Simbavati Waterside – Luxury Safari on the Edge of the Klaserie Wilderness
Where Water Draws Wildlife

Set beside a magnificent dam in the southern reaches of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Simbavati Waterside blends effortlessly into its pristine surroundings. Inspired by the untouched beauty of the Greater Kruger wilderness, the lodge has been thoughtfully designed to create a seamless connection between luxurious comfort and the natural environment.

The dam is the heartbeat of the reserve, attracting an extraordinary variety of wildlife throughout the year. Herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope gather to drink, while hippos wallow in the shallows and predators frequently visit the water's edge. From the lodge, guests enjoy uninterrupted views of this ever-changing wildlife spectacle, creating an immersive safari experience where nature is always on display.

Whether you're travelling as a couple, with family or a group of friends, Simbavati Waterside offers spaces designed for both privacy and togetherness. Couples can enjoy secluded dining experiences, romantic surprises for honeymoons and anniversaries, and peaceful moments overlooking the water, while families will appreciate the spacious accommodation and welcoming communal areas.

The lodge offers an impressive range of facilities, including a swimming pool, the unique Beach Boma positioned at the water's edge, an open-air Bush Boma for unforgettable dinners beneath the stars, a wine cellar, elegant lounge and bar, safari spa, fitness centre and boutique.

Combining refined interiors, exceptional cuisine and warm, intuitive service, Simbavati Waterside delivers a sophisticated safari experience in one of South Africa's finest private reserves.

Why You'll Love Simbavati Waterside

On the Water's Edge

Beautifully positioned beside a large wildlife-rich dam in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, only 30 minutes from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.

Romantic Escapes

Perfect for couples, with intimate private dining experiences, luxurious spa treatments, suites overlooking the water, and selected suites featuring private KolKol hot tubs.

Family Friendly

Spacious accommodation and facilities designed to welcome both couples and families.

Contemporary Design

Elegant interiors inspired by the textures, colours and natural beauty of the Klaserie wilderness.

Shilope Sleepout Deck: Spend a Night Beneath Africa's Stars

One of Simbavati Waterside's most memorable experiences is an overnight stay at the exclusive Shilope Sleepout Deck.

Perched above the wilderness in a secluded part of the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, this luxurious elevated retreat offers panoramic views across untouched bushveld and endless African skies.

Named after the majestic Weeping Boer-Bean tree nearby, "Shilope" offers adventurous guests the opportunity to spend an unforgettable night surrounded by nature while enjoying every modern comfort. The experience is particularly recommended for guests staying three nights or longer.

The Sleepout Experience

Softly illuminated by solar lanterns, the Shilope Sleepout Deck features a luxurious king-size bed and an elevated viewing platform where guests can admire spectacular sunsets, watch wildlife moving below, and gaze into one of Africa's clearest night skies.

Fall asleep to the sounds of the wilderness before waking to birdsong and golden sunrise views across the reserve.

Despite its remote location, the sleepout deck includes an en-suite bathroom with hot running water, shower and toilet, ensuring complete comfort throughout your stay.

Luxury Accommodation

Simbavati Waterside offers eight beautifully appointed luxury suites, each thoughtfully designed to maximise privacy and showcase the surrounding wilderness.

Every suite features a king-size bed that can be converted into twin beds, a spacious dressing area, elegant en-suite bathroom with double vanity, separate toilet, indoor shower and outdoor shower, together with a private viewing deck overlooking either the water or surrounding bush.

Six suites enjoy spectacular dam views, including four spacious Family Suites with two interleading bedrooms, while two Bush-Facing Luxury Suites feature private decks complete with secluded KolKol plunge tubs, heated by wood fire during the cooler winter months.

In-Room Features

Each suite includes:

• Private viewing deck
• Luxurious bathroom with bath, double vanity, indoor and outdoor showers
• Complimentary eco-friendly bathroom amenities
• Mini bar
• Tea and coffee-making facilities
• Air conditioning
• Ceiling fan
• Electric blankets during winter
• Electronic safe
• Hairdryer
• Laundry service
• Eco-friendly automated insect control system.

Lodge Facilities

Guests can enjoy a range of premium facilities throughout the lodge, including:

• Main lodge with expansive viewing deck overlooking the dam
• Comfortable lounge with books and board games
• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the lodge
• Indoor and outdoor dining areas
• Swimming pool
• Fully stocked bar
• Luxury safari spa
• Traditional open-air boma with campfire overlooking the water
• Wine cellar
• Fully equipped fitness centre
• Safari boutique
• Maximum of eight guests per safari vehicle for a personalised wildlife experience.

Shilope Sleepout Deck Features

Designed for two guests, the Shilope Sleepout Deck offers an unforgettable overnight experience deep within the Klaserie wilderness.

• Lower Deck
• King-size bed
• Ceiling fan
• Stylish lighting inspired by Simbavati Waterside
• Eco-friendly insect control
• Camping fridge/freezer
• En-suite bathroom with outdoor shower, toilet and vanity
• Tea and coffee-making facilities, including traditional rusks
• Complimentary eco-friendly bathroom amenities
• Upper Viewing Deck
• Spectacular 360-degree views across the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
• Views towards the distant Drakensberg Mountains
• Comfortable star-gazing daybed with cushions and pillows
• Outdoor seating area
• Solar lanterns
• Blankets for cooler evenings.

The Shilope Sleepout Deck has been designed with sustainability as a priority, allowing it to exist in harmony with the surrounding wilderness.

Features include:

• Environmentally sensitive construction with no permanent foundations
• Adjustable canvas walls and insect-proof mesh panels
• Solar-powered electricity
• Battery and inverter backup
• Safe, drinkable running water
• Gas-heated hot water system
• Fire extinguisher and first aid kit
• Illuminated staircase with handrails for safe evening access.

An Unforgettable Safari Experience

From exceptional wildlife viewing at the water's edge to evenings beneath a sky filled with stars, Simbavati Waterside offers a unique blend of luxury, romance, adventure and authentic African wilderness. Whether relaxing in your elegant suite, dining beside the dam or spending a magical night at the Shilope Sleepout Deck, every moment is designed to create lifelong safari memories.