TIMBAVATI PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE | SOUTH AFRICA
Kambuku River Sands is located along the western border of Kruger National Park, 25 km from the Orpen Gate. Hoedspruit is 35 km away and Hendrik Van Eck Airport is 100 km from the lodge.
YTF OVERALL RATING:
Experience the Ultimate Safari Adventure at Kambaku River Sands Lodge
IS KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS LODGE ALL INCLUSIVE?
Yes, Kambaku River Sands Lodge is an all inclusive establishment.
IS KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS LODGE FAMILY FRIENDLY?
Guests under 12 are not permitted.
IS KAMBAKU RIVER SANDS LODGE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY?
The lodge is environmental friendly, being fully solar powered. It also has a self-sustained water filtration system that connects to an underground source.
We had the pleasure of staying at Kambaku River Sands during our first trip to South Africa to celebrate Daniela’s 40th birthday in mid-September, and we had a wonderful time! Looking for the ideal accommodation when going on a safari requires some research, especially the first time when it is unclear what to expect and what the entire experience entails. We hope you will find my Kambaku River Sands review helpful and that it will assist you in booking your stay without reservations.
What to Expect at Kambaku River Sands
Kambaku River Sands is a luxurious safari lodge located in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in South Africa. The club offers a unique and authentic African experience that will surely not disappoint. Guests can enjoy game drives and bush walks (included in your package) led by experienced guides and see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other wildlife up close. The lodge also offers luxurious suite accommodations, delicious meals, and a range of activities and amenities to ensure a comfortable and unforgettable stay. Overall, Kambaku River Sands is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and wonder of the South African bush.
• The lodge only accepts children 12 and up.
• You will have the option to do two game drives per day :
MORNING: The wake-up call is at 5:30 a.m., with the possibility of grabbing a coffee, cappuccino, tea, etc., and cookies in the common area (you also have complimentary coffee and cookies in your room). The game drive starts at 6:00 a.m. on the dot until 9:00 a.m. After the morning drive, you will enjoy a delicious brunch with a light buffet, plus the possibility to order eggs with some sides.
AFTERNOON: The game drive starts at 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Depending on the time of the year you go, the last half hour/hour of the drive will be in the dark (don’t worry, both the ranger and the tracker are highly trained). Before the afternoon drive, you can enjoy a light buffet (with one sweet and one sour choice, plus juices, coffee, etc.
• You will always be inside the vehicle during your game drives. The only time you get off it is during a short mid-drive break, where your ranger and tracker will prep some snacks and a drink.
• Dinner is at 8:00 p.m., and it is served at a communal table with all the other guests. During the afternoon brunch, you will choose your meal. There are three options that can include game meat, as well as one vegetarian option (I am not sure if they cook with butter, so if you are vegan, just let them know when you book your stay, and I am pretty sure they will be to accommodate your needs).
• All meals are included in your package, and everything in your room is complimentary (water, coffee, tea, cookies, soft drinks, and a delicious local liquor).
• House wines, local spirits, beers, and soft drinks are complimentary.
• Once the sun goes down, you won’t be able to walk around the facility on your own. The staff will escort you to/from dinner with a flashlight. Animals don’t usually walk around the common grounds, and they never had an incident with any type of attack, but better safe than sorry!
• Rooms are not equipped with phones and there is no 24/7 concierge, but the staff sleeps close by and all rooms are equipped with an energy air home to use in case of emergency.
• Unless you book a private game drive or bush walk at an additional cost, all game drives are shared with other guests (up to 7 people per vehicle).
• Kambaku River Sands uses open safari vehicles, so dress accordingly. The lodge supplies blankets for colder nights/mornings and waterproof ponchos for rainy days.
• Kambaku Overnight Hide: at an additional cost, the lodge offers the possibility to spend a night in their overnight hide set on the banks of Nduna (“Old wise man”) Dam. With three levels, you are more than safe from nocturnal visitors and have space to enjoy the vast African night sky.
Kambaku River Sands Review
STAFF: 5/5
When we stayed, we enjoyed being surrounded by amazing people. Rufus, Fani, Shareen, Cordy, and Brandon were incredibly friendly, professional, and welcoming. They went above and beyond to ensure we had everything needed and were always available to answer any questions. As hosts or as our Ranger/Tracker, we were also left feeling safe and secure during our stay.
SUITES: 5/5
ROOM ROOM REVIEWED
Luxury Suite
The rooms at the lodge are spacious and beautifully decorated, with comfortable beds and all the amenities you could need. The private outdoor shower was an added highlight, and the views from the room were terrific. Since we had an unfortunate/fortunate experience with sewage in our initial room, we were able to have an opportunity to see other rooms. The best room by far is 10. Though Room 10 was amazing, the more entertaining rooms were Rooms 5 and 8. They were closer to walking paths of wildlife. So, if you are lucky, you will see random wildlife walking by your room on hot days.
HOTEL GROUNDS: 5/5
Kambaku River Sands is in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by stunning scenery and wildlife. The food at the lodge was exceptional, and the semi-outdoor dining area was a great place to relax and enjoy the view. The pool was small but more like a place to relax and greet our unexpected guests. We were welcomed daily by a herd of elephants who enjoyed drinking the water from the pool (no chlorine).
Fun Fact about this reserve: it has a self-sustained water filtration system that connects to an underground source.
Looking to work out? There is a Fitness Room with enough gym equipment to get your fitness goals between bountiful meals and game rides out of the way. You can also schedule time for various Spa treatments and enjoy a more secluded swimming pool, a sauna, and a steam room. And, be sure not to miss the charming gift shop at Kambaku River Sands, offering a fantastic selection of local souvenirs and artwork.
LOCATION: 5/5
OVERALL: 5/5
I highly recommend Kambaku River Sands to anyone looking for an unforgettable safari experience in South Africa. The staff, accommodation, and location exceeded our expectations, making our first safari a memorable experience!
How Many Days to Spend on Safari in South Africa?
Plan 3-4 days here. Flights are minimal, so you will have your first game drive after check-in. Game drives are early morning and evening, so you can expect to experience 6-8 Game drives based on a 3-4 day stay. You will likely see the entire Big Five if the weather is good (not too cold).
What to pack for a Safari?
Pack light! Kambaku River Sands offers a complimentary laundry service (1 bag per day), so we recommend having this be a second stop if traveling to multiple locations in South Africa. You can have your clothes washed, folded, and dried for your next leg since most clothes you wear will be merely for the game drives. Daniela has put together a detailed article for more tips and specific outfit ideas. Check out The Perfect Safari Outfits For Women: What To Wear On Safari. A man's version is coming soon!
