Motswari – Timbavati Game Reserve – South Africa

Located deep within the Timbavati Game Reserve, Motswari Private Game Reserve is one of the most established safari lodges in South Africa. Comfortable rooms in classic safari décor are scattered amongst the trees. To the front lies an ephemeral river that attracts abundant wildlife which is free to roam through the lodge grounds. All this complimented by open vehicle safaris in the greater Kruger National Park.

The Timbavati itself is one of the oldest private game reserve areas in South Africa, and has a long history of welcoming avid safari goers, and renowned for excellent game viewing.

Combine Motswari with a stay in Cape Town at the classic Winchester Mansions Hotel for an ideal introduction to the highlights of South Africa.

Classic Safari Style

There are 15 classic thatched roofed bungalows with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and complimentary wifi. Decorated in simple African style, with private outside patios looking into the bush. The main lodge lounge and bar area is the hub of the camp with views out towards the river bed, decorated by unique artworks, many created by the lodge owner.

In the summer months cool down in the lodge’s swimming pool, that juts out into the riverbed, allowing you to almost swim in the bush!

Motswari Room

Safaris

There are twice daily safaris into the Timbavati, one of the oldest protected private wildlife reserves in the country. The reserve is part of the greater Kruger National Park with no barrier between the two. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Big 5.  The safaris are in completely open 4×4 vehicles lead by expert guides and trackers. In addition, during your stay you will be offered the opportunity to take a walking safari to view the bush from a different perspective.

Motswari Game Drive Rhinos

A little extra…

For those looking for a “night out” what about spending it at Giraffe’s Nest? High on a platform above the Xanatsi Dam you will spend a night with just a mosquito net between you and the starlit African skies. Arrival at Giraffe’s Nest is just after sunset, and you will be provided with a simple dinner and drinks and left in privacy to enjoy your night filled with the sounds of the African bush – truly a memorable experience! Note the sleep out carries a supplementary charge.

Prices:

Contact us for the best rates for Motswari Private Game Reserve

What’s included:

  • Accommodation

  • All meal (breakfast, high-tea and dinner)

  • Selection of local drinks both alcoholic (house wines and beers) and non-alcoholic

  • Twice daily safaris in open 4×4 vehicles with expert guides and trackers

  • Walking safaris between game drives (Monday/Wednesday/Friday/Sunday)

What’s Excluded:

  • Travel to and from the lodge

  • Alcoholic drinks other than house wine and beer

  • Items of personal expense – i.e. laundry, telephone calls, curio shop purchases etc

  • Gratuities for lodge staff and guides

  • Entrance into the park.

  • Daily Conservation Levies

Wildlife highlights:

  • Big Five

  • Cheetah

  • Wild Dog

  • Giraffe

When to visit:

  • January – April: Summer months, the bush is green and dense, temperatures can be very hot. Great time for birding and seeing newly born animals.

  • May – July: Winter months, sunny skies and warm days but cold nights. Bush becomes less dense and game starts concentrating around water sources.

  • August – October: Late dry season, temperatures warming up and generally hot by October. Bush at its lowest meaning visibility at its best. Animals congregate around water sources including the lodge’s waterhole, prime game viewing season.

  • November – December: Usually marks the arrival of summer rains with higher temperatures. The bush starts turning green, migratory birds return and many animals give birth to their young.

  • Motswari is in an area that experiences malaria – please consult your doctor regarding anti-malaria prophylactics.

Weather:

  • January – Average High 32ºC (90ºF) / Average Low 20ºC (68ºF) / Average days with rain 3

  • April – Average High 30ºC (86ºF) / Average Low 16ºC (61ºF) / Average days with rain 1

  • July – Average High 26ºC (79ºF) / Average Low 11ºC (52ºF) / Average days with rain 0

  • October – Average High 31ºC (87ºF) / Average Low 17ºC (63ºF) / Average days with rain 2