About This Property
Thornybush Game Lodge is one of the most established and celebrated safari lodges in the Greater Kruger region. Set within the 14,000-hectare Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, the lodge offers an authentic Big Five experience with the intimacy and exclusivity that only a private concession can deliver.
The lodge features spacious suites with private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and uninterrupted views across the African bush. The main lodge area includes a boma for fireside dinners, an infinity pool overlooking a waterhole, and a well-stocked wine cellar featuring South African vintages.
Game drives are conducted in open Land Rovers with expert trackers, and the reserve's proximity to Kruger National Park means exceptional biodiversity. Leopard sightings here are among the best in Africa.
Why We Love It
The leopard sightings at Thornybush are legendary — this reserve has one of the highest densities of leopard in Southern Africa. The combination of a private traversing area, expert guides, and a limited number of vehicles means you'll often have sightings entirely to yourself. Add the beautifully designed suites with private pools, and you have a safari experience that's hard to beat.
Rooms & Details
The lodge has 20 luxury suites, each with king-size bed, en-suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor shower, private plunge pool, minibar, air conditioning, ceiling fan, and a spacious wooden deck with bush views. Suites are spaced for maximum privacy along the treeline.
Amenities & Features
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival. 50% charge for cancellations within 14 days.
Photo Gallery
Rates
Prices start from $450 per night. Final pricing depends on season, room type, and availability. Check current rates on our booking partner's site for the most accurate pricing.
Rates are per person sharing. Single supplement applies. Children 6+ welcome.
What's Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
- Morning game drive
- Afternoon game drive
- Bush walk
- Stargazing
- Boma dinner
All meals, local drinks, two daily game drives, and bush walks included. Spa treatments and premium wines at additional cost.
Location
How to Get There
From Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, take the R40 south towards Klaserie. After 15 km turn left at the Thornybush gate. Reception is 12 km along the reserve road. Road transfer can be arranged by the lodge.
Nearby Attractions
Kruger National Park, Blyde River Canyon, Panorama Route, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
Things to Do
Visit the Blyde River Canyon for a day trip. The Panorama Route offers stunning viewpoints including God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes. Ask the lodge to arrange a cultural village visit.
Good to Know
The reserve is malaria-area — prophylaxis recommended. Pack warm layers for winter morning drives (May–August). The lodge provides ponchos for unexpected rain on game drives.
Who It's For
Couples seeking a romantic safari, photographers wanting exceptional leopard sightings, and first-time safari-goers looking for a premium experience.
Best Time to Visit
May to September for best wildlife viewing. October for spring colours. December to March for lush green season and birding.