Umbabat Nature Reserve

Set on the Nhlaralumi River in the Bushbuckridge Municipality, near the Kruger National Park, Umbabat Nature Reserve is located just an hour's drive from Hoedspruit and is situated in prime 'Big Five' territory. Comprising reserves such as N’tsiri, Ndlopfu, and Ingwelala, the area features mopani bushveld, watering holes, and river beds, drawing a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and various antelope. Predators like hyenas and pride of lions, along with occasional sightings of wild dogs and cheetahs, contribute to the reserve's rich biodiversity. Notably, Umbabat gained attention in 2006 for the natural birth of two white lions, a rare occurrence in the Timbavati area after a 12-year absence of wild white lions.