of wildlife is drawn to the water. Simbavati Waterside offers the perfect getaway for every type of traveller. The carefully considered lodge structure affords both privacy for partners as well as family-friendly spaces.
LoCATION
How to get to the Klaserie…
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve lies approximately 520km north-east from Johannesburg, and is part of the Greater Kruger. The closest airport is Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (1 hour from our Klaserie safari lodges). There are direct flights from both Johannesburg and Cape Town into Hoedspruit. Transfers can be arranged into our lodges from Eastgate airport.
Johannesburg to the Klaserie lodges takes at least 6½ hours, (as the final stretch is slow driving once you are in the reserve). For specific driving directions, look at How to Get Thereon each of our lodge pages and/or download the directions.
Closest Airport
Hoedspruit
Drive time from Hoedspruit
1 hour
Dry Season
Apr to Oct
Wet Season
Nov to Mar
(periodic)
Best Time to visit the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
The Klaserie has a typical sub-tropical climate with warm, wet summer and dry but sunny winters. It is in the summer rainfall region of South Africa.
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve has a summer rainfall climate which usually starts somewhere between late October and early November. It’s usually comes as late afternoon or evening thunderstorms which are actually welcome. As the rain cools the air and ensure lush vegetation at this time of year. The rains are heaviest in January and February. Temperatures are hot and humid during the day. And it stays warm in the Klaserie into the evening and night. The bush comes alive after the dry winter. Yes, it’s a little harder to spot the wildlife during this time as the grasses are longer. However, birding in the Klaserie is excellent with many summer migrants arriving. Plus this is the time when babies are being born which is lovely to see. And keen photographers love the interesting cloud shapes and striking colours of the summer months.
Rain ceases
This is the start of the dry season. Usually by mid-March the rains have stopped, which makes game-viewing much easier. The landscape is still green and lush but the grasses start dying down. Luckily now the sunsets are particularly good, as the skies are clearer. Nights remain pleasantly warm. And the drier weather means the malaria risk becomes much lower.
Peak game-viewing
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve has a dry winter climate with virtually no rain for months. This is the best time for game-viewing as the bush is less dense, making for better visibility. And the animals need to come to the rivers and waterholes to drink. Daytime temperatures are very pleasant (23-25c) with sunny skies. After the sun sets, you’ll need to have warm clothes on hand, as the temperature drops quickly. Early morning game drives are also a bit chilly. However, it starts warming up from August onwards.
Prime safari & heating up
The spring months of mid-August to October are the tail-end of the dry season in the Klaserie Game Reserve. (So not the classic ‘spring’ weather you may be used to!) But it remains a very good time for a safari. As more and more the animals need to head for the increasingly scarce water sources, where our Klaserie safari lodges are situated. It’s perfect for those who like warmer night-time temperatures as it starts heating up fast in late September and October, prior to the start of the summer rains. With the build-up of humidity, October tends to be hot!
HIGHLIGHT 1
Wild Dog
African wild dogs, which used to be known as ‘painted wolves’, are Southern Africa’s most endangered large carnivore. With their unique and striking coat patterns, their intelligence and their highly interactive and caring nature, wild dogs are truly one of the most awe inspiring species to be seen in the Klaserie (and also in the Timbavati). The Klaserie has become known for several wild dog groups in recent years. However wild dogs roam over vast distances so sightings can never be guaranteed.
HIGHLIGHT 2
Birding in the Klaserie
Bird-watching in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is varied and rewarding. Amongst the 350 species, there is a wide array of owls, eagles, kingfishers and other water-birds. At night, the distinct bushveld call of the Scops owl can be heard. Martial eagle, Lappet faced vulture, Saddle-billed stork and Kori bustard are always exciting to see. Nesting Verreaux eagle owls as well as two white backed vulture nests are found in our traversing area and we have regular sightings of Pearl spotted owlets. The Klaserie has always been active in supporting both community empowerment and conservation projects with ongoing projects around elephant and ground hornbill conservation. You may wish to visit the Eco-children project during your stay. All in all, a Klaserie safari offers a tranquil game-viewing experience.
