Blogs, Bush Recipes & More | Thornybush Luxury Game Lodges

News | 2020-07-10 13:31:49

The Time For Revival Is NOW!

We are getting ready to open our doors, to welcome back our guests, to share our wildlife areas and create incredible, memorable experiences for everyone.

Recipes | 2020-07-09 19:55:38

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta – Saseka Lodge

Vanilla Bean Panna Cotta with Milk Crumble, Strawberry Leather, Pomegranate Pearls and Beetroot Mousse

Experiences and Lodges | 2020-07-01 20:00:47

Wellness Travel in the Wilderness

South Africa’s riches don’t just stop at its natural wonders, wildlife diversity and awe-inspiring landscapes, it also offers one-of-a-kind settings.

Lodges | 2020-06-23 19:55:50

Meet Megan Barclay – Pastry Chef, Saseka Lodge

Megan has been with the Thornybush team since June 2019 and her favourite part of the job is seeing the guests’ reactions to the food that is prepared.

Experiences, Lodges, and Wildlife | 2020-06-15 20:00:43

The Lure Of The Lowveld

To experience the Lowveld, is to experience a world within a world. Find out what makes it so special.

Community Projects and Experiences | 2020-06-12 20:00:21

The Future Of Travel Is Community-focused

What was once dubbed ‘Ecotourism’ is evolving into Community-based Tourism.

Experiences and Recipes | 2020-06-04 20:00:05

An Africology Face Mask Recipe

We have put together a simple DIY spa experience, made from ingredients you can find in your kitchen, to enjoy that spa vibe in the comfort of your home.

Experiences | 2020-05-27 19:50:29

Experience a Solo Safari with Thornybush

If you’re looking for some time for introspection, going on safari can be a life-changing experience.

Community Projects and Food Parcel | 2020-05-13 12:11:47

Thornybush Family Food Parcel Fundraiser

Help us support those in our local communities who are struggling with food security, due to COVID19. Every little bit helps and will be greatly appreciated.

Experiences, Lodges, and Wildlife | 2020-05-12 20:00:53

Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Just shy of 500km North West of Johannesburg, South Africa in the Lowveld of Mpumalanga lies the world famous and ultimate safari destination, the Sabi Sand.

News | 2020-04-08 11:14:51

Condé Nast Traveler Readers Choice Awards Finalist – Thornybush Game Lodge

It’s with profound pleasure that we’re able to report that Thornybush Game Lodge is a finalist in the Condé Nast Traveler, Readers Choice Awards! Vote now!

Lodges and News | 2020-04-03 15:20:46

Announcement: Thornybush is Going Into Hibernation

Thornybush is going into hibernation! Find out how this temporary closure has become necessary and what we are going to be doing with all our ‘free’ time.

News | 2020-03-23 15:07:36

Sharing good news on a Monday

Despite the Covid-19 outbreak, there is still good news to share!

News | 2020-03-23 11:23:52

Travel in Times of Uncertainty – COVID19

Find out what Thornybush is doing in the face of COVID-19 and the commitments we expect to keep with our guests, our trade partners and our community.

Wildlife | 2020-02-11 15:31:26

Wild Shots Community Program

participants of the wild shots community program

Thornybush was privileged to host a group of young photographers from the Wild Shots Outreach Program for photography lessons and workshops to promote creativit

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Best of Both
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Combine Lodges

VALID UNTIL:
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Enjoy A Night On Us
Pay 3, Stay 4.

Enjoy a Night on Us!

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Honeymoon Special
50% Bride Discount

Honeymoon in the bush!

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Kids Stay Free
Children are welcome

Under 18's Stay for Free!

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Single Travelers Welcome
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Solo Travel Deals

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FAQ

What is the best time of year to come on safari?

Each season has its own beauty and in an ideal world, one should try and experience the bushveld in the winter and in the summer to enjoy the two contrasts. Our summers are hot but tolerable as the air is very dry. Spectacular thunderstorms occur during the months of November through to March. Winter is dry and generally easier to view game as the bush is not as dense. The winter days are fantastic as temperatures average a moderate 20 degrees Celsius. When traveling in the winter months it is recommended that you dress warmly for both morning and evening game drives.

Is the fruit safe to eat?

The fruit supplied by the lodges is perfectly safe to eat, however DO NOT pick fruit from trees or pick any berries or fruit up off the ground without consulting your ranger as they may be poisonous.

Questions on photography?

Safaris are a photographer’s paradise; video or still-equipment should be in sturdy photographic cases.

What extra costs will I have at the lodge?

The rates for Thornybush are all-inclusive, however there may be some additional costs. For a full list of lodge inclusions, refer to the relevant lodge rates page.

How do I get to the lodge?

SA Airlink offers 2 scheduled flights daily between Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) and Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) which takes approximately 55 minutes, and 1 daily flight between Cape Town International Airport (CTIA) and Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Transfers can be arranged on your behalf from Hoedspruit Airport to the Reserve, at an additional cost. This transfer takes approximately 30 minutes by road.

Scheduled charter flights taking you directly into one of the Thornybush Nature Reserve Airstrips can be booked through our reservations department.

Private charters are available through several reputable private charter companies. Enquiries / quotes can be obtained through our reservations department.

Directions are available for guests opting to self-drive. Driving time from Johannesburg is approximately 6 hours.

Do I need any vaccines for South Africa?

Please consult your general practitioner or medical travel clinic for detailed information regarding possible vaccines requir

Is the water safe to drink?

The water in all the lodges is perfectly safe to drink, however all lodges have bottled water available for guests.

What happens in medical emergencies?

