Tanda Tula means ‘to love the quiet’ in Tsonga, and this luxurious property aims to provide its guests with an intimate and personal stay in an area of outstanding wildlife viewing.
Nestled along the banks of the Nhlaralumi River within the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, Tanda Tula provides a contemporary safari experience, exuding intricate modern décor with traditional Tsonga touches and patterns. Upon arrival, a grand stone entranceway leads to the stylishly appointed lounge and bar area with a unique centrepiece fireplace and outdoor viewing deck, overlooking the Nhlaralumi River and the serene bushveld landscape beyond.
The dining room is a picture of opulence with stunning textured walls, hanging ornaments and wine cellar. When weather permits, dinners can be enjoyed around the fire under the stars in the magnificent spiral boma. The infinity pool overlooks a tranquil waterhole, regularly frequented by all manner of wildlife and a meticulously crafted hide shares a similar view, providing a spot to unwind whilst watching as species great and small come to quench their thirst.
A library, small air-conditioned gym and wellness spa offering a range of massages, scrubs, and body treatments complete the facilities at the main lodge.
The eco-conscious accommodation consists of nine hybrid canvas-and-glass suites, two of which are family suites sleeping up to four people. Each of the individual units are positioned in a way that allows all the interior and exterior spaces to have uninterrupted views of the riverbed. The décor has been chosen with the surrounding bush in mind, with shades and textures inspired by the landscape such as deep aubergine, textured wood, and intricate patterns of Tsonga tradition, complimented by contemporary local art and fine linens, adding to the sense of effortless luxury.
The seven safari suites are comprised of a spacious open-plan bedroom and lounge, en suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers, and a wraparound private deck with seating area and plunge pool. The family suites have two separate bedrooms, each with en suite facilities with indoor and outdoor showers, shared lounge, and a wraparound private deck with seating area and plunge pool. The suites all enjoy the use of modern amenities such as air-conditioning, automated roll down blinds, yoga mats, hairdryer, charging station, mini bar, aromatic teas and bean-to-cup coffee.
Dining at Tanda Tula features a number of traditional South African dishes with a creative twist. The chef creates extraordinary menus, utilising fresh local ingredients and paired perfectly with fine wines. The staff provide a warm and attentive service, with the kitchen happily catering to all palettes and preferences.
Families are well catered for at Tanda Tula, with designated activities for young children where they can learn to track animals, make moulds of footprints, spot wildlife from the hide, or prepare their own pizza. Older children are free to kick a ball on the lawn, swim in the pool, pick up a book from the library or sit patiently monitoring the waterhole.
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