HIGHLIGHT 3
Ground Hornbill Project
The Southern Ground-Hornbill is a conservation icon of South African savanna. During the 20th Century its range and population size in South Africa decreased by two thirds. Such a rapid decrease in the population of a long-lived, slow-breeding animal is of great conservation concern. The Klaserie works with the Southern Ground Hornbill Project to help reinstate this beautiful bird in its natural territory.
Klaserie Nature Reserve is one of South Africa's best-kept secrets. Located in the Greater Kruger National Park and spans approximately 60,000 hectares. Established in 1969, it is one of the largest privately owned reserves in South Africa. There is no boundary between Kruger National Park and the reserve, enabling the free movement of wildlife.
Klaserie offers an unparalleled wilderness experience, teeming with wildlife and rich in natural beauty.
This guide will take you through everything you need to know about visiting Klaserie, from wildlife spotting and accommodation to activities and travel tips.
Getting There
Klaserie is accessible via road and air:
By Road: The reserve is about a 5-6 hour drive from Johannesburg. The route is well-marked, and the roads are in good condition.
By Air: The nearest airport is Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, which is about a 1-hour drive from the reserve. Several airlines operate daily flights from Johannesburg and Cape Town.
Wildlife
The wildlife in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is remarkable due to its rich biodiversity and the authentic safari experience it offers. As part of the Greater Kruger Park, Klaserie is home to the renowned Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—along with a plethora of other species, including cheetah, hyena, giraffe, zebra, and diverse birdlife. The reserve's vast, unfenced landscapes allow animals to roam freely, providing visitors with unparalleled opportunities to witness natural behaviors and interactions.
Additionally, Klaserie's commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism ensures that wildlife thrives in its natural habitat, making every game drive a thrilling and educational adventure.
Here are some of the wildlife species you can find in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve:
The Big Five
Lions
Known as the "king of the jungle," lions are a major draw for visitors. They are often seen resting in the shade during the day and become more active in the early mornings and late afternoons.
Leopards
Leopards are elusive and often solitary, making them one of the more challenging Big Five to spot. They are usually found in trees or dense bush and are most active during dawn and dusk.
Elephants
Elephants are a common sight in Klaserie. These majestic animals can often be seen in large herds near water sources, bathing and drinking.
Rhinoceros
Both black and white rhinos can be found in Klaserie, although they are endangered and more difficult to spot. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these magnificent creatures from poaching.
Buffalo
African buffalo are frequently seen in large herds. They are known for their unpredictable nature and are considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa.
Other Mammals
Cheetahs
While less common than lions and leopards, cheetahs are occasionally spotted in the reserve. Known for their incredible speed, they are fascinating to watch during a hunt.
Wild Dogs
Also known as painted wolves, wild dogs are among the most endangered predators in Africa. They live in packs and have highly effective hunting techniques.
Hyenas
Both spotted and brown hyenas are present in Klaserie. They are often seen scavenging or hunting in the early morning or late evening.
Giraffes
These towering animals are easy to spot as they browse the treetops. Giraffes are often seen in groups, gracefully moving through the savanna.
Zebras
Plains zebras are common and often seen in mixed herds with wildebeest and antelopes. Their striking black and white stripes make them easily recognizable.
Hippos
Hippos are commonly found in the rivers and waterholes of Klaserie. They are mostly seen in the water during the day and graze on land at night.
Impalas are one of the most common antelope species in Klaserie. They are agile and often seen in large herds.
Kudu
Kudus are easily identified by their impressive spiral horns (in males) and striking white stripes on their bodies.
Waterbuck
Waterbucks are usually found near water sources and can be recognized by the distinctive white ring on their rumps.
Wildebeest
Often seen in mixed herds with zebras, wildebeest are known for their annual migration in other parts of Africa but are resident in Klaserie.
