Timbila Nature Reserve
Luxury, Nature Reserve
Local Pick
At a glance
Ideal for
Type
Known for
Home of Second Chances
Features
Price
$$$$ Affordable
Local tip
TimBila Nature Reserve: A Safari of Second Chances in Namibia
In the heart of Namibia's rugged Erongo landscape lies a safari destination where wildlife conservation, luxury, nature and meaningful travel come together. TimBila Nature Reserve is a 33,500-hectare conservation reserve located approximately 60 kilometres from Omaruru and north of Erindi. Known as the “Home of Second Chances,” TimBila was created around a vision of protecting Namibia's landscapes and wildlife while creating a place where visitors can learn about conservation and the challenges of human-wildlife conflict.
The name TimBila means “Song of Nature”, an appropriate description for a reserve where expansive plains, mountains, riverbeds and wildlife create an authentic Namibian safari environment. But TimBila is not designed simply as a place to tick animals off a safari checklist. Its approach centres on purposeful travel, allowing guests to discover the stories behind the wildlife, learn about conservation and experience the work involved in protecting Namibia's natural heritage.
A 33,500-Hectare Conservation Reserve
TimBila Nature Reserve protects approximately 33,500 hectares of Namibian landscape in partnership with the Naankuse Foundation and the Brinke family. The reserve forms part of a wider conservation vision focused on protecting wildlife, landscapes and the people connected to them. The reserve also provides a protected environment for wildlife affected by human-wildlife conflict. Some animals arrive at TimBila after experiencing difficult circumstances in areas where drought, competition for resources and increasing contact between wildlife and people can create serious challenges.
This gives TimBila a particularly distinctive conservation story: animals that have faced difficult circumstances are given another opportunity to live and contribute to a functioning wildlife population. The reserve is also protected by an anti-poaching unit, while research and conservation teams contribute to understanding wildlife and human-wildlife conflict.
Safari With a Purpose
A safari at TimBila is designed to go beyond wildlife viewing. The reserve's conservation-led activities are intended to help visitors understand the landscape and the animals living within it. Guides include scientists and conservation specialists who can share information about wildlife behaviour, tracking, conservation and reserve management. Guests can learn not only what animal they are looking at, but also about its individual story, its environment and the conservation challenges surrounding the species.
This makes TimBila particularly appealing to travellers who want a deeper connection with Namibia and who are interested in understanding how modern conservation works.
Wildlife at TimBila
TimBila is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers guests the opportunity to encounter some of Africa's most iconic species.The reserve describes itself as offering a Big Five safari experience, with the exception of buffalo. Wildlife experiences can include encounters with elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and other African wildlife, depending on conditions and animal movements. Rather than following a predetermined checklist, guests can learn to read the landscape and follow the signs left by the animals. Tracks, calls, movements and behaviour all become part of the safari experience.
Wilderness Drives
A Wilderness Drive is one of the principal ways to explore TimBila's vast landscape. Guided drives travel across the reserve in search of wildlife while allowing guests to experience the changing scenery of the Namibian bushveld. Guests can choose different times of day, including sunrise and sunset drives. Sunset drives can include sundowner drinks and snacks while the last light of the day transforms the surrounding landscape. For photographers, wildlife enthusiasts and first-time safari visitors, these drives provide an opportunity to experience Namibia's wildlife within a large conservation landscape rather than a small enclosed viewing area.
Animal Tracking
For those who want to become more involved in the safari experience, animal tracking offers a different way to explore the reserve. With the assistance of experienced guides and tracking technology, guests can follow the movements of selected wildlife and learn how conservation teams monitor individual animals. TimBila uses a high-tech LoRaWAN tracking system as part of its wildlife tracking experiences.
Following an animal's tracks and signs transforms the safari from simply looking for wildlife into an exercise in observation and understanding.
Guided Nature Walks
A Guided Nature Walk allows visitors to experience the reserve at a slower pace. Walking through the Namibian bushveld reveals details that can easily be missed from a vehicle: smaller animals, insects, plants, tracks, sounds and subtle changes in the landscape. Experienced guides introduce guests to the flora and fauna of the reserve while explaining how the different elements of the ecosystem interact.
