Timbavati Experiences
The Timbavati experience awaits
There are many activities at Makanyi to indulge in and keep you busy and entertained throughout your stay. Most of these are offered by us and your guide will be happy to organize them for you at your request. The ones marked by a star (*) are by prior arrangement, so please let us know if you are interested in any of them either at the time of booking or during your stay so we can organise them for you. Please note they are subject to availability and additional charges apply.
Graeme Naylor Museum
The museum was constructed in 2009 and refurbished in 2016. Located at the reserve’s headquarters, Chi Mani Mani, it’s packed with so many interesting things to see. There’s a stunning display of all the freshwater fish found in the reserve. A brilliant photographic poster shows all the frogs you’ll encounter. Stand next to a jaw dropping display of the fabled white lions of the Timbavati and you’ll get an idea how huge these animals are. Cabinets filled with the most delicate and beautiful butterflies and moths, all found in the reserve, serve as a reminder of the incredible diversity of nature. A huge collection of birds’ eggs covering virtually every species found in South Africa. Although the museum focuses mainly on the natural history of the Timbavati, many displays cover the whole country.
K-9 Demonstration
Currently the Timbavati has five highly skilled & trained dogs; some are German Shepherds, and some Malinois, a Belgian breed. All the TPNR Canines are trained to track humans, and their responsibility is to help detect and track down rhino poachers who may enter the reserve. For an up-close and personal experience with Timbavati K-9 Team. It’s and experience you won’t forget. All proceeds go towards the wellbeing of the dogs at the gate for their food, training, and health.
If you’d like to sponsor any of the dogs, or just make a general donation towards their upkeep, please follow the link – Timbavati Canine Ranger Campaign
Anti-poaching Surveillance Flights
In partnership with the Timbavati Wildlife Protection Programme’s Rhino Anti-Poaching initiative, guests have the unique opportunity of not only funding much needed anti- poaching patrols, but also personally being part of the anti-poaching air surveillance helicopter patrol they are sponsoring. An Anti-Poaching Ranger will always accompany the surveillance flight, this will give you a first-hand insight into the incredible effort and significant contribution made by the TPNR anti-poaching unit.
Rhino Notching
In an effort to assist with the rhino poaching epidemic, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is darting and micro chipping their rhino population. From locating and darting the Rhino to assisting with tasks such as pouring water over the Rhino and checking its temperature, you will be included in the entire operation. The vet will explain the whole process during this time and give you an opportunity to take up close and personal photographs with this magnificent endangered animal.