Whether it’s your first time on safari or you’re a seasoned traveler, our team at Simbavati is here to help create a safari experience tailored to your preferences. From family-friendly safaris to romantic getaways and adrenaline-fueled adventures, our safari lodges offer the ideal base for your African journey. Let us take care of the details, so you can focus on what really matters: experiencing the beauty of the wild in comfort and style.
Here are our top 10 safari lodges in South Africa
Simbavati Hilltop
Elevated wilderness with panoramic vistas
Nestled atop a scenic hillside in the Timbavati Nature Reserve, Simbavati Hilltop Lodge boasts unobstructed views of the bushveld and distant Drakensberg Mountains.
From its perch, the lodge overlooks the Mbali Dam and the Nhlaralumi River, where elephants and other wildlife gather—a natural theater of unforgettable wildlife moments. With luxuriously appointed tented suites and an exclusive ambiance, Hilltop Lodge is the perfect destination for travelers seeking privacy with sweeping horizons.
Simbavati River Lodge
Riverside retreat with wildlife on display
Situated along the Nhlaralumi River, Simbavati River Lodge is a lush haven where guests can enjoy front-row seats to nature’s splendor. The lodge’s dining deck overlooks a lively waterhole, making it a favored spot for elephants and other animals.
Imagine watching wildlife from your chair as they visit for a refreshing drink—a truly immersive safari experience. River Lodge is ideal for travelers who want to connect deeply with nature without missing a single creature’s visit to this riverside oasis.
Simbavati River Sands
An intimate villa blending luxury and seclusion
Simbavati River Sands epitomizes the philosophy that “space is luxury.” This opulent villa, nestled by the Sohebele River, combines refined elegance with exclusivity. The villa’s waterfall pool overlooks a bustling watering hole, and the two expansive suites are designed for ultimate privacy and comfort.
Perfect for families or small groups seeking an intimate safari escape, River Sands invites you to unwind on the grand patio while absorbing the serenity and wildlife of this untamed sanctuary.
Simbavati Mvubu Cottage
A cozy, private escape with riverside views
For a secluded yet luxurious safari experience, Mvubu Cottage offers a picturesque retreat overlooking the Nhlaralumi River and Mbali Dam. With two charming suites, this cottage creates a restful ambiance, letting you wake to the chorus of birds and distant hippos.
Mvubu Cottage combines privacy with a close connection to nature, perfect for couples or small families looking for an intimate wilderness experience with all the comforts of home.
Simbavati Trails Camp
Back-to-nature walking safari immersion
Simbavati Trails Camp offers an adventurous, off-the-grid experience within a vast, unfenced wilderness. This back-to-basics camp specializes in guided walking safaris, led by expert trackers who reveal the intricate details of the Timbavati landscape. Here, without electricity, WiFi, or cell reception, you reconnect with nature. Enjoy delicious, fireside meals under the stars after a day on foot, making Trails Camp a one-of-a-kind destination for those seeking to unplug and reconnect with Africa’s wild heart.
Simbavati Camp George
A tranquil escape in the Klaserie with a rich heritage
Located in the pristine Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Camp George pays homage to its founder’s legacy, harmonizing refined elegance with an immersive safari experience. Camp George’s luxurious suites and private decks offer serene views, while the intimate setting allows guests to experience the wilderness up close. The lodge is an ideal base for discerning travelers seeking a peaceful retreat with a taste of Kruger’s abundant wildlife.
Simbavati Amani
Intimate luxury with personalized service
Simbavati Amani is a tranquil haven nestled in the heart of the Klaserie, designed for couples or exclusive use. Its four luxury suites are complemented by an inviting double-volume sitting room, library, and interactive kitchen. This lodge feels like a luxurious home away from home, perfect for travelers seeking a quiet escape with plenty of personal space and attentive, tailored service.
Simbavati Homestead
Self-catering freedom in a safari setting
For families and friends who prefer a private, self-catered experience, Simbavati Homestead offers all the comforts of a holiday home with the thrill of a safari lodge. Located in the Klaserie, guests have the flexibility to craft their own schedule, with expertly guided game drives available when desired.
With comfortable spaces for gathering and private areas for relaxation, Homestead is perfect for groups who want a safari experience at their own pace.
Simbavati Waterside
A romantic yet versatile escape for every traveler
Simbavati Waterside is designed for both privacy and social connection. The lodge offers intimate dining options, secluded suites, and enchanting touches for romantic stays, making it ideal for honeymoons or couples’ getaways.
Families and friends can also enjoy communal spaces for shared experiences, striking a balance between romantic seclusion and sociability, with creative dining settings that make every meal a memorable occasion.
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
Eco-luxury and breathtaking coastal views
Perched above Sedgefield along South Africa’s Garden Route, Fynbos on Sea blends eco-conscious luxury with panoramic views of beaches, mountains, and dunes. The lodge is surrounded by a 600-hectare fynbos reserve, home to plains game like eland, zebra, and waterbuck, creating a coastal safari experience unique to South Africa. With nine stunning rooms and a self-contained cottage, Fynbos on Sea is ideal for nature lovers seeking a distinctive blend of ocean and wilderness.