Discover the Roots of TimBila
One of the more unusual experiences at TimBila is the opportunity to discover what happens behind the scenes. The Discover the Roots of TimBila experience provides insight into reserve management, wildlife conservation and anti-poaching operations. Guests can learn about the practical work required to operate a large conservation reserve and gain a better understanding of the people working to protect its wildlife and ecosystems. For travellers interested in conservation, this can be one of the most educational parts of a TimBila stay.
Ancient Rock Engravings
TimBila also offers opportunities to discover the cultural history contained within its landscape. Guided visits to areas featuring ancient rock engravings allow visitors to explore artworks etched into the rock and learn about the cultural heritage associated with the area. These experiences add another layer to the safari, reminding visitors that Namibia's landscapes have a history extending far beyond the modern safari industry.
Four Ways to Stay at TimBila
One of the major advantages of TimBila Nature Reserve is the variety of accommodation available. Rather than offering one accommodation style, the reserve provides four distinctly different ways to experience the property.
TimBila Safari Lodge
Set into the slope of Osera Mountain, TimBila Safari Lodge overlooks the expansive plains of the reserve. The luxury lodge features 12 spacious tented safari suites, each designed to combine understated luxury with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Suites feature wood-fired hot tubs and outdoor stargazing beds, while binoculars are provided so guests can enjoy the sweeping views and observe wildlife from their accommodation. The main lodge includes a restaurant, bar, lounges and expansive deck areas overlooking the plains. A heated infinity pool provides another place to relax, while the on-site wellness centre offers treatments and a gym with views across the reserve. For wine enthusiasts, The Cellar features a selection of wines from producers whose practices align with TimBila's conservation ethos, including wines from Neuras Wine & Wildlife Estate.
TimBila Private Villa
For families and groups seeking a more private safari experience, TimBila Private Villa provides an exclusive retreat within the reserve. The villa features five bedrooms, safari-inspired interiors and views towards the waterhole and surrounding thornbush savannah. Multiple dining areas, sunken lounges, outdoor spaces and a private swimming pool create an environment designed for spending time together.
The villa is fully serviced and catered, allowing families or groups to enjoy a private safari experience without sacrificing the services associated with a luxury lodge.
Camp Namibia
For travellers who prefer a more relaxed and down-to-earth safari experience, Camp Namibia is positioned along the often-dry Omaruru River. The camp offers 12 en-suite self-catering tents together with four private campsites, creating a more informal way to experience the reserve. A lapa, swimming pool and nearby watering hole provide spaces for relaxing between activities. Camp Namibia is particularly suited to families, independent travellers and guests who enjoy a closer connection to the outdoors while still having access to safari activities.
TimBila Farmstead
TimBila Farmstead offers something completely different from a conventional safari lodge. Designed around a luxury farm experience, the Farmstead provides accommodation for up to 12 people and is particularly suitable for families, groups of friends or multi-generational travel. Guests can become involved in hands-on farm experiences, including milking and collecting fresh eggs, while enjoying the comfort of a private farm-style retreat. It provides an opportunity to slow down, reconnect and experience another side of life in rural Namibia.
Dining at TimBila
Dining forms an important part of the TimBila experience. The main lodge restaurant overlooks the expansive thornbush savannah and focuses on locally sourced ingredients and carefully prepared meals. TimBila also caters for different dietary requirements. At the luxury lodge, the restaurant includes an interactive kitchen, while the bar offers fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails. The Cellar provides another setting for guests to explore a selection of wines, with private dining available for special occasions.
Wellness in the Wilderness
TimBila combines safari with opportunities for relaxation and wellness. The Safari Lodge's wellness centre offers treatments designed around relaxation and rejuvenation, while the gym provides modern equipment with views across the surrounding plains. The heated infinity pool is positioned above the landscape and provides an especially beautiful place to relax while watching the sunset. The result is a safari experience where guests can alternate between adventure and complete relaxation.
A Safari for Families, Couples and Conservation Enthusiasts
TimBila offers different accommodation and activity options, making the reserve suitable for a variety of travellers.
The Meaning Behind “Second Chances”
The phrase “Home of Second Chances” is central to TimBila's identity. The reserve was established around the need to provide a conflict-free environment for wildlife as human-wildlife conflict increases in Namibia. Its conservation model aims to give wildlife, landscapes and people new opportunities through sustainable activities, education, participation and research. For guests, this means that the story of conservation is visible throughout the safari experience.
