Timbavati Trailing Experience, South Africa

Embark on an extraordinary eight-day adventure in the heart of South Africa’s wilderness at Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. The Timbavati Trailing Experience is designed for nature enthusiasts eager to deepen their connection with the natural world.

Guided by expert trackers, you'll learn the art of trailing, honing skills that can be applied globally. This immersive experience not only sharpens your senses but also allows you to discover the intricate beauty of South Africa’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.

Use this unique chance to explore the magical Timbavati Region and expand your guiding and survival skills during this experience!

Topics and activities of the Timbavati Trailing Experience

During this course, you will delve into the fundamentals of tracking and trailing, with a focus on large wildlife such as elephants and lions. Each day, you’ll follow fresh animal tracks, learning to interpret signs and understand animal behavior in the wild. With expert guidance, you’ll develop skills that connect you deeply to the rhythms of the bush, enhancing your naturalist knowledge.

The camp’s location near a waterhole provides a unique opportunity to start your day by tracking animals that visited during the night. This hands-on experience is complemented by teachings on the surrounding flora and fauna, offering a comprehensive understanding of the ecosystem.

Arrival and orientation

Participants can fly into Eastgate Airport (Hoedspruit) or Johannesburg, with a shuttle service to the Timbavati camp. Upon arrival, you’ll receive a warm welcome and a briefing on bush safety and trails. The first day includes an introductory walk, offering your initial glimpse into the stunning South African wilderness.

On the final day, you'll be transported back to Eastgate Airport, with assistance available for further travel plans.

Accommodation and board at the Timbavati Trailing Experience

Your stay will be in an unfenced, authentic tented camp under majestic Jackleberry trees, providing a true wilderness experience without electricity, Wi-Fi, or mobile signals. Dome tents accommodate two participants each, and while basic amenities are provided, you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag.

Sanitary facilities include long-drop toilets and bush showers, offering a raw, immersive connection to nature. Meals, prepared on a gas cooker and open fire, are shared in a communal tent, fostering camaraderie and reflection after each day’s adventure.

Leisure time

In your free time, you’ll have the chance to relax and bond with fellow participants. After long days of tracking and exploring, these moments are perfect for resting and absorbing the experiences of the day. Whether around the campfire or in the communal tent, leisure time here is all about unwinding and soaking in the tranquility of the bush.

The region of Timbavati Private Game Reserve

Set within the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, this experience offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of South Africa’s most renowned wildlife areas. The region is known for its rich biodiversity, including the famed Big Five, and provides a backdrop of stunning landscapes that enhance every aspect of the trailing adventure.

Discover more about the Timbavati Trailing Experience and how you can join this transformative journey here.