Experience the timeless beauty of the Greater Kruger area on the Timbavati Primitive Trail, where natural diversity and seamless connection to Kruger National Park allow wildlife to move freely. This intimate and impactful experience offers a rare perspective of Nature, immersing you in the rich biodiversity of the region.
From iconic big game like elephants and lions to vibrant birdlife and essential smaller species, every step tells a story of resilience. Guided by expert Wilderness Trails Guides, you’ll track animals on foot, gaining deep insight into the ecosystem. Evenings are spent by the fire, under a vast canopy of stars, far removed from modern distractions, creating space for reflection and connection.
This is more than an activity – it’s a chance to connect with Nature on a deeper level. Unlike traditional safaris where you’re a spectator, this Primitive Trail invites you to be part of the landscape in which you walk, fostering personal growth, social connection, and a profound sense of renewal.
It is real, visceral and completely authentic.
2025 Season | Trails depart from end March to mid-October.
You will need the following Trail Essentials:
Take a look at the brochure for comprehensive packing checklists in the ‘What to Pack’ section.
The Timbavati Primitive Trail is for private group bookings of up to 8 participants.
Operational from end March to mid-October annually.
2025 Trail Rates from:
1. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Walking through the Timbavati, you may encounter elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas are present, but usually seen through tracks, calls, or distant glimpses. The Trail also offers incredible birdlife, smaller creatures, and the chance to track wildlife on foot, making every moment in the Wilderness an immersive experience.
2. What is the sleeping arrangement on Trail?
Each night, you’ll sleep under the stars with only a sleeping bag (inside a bivvie bag provided to each participant to protect you from dew or rain during the night) —no tents, just you and the vast, starry sky. This unique experience deepens your connection to Nature and yourself. Participants also take turns sharing ‘night-watch duty.’
3. What is the terrain?
You will walk in classic lowveld savannah bushveld, through meandering dry riverbeds
4. Is Timbavati in a Malaria Area?
The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is located within a malaria area. However, this specific region is generally considered to be low-risk. Many of us who live and operate here do not take any formal medical precautions, aside from using insect repellent and staying alert for any symptoms.
Although the risk of contracting malaria is low, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before travelling to make sure you’re comfortable with the decision. Whether or not to take prophylactic medication during your visit is ultimately up to you, based on your personal health and preferences.
5. How often will I have access to fresh water?
Water Provision while on Trail is rainfall-dependent. During the summer months, when water is plentiful, you’ll collect from pools in non-perennial rivers, elephant diggings and depressions/pans in the veld. Once the dry winter months arrive, the guides will do water-drops prior to the start of the Trail
The Timbavati Primitive Trail landscape is characterized by quintessential Lowveld savanna, with large open sodic sites and intimate seasonal drainage lines. The area supports good numbers of all the large mammal species resulting in frequent animal encounters. Although the road network is relatively sparse, there is still the chance of bumping into game drive vehicles, as the properties we walk on are also accessible to a few lodges.