The wildlife is not simply something to photograph. Guests are encouraged to understand the circumstances surrounding individual animals and the work involved in protecting them.
Your Stay Supports Conservation
TimBila's conservation model extends beyond wildlife. Through its partnership with the Naankuse Foundation, TimBila supports initiatives involving healthcare, education and community wellbeing, while the wider conservation partnership protects the reserve's landscape and supports wildlife protection.
This means that tourism forms part of a broader effort to create sustainable benefits for wildlife, landscapes and people. For visitors, choosing TimBila provides an opportunity to combine a memorable Namibian safari with a deeper understanding of conservation and human-wildlife coexistence.
A Different Kind of Namibian Safari
TimBila Nature Reserve is not simply about finding the Big Five. It is about understanding the landscape in which they live. It is about following tracks through the bush, learning how wildlife is monitored, discovering ancient rock engravings, meeting the people working behind the scenes and watching the sun disappear across thousands of hectares of Namibian wilderness. It is about luxury without losing connection to nature, and adventure with a purpose. Whether you choose the luxury TimBila Safari Lodge, the private TimBila Villa, the relaxed Camp Namibia or the unique TimBila Farmstead, the reserve offers a different way to experience Namibia.
Discover TimBila Nature Reserve
Located approximately 60 kilometres from Omaruru, TimBila Nature Reserve offers a remarkable combination of wildlife, wilderness, conservation and hospitality in the Erongo Region of Namibia.
For travellers searching for a luxury safari in Namibia, Big Five wildlife experiences, conservation-focused travel, family safari accommodation near Omaruru or a meaningful African wilderness experience, TimBila provides a destination where the safari becomes part of a larger story.
Come for the wildlife. Stay for the wilderness. Leave with a deeper understanding of Namibia's conservation story.
The name TimBila means “Song of Nature”, an appropriate description for a reserve where expansive plains, mountains, riverbeds and wildlife create an authentic Namibian safari environment. But TimBila is not designed simply as a place to tick animals off a safari checklist. Its approach centres on purposeful travel, allowing guests to discover the stories behind the wildlife, learn about conservation and experience the work involved in protecting Namibia's natural heritage.
A 33,500-Hectare Conservation Reserve
TimBila Nature Reserve protects approximately 33,500 hectares of Namibian landscape in partnership with the Naankuse Foundation and the Brinke family. The reserve forms part of a wider conservation vision focused on protecting wildlife, landscapes and the people connected to them. The reserve also provides a protected environment for wildlife affected by human-wildlife conflict. Some animals arrive at TimBila after experiencing difficult circumstances in areas where drought, competition for resources and increasing contact between wildlife and people can create serious challenges.
This gives TimBila a particularly distinctive conservation story: animals that have faced difficult circumstances are given another opportunity to live and contribute to a functioning wildlife population. The reserve is also protected by an anti-poaching unit, while research and conservation teams contribute to understanding wildlife and human-wildlife conflict.
Safari With a Purpose
A safari at TimBila is designed to go beyond wildlife viewing. The reserve's conservation-led activities are intended to help visitors understand the landscape and the animals living within it. Guides include scientists and conservation specialists who can share information about wildlife behaviour, tracking, conservation and reserve management. Guests can learn not only what animal they are looking at, but also about its individual story, its environment and the conservation challenges surrounding the species.
This makes TimBila particularly appealing to travellers who want a deeper connection with Namibia and who are interested in understanding how modern conservation works.
Wildlife at TimBila
TimBila is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers guests the opportunity to encounter some of Africa's most iconic species.The reserve describes itself as offering a Big Five safari experience, with the exception of buffalo. Wildlife experiences can include encounters with elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and other African wildlife, depending on conditions and animal movements. Rather than following a predetermined checklist, guests can learn to read the landscape and follow the signs left by the animals. Tracks, calls, movements and behaviour all become part of the safari experience.
Wilderness Drives
A Wilderness Drive is one of the principal ways to explore TimBila's vast landscape. Guided drives travel across the reserve in search of wildlife while allowing guests to experience the changing scenery of the Namibian bushveld. Guests can choose different times of day, including sunrise and sunset drives. Sunset drives can include sundowner drinks and snacks while the last light of the day transforms the surrounding landscape. For photographers, wildlife enthusiasts and first-time safari visitors, these drives provide an opportunity to experience Namibia's wildlife within a large conservation landscape rather than a small enclosed viewing area.