Birds
Raptors
Klaserie is home to a variety of raptors, including the African Fish Eagle, Martial Eagle, and Bateleur.
Ground Hornbills
These large, ground-dwelling birds are often seen in small groups. They are known for their striking black and red plumage.
Kingfishers
Several species of kingfishers, including the Malachite and Pied Kingfisher, can be found near water bodies.
Lilac-breasted Roller
Known for its vibrant colors, the Lilac-breasted Roller is a favorite among bird watchers and photographers.
Ostriches
The world’s largest bird, the ostrich, can also be found in Klaserie, often seen roaming the open savanna.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Crocodiles
Crocodiles are commonly found in the rivers and waterholes. They are often seen basking on riverbanks or lurking just beneath the water's surface.
Snakes
Various species of snakes, including the African Rock Python and Black Mamba, inhabit Klaserie. While they are seldom seen, they play a vital role in the ecosystem.
Frogs and Toads
The reserve is home to numerous amphibian species, particularly abundant during the rainy season when they breed in temporary pools and ponds.
Climate : When to Go
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, experiences a subtropical climate. The climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, which significantly influence the flora and fauna of the reserve. Here's an overview of the climate throughout the year:
Summer (November to March)
Weather:
Temperatures: Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Nighttime temperatures are typically between 18°C and 25°C (64°F and 77°F).
Rainfall: This is the rainy season, with most precipitation occurring as afternoon thunderstorms. The rain is usually intense but short-lived, leading to lush, green vegetation.
Characteristics:
Vegetation: The reserve is at its most verdant, with dense foliage and abundant water sources.
Wildlife: Animals are more dispersed due to the availability of water throughout the reserve. It's also the breeding season for many species, so there is an abundance of young animals.
Birdlife: Migratory birds are present, adding to the rich avian diversity.
Autumn (April to May)
Weather:
Temperatures: Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Nighttime temperatures drop to between 10°C and 18°C (50°F and 64°F).
Rainfall: Rainfall decreases significantly, and the weather becomes more stable and dry.
Characteristics:
Vegetation: The landscape starts to dry out and the grass turns golden.
Wildlife: Water sources begin to dwindle, leading animals to congregate around permanent waterholes and rivers.
Winter (June to August)
Weather:
Temperatures: Daytime temperatures are mild, ranging from 18°C to 26°C (64°F to 79°F). Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, sometimes reaching as low as 5°C (41°F).
Rainfall: This is the dry season, with very little to no rainfall.
Characteristics:
Vegetation: The vegetation becomes sparse and the bush is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife.
Wildlife: Animals congregate around remaining water sources, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.
Birdlife: While some migratory birds leave, resident species are still abundant.
Spring (September to October)
Weather:
Temperatures: Daytime temperatures start to rise, ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). Nighttime temperatures are between 10°C and 20°C (50°F and 68°F).
Rainfall: Rainfall begins to increase towards the end of October, signaling the start of the wet season.
Characteristics:
Vegetation: The first rains bring a burst of green, with wildflowers blooming and new growth appearing.
Wildlife: Many animals give birth in the spring, taking advantage of the growing abundance of food.
Birdlife: Migratory birds start to return, increasing birdwatching opportunities.
Our Top Four Accomodation Choices in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Exploring the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquility, and where you stay can significantly enhance your experience. Below, we present our top four accommodation choices within this stunning reserve.
Each of these four options has been carefully selected to provide exceptional comfort, immersive wildlife encounters, and unforgettable memories. Whether you're seeking a luxurious retreat, a family-friendly lodge, or a romantic escape, these accommodations promise to make your Klaserie adventure truly extraordinary.
Waterside
Nestled beside a large dam in the southern Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Waterside was conceived, designed, and built to seamlessly blend with the pristine Klaserie wilderness that inspires it.
