Frequently Asked Questions

Thornybush offers exceptional Big Five game viewing in the Greater Kruger region of South Africa. Guests may encounter lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo, along with giraffe, zebra, hippo, hyena, wild dog and hundreds of bird species. Wildlife moves freely through this open ecosystem, so every game drive is different, and sightings can never be guaranteed. Explore the Thornybush Nature Reserve and Sabi Sand Nature Reserve.

A stay at Thornybush includes morning and afternoon game drives led by experienced guides and trackers, as well as optional guided bush walks. Additional experiences include private safari vehicles, bush dining, spa treatments, children’s activities, community visits, K9 conservation experiences, photographic sessions and immersive guided trails. Activities vary by lodge, season and availability.

The Thornybush collection includes Thornybush Game Lodge, Saseka Tented Camp in Thornybush Nature Reserve, as well as Simbambili Game Lodge in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. Kamara House, Little Saseka and Nkelenga Tented Bush Camp are all exclusive-use safari villas situated within Thornybush Game Lodge. Together, these lodges and villas offer options for couples, families, private groups and multigenerational travel.

• Thornybush Game Lodge – the original heritage property with 15 suites, established in 1962.
• Kamara House – a private modern villa adjoining Thornybush Game Lodge, ideal for families or groups seeking privacy with direct access to the main lodge’s facilities.
• Saseka Tented Camp – Saseka Tented Camp is one of the Greater Kruger’s most design-forward safari lodges, offering an intimate escape with just 8 luxury tented suites.
• Little Saseka – an exclusive-use private villa within Saseka Tented Camp, designed for families and small groups seeking complete privacy.
• Simbambili Game Lodge – an intimate camp in the Sabi Sands with 9 suites, famous for exceptional leopard sightings.
• Nkelenga Tented Villa – the newest exclusive-use villa, offering a private tented camp experience for families or groups – opening in April 2027.

Yes. Thornybush hosts luxury safari weddings in the Greater Kruger, with ceremony settings in the bush and receptions at selected lodges. Wedding packages can include an on-site coordinator, ceremony and reception set-up, an officiant, flowers, dining and personalised details. Lodge accommodation and private safari experiences can also be arranged for the couple and their guests.

Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available at Thornybush lodges and villas. As the properties are located in remote wildlife reserves, connectivity may occasionally be slower or less consistent than in a city. Many guests choose to use it when needed and enjoy the opportunity to disconnect while on safari.

Thornybush is situated in a low-risk malaria area within South Africa’s Greater Kruger region. The lodges take preventative measures to reduce the risk, but guests should consult a doctor or travel clinic before travelling for personalised advice about malaria medication and other precautions.

Yes. Federal Air does Charter flights to our airstrips within the reserves.  Alternatively, Thornybush Air offers private charter flights aboard an executive-configured Cessna Caravan for up to 10 passengers. Flights can connect Thornybush with Hoedspruit, Skukuza, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport and Johannesburg, as well as selected safari lodges and airstrips. Routes are arranged around each itinerary and remain subject to aircraft, weather and airstrip availability. Please get in touch with our Reservations team. For more information on directions, view here.