Animal Tracking
For those who want to become more involved in the safari experience, animal tracking offers a different way to explore the reserve. With the assistance of experienced guides and tracking technology, guests can follow the movements of selected wildlife and learn how conservation teams monitor individual animals. TimBila uses a high-tech LoRaWAN tracking system as part of its wildlife tracking experiences.
Following an animal's tracks and signs transforms the safari from simply looking for wildlife into an exercise in observation and understanding.
Guided Nature Walks
A Guided Nature Walk allows visitors to experience the reserve at a slower pace. Walking through the Namibian bushveld reveals details that can easily be missed from a vehicle: smaller animals, insects, plants, tracks, sounds and subtle changes in the landscape. Experienced guides introduce guests to the flora and fauna of the reserve while explaining how the different elements of the ecosystem interact.
Discover the Roots of TimBila
One of the more unusual experiences at TimBila is the opportunity to discover what happens behind the scenes. The Discover the Roots of TimBila experience provides insight into reserve management, wildlife conservation and anti-poaching operations. Guests can learn about the practical work required to operate a large conservation reserve and gain a better understanding of the people working to protect its wildlife and ecosystems. For travellers interested in conservation, this can be one of the most educational parts of a TimBila stay.
Ancient Rock Engravings
TimBila also offers opportunities to discover the cultural history contained within its landscape. Guided visits to areas featuring ancient rock engravings allow visitors to explore artworks etched into the rock and learn about the cultural heritage associated with the area. These experiences add another layer to the safari, reminding visitors that Namibia's landscapes have a history extending far beyond the modern safari industry.
Four Ways to Stay at TimBila
One of the major advantages of TimBila Nature Reserve is the variety of accommodation available. Rather than offering one accommodation style, the reserve provides four distinctly different ways to experience the property.
TimBila Safari Lodge
Set into the slope of Osera Mountain, TimBila Safari Lodge overlooks the expansive plains of the reserve. The luxury lodge features 12 spacious tented safari suites, each designed to combine understated luxury with a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Suites feature wood-fired hot tubs and outdoor stargazing beds, while binoculars are provided so guests can enjoy the sweeping views and observe wildlife from their accommodation. The main lodge includes a restaurant, bar, lounges and expansive deck areas overlooking the plains. A heated infinity pool provides another place to relax, while the on-site wellness centre offers treatments and a gym with views across the reserve. For wine enthusiasts, The Cellar features a selection of wines from producers whose practices align with TimBila's conservation ethos, including wines from Neuras Wine & Wildlife Estate.
TimBila Private Villa
For families and groups seeking a more private safari experience, TimBila Private Villa provides an exclusive retreat within the reserve. The villa features five bedrooms, safari-inspired interiors and views towards the waterhole and surrounding thornbush savannah. Multiple dining areas, sunken lounges, outdoor spaces and a private swimming pool create an environment designed for spending time together.
The villa is fully serviced and catered, allowing families or groups to enjoy a private safari experience without sacrificing the services associated with a luxury lodge.
Camp Namibia
For travellers who prefer a more relaxed and down-to-earth safari experience, Camp Namibia is positioned along the often-dry Omaruru River. The camp offers 12 en-suite self-catering tents together with four private campsites, creating a more informal way to experience the reserve. A lapa, swimming pool and nearby watering hole provide spaces for relaxing between activities. Camp Namibia is particularly suited to families, independent travellers and guests who enjoy a closer connection to the outdoors while still having access to safari activities.
TimBila Farmstead
TimBila Farmstead offers something completely different from a conventional safari lodge. Designed around a luxury farm experience, the Farmstead provides accommodation for up to 12 people and is particularly suitable for families, groups of friends or multi-generational travel. Guests can become involved in hands-on farm experiences, including milking and collecting fresh eggs, while enjoying the comfort of a private farm-style retreat. It provides an opportunity to slow down, reconnect and experience another side of life in rural Namibia.
Dining at TimBila
Dining forms an important part of the TimBila experience. The main lodge restaurant overlooks the expansive thornbush savannah and focuses on locally sourced ingredients and carefully prepared meals. TimBila also caters for different dietary requirements. At the luxury lodge, the restaurant includes an interactive kitchen, while the bar offers fresh juices, smoothies and cocktails. The Cellar provides another setting for guests to explore a selection of wines, with private dining available for special occasions.
