Welcome To Timbavati

We are a private nature reserve in the wild north-eastern region of South Africa, known as the Lowveld.

Timbavati itself is 556 square kilometers (215 square miles), and is located west of the immense 20 000 square kilometer (7 700 square miles) Kruger National Park.

Because there are no fences between Timbavati and Kruger, we are part of an unfenced wilderness that extends over 38 823 square kilometres, an area roughly the size of the Netherlands.

This pristine African wilderness is home to some of the largest populations of the continent’s famous wild animals, all of which roam free across the vast landscape.

The region’s stunning wildlife includes over 850 animal species, including the big five.

WHAT WE’RE WORKING TOWARDS

We are dedicated to the protection of everything that is natural and wild, locally and globally, and we will always put the needs of wilderness first.

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THE FUTURE WE’RE BUILDING

Our vision extends far beyond our immediate horizons. We envision a world where the wellbeing of the wilderness is the number one priority of people, businesses, and governments.

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HOW WE KNOW WE ARE THERE

We will only consider ourselves successful if we inspire and help others to achieve the same self-sustaining balance in other regions – both near and far. We wish to be an inspirational catalyst for both people and wilderness everywhere.

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LEADING BY EXAMPLE

We lead by example, working hard to ensure the harmonious co-existence of humanity and the wild, where both can thrive together. As we move forward, our goal is clear: to be a world leader of wilderness stewardship, and a driving force in creating a wilderness-led planet.

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Did you know? The origin of the name "Timbavati" can be traced to the Xitsonga word “Mbavala”, meaning “bushbuck.”

The plural form, “Timbavala,” translates to “many bushbuck,” which over time evolved into the colloquialised form “Timbavati.” Quite literally, the name reflects “The Place of Many Bushbuck,” a fitting tribute to the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of this wilderness landscape. 

We know our wellbeing as a species is deeply linked to the wellbeing of wilderness areas everywhere; we are part of nature, inseparable from Earth.

Core
Values
Devoted to the Wild

First and foremost - we prioritise the right of wildlife and ecosystems to thrive naturally by implementing low-impact practices that honour the delicate balance of nature.

We are passionate and steadfast protectors of not only the region entrusted to our care, but of all wilderness spaces around the world.

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We Go First

Fearlessly pioneering new ideas, tactics and strategies - we lead the way in conservation efforts, wildlife security, and ecologically respectful tourism experiences by taking meaningful action.

Our commitment to excellence, courage to innovate, and data-backed success makes us a premier global conservation-driven destination.

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Led By Understanding

Rooted in a deep understanding of our environment and the people within it, we approach conservation with empathy, respect and considered insight.

Through diligent research and mindful deliberation, we take purposeful action guided by knowledge to establish harmony between nature and humanity.

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Grounded in collaboration

As a shared experience, history and legacy - we embrace the power of cooperation and engage with our partners, stakeholders and communities to amplify our impact.

With open hearts and minds, we share knowledge, resources, and support, fostering a culture of transparency, humility, and collective success which extends far beyond our fence-free borders.

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WHY CHOOSE THE TIMBAVATI?

Timbavati is South Africa’s premier private nature reserve, with a globally-acclaimed reputation for conservation excellence and wildlife tourism.

The reserve is a small part of one of the world’s largest wild landscapes, home to some of the best-protected, most abundant populations of African wildlife. Timbavati offers visitors some of Africa’s best wildlife experiences - and best safari lodges. Our activities and operations are underpinned by a stringent code of ethics which puts nature and wilderness first.

conservation initiatives
MAPS OF THE TIMBVAVATI

Timbavati shares a common unfenced boundary with the 20 000 square kilometre Kruger National Park and is part of an even larger unfenced landscape known as the Greater Kruger National Park - a collection of national parks and private reserves that span three countries (South Africa, Mozambique  and Zimbabwe) over an area of 38 823 square kilometres.

The Story of Timbavati

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1956

Timbavati Nature Reserve was Established. Since its establishment, the Timbavati has remained committed to protecting and preserving this wild landscape for future generations

1993

Timbavati drops fences with Kruger National Park. By removing its fences with the Kruger National Park, the Timbavati became part of a vast open system, bringing immeasurable benefits to the conservation and ecology of the Greater Kruger landscape.

2018

Timbavati Signs the GLTFCA Agreement. This commitment was further formalized when the Timbavati signed the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area (GLTFCA) agreement, strengthening our role in cross-border conservation and ecological connectivity

meet the team

The Timbavati team comprises 64 dedicated staff members. The four main departments are: Conservation, Security, Operations and Administration & Finance. All departments work closely together to run the reserve efficiently.

Edwin Pierce
Warden
Orlat Ndlov
Head of Ranger Services
Almero Bosch
Ecologist
Dean Bartie
Reserve operations manager
Robert Hurn
Technical Services manager
Perseverance Monareng
Logistics officer
Candice Pierce
Timbavati Foundation manager
Pheladi Sekgobela
Admin assistant
THANK YOU TO OUR MEMBERS

The Timbavati Association comprises of a number of dedicated members.

We thank each member for their invaluable contribution to the ongoing conservation of Timbavati.

conservation work

News, Reports & Stories

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Conservation

Tracking the flight of the European Roller

Conservation

My Transformative Year at Timbavati

Community

Connecting Communities & Conservation

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