South Africa Camps & Lodges
Siviti Timbavati Plains Lodge, Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, South Africa
A Luxury Lodge or Hotel in South Africa
Camp Details
Siviti, formerly known as Thornybush River Lodge, is derived from the Xitsonga word Xiviti meaning intellectual. Siviti’s land is named Timbavati Plains because historically the Lowveld area around the Timbavati River consisted of dense grass cover and trees. Previous fencing limited the movement of elephants, resulting in dense bush taking over the grass plains. With the removal of the fences and opening of reserves, elephants can once again move freely returning the area to its previous glory. Set alongside the banks of the Timbavati river, you will enjoy private views of curious and thirsty animals, specifically elephants, whether overlooking the main deck rim-flow pool or from the shaded waters of your private plunge pool. It is because of this that we decided to make an ode and name our lodge and land after these beautiful and intelligent creatures. Siviti is wrapped in luxury amidst the untamed African bushveld, you will experience unsurpassed game viewing opportunities blended seamlessly with personalized service and prime amenities. WHY CHOOSE SIVITI TIMBAVATI PLAINS LODGE?
- Six luxurious suites overlooking the seasonal Timbavati River, discreetly positioned to ensure a personalized and private experience for every guest.
- A typical African Hide set on the banks of the lodge’s watering hole, provides hours of game viewing in comfortable seating.
- The private reserve is home to an abundance of species: 147 mammals including the “Big Five”, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, 49 fish, 34 amphibians and 336 trees
Questions about Siviti
Why the change of name?
The lodge was formerly Thornybush River Lodge. Siviti comes from the Xitsonga word Xiviti, meaning intellectual, and the name is an ode to the elephants that dominate the property. The surrounding land is called Timbavati Plains after the grass cover and trees that historically characterised this part of the Lowveld.
What has changed about the landscape?
Earlier fencing restricted elephant movement, which let dense bush take over the grass plains. With the fences removed and reserves opened up, elephants can move freely again and the area is returning to its former character, which is the reason the lodge makes so much of them.
Where can we watch game without going out?
There is a classic African hide on the banks of the lodge's watering hole with comfortable seating for hours of viewing. Six suites, each with a private plunge pool, are discreetly positioned for privacy, and the main deck has a rim-flow pool. The reserve records 147 mammals, 507 birds, 114 reptiles, 49 fish, 34 amphibians and 336 trees.
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