Thornybush subscribes to a medical team and evacuation service. However, it is recommended that you include this on your travel insurance policy whilst travelling.

What is the weather like?

Daytime summer temperatures (September – April) are high and may soar above 36°C/97°F. Evenings and early mornings are warm. Winters (May – August) have chilly nights and crisp early mornings (minimum 3°C/38°F), but the days are fine and warm. Rainfall occurs predominantly in the summer months from October to April in the form of magnificent late afternoon/evening thundershowers.

Should I bring binoculars?

On game drives you do get quite close to the animals but if you are an avid bird watcher we recommend a small lightweight pair of binoculars to enjoy your bird viewing. Most rangers have a pair on the vehicle but it is recommended that you travel with your personal pair which suits your eyesight.

What is the difference between National Parks and Private Reserves?

National parks are administered by South African National Parks Board which ensures a standardised level of accommodation – facilities and the rates are usually kept low. These parks are mainly self-drive destinations. Game viewing in the Nation Parks are restricted to tarred roads with no offer of off-road safaris. The game viewing in a private park is less restrictive to that of the national parks. Game drives are enjoyed in a private open safari vehicle with a trained guide and tracker team ensuring up-close and personalized game viewing experiences.

What if I have specific dietary requirements?

Your specific dietary requirements should be communicated with the reservation’s consultant at the time of confirmation, this enables the lodge to ensure your preferred meals are available and supplies are ordered in time for your arrival.

Do the game drives go off road?

Yes, game drives are in 4-wheel drive game viewing vehicles, so if the opportunity arises, your guide will go off-road. None of the roads in Thornybush are tarred, they are all maintained dirt roads.

Malaria prophylactics?

The lodges are situated in low risk malaria area. Precautions are taken annually to treat the lodges and minimize risk. We recommend you consult your medical practitioner on anti-malaria prophylactics.

Are nature walks included?

Yes, nature walks are included, however, these are at the discretion of your guide. As the lodges are situated within a big 5 reserve, your safety is our primary concern. Kindly note, no children under the age of 16 are not permitted on bush walks.

Not sure what you are looking for?

Our sales team will be able to guide you or answer any of your questions on which safari lodge is perfect for you!

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Thornybush on Instagram

We’re finally starting to come out of our enforc

We’re finally starting to come out of our enforced hibernation – emerging into a world which looks very different to the one we left. As we unfurl, we will slowly be opening our lodges, and welcoming guests once again, as and when travel becomes a reality. While international travel to South Africa remains closed, we’re excited to welcome South Africans to our lodges with rates which we’ve put together specifically for this crazy time. Starting at R3,999 per person sharing, that’s a 65% discount! Read more about these amazing offers on our website - LINK IN BIO. #thornybush #reopening #lifeafterlockdown #covid19 #discountedrates #thornybushgamelodge #simbambili #sasekatentedcamp #theriverlodge #southafricanrates #travelsouthafrica

If you’re ever having a day where you feel like

If you’re ever having a day where you feel like treating yourself to a little dessert, this creation from Saseka Lodge is the perfect treat! A signature dish by pastry chef Megan Barclay, and something that’s sure to be fun to try and recreate at home! Link to the recipe in BIO. #thornybush #recipe #vanillapannacotta #diy #tryathome #recipefromthechef #pastrychef #southafrica #foodie #dessert

Stand a chance to win a 2-night stay at The River

Stand a chance to win a 2-night stay at The River Lodge! For every donation of R500 or more to the Family Food Parcel Fundraiser, made between 1st - 31st July 2020, you will be entered into a draw, to win a 2-night stay, for four people sharing, on a self-catering basis at the elegant Royal Suite at The River Lodge. Furthermore, to thank those who have already donated to date, you will be automatically included in the draw. TO DONATE, LINK IN BIO.

We consider ourselves incredibly privileged to wit

We consider ourselves incredibly privileged to witness moments like this - a young cub tugging at the mane of a huge male lion. This is in our backyard, these are the creatures we share our days with, it really doesn't get any better than this! Here at Thornybush, we really can not wait to be able to host our visitors and friends again and share moments like this with you too! 📹 @mikecowdenwildlifephotography at @simbambiligamelodge #thornybush #safarimoments #gamedrive #malelion #lioncub #bigcatsofinstagram # lionsofsouthafrica #southafrica #thisisafrica

Thornybush's riches don’t stop at natural wonder

Thornybush's riches don’t stop at natural wonders, wildlife diversity and breathtaking landscapes, it also offers remarkable settings for a mindful retreat. The concept of mixing your wellness with a wilderness experience is fast becoming appealing to tourists who are looking for a more authentic connection with the wild. Read our full blog post on Wellness in the Wilderness - Link in Bio. #thornybush #wellness #safari #mindfulretreat #wellnessretreat #wellnessinwilderness #experience #travel #wanderlust

Votes close tomorrow (30 June 2020), so get yours

Votes close tomorrow (30 June 2020), so get yours in before it's too late! Thornybush Game Lodge is a finalist in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers Choice Awards. Votes close soon, so if you haven't done so yet, get your votes in and help to make 2020 a little brighter than what it has been. [Link in Bio] If you've stayed at Thornybush Game Lodge please vote for us by following the steps below and help us make 2020 a year where we remember more than these times of Covid19. Step 1: Go to https://www.cntraveler.com/rca/vote Step 2: Click on Hotels & Resort Step 3: Log in with FB or with your email address Step 4: Type in Thornybush Game Lodge in the ‘Hotel or Resort’ search field Step 5: Select Thornybush Game Lodge and follow the prompts to rate your stay Step 6: Submit