Simbavati Waterside

Simbavati Waterside sits beside a dam in the southern section of Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, a Big Five concession in South Africa. The dam draws elephant, buffalo, hippo and predators to drink and cool off throughout the year — sometimes in herds of several hundred — and the water is visible from almost every part of the property.

The lodge holds eight suites across three room types. Standard Luxury Suites have king beds convertible to twin, en-suite shower rooms with double vanity, a dressing area, outdoor shower, and a water-facing game viewing deck. Two-bedroom Luxury Suites interlink for families, with a main room and a second twin room each on their own deck, sharing and separate bathrooms across the two rooms. One suite adds a KolKol tub — a wood-fired outdoor tub that works hot or cold — and faces the bush rather than the dam.

Game drives run in the early morning and late afternoon, led by English-speaking local guides. Night drives, guided bush walks, and a sleepout option called Shilope — a king bed on a solar-lit elevated platform — are also available. Dining rotates between indoor seating, an open deck, a Bush Boma under the stars, and a Beach Boma at dam level with a pizza oven and fire pit. The property also has a pool, spa, gym, wine cellar, bar, and safari boutique.

The lodge accommodates children of all ages, and an airport shuttle is available.