Nestled in the heart of big five country adjacent to the Kruger National Park, with a huge diversity of mammal and bird species, lies over 14,000 hectares of pristine African Bushveld, that is the Thornybush Nature Reserve. It is here that a superlative safari destination, the elegant and exclusive 5-star Thornybush Game Lodge awaits discovery by the discerning traveller. Thornybush Game Lodge is the personification of perfection. Nothing is spared in the attention to detail.
Enjoy exciting dawn and dusk safaris in open game vehicles and on foot, take a moment to browse in the intimate library or simply relax at the pool with your favourite cocktail as you bask in Africa's glorious sunshine or while away the moments in our Thornybush Spa.
Unrivalled big game viewing is complemented by exquisite accommodation and sublime cuisine. The 16 luxury suites each with private indoor/outdoor showers and viewing decks, overlook the seasonal Monwana River and offer an unsurpassed, 5-star luxury, wild encounter with seclusion and elegance, a seamless experience.
Sweeping vistas can be enjoyed over the African Bushveld and ever-active water hole. Superb attention to detail and highly personalized service make for a memorable stay.
The luxury suites are superbly equipped and furnished in the lavish style befitting this five-star lodge. Calming, earth tones are used throughout to enhance the tranquil atmosphere of your surroundings, and the furnishings and accoutrements are of the highest standard. The en-suite bathroom features a double basin, large bath overlooking the Savannah, indoor and outdoor showers. All suites have air conditioning and feature a mini-bar and coffee station.
All the suites have private wooden decks, with comfortable seating, overlooking the reserve and waterhole. Here you can take some time-out to gather your thoughts, catch forty winks or update your journal while enjoying the benefits of fresh air, sunshine and peaceful surroundings.
Opened in May 2023, Kamara House is the newest luxury safari accommodation in the Thornybush Nature Reserve and is part of Game Lodge’s upcoming refurbishment. A private house overlooking a small riverbed, it’s perfect for multigenerational families or small groups.
From the moment you arrive, everything is taken care of by our friendly staff and your dedicated butler, so you can spend the day relaxing on sun loungers with your book or watch passing wildlife from the rim-flow plunge pool. Close to Game Lodge, you can stroll across to the Spa for a wellness massage or pre-lunch drinks on the main deck.
Meals are prepared by your personal chef and served alfresco-style outside or in the spacious dining area. Each dish is created using the freshest ingredients with little to beat the smell of home-baked bread wafting through the house as you arrive back from your morning game drive.
The interiors at Kamara House are a contemporary mix of organic textures and tones that echo its bush setting. Two bedrooms are connected to the main area of the house and one of them has an interleading children’s bedroom so little ones can sleep close by. After dinner, sit around the table chatting about the day’s sightings or stargaze from your deck as the lions roar in the distance. Kamara House has its own game vehicle, guide and tracker.
The Villa
Two bedrooms are connected to the main area of the house and one of them has an interleading children’s bedroom so little ones can sleep close by.
Villa includes:
AIR-CONDITIONING
BABYSITTING
BATH TUB
BUSH BREAKFAST
CHILDREN ACTIVITIES
COFFEE MAKER
DISABLED SUITABLE
FAN
HAIRDRYER
INTERNATIONAL ADAPTOR
KETTLE
LAUNDRY SERVICE
LIBRARY
MINI BAR
MOBILE COVERAGE
MOSQUITO NET
OUTDOOR SHOWER
PHONE
PRIVATE POOL
PRIVATE MEALS
PRIVATE VEHICLE
PRIVATE VENUE
SAFETY BOX
SHOWER
SLIPPERS
SPA
TOILETRIES
WIFI
24-hour Security, Bar, Conference Centre, Internet Access (Complimentary), Kiddies Club, Laundry Service (Available), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Private Vehicle (Available), Restaurant, Secure Parking, Spa
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En-Suite, Hair Dryer, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee
Babysitting Service, Credit Card Facilities, Room Service
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Boat Cruises, Cultural Tours, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hot Air Ballooning, River Cruises, Scenic Flights, Tree-top Canopy Tours
The day starts as dawn breaks over the African bushveld. After an early morning wake-up call, coffee, tea and rusks are served on the main deck. Shortly after, depart in an open Land Cruiser with experienced Guides and Trackers who will share their extensive knowledge of the bush. These drives are undertaken at times best suited for game viewing which varies depending on the season but typically starts early morning. Where applicable you may be invited out of the vehicle to see tracks, examine certain plants and follow spoor.
The afternoon game drive is preceded by high tea and extends into the evening to view seldom seen nocturnal species by torchlight.
After a sumptuous Breakfast is served either back at the camp or in the riverbed or bush, guests are offered walks to suit their interests and fitness levels and are accompanied by an armed ranger and tracker.
Walks allow guests a better chance to see some of the smaller creatures of the bush as well as an opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region, and to have a chance to follow tracks in more detail.
One-hour long flight over the scenic, Lowveld section of the Blyde River. As the sun rises, the landscape, the vegetation and, if you're lucky, some wildlife will provide photo opportunities. Game spotting cannot be guaranteed but on most flights, we see plains game such as giraffe and wildebeest. Terms & Conditions apply - additional cost.
Africology is the leading natural, eco-friendly and holistic spa and skincare company in South Africa, with its success spanning across international borders such as the USA, Europe and Britain. Therapeutic in its approach, Africology only uses all natural ingredients that are bio-identical to your biology; effectively enhancing the integrity of your skin whilst simultaneously preventing premature aging.
Our product formulations and spa treatment offerings are inspired by the wisdom of Africa’s traditional healers and celebrate Africa’s vibrant heritage, communities and plant life. Our aim is always to ensure that the body and biology are treated in harmony whilst enjoying a truly authentic African offering.
95% of our products are Vegan Friendly, We do not test on animals and our products are certified for the environment.
Guests are invited to visit to the community project encompassing local initiatives to provide services to the local communities. Terms & Conditions available on request. Additional costs apply.
Thornybush Game Lodge welcomes children of all ages. Children under the age of 12 receive a special Backpack on arrival and are invited to take part in the many activities available. Activities and times will be discussed with parents upon arrival. The Thornybush Amani Spa also offers children's treatments at an additional cost.