Thornybush Game Lodge's thatched main area overlooks a waterhole and riverbed which is frequented by elephants, buffalo and other large game. This makes for some spectacular sightings. The classic lower deck flows between the open dining area and a beautiful bar.



There are many aloes that surround the main deck, and these allows attract the sunbirds - which is one of the small treasures that you can enjoy at Thornybush Game Lodge.



Guests will experience the warm-hearted staff and will enjoy delicious cuisine at the lodge which includes Ottolenghi-style buffets prepared by Solly, the legendary master bush chef! Bush dinners are a firm favourite with guests. Enjoy a hearty meal, surrounded by lanterns, candles and experience the sound of the African wilderness.



There are 20 luxurious suites spread out from the main area. 18 of these offer incredible river-facing views. Two of the 20 are Family Suites. These are private and stylishly decorated. Guests find it very difficult to leave after spending a night or two in these Luxury Suites. The large windows above the bath and giant sliding doors to the deck offer incredible views of the riverbed as well as any animals that may be wallowing there.



Each of the 18 Luxury Suites has an en-suite bathroom, an indoor and an outdoor shower. These have been carefully designed and spaced to provide privacy. The rooms have elegant finishes and guests will enjoy getting some good rest on their comfy beds.

Early morning game drive

See the pink dawn come to life, the birds stirring, and you will have the chance to see the wildlife begin their day. Enjoy your morning drive at Thornybush. You’ll need to be up before the sun and in the vehicle after a quick snack to ensure that you can see the best sightings. In the early mornings, the land is cool, and the animals are most active, this is when anything is possible, and sightings come quickly. After a couple of hours of roaming the reserve, you’ll stop at a special spot for a coffee break before heading back to Thornybush for a delicious late breakfast.



Afternoon game drive

Following a lazy afternoon, where most guests will relax by the pool or on your deck, you will meet up for an afternoon tea before going out for a three-hour drive that leads into the early evening. You will stop for a sundowner at one of the favourite viewpoints where guests can enjoy the iconic sight of the sunset casting golden light across an African savanna. As night sets in, new animals will begin to stir adding another level of excitement to the end of the drive.

Accommodation sharing a suite with all meals, 2 game drives and walks daily and Wi-Fi

2 Nights self-drive from R14,000 per adult sharing