066 512 3093
info@siyezasafari.com
Nestled within the prestigious Thornybush Nature Reserve, Waterside Tamboti Villa offers an exclusive-use luxury safari experience for families and small groups seeking privacy, tranquility, and immersive wildlife encounters. Positioned beside a serene waterhole—often visited by a local hippo and frequented by herds of elephant and buffalo—this villa provides front-row access to nature’s most captivating moments.
Designed for ultimate comfort and seclusion, the villa features four spacious, en-suite double bedrooms, each with its own lounge area, elegant dressing room, and beautifully appointed bathroom. These suites are thoughtfully positioned around a welcoming central lounge and dining space, encouraging connection while still allowing for personal retreat.
The heart of the villa is its expansive wooden deck, complete with a shimmering private pool and panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld. Guests can spend lazy afternoons basking in the sun, watching wildlife stroll by, or enjoying a glass of wine as the day fades into a fiery African sunset.
During the dry winter months, game viewing reaches its peak as animals congregate around the permanent waterhole, creating incredible sightings right from your veranda. The birdlife is equally impressive, offering a feast for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Dining is a sophisticated yet relaxed affair. Your dedicated chef prepares exquisite meals tailored to your preferences, served either in the stylish indoor dining area or alfresco under the stars—depending on your mood and the weather.
Enjoy twice-daily game drives—at dawn and dusk—led by a highly experienced field guide and Shangaan tracker team, ensuring expert wildlife interpretation and unforgettable Big Five sightings.
Game drives take place in open 4×4 safari vehicles, offering unobstructed views and excellent photographic opportunities.
Explore the Thornybush Nature Reserve, a renowned Big Five private concession bordering Greater Kruger, home to a rich diversity of wildlife including lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo, as well as cheetah, wild dog, and over 300 bird species.
Morning drives often include a coffee stop in the bush, while afternoon safaris conclude with a traditional sundowner as the sun sets over the African savannah.
With limited vehicles per sighting, enjoy an uncrowded, exclusive safari experience with minimal impact on the environment and optimal time to observe animal behavior.
Learn about tracking techniques, animal behavior, and the ecological balance of the reserve from knowledgeable and passionate rangers.
Optional bush walks may be arranged for guests seeking a more immersive, on-foot exploration of the wild.
Thornybush Private Nature Reserve spans over 14,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, seamlessly integrated with the Greater Kruger National Park through open, unfenced borders. This connection allows for unrestricted wildlife movement and enhances your chances of unforgettable Big Five encounters. The reserve is especially renowned for its exceptional lion and leopard sightings, making it a prime destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
To make the most of your safari experience, consider visiting during the dry winter months (May to September) when vegetation thins and animals congregate around water sources, increasing the likelihood of close-up sightings. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are the most productive times for viewing predators in action, while midday offers the perfect opportunity to relax at your lodge or enjoy birdwatching from the deck.
For an even deeper connection with the bush, ask about guided walking safaris, which provide insight into the smaller details of the ecosystem—from animal tracks to medicinal plants. And don’t forget to bring binoculars and a good camera—Thornybush is a paradise not just for the Big Five, but also for rare birds and smaller mammals often overlooked.
Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler, Thornybush offers an intimate and immersive wildlife experience that rivals the very best of South Africa’s game reserves.
