Shindzela Tented Camp

A wonderful small private tented camp with great staff. The tents are well set up, but my only disappointment is that they have NO air-conditioning due to the fact that most of their power is solar and (understandably) clients would just leave them (if installed) running all day. There are fans in the tents, but certainly wouldn't be enough during the hot summer. I was there in September 2025 and there were some very warm days which in the tent was extremely hot, hence some time in the pool. The staff could NOT be faulted. Helpful, happy and did their best to find animals etc when out on safari. The food was brilliant (the best Ostrich steak I've ever had) and all 3 meals a day enjoyed on the balcony/lounge area. I would certainly return, but perhaps in July/August.

As a repeat visitor to Shindzela Tented camp, I had an excellent experience. This camp is in the Timbavati Reserve which is open to Kruger Park, The atmosphere in this 16 sleeper camp is homely and welcoming and casual. A very easy fenced camp to be in. A swimming pool to cool off during summer months. The tents are very comfortable, on solid platforms with ensuite bathrooms with amenities supplied. Housekeeping and turndown service is a lovely touch to the camp. The camp and accommodation is very clean. There is no noise except for wildlife sounds and bird calls. Excellent service from the staff team. Delicious meals served with bar service available all the time. A really good game viewing experience with very experienced guides and trackers. I shall definitely continue visiting Shindzela!

I had an incredible stay at Shindzela Tented Camp. This was my first safari, and I was lucky enough to see the Big Five within just two drives. Every game drive offered something completely different, from spotting a leopard and a pack of wild dogs to the famously fearless honey badger. The staff were exceptional, warm, knowledgeable, and passionate about what they do. It was an unforgettable experience, and I would absolutely go back. Huge thanks to the entire team for making it so special.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 10/10 – An Unforgettable Safari Experience at Shindzela Tented Camp! Our stay at Shindzela Tented Camp was nothing short of phenomenal. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warm smiles and genuine hospitality that made us feel instantly at home in the heart of the bush. The game drives were absolutely breathtaking — expertly guided by passionate rangers who seemed to know every inch of the land. We witnessed everything from majestic elephants at sunrise to a pride of lions under the evening sky. Each drive felt like a new adventure, and the knowledge and enthusiasm of the guides made the experience even more enriching. The food was simply fabulous — fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every meal was a delightful surprise, blending local ingredients with creative flair. Dining under the stars with the sounds of nature all around was truly magical. The staff were beyond exceptional. Their attention to detail, warmth, and personal touch made every moment special. From early morning coffee before the drives to thoughtful turndown touches in our tent, their care and professionalism stood out. The tents themselves were the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness, offering luxury without losing the authentic safari feel. Waking up to the sounds of birds and distant wildlife was pure serenity. If you’re looking for a safari experience that combines adventure, luxury, and heartfelt hospitality, Shodzela Tented Camp is an absolute gem. We left with full hearts, incredible memories, and a longing to return. Highly recommended — an unforgettable escape into the wild! 🦁🌿✨

If you have any doubts about this camp you should not! It is an amazing experience with some fantastic people. The fact that it is an hour from the Timbavati gate makes it all that more wonderful. The guides/trackers work really hard to find all the game. We saw it all, even a honey badger which was one things I really wanted to see. The camp is just right, with the lovely accommodations, but without all the unnecessary things like spas. I was there for the animals and birds! We spent 4 nights and it was not enough. If there is any way I can work it I will be returning! I can't say enough great things about Shindzela!!

I cannot say enough about the service at this camp. Lorna and Sam went above and beyond in helping us in the middle of the night overcome a very stressful situation. The camp has everything you need for an excellent safari experience. Choices for meals, excellent food, nice pool although it is not heated. Gift shop was excellent too. They did all they could to find the animals for you. The only complaint we had was the tented cabin had no heat and it got very cold at night and in the morning. Other than that it was a wonderful experience and I would recommend them highly to anyone.

Pros: Everything. The guides are knowledgeable, the trackers are truly incredible, the staff and service were top notch. Everyone was kind and willing to chat with us, gave us recommendations for future visits, and helped us search for animals we wanted to see. The small number of people in the camp (just 8 groups) and the lack of young children were both a plus for us. We went in the dry season, so there weren't many plants with leaves (we did that on purpose so there would be more animals at the watering holes and less bugs) but I assume during the summer it's VIBRANTLY green around the camp. AMENITIES: Their giftshop was well stocked with a variety of well-priced items for souvenirs and gifts. The jewelry is well made and really beautiful. We bought a little bit of everything and I regret nothing. The tents are clean and clearly well cared for - we did see a spider and a praying mantis in our tent, but they had a mosquito net and we just shooed them out. I would absolutely recommend using their provided bug spray for the mosquitos. The beds are comfy and the provided fan was a lifesaver when it was hot, but we were never uncomfortable and we experienced hot weather, and cold rainy weather, and wind. The attached showers were clean and had hot water, while it was open air showers with a thatch roof, it was all far more glamorous than we expected. The pool is small but well cared for and overlooks the watering hole which brings wildlife at all times of the day - we had a lot of fun watching for a Hyena that was returning every night and sitting in the watering hole. The camp itself was spotless and beautiful. The bar was well stocked and the lack of plug ins in the tents was not a problem as they provide a charging locker in the central area. We spent a lot of time outside our tents in the communal area which we didn't expect to do. But given that there are only 16 guests at a time, and the view was incredible, it felt private even when there were other guests around. We stayed in tents 6 and 7. 7 was a little farther away from the center of camp and we loved that as it was quiet and we could watch the opposite side of camp for critters. Tent 6 overlooked the watering hole which was great, though, again, we didn't end up spending much time in our tents anyway. SAFARIS: We did see the big five by day two even in the dry season, but that wasn't our priority. They really do their best to help you find what you're looking for though, while ensuring that you experience something amazing each safari. The morning safaris were more relaxed, while the evening safaris start at the end of the day and go into the night. So if you wanted to see nocturnal animals, this is a GREAT place to do it! You can also exchange a morning drive for a walking safari. The weather did not permit us to do this, but given the knowledge of the guide and tracker, I would assume it was as good as any driving safari. We did go out rain or shine, but we wouldn't have had it any other way. IF it does rain they do give you really nice and warm blanket ponchos. They also stop during each drive to provide you with coffee, tea, hot cooca, or your libation of choice. The only thing I could possibly say in the cons column would be that I would recommend a larger car to get out there as the dirt roads are a little bumpy and I can't imagine taking a smaller vehicle out there if you self drive. You can get a shuttle to take you from almost anywhere if you're worried about it though. Go. It's worth it.

What a great place to stay. The gamedrives are fantastic ! Very big compliment to Lauren. She was our excellent guide, tracker and driver. The tents where lovely and the food and service amazing.