Welcome to the New Tanda Tula

Martin and I had the pleasure of being invited to the brand new Tanda Tula in the heart of the Timbavati. Tanda Tula holds a very special place in both our hearts, Martin having guided there for many years and I having had some of my most memorable safari experiences while staying here with guests and clients over the years.



Welcome to Tanda Tula Safari Camp

We had a vague idea of what to expect, having seen some preliminary images however nothing could have prepared us for what we walked into. Walking through the massive stone walkway to the main area of the lodge, it was an incredible feeling of “Same same but different”


The same warm welcoming feeling of coming home is there from the moment you walk through the doors, the same smiling faces are there to greet you but the surroundings are a perfect mix of nature and elegance. Quite simply put, our breath was taken away multiple times during our stay as we uncovered all the beautiful different areas within the lodge.



Tanda Tula owners, Don and Nina Scott have a very strong ethos of sustainability through ecologically sensitive practices, community involvement and education – The perfect safari trifecta!

The Suites at Tanda Tula

With only 9 hybrid suites, two of which are perfect for families, this is one of our favourite safari destinations. Each suite is a perfect balance of glass, steel and canvas, allowing them to blend into their surroundings perfectly while retaining the highest standard of Luxury! Each suite pays homage to the local Xitsonga people in its décor, being carefully put together with local designs, craftmanship and style – resonating a true African elegance that is rare to find.



With summer temperatures in the Timbavati hitting the top end of the Mercury, we spent a lot of time in our private infinity pool overlooking the Nhlaralumi River. We were lucky enough to see a breeding herd of Elephants passing us by, numerous bushbuck and a myriad of other wildlife – the perfect place to relax and unwind between game drives.


Game Drives and Magic Moments

Don and Nina have over the years assembled one of the best guiding teams in the Safari Industry – with many of their guides and trackers having been with them for 15+ years. This is testament to the sustainable brand that they have over the years spent blood, sweat and tears building.


We set out into the heart of the Timbavati, a special region that Mart and I both love dearly, and as always there is a magic that is delivered at Tanda Tula, that is hard to describe, but I will try anyway.


We were the only vehicle for more than 40 minutes at a lion sighting, males lying belly up like goldfish, cubs cavorting around and keeping us entertained with their antics, and of course the lionesses keeping an ever watchful eye over their pride. To sit in a sighting like this, uninterrupted is a privilege, one that we are always honored to have bestowed upon us.



The drives and walks over the next two days renewed our deep love of Tanda Tula and the Timbavati specifically.


Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses - Tanda Tula Style

Dining at Tanda Tula was an experience unto itself. The lodge’s culinary offerings are a celebration of local flavours, expertly prepared and presented with flair. Each meal was a gastronomic journey, with dishes that showcased the finest ingredients and innovative techniques. Breakfasts were a delightful array of fresh fruits, pastries, and hearty options, while dinners under the stars featured succulent game meats, aromatic spices, and decadent desserts. The lodge’s wine cellar, stocked with an impressive selection of South African wines, perfectly complemented each meal.

Chef Ryan from Tanda Tula


Moments of Tranquillity: Relaxation and Reflection

Between safaris, the lodge offered ample opportunities for relaxation and reflection. The infinity pool, overlooking a watering hole frequented by wildlife, provided a serene spot for contemplation. The wellness centre, with its range of treatments, allowed us to unwind and rejuvenate. Evenings were spent on our private deck, listening to the symphony of nocturnal sounds and marvelling at the starlit sky.

Peacful moments at Tanda Tula


Tanda Tula - Leading the charge in Sustainability

Tanda Tula Lodge has embedded sustainability at the core of its operations, ensuring that its presence in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve actively contributes to the preservation of the natural environment while uplifting local communities. The lodge has adopted a variety of eco-friendly initiatives designed to minimize its ecological footprint and promote the long-term health of the surrounding ecosystem. From its infrastructure to its daily operations, every element reflects a commitment to responsible tourism and conservation.


One of the key sustainability measures at Tanda Tula is its focus on renewable energy. The lodge has significantly reduced its reliance on fossil fuels by utilizing solar power to meet much of its energy needs. This shift not only lowers carbon emissions but also reduces the impact on the fragile ecosystem. Water conservation is another critical aspect of Tanda Tula’s sustainability efforts. The lodge has implemented water recycling systems and utilizes boreholes for sustainable water sourcing, ensuring minimal strain on local water supplies, particularly in a region prone to droughts.


