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OVERVIEW:
Thornybush Game Lodge is a well-established lodge within the Kruger’s private Thornybush Nature Reserve. Recent renovations have given the property a new lease of life, and the addition of exclusive-use Kamara House makes this a great option for families. Stylish and thoughtfully designed, the lodge retains its classic safari feel, complete with all the components necessary for a comfortable luxury stay. Guests can expect a warm welcome and a homely atmosphere, overseen by staff who’ve worked there for many years. Rates at Thornybush Game Lodge are full board and include meals, local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, game drives, and laundry.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Thornybush Game Lodge is located within the 15,000-hectare Thornybush Nature Reserve, which shares an unfenced border with Kruger National Park. There are daily scheduled flights from Johannesburg OR Tambo International and Cape Town International Airport to Hoedspruit Airport. From there, it’s approximately 30 minutes by road to the lodge.
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE:
Guest accommodation at Thornybush Game Lodge comprises 16 spacious suites and a three-bedroom, exclusive-use villa, Kamara House. Newly refreshed, the homely style remains true to its safari roots, but with contemporary design elements that incorporate wood, steel, leather, and rattan. The air-conditioned suites are open plan and feature thatched roofs, wooden floors, and sliding doors that open onto new decks with stunning views of the riverbed. Each unit has an indoor seating area, a dressing table with a mirror, international adapters, tea-and-coffee-making facilities, a mini-bar, a fan, and an electronic safe. The en-suite bathrooms feature both indoor and outdoor showers, as well as freestanding bath-tubs adjacent to large windows, allowing guests to take in the stunning views. Kamara House is an exclusive-use property with its own dedicated game drive vehicle, guide, and tracker, ideal for families or small groups. The house features two en-suite bedrooms and a third bedroom for children, interleading to the main bedroom and with a shower only. It offers ample outdoor space for private al fresco dining, a fire deck for pre-dinner drinks under the stars, and a swimming pool complete with sunloungers.
Thornybush’s smart new style elements extend to its communal spaces, which retain the look of a grand safari lodge. You’ll find open-sided living and dining areas, as well as a beautiful bar and a library featuring a collection of books and artefacts. There’s a large, shaded swimming pool with plenty of sunloungers, as well as an elevated wooden deck where guests can relax with a book and take in the views. If you are here during the warmer months, you’ll love spending time in the boma with its glorious river views and passing wildlife. Thornybush Game Lodge also features a curio shop, conference facilities, a gym, and a spa, which offers yoga sessions. There’s an emphasis on healthy cuisine using fresh local ingredients, and guests can even request an ambient private dinner on the dry riverbed.
*Please be aware that we are unable to book this property for families with young children under the age of 6 years, for safety reasons relating to the balconies/decks/walkways.
ACTIVITIES AT THORNYBUSH GAME LODGE:
Activities here focus on game drives and walking safaris. The lodge also offers some fun-filled activities to keep younger guests entertained!
- Game drives – Game drives take place during early morning and late afternoon, continuing into the early evening, providing guests with opportunities to spot some of the reserve’s nocturnal wildlife. The Big Five are in residence – lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. Other predators and herbivores commonly sighted include cheetah, spotted hyena, wild dog, giraffe, zebra, antelope, and hippo.
- Walking safaris – Led by expert guides, walking safaris usually begin after breakfast and present an opportunity to observe the reserve’s smaller species, including its birds and small reptiles.
- Children’s activities – Children are welcome at Thornybush Game Lodge, and there are plenty of activities to keep them entertained, including beading, bug walks and treasure hunts.
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns.
