Independent in Manyeleti Game Reserve from NZ$270

"Staying at simbambili was the best experience of our life. The lodge was stunning, the food was exceptional, the attention to detail was like no other, but above all the team that worked there made you feel like family. I looked at dozens of lodges before choosing for our honeymoon, so when I finally landed on Simbambili, it was due to the amazing reviews and location. When we arrived it was even better than what we could have imagined. Magical is really the word that comes to mind. Our days started with our Ranger Solomon and Tracker Roy, took us out on our drives. They were so passionate and knowledgeable. Then came back to a very cheerful Caroline who welcomed us, and then every meal Rich was there to take care of us. There was a watering hole at the lodge and constantly we were able to see so many animals coming up for a drink. Look no further for your dream safari, it’s at simbambili!"

"Great place to stay. Authentic, great vibe. "

"This was our 5th visit to Elephant Plains. It's the most affordable option in the Sabi Sands and an excellent place to stay. Since our 2022 visit, they have updated the rondovels. They're super comfortable with everything you need. Staff were great. They seem to have simplified the food options (an improvement) and the quality is great. You go to the Sabi Sands for the exceptional leopard sightings and amazing safaris. This place does not dissapoint - in one drive we had 2 leopard cub sightings, a female on a kill, close elephant encounters and lions. It's worth every cent! For self-drivers (at May 2025), the roads to Gowrie Gate are horrendous and haven't improved much in 10 years. Map out your journey before hand. We used both Google Maps and the maps provided by EP. Gowrie Gate entry was R510 (cash or card) and the conservation fee added to your bill at EP was R620 so factor that in too. Elephant Plains is a must do!"

"This is an exceptional property in the Manyeleti Game Reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park. It is a magical place where Impala's roam the property and the elephants come to drink water from the pool. The "tents" are very nice with toilet facilities and showers and comfortable beds. The food was good, but the staff are the best! They do everything they can to meet your needs and wants. Everyday there are two game drives into the reserve where you can get very close to amazing game animals. The guides on these drives are very good at their jobs. Ours was named Brilliant and he truly was brilliant. He can find animals, birds and snakes at distance and at night in places I can barely see. He is amazing! We want to thank the staff for making our stay very special-Dan, Mavis, Trevor, Previous, Noa and other...and especially Brilliant!"

"Everything was as pictured. Glamping tents were good. Animals did roam the grounds. Always felt safe though. And most importantly the safari drives were amazing! If you are lucky you will get Vestment - he was the absolute best!!! Definitely recommend. "

"Kruger Untamed was a unique experience and one I can highly recommend. The camp is remote and generates its own electricity and has no plumbing. Water is provided manually, and each tent is fitted with a chemical toilet and shower, which is filled up with hot water twice a day. Old world comforts like warm water bags and hot water flasks ensures that one stays warm. The staff works incredibly hard to make sure the tents are serviced and maintained, and the overall effect is one of luxury whilst feeling very close to nature, offering a level of authenticity that is hard to match elsewhere in the Kruger. Our toilet wasn’t serviced for a day, and the generator experienced issues which left us without electricity for a short while. The team did their best to resolve the challenges, and Seth, the front of house manager, is very professional and dealt with all issues promptly. The camp uses the public Kruger roads for game drives, but most roads are quiet as it is located far away from the larger camps. This ensures that sightings are uncongested. All rangers leading walks and drives were extremely professional. One suggestion is for their rangers to use radios to communicate sightings to other groups, to ensure sightings are shared and not missed. The food was very good. If they cook more food on an open fire (‘braai’) if possible, it will add to the experience. Overall we had a great time and will definitely try to visit again."