FAQs: Safari lodges
A safari lodge is a type of accommodation located in a wildlife-rich area, often within a national park or game reserve. They offer comfortable lodging, delicious meals, and guided game drives or safaris to view wildlife in their natural habitat.
Safari lodges come in various styles and levels of luxury:
1. Luxury Lodges: These offer high-end amenities, gourmet dining, and personalized service.
2. Mid-Range Lodges: These provide comfortable accommodations, good food, and informative game drives at a more affordable price point.
3. Budget Lodges: These are more basic but still offer a safari experience, often in a tented camp setting.
1. Game Drives: Guided tours in open-air vehicles to spot wildlife like lions, elephants, giraffes, and more.
2. Bush Walks: Guided walks through the bush to learn about the ecosystem and smaller wildlife.
3. Cultural Experiences: Interactions with local communities and learning about their traditions.
4. Bird Watching: Opportunities to observe a variety of bird species.
5. Relaxation: Time to unwind and enjoy the lodge’s amenities, such as swimming pools, spas, and comfortable lounges.
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- Luxury accommodation at Simbavati Cederberg Ridge
- All meals as per the itinerary
- Wine tastings and pairings from Boschendal, Bellingham, and Fryer’s Cove
- Guided activities including sundowner walk, cellar visit, stargazing, and rock art tour
Excludes: Spa treatments, beverages outside the tasting menus, transfers, curios, and personal expenses.
Rates (Per Person Per Night, Sharing)
- Classic Rooms: R3,380
- Luxury Suites: R3,820
- Superior Suites: R4,040
- Superior Pool Suites: R4,240
Single Supplement: 33% of the per-person sharing rate
Special Offer: Extend Your Stay & Save
Make your wine weekend even more memorable. Add a 3rd or 4th night on a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast basis at these exclusive rates:
- Classic Room: R2,125 pppn sharing
- Luxury Suite: R2,500 pppn sharing
- Superior Suite: R2,700 pppn sharing
- Superior Pool Suite: R2,850 pppn sharing
Cederberg
Cederberg Ridge
The Cederberg Ridge Wine Weekend
- 3 classic and 6 luxury including a two bedroom superior suite
- Communal lounge areas and ocean-view decks
- A private villa option for the couple or VIPs
- Gourmet meals and local wines
- Outdoor activities including hikes, e-biking, and nature walks
Spend your mornings on sunrise walks, your afternoons by the pool, and your evenings around the fire pit under a starlit African sky.
Ceremony & Reception Options
Choose from a variety of magical locations for your ceremony and reception:
- A wooden deck overlooking the Indian Ocean
- A tranquil forest clearing surrounded by birdsong
- Open fynbos fields with 360° views
- Intimate indoor spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows
Each space is adaptable for your style — rustic, romantic, boho, or beach chic.
The Best Place for a Destination Wedding in 2025
Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is perfect for international couples seeking a unique, nature-immersed celebration with the charm and warmth of African hospitality.
With George Airport just 45 minutes away (with daily flights from Cape Town and Johannesburg), and private transfers available, travel logistics are a breeze. The lodge also has a long-standing reputation for hosting overseas guests, ensuring a seamless, welcoming experience.
Elopements & Micro Weddings
Big weddings aren't for everyone. If you're looking for a more intimate experience, Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is also a popular elopement venue. Exchange vows with the ocean breeze in your hair and nothing but birdsong around you. Elopement packages are simple, elegant, and stress-free.
Picture-Perfect Moments
If your wedding album is important to you, you’ll be blown away by the setting. With a variety of natural backdrops — from golden dunes to deep green forest paths — your photos will be as breathtaking as the day itself.
Many photographers call Simbavati Fynbos on Sea one of the most photogenic wedding venues in the Garden Route.
Activities for You and Your Guests
Make your wedding a full-blown adventure! Guests can enjoy:
- Guided fynbos and birdwatching walks
- Beach trips to Myoli or Gericke’s Point
- Sundowners with a view
- Day trips to Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, or wine estates
There’s something for every generation, making this an ideal multigenerational destination wedding venue.
Planning Your Wedding at Simbavati
Dates book fast — especially during peak Garden Route seasons (September to April). We recommend securing your date 8–12 months in advance if you’re hosting a full-scale wedding or bringing guests from overseas.
Get in touch with our team at Simbavati to start planning your one-of-a-kind wedding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weddings at Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
We’re in Sedgefield, along South Africa’s Garden Route, about 45 minutes from George Airport and 30 minutes from Knysna. Easily accessible by road or air.
Up to 20 guests can be accommodated on-site. Additional nearby accommodation is available in Sedgefield and Wilderness.
You’re welcome to bring your suggestions up with our Simbavati management team. We’re flexible and happy to collaborate.
From full weekend weddings and destination events to micro weddings and elopements — we cater to them all.
