Simbavati River Sands

We had the great privilege of spending 4 nights with the River Sands Family and are still coming to terms with the incredible experience we had. The villa is simply breathtaking and the team who looked after us were equally fantastic. A real pinch yourself, holiday of a lifetime experience which will never be forgotten. Just sitting and relaxing by the pool we saw elephants, giraffe, buffalo, wart hogs and kudu visit the waterhole a stone’s throw away. However this was nothing compared to the experiences Rudolph and Thabo gave us on every drive we went on, and the amazing food, hospitality and care provided by Portia, Claudine, Amushu and Justice. Multiple big 5 sightings, including 5 different leopards and being surrounded by 8 rhinos at one point. They got us closer than we would ever have thought possible and no need for fancy cameras and zoom lenses. Mobile phones were enough. The sunset bush bar was also an amazing treat. Talking to friends back home and people at the airport, we know we were exceptionally lucky to see what we did, but I think it had more to do with the skill and knowledge of Thabo and Rudolph. Special thanks also to Muzi for the entertaining transfers and rescuing a lost mobile from the plane. Brett and the team are clearly so proud of what Simbavati has to offer their clients, and rightly so. If you get the opportunity to go, take it!

The River Sands Villa is massive and absolutely gorgeous — inside and outside!!! Our staff provided exceptional service and we felt absolutely spoiled. Our guide Andre and tracker Nicholus were very professional, informative, and had great senses of humor. Was a very fun time. Very highly recommend staying at this villa. You will NOT be sorry!!!