A safari for all seasons

Thornybush Game Lodge

From
R19,800 ppns
Reserve
Thornybush Nature Reserve
Accommodation
15 Luxury Suites

About the lodge

Classic Safari Charm

Set within the prestigious Thornybush Nature Reserve, Thornybush Game Lodge is one of the industry’s oldest and much loved safari lodges. With 15 beautifully appointed suites, each featuring a private deck and outdoor shower, the lodge blends contemporary comfort with the wild beauty of the African bushveld. An authentic Big Five safari, experience thoughtfully paired with refined luxury.

Quick Facts

Lodge overview

Morning and afternoon Big Five game drives

Children of all ages are welcome at the lodge

Accommodates up to 30 people in 15 suites

Pool available at the main communal area

Private outdoor showers available in all rooms

Outside boma for open air traditional ‘braai’

Expansive deck and fire pit in the main area

Book the conference room for 15 to 20 people

Mobile network coverage and WiFi available

Airstrip available for private plane transfers

Accommodation

Our luxury suites

Each of Thornybush Game Lodge’s luxury suites accommodates 2 guests and are private, stylish, and fully equipped. Generously spaced and carefully positioned, each suite creates a quiet retreat between game drives, with uninterrupted views and a seamless connection to the surrounding bush. Inside, considered design and soft, natural textures create a calm, inviting atmosphere, complemented by all the modern comforts needed for a relaxed and effortless stay. 

Key Information

Good to know

Airconditioning

USB/int. adapter

Toiletries

Laundry Service

Safety Box

Hairdryer

Indoor Shower

Outdoor Shower

Bath Tub

Coffee Station

Mini Bar

Wi-Fi

  • Morning and afternoon game drives
  • Walks on request – can be arranged with your guide
  • All meals (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Laundry included when booked on certain rates
  • Local beverages included when booked on certain rates
  • Beverages when booked on certain rates
  • Champagne, premium wines and spirits
  • Curio shop purchases
  • Spa treatments (optional at an extra cost)
  • Gratuities and levies
  • Additional and external activities
  • Children of all ages are welcome
  • Children under 6 years of age are not permitted on game drives unless authorized by management
  • To guarantee game drives for children, a private vehicle should be booked at an additional cost
  • Children under 16 years of age are not permitted on bush walks
  • Children’s activities are available including baking, beading, bug walks and treasure hunts
  • Babysitting available at an additional cost

Our Private Villa

Kamara House

Located within Thornybush Game Lodge and overlooking a quiet riverbed, Kamara House is a 3 bedroom exclusive-use villa ideal for multigenerational families or small groups seeking space, privacy, and a shared safari experience. Enjoy riverbed views, private pool, a personal chef, spacious dining and more.

Lodge Highlights

Classic safari experiences

During your stay at Thornybush Game Lodge, every moment is designed to immerse you in the magic of the bush, from the excitement of tracking the Big Five to the joy of our interactive kids’ programme. Whether you are exploring the wild on a guided bush walk or dining under the stars in our boma, these experiences capture the authentic spirit of the reserve and bring it to life for the whole family.

Our Guiding Team

Exclusive safaris with expert guides

Your experienced safari guide and tracker team are committed to crafting tailored game drives, bush walks and wildlife insights for the duration of your stay at Thornybush Game Lodge. You’ll trace wildlife tracks, discover hidden signs, and learn the lore of the land.

Getting here

Location and map

Reaching Thornybush Game Lodge in the heart of the Thornybush Nature Reserve is effortless, with travel options designed for comfort and efficiency.

Hoedspruit Airport (HDS): Our primary gateway, located just 20 minutes from the lodge. We are happy to arrange a private road transfer to meet you at arrivals.

Thornybush Private Airstrip: For the ultimate arrival, fly directly to our private strip leaving you just minutes from our front door. 

Special Offers

More reasons to stay a little longer

Thornybush FAQs

Our frequently asked questions

  • 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). 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. 

The dress code is informal and neutral colors are recommended. A warm jacket / scarf and beanies for winter and evening safaris. Comfortable walking shoes, a bathing costume, binoculars, camera and video camera. Sunhats, sunscreen, and sunglasses. 

Looking for a complete packing guide?

Visit our What to Pack for a Safari page for everything you’ll need.

The lodges are situated in a 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.

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