Absolutely. We offer exclusive-use options, ensuring complete privacy for you and your guests during your celebration.
Yes! We frequently host couples from abroad and can help coordinate logistics, guest stays, excursions, and local vendors.
Spring (September–November) and Autumn (March–May) offer the best weather and lighting. Summer is also beautiful, but busier in the Garden Route.
Our Tips for Planning Your Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding can feel overwhelming — but with the right guidance, it can be a joyful, seamless experience. Here are our top tips to help you plan your dream wedding at a venue like Simbavati Fynbos on Sea.
Start Early and Book in Advance
Popular wedding venues — especially in sought-after destinations like the Garden Route — get booked quickly. Secure your date 9–12 months in advance, especially if you’re getting married during peak season (September to April in South Africa).
Visit the Venue (If You Can)
If it’s feasible, try to visit your venue beforehand. It helps to envision the space, meet the team, and finalize layout ideas. Simbavati Fynbos on Sea offers private viewings and virtual consultations for overseas couples.
Hire a Local Wedding Planner
A local planner knows the best vendors, legal requirements, and cultural touches to make your day flawless. Simbavati works with experienced coordinators who can handle everything from florals to guest transport.
Keep It Intimate
Destination weddings naturally lend themselves to smaller guest lists. Focus on inviting your nearest and dearest — and treat it as a once-in-a-lifetime gathering with those who matter most.
Provide Guest Information Early
Help guests plan by sharing detailed information well in advance. Include:
- Travel and visa details
- Accommodation options (on-site and nearby)
- Itineraries for wedding weekend events
- What to pack and weather expectations
Incorporate Local Flavour
Embrace your destination by incorporating local cuisine, décor, music, or traditions. At Fynbos on Sea, you can serve Cape wines, enjoy South African-inspired menus, and even add a nature walk or beach brunch to your celebration.
Prepare for the Weather
The Garden Route has a temperate climate, but always have a backup plan (e.g. indoor ceremony space or marquee tent) in case of rain or wind — especially for outdoor weddings.
Legal vs Symbolic Ceremonies
If you're marrying abroad, check the legal marriage requirements for that country. Many couples opt for a symbolic ceremony in their destination and complete the legal paperwork at home.
Plan Group Activities
Make your wedding a full experience by organizing optional activities like sunset drinks, beach days, game drives, or group hikes. At Simbavati, your guests can enjoy guided nature experiences throughout the weekend.
Stay Calm and Be Flexible
Destination weddings come with moving parts — flights, vendors, weather, etc. Stay open, trust your venue and planner, and focus on what matters most: celebrating love with your favourite people.
Ready to Say "I Do"?
Whether you're searching for wedding venues near me, planning a destination event, or simply looking for a setting that reflects your love of nature, Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is where your forever begins.
[post_title] => Your Ultimate Wedding Venue on the Garden Route: Simbavati Fynbos on Sea [post_excerpt] => Whether you're planning an intimate elopement or a multi-day destination wedding, this venue offers everything you need to make your special day truly unforgettable. Let’s explore why Simbavati Fynbos on Sea is one of the best wedding venues in South Africa — and possibly the world. [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => destination-wedding-venue [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-05-28 15:29:07 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-05-28 13:29:07 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20540 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )Let nature bear witness to your vows. Let luxury surround your celebration. Let your story begin at Simbavati.
Fynbos on Sea
Your Ultimate Wedding Venue on the Garden Route: Simbavati Fynbos on Sea
- Morning Sunrise Rituals: Start your day with a quiet sunrise at Myoli Beach, sipping coffee as the first light paints the sky.
- Journaling in Nature: Find a peaceful spot in Goukamma Nature Reserve to reflect and write.
- Mindful Evenings: Swap screen time for stargazing or storytelling around a fire pit.
Sedgefield, A Place to Be Present
Sedgefield is more than just a destination—it’s a mindset. Whether you’re savoring fresh produce at a market, meditating by the ocean, or hiking through fynbos-covered hills, this slow town encourages you to be present in every moment. By embracing its laid-back charm, supporting sustainable initiatives, and immersing yourself in mindful experiences, you’ll leave not just refreshed, but with a deeper appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.
Sedgefield: The Perfect Destination for a Slow Holiday
So, the next time you visit Sedgefield, don’t just pass through—slow down, stay longer, and let this tranquil haven work its magic on you.
[post_title] => Embracing Slow Travel in Sedgefield: A Deeper Dive into Tranquility [post_excerpt] => Sedgefield, nestled along South Africa’s breathtaking Garden Route, is more than just a scenic stopover—it’s a destination designed for those who seek to unwind, reconnect with nature, and [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => open [post_password] => [post_name] => embracing-slow-travel-in-sedgefield-a-deeper-dive-into-tranquility [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-04-15 12:33:00 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-04-15 10:33:00 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://www.simbavati.com/?p=20312 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )
Fynbos on Sea
Embracing Slow Travel in Sedgefield: A Deeper Dive into Tranquility
Fynbos on Sea
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