The run will be open to 40 runners, split into two “buses”/ groups for safety as well as for pace preference. The walking event will be open for 20 walkers in one bus/group.
We must emphasise that this event is not a race but rather a run/walk where all runners/walkers get to experience an intimate connection with nature and exercise for a cause. Groups will run at split time intervals and the group will run together to ensure the safety of each runner.
Safety is our priority. Support vehicles and bicycles will accompany runners during the run and competent medical personnel will be on call & present at all times.

What’s included?
Participating in the Timbavati Traverse is a once in a lifetime experience which provides you with an exclusive run/walk through a world renowned nature reserve. During your run/walk, you will be guided by qualified guides who aim to ensure your ultimate safety as well as provide an educational experience to the wonders of the African bush.
R10 000.00 per runner | R 8 000.00 per walker
Your entry fee includes:
- Access to the exclusive and stunning setting of the beautiful and pristine Timbavati Private Nature Reserve in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park.
- Conservation levy to enter into the reserve.
- Dinner only for the runner at the pre-briefing on Friday (8th July) evening before the race with a soft drink/water. (All dietary requirements will be catered for).
- Post-run event lunch with beverages for runner and his/her immediate family. (All dietary requirements will be catered for).
- Cuppa pre-race coffee on the day of the run.
- Goodie bag with some amazing items inside. Boasted as the best goodie bag received by runners!
- Branded running sports shirt, cap & buff.
- A raffle ticket for the Timbavati Traverse runners raffle, giving you a chance to win a free entry into the 2023 event.
- All snacks and water provided & energy drink at stations throughout the day on Saturday.
- Weekend ticket for the runner & his/her family into the world-class Graeme Naylor Museum.
The entry fee does NOT include:
- Accommodation. A contact list for accommodation establishments link can be found under FAQs page.
- Other runners apparel. A branded runners t-shirt will be provided together with a buff and cap. See under FAQ’s on what to pack. Other merchandise can be purchased at our store.
- Transport to start or from finish to accommodation. Parking available at the event.

Families are welcome and will be able to join in on the festivities throughout the day at the Timbavati Headquarters. Unfortunately, no spectators will be allowed along the route for safety reasons.
While your family waits for your arrival, they can explore the spectacular Timbavati’s Graeme Naylor Museum as well as be entertained by organised activities for the whole family. Families will also have access to the swimming pool facilities available at the headquarters. Small vending stalls and curios and other fun activities will be set up on the day too.
Route
“It was great to meet so many other runners, also running as a group was really fun, it made it feel like you went really running in a way. I normally run alone or when I’m at home running there will be a maximum of 5 of us so running with this many people was a really different experience for me. I also really enjoyed the drink/snacks stops on route, this broke up the run nicely. The scenery was really nice and we saw a lot of general game, the experience with the Elephants was great and I also was one of the runners who saw the male Lion, although I think the Lion was just as surprised to see us as he was already running away as we ran in that direction.”
– Remember
How to get here
The event takes place from the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve’s headquarters. Travelers have two main ways of getting here either by car or by airplane.
Carriers – SA Airlink & Cemair





Read all about our first ever event held in 2021 and its successes!
Basic itinerary
The itinerary for the day is subject to change, however runners and their families may plan around the one below.
Timeline
17h00 -17h30
Pre-run briefing (participants only)
17h30 – 19h00
Light dinner and drinks (participants only)
16h00
End of event
– Grant Murphy
FAQs
How should I train for this event?
What should my average pace be?
What safety measures are in place while I run/walk?
What is the weather like during July in the Lowveld?
What should I pack?
Runners/walkers please make sure you pack running shoes that are suited for off road terrain. The rugged dirt roads will not do well with slick tar road running takkies!
For the early morning start be sure to have something warm. If you get hot, extra clothing can be loaded onto the support vehicle.
Is Timbavati a high Malaria risk area?
Do I need to run with a hydration pack?
Is accommodation included in my entry?
Where do we stay?
The Timbavati has 18 all-inclusive lodges and 4 self catering options. Many of the lodges will be offering packages for this event specifically so be sure to follow the Timbavati Traverse facebook page to see who is.
If these lodges are above your budget, we have hand picked a few options in the Hoedspruit surroundings which you can contact to book your stay.