Traditional thatched luxury
Ngala Safari Lodge is a luxurious, traditional Big Five thatched lodge next to the southern Timbavati Reserve, containing the river of that name, and close to the Orpen Gate. It is a private reserve incorporated in to the Kruger that resembles a concession and no longer a member of Timbavati (we keep it here for continuity).
"Plenty ngala"
‘Ngala’ means lion in Shangaan. This latitude is known for its lions in the park and they are here in numbers too. A local peculiarity is the presence of naturally occurring white lions.
Wild dogs
The area contains characteristic central Kruger plains. Wild dogs often roam here in the large expanse of the reserve.
Game drives
Timbavati is known for its large herds of elephants and they are a frequent sight on drives.
Traditional cottages
Safari Lodge boasts 20 classic thatched cottages. Colonial in ambience, with nostalgic safari memorabilia throughout, they include three cottages for families with inter-leading rooms, plus a spacious family suite which has its own pool.
En-suite with views
Floor-to-ceiling windows open to spacious private verandas. An en-suite bathroom, complete with an outdoor shower, provides the opportunity to refresh or unwind. Soft tinted prints and etchings emphasise the classic safari atmosphere.
Dining by candlelight
Breakfast and lunch are served in the shade of an enormous weeping boer bean tree. A walled courtyard provides a sheltered space to indulge in sumptuous cuisine, while the boma creates a dramatic setting for fire-lit dinners.
Deck with waterhole view
Manicured lawns give way to dense mopane thickets. Game saunters down to drink at the waterhole.
WILDchild programme
The WILDChild adventure programme for smaller family members include tracking and fishing, making traditional bows and arrows, beading, crafting and painting, as well as fun in the lodge garden and kitchen.
