The Red List fiasco in late November meant that I had an extended visit to South Africa – not great for business, but what a pleasure being able to stay a bit longer ……
After a lovely couple of days at Garonga, we drove to Kambaku.
Driving is simple, as the roads are good and the lodges well signposted. Travelling from the north on the R40, the road into the Timbavati takes you past Hoedspruit / Eastgate Airport, and from there it is a short 15 minute drive to Enkkhulu Gate, where the vehicle will be checked and you pay an entrance fee of R230.00 per vehicle.
Another 10 minutes or so and you will see the sign to Kambaku River Sands to the right and from there it is an easy drive to the lodge.
Kambaku River Sands has 10 well-spaced rooms, each uniquely decorated by Nicola, with a private deck, indoor and outdoor shower and all the comforts you can imagine. The well stock gift shop and the Spa will keep you entertained in the quieter moments, but my preference is to sit near the pool and wait for the elephants to come and drink. The ellies love to drink from the swimming pool, which has no harmful chemicals.
Sister lodge, Kambaku Safari Lodge is just a short drive away, and has a totally different layout and feel. Perfect for families with three interleading rooms, Kambaku Safari Lodge has the most amazing Kambaku Kubs programme for children aged 6 -12. Most adults will enjoy the interactive area at the front of the lodge, which has informative boards, bones, dung and other fascinating bits and pieces.
I loved the contrast of the safari experience. After the undulating terrain and incredible views at Garonga, the Timbavati is flatter with wide open spaces. The game did not disappoint and in addition some great big game sightings (and the iconic leopard in a tree) we also had time to watch the beautiful impalas – so often overlooked on safari.