Water, the essence of life, attracts a diverse array of wildlife throughout the year. Predators, elephants, hippos, and buffalo, often in herds of hundreds, come to the dam to cool off and quench their thirst. This makes game viewing a non-stop activity, offering you an intimate and immersive safari experience in your own private slice of Africa.
Simbavati Waterside caters to all types of travelers. The lodge's thoughtfully designed structure ensures complete privacy for couples while providing inviting communal areas for families and friends to enjoy together.
Camp George
Immerse yourself in the legendary heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve at Simbavati Camp George, an exclusive haven of tranquility crafted for the discerning traveler. Here, the legacy of founder George Huysamer seamlessly merges with the pristine wilderness, offering an authentic safari experience that embodies the essence of Africa’s raw beauty. Our intimate luxury suites, complete with serene views and private decks, invite you to witness the majestic wildlife of Kruger while enveloped in utmost comfort.
Step into a world where art, nature, and heritage converge, providing you with a unique front-row seat to the untamed. Our curated gardens, featuring rare South African cycads, set the scene for peaceful moments, while the excitement of game drives and bush walks satisfies your thirst for adventure. At Simbavati Camp George, every detail is designed to ensure your safari is not just a holiday, but a moment where luxury and the wild dance in perfect harmony.
Amani
Nestled in the tranquil heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Amani is an enchanting and intimate safari lodge, ideal for couples or exclusive use.
With only four luxurious suites, our homestead offers an abundance of space to unwind. Enjoy the magnificent double-volume sitting room, a cozy mezzanine library, and an interactive kitchen and bar.
Evenings at Simbavati Amani are magical, spent socializing around the fire-pit under a star-filled sky, accompanied by the distant calls of wildlife. By day, embark on guided game drives in our unfenced reserve, part of the Greater Kruger and home to the Big Five.
Our gardens are a peaceful sanctuary, shaded by mature trees and leading to a private entertaining area. Here, you'll find an infinity pool, terrace, alfresco bar, and campfire, all overlooking a vibrant, flood-lit waterhole. For a truly private bush retreat, Simbavati Amani can be booked exclusively for your group.
Homestead
Who wouldn't love to have their own private safari homestead in the renowned Greater Kruger Park, even if just for a few days or a week?
Welcome to Simbavati Homestead, our self-catered lodge that blends the cozy intimacy of a holiday home with the thrilling game experience of a traditional safari lodge. Located in the heart of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, this retreat offers you the freedom to explore the African bush and its magnificent wildlife on your own terms. Expertly guided game drives in open 4×4 vehicles can be customized to suit your group of family or friends—though keep in mind, the rhythms of the wild won't always align with a teenager's sleep schedule!
The interiors of Simbavati Homestead are comfortable, contemporary, and spacious, inviting you to fully unwind. The homestead features five en suite bedrooms, accommodating up to 10 guests. The open-plan lounge, dining, and kitchen area creates a seamless space for easy living, while a separate TV lounge or snug offers a perfect spot for kids to hang out.
Conservation in Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Conservation is a cornerstone of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve's mission. As part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Klaserie is dedicated to preserving the natural environment and its wildlife through various initiatives and sustainable practices. The reserve's conservation efforts focus on several key areas:
Wildlife Protection: Klaserie is home to a diverse range of species, including the Big Five. The reserve employs anti-poaching units and collaborates with neighboring reserves to combat illegal hunting and protect vulnerable species, particularly rhinos.
Habitat Preservation: The reserve works diligently to maintain and restore natural habitats, ensuring that the ecosystems remain balanced and supportive of the wildlife that depends on them. This includes controlling invasive plant species and managing water resources.
Research and Monitoring: Klaserie supports numerous research projects that study animal behavior, ecology, and conservation strategies. Data collected from these studies help inform management decisions and improve conservation practices.
Community Engagement: Engaging with local communities is vital for long-term conservation success. Klaserie partners with nearby communities to promote environmental education, create job opportunities, and involve them in conservation efforts, fostering a sense of stewardship and shared responsibility.
