Siviti Timbavati Plains Review

Siviti Timbavati Plains sits on the banks of the Timbavati River in the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve. Formerly known as Thornybush River Lodge, the property was rebranded when the land it occupies was named Timbavati Plains, giving the lodge its current full name. It is an intimate property with just six private suites, one of which is a two-bedroomed villa, making it well suited to small groups or families.

The main areas face out over the river and the surrounding bush, keeping wildlife firmly in view. A rim-flow pool draws elephant regularly, which gives the lodge a relaxed, connected feel from the moment you arrive.

Each suite has floor-to-ceiling glass doors opening onto the deck, a private plunge pool, a Victorian-style bathtub, and both indoor and outdoor showers. The interiors are comfortable and well appointed, with a private lounge and all standard luxury amenities.

Twice-daily game drives are led by experienced guides operating in the southern sector of the Thornybush reserve. Thornybush has dropped fences with the adjacent Timbavati Game Reserve, extending its connection to the broader Greater Kruger ecosystem and allowing larger species, elephants in particular, to move freely across a much wider range. The time-honoured rhythms of the safari day are observed here: a sundowner stop in the bush, a coffee break on the morning drive, and evenings spent around a fire.