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Thornybush Game Lodge, the first of its kind in the Thornybush Nature Reserve, has been a cornerstone of luxury safari experiences since it first opened its doors in 1961. As the original lodge, it played a pivotal role in putting Thornybush on the map and has since earned a stellar reputation for world-class game-viewing and exceptional service.
Today, the lodge combines timeless charm with contemporary sophistication. The thatched main area is beautifully designed and offers expansive views of a waterhole and the surrounding riverbed, where elephants, buffalo, and other majestic wildlife often roam. The classic lower deck seamlessly connects the open dining area to a stunning bar, creating a relaxed atmosphere where guests can enjoy drinks while watching wildlife in action.
The vibrant sunbirds, attracted to the many aloes around the main deck, are just one of the small but delightful wonders you can expect during your stay at Thornybush Game Lodge. The stunning natural surroundings and the lodge’s warm-hearted staff ensure every moment spent here is memorable.
One of the highlights of your stay is the dining experience. Meals, served in the lodge’s elegant dining area or under the stars during a bush dinner, are prepared by Solly, the renowned master bush chef. The famous Ottolenghi-style buffets showcase fresh, vibrant flavors, while the romantic bush dinners, set amidst lanterns and the sounds of the African wilderness, provide a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Thornybush Game Lodge offers 18 beautifully appointed Luxury Suites, each designed to provide the perfect balance of comfort, style, and privacy. The spacious suites feature large windows above the bath and sliding doors that lead to private decks, offering stunning views of the riverbed where wildlife often gathers. Whether you’re soaking in a luxurious bath or relaxing on your deck, you’ll feel connected to the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Each suite boasts an en-suite bathroom, both indoor and outdoor showers, and elegant finishes that elevate the lodge’s sophisticated charm. The suites are carefully spaced to ensure maximum privacy, making them an ideal sanctuary for relaxation after an exciting day of game drives or exploring the bush.
The comfortable beds, tranquil atmosphere, and thoughtful design details make the suites at Thornybush Game Lodge a joy to spend a night in, and difficult to leave. Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, an unforgettable wildlife experience, or a family adventure, your suite provides the perfect retreat.
Thornybush is a stunning 14,000-hectare private nature reserve, seamlessly connected to the renowned Kruger National Park by a fenceless border, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the two. This unique location ensures an exceptional safari experience, with the Big 5—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—frequently encountered during game drives. The reserve is particularly known for its impressive lion and leopard sightings, which leave guests in awe of these magnificent creatures.
Beyond the Big 5, Thornybush offers an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including cheetah, wild dog, giraffe, zebra, and numerous antelope species. The birdlife is equally spectacular, with over 300 species of birds recorded in the reserve, making it a haven for avid birdwatchers.
The combination of diverse landscapes, including riverbeds, open savannahs, and dense bush, provides a variety of habitats for a wide range of wildlife. Thornybush’s reputation as a leading safari destination has been earned through its unique wildlife encounters, incredible biodiversity, and commitment to conservation. Whether you’re an avid safari enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Thornybush promises a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience that will stay with you long after your journey ends.
Thornybush Game Lodge, the original gem of the Thornybush Reserve, has transformed since 1961 into a sophisticated haven of luxury, blending the charm of its rich history with modern elegance. Its evolution into a premier safari destination reflects a dedication to excellence, ensuring that every guest experiences world-class service and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Key to the Lodge’s appeal is its warm-hearted staff, always ready to provide personalised service and create lasting memories. The expert guides, with their deep knowledge of the bush, lead insightful game drives and walking safaris, offering guests an opportunity to truly immerse themselves in the wonders of the African wilderness.
One of the standout features of the lodge is its expansive deck, which offers unobstructed views of the nearby waterhole. Guests can relax on the deck, enjoying the sight of elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife visiting the water, making it the perfect spot for both daytime and evening relaxation.
For the ultimate luxury experience, make sure to take advantage of the stunning game-viewing from your suite, with large windows offering panoramic vistas of the bush. Be sure to also indulge in one of the lodge’s signature bush dinners, where the sounds of the African wilderness create a magical dining experience under the stars.
