Discover the Untamed Beauty
of Timbila
Discover the Untamed Beauty
of Timbila
Find Your Rhythm in Nature
A Serene Escape
in the Groot River Valley
Tucked away in the heart of the Eastern Cape, Timbila Game Reserve is a peaceful sanctuary where wildlife and visitors coexist in harmony. Named after a Mozambican xylophone made from natural materials, Timbila invites you to experience the Rhythms of the Earth – exactly as Mother Nature intended.
Our Camps
Timbila offers three private tented camps and a riverside campsite with four stands.
Timbila Camp
Timbila Camp is a serene riverside retreat, combining luxury tents, shared facilities, and stunning mountain views.
Nyala Camp
Nestled in a riverbend clearing, Nyala Camp is often visited by its namesake antelope. A cosy stone cottage sets it apart from our tented camps.
Mahlangeni Camp
Mahlangeni, meaning “the meeting place,” is built into the Groot River bank with wooden walkways, all overlooking the valley below.
CAMPSITE
For a true camping experience, Timbila offers four spacious, riverside stands – each with power, braai, water, and access to shared amenities.
What to see and do at Timbila
Self-Game Drives
Explore the reserve at your own pace and with your own vehicle. Quad bikes available at extra costs.
Self-Guided Walks
Discover the small wonders of the bush on foot—ideal for guests who enjoy moving at their own rhythm.
Bird Watching
With diverse birdlife across habitats, Timbila is a haven for bird lovers—don’t forget your binoculars!
4x4 Trail
Venture deeper into the reserve on our off-road trail. A 4×4 and two-vehicle rule with experienced drivers applies.
Cycling & Running
Thanks to our non–Big 5 status, guests can cycle or run freely across the reserve.
River Swimming
Cool off in the Groot River or enjoy the seasonal natural rock pool (check availability at reception). (Note that we do have dry seasons, where there is no water in the river)
Fishing
Cast a line in our river pool—ideal for peaceful reflection or family fun. (Note that we do have dry seasons, where there is no water in the river)
Hunting (by permit)
Bow and rifle hunting available for qualified and responsible hunters. Advance application required.
Wildlife, Birdsong & Botanical Wonders
Explore Nature on Foot - Up Close and Untamed
Timbila’s diverse biomes—riverine thicket, karoo, and fynbos—support an array of wildlife, from giraffe and duiker to aardvark and bat-eared foxes. With no Big 5, it’s safe to explore on foot and truly connect with nature. Over 100 bird species have been recorded, including Verreaux’s eagle and colorful bee-eaters, while plant lovers can discover everything from succulents to ancient cycads. Contribute your sightings to our iNaturalist Project and help grow Timbila’s living archive.
Directions
From the West (George, Oudtshoorn, Cape Town or Graaff Reinet side):
Travel along the N9 and take the Steytlerville turnoff just North of Willowmore onto the R329. Please be aware that this road changes into a single lane width concrete road with gravel shoulders, so travel safely! Travel 30km along this road, then take the Klipplaat turnoff to the left (Timbila signpost at the turn). This road is gravel only. Travel along this road for 10km and turn right towards Bierpoort just after the Fullarton shop (Timbila signpost at the turnoff). Timbila Game Reserve Reception will be on your right hand side after 7kms.
If traveling from the Port Elizabeth direction, travel to Steytlerville. From here take the Willowmore road (R329). Travel for 31km. Turn right at the Timbila signpost. The Timbila Game Reserve Reception will be on your left after 23km.
Available at Reception
Wood
Water
Ice
“Plaasbrood” | Farm Bread
Deeg vir Stokbrook | Dough Stock bread
Roosterkoek
"Vetkoek"
Nestled in the Eastern Cape’s Groot River Valley, Timbila Game Reserve offers a unique retreat into nature, with bushveld experiences, wildlife, and serene camping under the stars.
© Copyright Timbila Game Reserve | Website Development by Venture Design Studio. Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy