Tanda Tula Safari Camp

Located in the heart of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park, in 1976 Tanda Tula Safari Camp became the first East African styled, luxury tented safari camp in South Africa.

Today, Tanda Tula consists of two exclusive tented camps: Tanda Tula Safari Camp and Tanda Tula Field Camp. Both camps are owned and managed by Don and Nina Scott, together with their passionate and dedicated team.

The Timbavati reserve hosts phenomenal concentrations of Africa’s game including the famous ‘Big Five’ in one of the most beautiful parts of the continent. Much of this game make their way through both camps, offering guests an opportunity to get even closer to nature.

Tanda Tula Safari Camp is positioned amongst enormous trees on the banks of the Nhlaralumi Riverbed, in the heart of Big Five country. Visitors are welcomed into this picturesque camp which exudes “elegance with African roots”.

The camp is completely unfenced merging luxury with the natural environment.

In embracing change, Tanda Tula Safari Camp has evolved from the traditional Meru-style tents to a light-filled and transparent design that merges seamlessly with the wilderness. Consisting of 9 hybrid canvas and glass suites, each suite is positioned so that all the interior and outdoor spaces have uninterrupted views across the riverbed.

Expect breathtaking natural light. Walls that disappear. Shades and textures that reflect your wild surroundings. The deep aubergine of a purple pod cluster leaf. Wonderfully textured wood. The green shades of the silver cluster leaf trees. The intricate patterns in traditional Tsonga design honor South Africa’s Tsonga people. Contemporary local art. Fine linens. The pulse of the wild. And it’s deep calm.

Each suite is positioned overlooking the stunning Nhlaralumi riverbed with sweeping views of the bush. The entire front of the suite is a combination of sliding glass doors and canvas sliding walls, allowing the light to flood in. Outdoor covered decks and private plunge pools, ideal for dining and relaxing, with sunken bench seating – bringing you closer to nature.

These ecologically sensitive suites are fully ‘off grid’, powered by solar with water wise systems.

Unquestionably, Tanda Tula Field Camp is the most authentic glamping "glamorous camping" experience in South Africa. This private use camp is located in the eastern region of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, bordering the Kruger National Park in an exclusive concession of 6500 hectares.

Tanda Tula Field Camp is the ultimate exclusive experience in guided walking safaris where guests are led by iconic and highly trained trackers and guides, tracking general game and the big five on foot making this a thrilling and life changing safari experience. The atmosphere of the camp is that of a bygone era.

About Timbavati Private Nation Reserve

Timbavati Nature Reserve shares a common unfenced border with the Kruger National Park allowing animals free range and ensuring guests to the area the opportunity to view the greatest diversity of wildlife that Africa has to offer. View the big game from open vehicles, on foot or from the comfort of your room as you experience timeless Africa. Escape from the grind of daily life and succumb to the tranquil wilderness of the Timbavati Nature Reserve in the South African Lowveld. Here you can view the Big Five and other endangered species such as the Wild Dog and Cheetah in their natural environment. Currently over 40 mammal species are listed as resident in the Timbavati, including the Big 5 - Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant, as well as endangered species including Wild Dogs and Cheetah.  There is an abundance of birdlife, with a total of 360 species of bird listed.