Wellness in the Wilderness
TimBila combines safari with opportunities for relaxation and wellness. The Safari Lodge's wellness centre offers treatments designed around relaxation and rejuvenation, while the gym provides modern equipment with views across the surrounding plains. The heated infinity pool is positioned above the landscape and provides an especially beautiful place to relax while watching the sunset. The result is a safari experience where guests can alternate between adventure and complete relaxation.
A Safari for Families, Couples and Conservation Enthusiasts
TimBila offers different accommodation and activity options, making the reserve suitable for a variety of travellers.
- Couples seeking a luxury safari
- Families travelling together
- Private groups
- Wildlife enthusiasts
- Photographers
- Conservation-minded travellers
- Adventure travellers
- Luxury safari guests
- Visitors interested in Namibia's natural and cultural heritage
- Travellers seeking a private villa experience
- Guests wanting a more affordable or relaxed camping-style safari
The Meaning Behind “Second Chances”
The phrase “Home of Second Chances” is central to TimBila's identity. The reserve was established around the need to provide a conflict-free environment for wildlife as human-wildlife conflict increases in Namibia. Its conservation model aims to give wildlife, landscapes and people new opportunities through sustainable activities, education, participation and research. For guests, this means that the story of conservation is visible throughout the safari experience.
The wildlife is not simply something to photograph. Guests are encouraged to understand the circumstances surrounding individual animals and the work involved in protecting them.
Your Stay Supports Conservation
TimBila's conservation model extends beyond wildlife. Through its partnership with the Naankuse Foundation, TimBila supports initiatives involving healthcare, education and community wellbeing, while the wider conservation partnership protects the reserve's landscape and supports wildlife protection.
This means that tourism forms part of a broader effort to create sustainable benefits for wildlife, landscapes and people. For visitors, choosing TimBila provides an opportunity to combine a memorable Namibian safari with a deeper understanding of conservation and human-wildlife coexistence.
A Different Kind of Namibian Safari
TimBila Nature Reserve is not simply about finding the Big Five. It is about understanding the landscape in which they live. It is about following tracks through the bush, learning how wildlife is monitored, discovering ancient rock engravings, meeting the people working behind the scenes and watching the sun disappear across thousands of hectares of Namibian wilderness. It is about luxury without losing connection to nature, and adventure with a purpose. Whether you choose the luxury TimBila Safari Lodge, the private TimBila Villa, the relaxed Camp Namibia or the unique TimBila Farmstead, the reserve offers a different way to experience Namibia.
Discover TimBila Nature Reserve
Located approximately 60 kilometres from Omaruru, TimBila Nature Reserve offers a remarkable combination of wildlife, wilderness, conservation and hospitality in the Erongo Region of Namibia.
For travellers searching for a luxury safari in Namibia, Big Five wildlife experiences, conservation-focused travel, family safari accommodation near Omaruru or a meaningful African wilderness experience, TimBila provides a destination where the safari becomes part of a larger story.
Come for the wildlife. Stay for the wilderness. Leave with a deeper understanding of Namibia's conservation story.
Frequently Asked Questions
TimBila Nature Reserve is a 33,500-hectare conservation reserve in Namibia focused on wildlife protection, nature, and sustainable tourism.
TimBila Nature Reserve is located in Namibia’s Erongo region, about 60 kilometres from Omaruru and north of Erindi.
TimBila means 'Song of Nature,' reflecting the reserve’s dedication to Namibia’s natural environment.
TimBila offers luxury safari accommodations within the reserve, designed to provide an immersive wildlife experience.
Yes, the reserve focuses on educating visitors about wildlife conservation and challenges like human-wildlife conflict in Namibia.
The reserve is approximately 60 kilometres from the town of Omaruru in Namibia.
Yes, TimBila offers opportunities to see a variety of wildlife species native to Namibia's Erongo landscape.
Check the reserve’s website for current seasonal information and optimal visiting times in Namibia.
Bookings can be made through the reserve’s official website or authorized contact points.
Yes, guided wildlife tours and safaris are available for guests to explore Namibia’s natural environment at TimBila.
