A dream luxury safari holiday at an exclusive South African game reserve turned into an unimaginable tragedy, leading to a multi-million-pound wrongful death lawsuit.
The family of a tourist, who suffered a fatal heart attack allegedly triggered by the deafening roar of mating lions just metres from his tent, is now suing the operators of the Kambaku River Sands lodge for negligence.
A Night of Terror in the Timbavati
The incident occurred in the renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, which borders the world-famous Kruger National Park. The victim and his wife were enjoying what they believed was a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a premium, unfenced tent offering 'serious luxury'.
Their stay took a horrifying turn on the night of 28 September 2022. According to the lawsuit, the couple was subjected to the intense and thunderous roars of lions mating unnervingly close to their flimsy accommodation. The sheer volume and proximity of the noise caused the man to go into cardiac arrest.
Allegations of Negligence and Failed Duty of Care
The legal claim paints a picture of a resort that prioritised a 'wild experience' over guest safety. Key allegations include:
- Inadequate Warning: The family claims they were not properly informed about the potential dangers of wild animals, including lions, coming directly up to the tents.
- Absence of Protection: The tents were unfenced and lacked any meaningful barrier or protection from the wildlife the resort attracts.
- Poor Emergency Response: There was allegedly a critical delay in providing medical assistance after the man collapsed.
‘The roar of the lions was so loud and frightening it was as if they were inside the tent with us,’ the victim’s wife stated in court papers, describing the traumatic event that led to her husband's death.
The Resort's Defence
Representatives for the lodge have denied the allegations. They maintain that all guests are thoroughly briefed on safety protocols upon arrival. Furthermore, they argue that the presence of wildlife, including the sounds of lions, is an inherent and expected risk of staying in a big-five game reserve, a risk the deceased allegedly accepted.
The case highlights the delicate balance luxury safari lodges must strike between offering an authentic, exhilarating wilderness experience and ensuring the absolute safety of their guests from the very real dangers that surround them.
