Thornybush Private Nature Reserve

Kruger area

Forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park and set within 14,000 hectares of pristine African bushveld, lies the unique Thornybush Nature Reserve. This haven has scooped numerous world firsts, both for conservation and hospitality, and has evolved over the years.

A well known destination for local and international visitors, Thornybush has earned its reputation as one of the country’s finest bush experiences. Guests will enjoy a memorable safari adventure and can familiarise themselves, not only with the ‘Big Five’, but also with the remarkable fauna and flora, and can recoup their sanity relaxing in the luxurious surrounds.

5* Thornybush Shumbalala Lodge

This lodge is situated under shady trees on the banks of the seasonal Monwana River. Enjoy delicious meals next to an open fireplace or in the main dining room. The lodge offers guests luxury 5-star accommodation in elegant suites. Each suite boasts air-conditioning, open fireplaces, an additional outside shower and a private viewing deck. Only 8 guests are accommodated to ensure privacy and personalized service. Indulge in high tea in the afternoons before you embark on a sunset game drive. Enjoy drinks and snacks in the bush as you watch the African sky's colours change before your eyes. Upon returning to this Thornybush lodge you will be greeted with a welcoming sherry. Choose your wine from the wine cellar, before sitting down to relish a grand five course dinner. Recount the amazing animal sightings you have seen throughout the day in the luxury of this lodge in Thornybush Game Reserve.

Lodge facilities: restaurant, boma, lounge, pool, complimentary WiFi, wine cellar, curio shop, game, drives.

Room facilities: four luxury suites & one spacious Presidential Suite, air

conditioning, outside shower, mini-bar, tea & coffee making facilities.

5* Thornybush Game Lodge

A grande dame in the safari industry, Thornybush Game Lodge was one of the first commercial camps in South Africa and firmly established Thornybush Nature Reserve as a world-renowned game-viewing destination in the Greater Kruger Park. After a recent facelift, the lodge has been given a fresh new look yet retained its classic safari charm. Texture and tone play leading roles – wood, steel, leather, and rattan combine with neutral pops of colour and greenery.

Lodge facilities: In the evenings, dinner is served à la carte or in the boma under the starry night sky. We also treat our guests to beautiful dinners in the bush. Arriving at an Out of Africa setting lit up by lanterns flickering through the glasses on the tables is one of the most breath-taking moments on safari, one you’ll cherish forever. Sit at the fabulous bar and enjoy a harvest table-style lunch as herds of elephants, buffalo, and plains game pass by.

Room facilities: Private and stylish, each one of Game Lodge’s 16 luxury suites comes with everything you may need, including fluffy slippers and an outside shower. The rooms also come with large sliding doors, so you can lie on your bed in your sarong and look out into the bush.

5* Thornybush Simbambili Lodge

Simbambili Lodge is located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. This romantic hideaway offers a Moroccan-style experience, privately tucked away in the sweeping savanna grassland. Sabi Sand has the highest concentration of leopard in the world.

Lodge facilities: Simbambili Lodge has a main lounge area and a gift shop. Guests can explore the reserve on a guided game drive or bush walk. Spoil yourself with a massage or beauty treatment at the spa, which has an indoor and outdoor treatment room amid the trees.

Room facilities: The suites at Simbambili are air-conditioned and feature a large deck with plunge pool and day bed. Guests can enjoy  views over a waterhole with game viewing opportunities. The en-suite bathroom is features a luxurious bath, and guests receive complimentary bathroom amenities.

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2025/26 package holidays to the Thornybush Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park Holiday prices are per person based on two sharing, including flights, transfers and accommodation, and are subject to availability. Flights from Heathrow - other departures also available, call for details. Holiday Code J0525W.

The details shown here are correct to the best of our knowledge, however, they are provided for guidance purposes only. Please check the details of any features that are important to you at the time of booking.