Tanda Tula also prides itself on its waste management practices. The lodge embraces a strict “reduce, reuse, recycle” policy, aiming to minimize waste generation and limit the use of single-use plastics. Biodegradable products are favored, and food waste is composted to be used in the lodge’s gardens. These gardens, in turn, supply fresh, organic produce to the kitchen, further reducing the lodge’s dependence on external resources and food miles.



In terms of community engagement, Tanda Tula is deeply involved in supporting local villages through education, training, and employment opportunities. By sourcing materials and labor locally, the lodge not only contributes to the regional economy but fosters a sense of shared responsibility for the preservation of the Timbavati’s natural treasures. Through these initiatives, Tanda Tula sets an exemplary standard for eco-conscious luxury tourism.

Reusable Water Bottles at Tanda Tula


The Tanda Tula Foundation

The Tanda Tula Foundation is a beacon of hope and positive change within the local communities surrounding the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Established with the mission of fostering sustainable development and creating long-term opportunities, the foundation focuses on education, skills training, and community empowerment, making a tangible impact on the lives of those in the region.


At the heart of the foundation’s work is its commitment to education. The Tanda Tula Foundation believes that education is the key to unlocking a brighter future for local children and young adults. It provides scholarships and financial support to students, enabling them to access quality education that would otherwise be beyond their reach. The foundation also works closely with local schools, offering resources, infrastructure improvements, and programs that enrich the educational experience. From upgrading classroom facilities to providing learning materials, Tanda Tula ensures that learners have the tools they need to succeed.


In addition to education, the foundation prioritizes skills development and employment opportunities. Recognizing that long-term conservation success is deeply linked to the well-being of local communities, the Tanda Tula Foundation offers vocational training programs designed to equip young adults with the skills necessary for employment within the tourism and hospitality sectors. These programs not only create job opportunities but also foster a deeper connection between the community and the natural environment they share with the reserve.



The foundation also actively supports community-led conservation initiatives. By engaging locals in wildlife protection and environmental stewardship, the foundation encourages a culture of shared responsibility for preserving the unique ecosystems of the Timbavati. Through these holistic and inclusive efforts, the Tanda Tula Foundation plays a critical role in uplifting local communities while ensuring the sustainability of the region's wildlife and natural resources for future generations.

The Timbavati – Location, Location, Location

The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park in South Africa, stands as a beacon of world-class safari excellence. Spanning over 53,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, this reserve offers an unparalleled safari experience characterized by its rich biodiversity and conservation ethos. The landscape is a mesmerizing tapestry of savannahs, riverine forests, and bushveld, providing a dramatic backdrop for wildlife viewing. Timbavati is renowned for its remarkable populations of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros—and is particularly famous for its rare white lions, a genetic rarity that captivates visitors from around the globe.


The Timbavati's commitment to conservation and community empowerment further enhances its standing as a premier safari destination. The reserve is actively involved in various conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching efforts and habitat restoration, safeguarding its unique flora and fauna for future generations. Additionally, Timbavati supports local communities through education and sustainable development projects, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the reserve and its human neighbours.



In essence, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve offers an immersive and transformative safari experience. Its blend of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, luxurious accommodations, and unwavering dedication to conservation and community makes it a quintessential destination for discerning travellers seeking the quintessential African adventure. Whether it’s the thrill of a lion’s roar echoing through the night or the serene beauty of a sunset over the savannah, Timbavati leaves an indelible mark on all who are fortunate enough to explore its depths.

Farewell: Leaving with Memories to Cherish

As our stay at Tanda Tula drew to a close, we found ourselves reluctant to leave this haven of peace and beauty. The lodge had provided not just a luxurious retreat, but an immersive experience that connected us deeply with the natural world. We left with hearts full of memories and a newfound respect for the wilderness.


Tanda Tula Lodge, with its perfect blend of comfort and adventure, is more than just a place to stay—it’s a destination that captures the essence of the African bush and the spirit of those who seek to explore it.


If you are interested in visiting Tanda Tula, Get in Touch below to contact one of our expert Safari Planners!

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