We’re still catching our breath – and pinching ourselves – as we reflect on what has been an extraordinary moment for our family at Tanda Tula.
In just two short years since relaunching our reimagined Tanda Tula Safari Camp, we’ve been recognised on two of the most respected global stages in travel – a humbling affirmation that what we’ve built together here in the Timbavati is resonating far beyond our borders.
Hot on the heels of being named one of the Top 10 Best Resorts in South Africa in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, we are deeply honoured to have also received two distinctions from the LUXE Global Awards: Best Luxury Safari Retreat in South Africa and Best Luxury Private Game Lodge in Southern Africa.
Why This Recognition Matters
Both Condé Nast Traveler and the LUXE Global Awards are among the world’s most trusted voices in luxury travel, representing not only the opinions of industry leaders but, more importantly, the sentiments of travellers themselves.
For us, these accolades are not about prestige; they are about purpose. They affirm that our vision of a soulful, unhurried safari is touching people in the way we always hoped it would.
The Land That Shapes Us
And just as meaningfully, these awards bring awareness to the Timbavati Nature Reserve – our home, and the land that shapes us.
This is a wild, open landscape of more than 55 000 hectares, connected to the Greater Kruger National Park and unfenced along its boundaries, allowing wildlife to move freely between ecosystems as nature intended. Here, the environment is a living partner to which we are wholly connected, entirely dependent, and profoundly responsible.
The Timbavati Association, established over half a century ago by a group of visionary landowners, set the tone for a unique model of collaborative conservation that continues to guide the reserve today. It is a rare and inspiring example of how private custodians, ecologists, and hospitality teams can work side by side to protect biodiversity while creating meaningful opportunities for neighbouring communities. We are part of that continuum, and to see this reserve recognised on the global travel stage is to see the collective effort of so many people – past and present – acknowledged in an award that truly belongs to all of us.
The People Behind the Magic
If there is one truth that anchors everything we do, it’s this: the heart of Tanda Tula has always been its people. There’s an essence here that cannot be replicated.
To our incredible team, this is your recognition. You are the reason our guests return time and again – not just for the wildlife or the wilderness, but for the way you make them feel. You infuse this camp with generosity, grace, and an unwavering sense of belonging. You are the soul of Tanda Tula, and we are endlessly proud to call you our family.
Our Driving Purpose
A journey to Tanda Tula is part of something far greater than a safari. It’s part of a living ecosystem of wildlife, wilderness, and people that thrives when cared for collectively.
Every guest who chooses to stay with us becomes part of that story through the Tanda Tula Foundation, supporting education, skills development, and community upliftment in the Greater Kruger area while actively protecting the delicate balance of our reserve.
For us, this is the true definition of purposeful hospitality, and the more people we reach, the more guests we welcome, the greater the impact we can create for our environment, our communities, our industry, and our country.
Luxury, in this sense, is not the goal. It is the means through which we sustain the wild places and human stories that make South Africa so remarkable.
With Deepest Gratitude
To our guests, our travel partners, our community, and our team – thank you.
Thank you for your trust, your love, and your belief in what we do.
From the Timbavati to the world, we are honoured to share with you the safari experience that defines who we are – soulful, unhurried, and deeply human.
With immense pride and gratitude,
Nina & Don Scott
Co-Owners, Tanda Tula
