Thornybush Game Lodge, Thornybush | Timbuktu Travel
Thornybush

Thornybush Game Lodge

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Voted No.1 in 2024 and No.2 in 2025 by Travel+Leisure

About Thornybush Game Lodge

Experience the magic of safari
Despite being the largest lodge in the Thornybush collection, it manages to maintain a sense of intimacy and personalisation. This lodge offers the best of both worlds: you can socialise with fellow bush enthusiasts and make new friends when you want, while also being able to retreat to your own private suite or request a more secluded dining experience. The Thornybush Nature Reserve is adjacent to the Kruger National Park, allowing yet another sought-after balance: the animals from the Kruger without the crowds.
From $1.1K per person/per night
Safari
20 Rooms
Open Map
Static map

Property details

The property

Dinner is always a candlelit affair, and the outside deck invites guests to peek at the stars in the evening or enjoy their morning coffee with the birds. The living areas overlook the seasonal Monwana River, making for a beautiful view from anywhere in the lodge. The spa uses Africology products - revered both locally and internationally - and the setting in the bush makes it impossible not to relax.

The rooms

The lodge accommodates 40 people in total. There are 18 suites and 2 family suites. Each suite has an en suite bathroom, outdoor shower and private deck. Those not keen to shower outside, can do so inside, but enjoy the same view through the large windows. The private deck also has its own plunge pool.

Activities

There are two ways to get to know the bush: in open Land Rovers, or on foot. While the game drives are the more traditional way to spot lions, leopards, elephants, giraffe and so forth, the bush walks bring guests closer to the finer details of the bush. See the actual size of a rhino's paw print, or run your fingers over the scratches left by a leopard as he climbed a tree.

What you'll love

What you'll love

The diversity of wildlife is staggering and you get it all without the crowds common of the Kruger.
Insiders tip

Insiders Tip

The more spacious family suites have a lounge area and pull-out couch where two children under the age of 12 can sleep.
Something to think about

Something to think about

Time seems to stand still and move much too fast at the same time. Definitely book more nights than your original plan.

South Africa

Thornybush

A sensational wilderness with unfenced wildlife routes and a selection of stellar properties to choose from.