What will I experience?
In a region where local belief holds that something sacred came down from heaven to bless the earth, you can expect an experience that is nothing short of magic.
As your open top vehicle picks its way through the African bush, your guide explains the history of the area and why it is so special. The gentle rhythm of his words cast a sense of pride, he knows this land better than most and he cherishes it above all else. The lines on his face speak to years spent tracking some of Africa’s most magnificent beasts, concentration and smiles have left their mark on his skin, while the moments he has shared with his guests, introducing them for the first time to an elephant, Cape buffalo or rhino are imprinted on his heart.
While these animals are incredibly beautiful, his passion is the big cats, he is well trained in spotting a leopard lazing in a tree, or a cheetah perched on top of an anthill, searching the plains for her next meal.
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Lions are his first love, their elegant strength is endlessly fascinating and he knows most of the prides by sight. He has introduced many guests to these regal animals and his eyes are always searching, longing for a sighting of the animal most sacred to his elders, the white lion.
His excitement is palpable and yours swells to match, the prospect of sharing in this most rare of occasions is beyond anything you can imagine. As he hops from the vehicle, surveying the tracks of lion heading into the brush, you can’t help but hold your breath. He continues to track on foot, heading away from the vehicle, he remains in contact via radio and a shared sense of adrenaline, before long he disappears from sight. Time freezes as you peer towards the spot where you last saw him, the radio crackles to life, carrying a message of confirmation and a set of directions only navigable by a driver with as keen a sense of Africa as your guide.
Bumping along, you twist and turn into the brush, guided by landmarks of trees and riverbeds. Eventually you spot your guide and his face splits into a smile as he rejoins the vehicle and directs the driver. Not far away, below the dappled shade of a tree you see it, a white lion. The legend
suddenly becomes clear. This is the place where the star lions took form, ushered from the heavens to bless the earth below. These are the children of the sun Gods, a gift to Africa.
Tell me more
The Timbavati Game Reserve is located on the western edge of the Kruger National Park, north of Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve.
The reserve was established in 1956 by an association of land owners who recognised the degradation of this pristine wilderness due to misuse of the land. Covering an area of 534 square kilometres (206 square miles), Timbavati, through the conservation efforts of the Timbavati Association, has been restored to its original form, and is considered to be genuine wild land as most of it remains completely unspoiled. The name “Timbavati” is translated from Xitsonga and means “the place where something sacred came down to earth from the heavens” a reference to the rare white lions that are found in the reserve.
Timbavati also shares an unfenced border with the Umbabat Private Nature Reserve, which is located on the banks of the Nhlaralumi River next to the Kruger National Park. Umbabat was first proclaimed as a reserve in 1969, and has since grown in size to cover 180 square kilometres (69 square miles). Since 1988 Timbavati and Umbabat have enjoyed fenceless borders between the reserves. The Timbavati Game Reserve and the Umbabat Private Nature Reserve both form part of the Associated Private Nature Reserves, which allows animals to roam freely between the various parks and reserves, including the Kruger National Park.
Timbavati and Umbabat are home to over 40 species of mammal, including all of the Big Five. In addition, there are more than 360 bird species, 79 reptile species and 49 species of fish that can be found in the reserves. Over 85 species of trees are listed in the reserves adding even further diversity to this unique ecosystem.
When should I go?
The best time to visit the Timbavati and Umbabat Private Nature Reserves in terms of game viewing would be the dry winter months from May until September. During this time the vegetation becomes less dense, making animals easier to spot. In addition, as the water sources become scarcer, wildlife tends to gather around the rivers and other permanent water sources. September is often considered to be the best month to travel to the reserves, as the weather is becoming warmer and game viewing opportunities are excellent.
The rainy season, which runs from late October until April, is not without its own merits. Birding is very good during this time as a lot of migratory species are present. The landscapes become lush and green and a number of baby animals can be seen as this is the birthing season. The presence of newborn animals can also increase predator activity, which can result in some incredible sightings.
Gallery
CAMPS
Geiger's Camp