Sustainable Tourism: The reserve promotes eco-friendly tourism practices that minimize environmental impact while providing visitors with an authentic and educational safari experience. Lodges in Klaserie implement green practices such as waste management, energy conservation, and water-saving measures.
Wildlife Rehabilitation: Klaserie is involved in rehabilitating injured or orphaned animals, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. These efforts ensure that individual animals receive care and contribute to the overall health of wildlife populations.
Through these comprehensive conservation efforts, Klaserie Private Nature Reserve aims to protect its rich biodiversity, ensure the sustainability of its natural resources, and contribute to the broader goals of wildlife conservation in South Africa.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
1. What is Klaserie Private Nature Reserve?
Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is one of the largest privately-owned reserves in South Africa, covering approximately 60,000 hectares. It is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to move freely between the reserve and Kruger Park.
2. Where is Klaserie Private Nature Reserve located?
The reserve is located in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. It is easily accessible from Hoedspruit, which is the nearest town and airport.
4. Are game drives included in the stay?
Yes, most lodges within the reserve offer daily game drives as part of their package. These guided drives are conducted by experienced rangers and trackers to provide the best wildlife viewing experience.
5.Is Klaserie suitable for families?
Absolutely! Many lodges in Klaserie cater to families, offering family-friendly accommodations and activities. Some lodges even provide special programs for children to engage them in the wonders of the African bush.
7.How does Klaserie contribute to conservation?
Klaserie is deeply committed to conservation efforts, focusing on preserving the natural habitat and protecting the wildlife. The reserve supports various conservation initiatives and research projects, ensuring sustainable tourism practices.
8.What is the best time of year to visit Klaserie?
The best time to visit Klaserie is during the dry winter months from May to September when wildlife is more easily spotted around water sources. However, each season offers its unique advantages, with lush landscapes and abundant birdlife present during the wet summer months.
9.Is it safe to visit Klaserie Private Nature Reserve?
Yes, visiting Klaserie is safe. The lodges and camps prioritize guest safety with well-trained staff and strict safety protocols. Always follow the guidelines provided by your lodge or guide.
10.Can I do a self-drive safari in Klaserie?
No, self-drive safaris are not permitted in Klaserie. All game drives are conducted by professional guides to ensure the safety of both guests and wildlife and to provide an informative and enriching experience.
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Through supporting and uplifting local children we, and our guests, can make a difference in the future.
Imagine living on the borders of one of Africa’s greatest National Parks, but having never seen a zebra or elephant in reality. The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve recognised that the communities surrounding the Greater Kruger area are a key part of its future conservation. However, these same communities are completely disconnected from their natural heritage. Thus, Eco Children was created as an initiative by the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve (KPNR) to educate and enrich the lives of its employees' children through holiday ‘bush’ workshops. These nature-based camps aimed to foster an understanding and passion for wildlife, creating a future generation of nature guardians.
In the Beginning
Deon Huysamer is an owner of Simbavati Camp George and recalls how the concept of the Eco Children charity took form.
“In 2007, our farm manager, at the time, and I had a lively debate about the separation of reserve/camp staff from their children whilst they were working in the reserve. We agreed about the unhealthy social consequences this had and discussed what we could do to improve the situation. We decided to bring the children to their parents over school holidays and to teach them about eco-related subjects.
Our immediate solution was to conduct the first classes in Camp George’s gardens. We then started to train selected reserve/camp staff in eco-subjects and soon the children were being taught about conservation and wildlife in their own language.”
In the lush gardens of Camp George, under the beautiful trees, the seeds were sown for what we know as Eco Children today.
From its humble beginnings, Eco Children has since extended its reach to over 5,000 children in some of the poorest communities in South Africa. Following a whole-school development approach, they have adopted nine local primary schools, where the focus is not just on conservation education but also improving school infrastructure, installing a new kitchen and fully-stocked library as well as a vegetable eco-garden capable of supplementing school meals.
