Getting There

Kings Camp is located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, on the boundary of Kruger National Park. The best way to get to Kings Camp is to take a flight from Johannesburg, South Africa to East Gate Airport, also known as Hoedspruit Airport. Then it will take approximately 30 minutes by car to arrive at Kings Camp. You can self-drive or book a transfer through Kings Camp. Stay alert as you spot animals everywhere. The animals travel freely between Kruger National Park and Kings Camp. When we arrived at the property, we were greeted with a refreshing cold beverage and completed our check-in paperwork. We were given a tour of the dining area, a meeting point for safari game drives, and our suite.

Accommodations

The suites are spectacular. The amount of natural light that pours into the room makes my heart sing. The first thing we noticed was the air conditioning – powerful. It is essential for relaxation, especially with hot temperatures in the bush. The decor is giving – we made it vibes. From the plants to the whiskey filled glass decanters and black and white animal prints – everything has its place. Kings Camp has the luxurious feel of a resort, but personal touches that make it feel like home. There are bath salts by the tub, an oil diffuser on the bathroom counter, and extra soft towels. Even the shower hooks are cute. There is an outdoor shower and an indoor shower – both with amazing water pressure.

Every room has a private deck with a plunge pool. There is a fence to protect us from any wild animals. There are (2) outdoor recliners with pillows, (2) chairs, and a sectional couch with a firepit. The staff surprised us by arranging a private dinner for two with the fire pit roaring when we returned from a safari game drive.

Kings Camp provides personalized water canisters with our names. In the evening, the staff provides turndown service which includes putting up a mosquito net, drawing the curtains, placing chocolates on the pillow, and leaving information cards on the table – detailing the weather for the following day. The staff genuinely cares and wants each guest to have the best experience.

Animal Sightings

Now, what everyone REALLY wants to know. How are the safari game drives? 5/5 Highly recommend. It is the best of the best. Within 5 minutes of a game drive, we spotted a leopard hanging out in a tree. For the record, many guests at other safari lodges never see one. Animal sightings are never guaranteed but the wildlife is abundant at Kings Camp. We saw the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo) within the first two game drives. The guides are knowledgeable, professional, and fun. The time flew by on the game drives which typically last 2.5-3 hours in the morning, as well as, in the evening. The game drive is not the only place to see animals. Kings Camp built an underground viewing point in front of the watering hole at the main camp. This is called “the hide.” This viewing point has modern amenities such as wifi, charging stations, tea and coffee, and comfy seating as we waited patiently for the animals to stop by. It was worth the wait as several elephants stopped by for a drink.

Dining

We enjoyed every meal outdoors. All the meals are included at Kings Camp. Before the morning game drive, there is an option to have a coffee, tea, fruit and biscuits. After the morning game drive, we were given a menu with 2 to 3 options. We typically picked a fruit platter and an eggs and bacon combo. For lunch and dinner, the chef showed their creativity and passion. You can tell by the presentation alone – that they love what they do. One night we were surprised with an outdoor BBQ called a bomba. We had our pick of chicken, lamb chops, beef, grilled corn, medley of veggies, and so much more.

Highlights

Kings Camp excels at making guests feel at ease. Between the unlimited laundry service to providing a booklet to track animal sightings, the staff knows your needs and desires before you ask. The attention to detail is impeccable and it feels like home away from home. The animal sightings are outstanding. The guides and trackers are allowed to offroad for the big 5 animal sightings. For me, this is crucial. I have been to other safari lodges where we missed out on sightings because you have to stay on the path.

We can’t say enough great things about Kings Camp. We had a phenomenal time. For reservations, you can book directly on the Kings Camp website. Please let them know Loren and Ken sent you.

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