There was much anticipation as my husband and I entered the Timbavati Game Reserve gates en-route to Simbavati Hilltop Lodge. It takes just under an hour to get to the lodge from the gate, but this gives you an opportunity to start your game-viewing experience … believe it or not, we saw a rhino right on the side of the main road! We were told that Simbavati Hilltop has one of the most stunning elevated views of the veld in the area … and we were not disappointed!
It is luxury mixed with comfort at its best at Simbavati Hilltop. The lodge has been beautifully decorated with lots of earthy tones, effective lighting and contemporary decor items. The main tented lodge area is set up with a reception room and small gift shop; a circular bar in the centre of the lodge; an infinity pool and lazy loungers with gorgeous views of the bush; a lounge area for reading, playing games or just relaxing; and a versatile dining area.
Not all meals are served here however. On our first night we were surprised with dinner in the bush – something I was not expecting at all. The staff secretly set everything up whilst we were on our evening game drive and when we rounded the corner … there they all were, grinning from ear to ear. We sat and gazed up at the stars, listened to the sounds of the bush and enjoyed a meal with people from all over the world … it was quite a charming african experience! On our last night we were also treated to an african style buffet dinner in the boma area that has a bonfire in the middle … quite similar to actually being in the bush!
Our private tented suite had an air conditioner, bar, desk and arm chair, and an enormous bed! The en-suite bathroom is a 2 step walk from the main room with a double outside shower and a bath that has a netting next to it, so you can gaze out over the veld whilst soaking in the tub.
All the staff at Simbavati Hilltop were extremely friendly and helpful. They also went the extra mile by running us a bubble bath and placing a chilled bottle of Pongraz next to it (it was our honeymoon after all). It’s often the attention to detail and the little bit extra that makes the biggest impression.
Our driver and tracker were also very experienced and managed to find us the Big 5 within our first 2 game drives. I would say that Simbavati Hilltop is definitely better suited to couples (it is as romantic as it gets) or groups of friends travelling together. We had some amazing wildlife encounters and a super relaxing time … a truly memorable trip!