Nutrition First
Ensuring that each child receives a filling, nutritious meal and has a safe, hygienic place to study is the foundation of Eco Children’s work. Once a child’s daily needs are being met, the programme’s other initiatives can be implemented. Their Eco-Villages combine colourful eco-gardens with a dedicated classroom for lessons in conservation and natural science taught by local Environmental Educators.
A Love for Reading
The new libraries help develop a culture of reading that has been shown to have a huge impact on literacy skills and attainment in education. An incentives programme motivates children to engage in their learning by rewarding achievement with books, new uniforms, overnight winner’s excursions and day trips into the Kruger National Park.
Getting the Best Start
Lastly, Eco Children established their coveted bursary programme. Identifying talented learners who would otherwise be held back by the burdens of poverty, these children are awarded a first-class education at Southern Cross Schools in Hoedspruit. To date, 34 students have benefitted from the scheme, with several having completed tertiary education and now leading successful careers, inspiring the next generation in their communities.
How Can You Help?
Guests that are passionate about making sustainable difference during a stay at our Simbavati Lodges in the Klaserie, can consider adding an enlightening school tour to their trip or donating to one of Eco Children’s programmes.
Simbavati proudly supports and endorses the work that Eco Children does and is passionate about uplifting the foundation’s work and the children benefiting from it.
Discover our Simbavati lodges in the Klaserie region, for your perfect safari experience with a heart for sustainability.
When it comes to experiencing the untamed beauty of Africa’s wilderness, the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve stands out as an incredible safari destination. Nestled in the heart of South Africa's Limpopo Province, this pristine wilderness offers an unparalleled safari experience that embodies the essence of adventure, luxury, and wildlife conservation.
Abundant Wildlife Encounters
One of the primary reasons why the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is the ultimate safari destination is its abundant wildlife. The reserve shares unfenced borders with the renowned Kruger National Park, allowing animals to roam freely across vast expanses of wilderness. As a result, visitors can expect to encounter the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) in their natural habitat, as well as a plethora of other fascinating species, from cheetahs and hippos to crocodiles and diverse birdlife.
Exclusive Safari Experiences
Unlike crowded national parks, the Klaserie offers a more exclusive and intimate safari experience. The reserve limits the number of visitors, ensuring that you can enjoy safari drives in relative seclusion. This intimacy allows for personalised and authentic encounters with the wildlife and the environment, making your safari a unique and unforgettable journey.
Diverse Ecosystems and Landscapes
The Klaserie boasts a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes, from open savannahs and dense woodlands to meandering rivers and rocky outcrops. This diversity not only provides breathtaking scenery but also supports a rich variety of wildlife. Whether you're gazing across a sweeping grassland or navigating the winding riverbeds, every moment promises a new and exciting discovery.
Conservation Commitment
The Klaserie Private Nature Reserve is more than just a tourist destination; it's a dedicated conservation area. The reserve works tirelessly to protect its wildlife and natural habitats, ensuring their preservation for generations to come. By choosing Klaserie for your safari adventure, you're contributing to the ongoing conservation efforts and helping secure the future of African wildlife.
Luxury Accommodation with Simbavati Lodge Collection
After a day of thrilling wildlife encounters, you can relax and unwind in style at one of our luxurious lodges and villas. These accommodations offer elegant amenities, gourmet dining, and stunning settings inside the reseve, providing the perfect blend of comfort and adventure for every type of guest.
Simbavati’s Klaserie Lodges:
Simbavati Camp George offers an elegant safari escape in eight suites and boasting tranquil gardens.
Simbavati Amaniis a charming, intimate safari lodge with four luxurious suites, which can be booked as exclusive use or per suite.
Simbavati Homestead is an exclusive, self-catering safari home with five en suite bedrooms sleeping ten guests.
Simbavati Waterside is a beautiful safari lodge set on an active waterhole, with eight gorgeous suites.
Discover more about the Klaserie and our lodges within it.