Classic Safari Luxury in the Greater Kruger National Park
Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
Tucked away within the wildlife-rich Thornybush Nature Reserve, Thornybush Game Lodge is an award-winning safari retreat and one of our top picks for a Greater Kruger National Park experience. Its private reserve setting allows for exceptional game viewing, including off-road sightings and night drives, making it a standout choice for Big Five safaris in South Africa.
The lodge embraces classic safari style, with suites decorated in calming earthy tones and refined furnishings. Spacious ensuite bathrooms feature double basins and deep soaking tubs overlooking the bush, while outdoor showers add to the sense of immersion in nature. Each suite includes a private deck, ideal for quiet moments between game drives.
The main lodge areas invite guests to relax and connect, offering a welcoming bar, swimming pool, spa, dining spaces and a well-stocked library. The atmosphere is warm and unpretentious, making Thornybush particularly appealing for longer stays and multi-generational travel.
Highlights and Activities at Thornybush
ROOMS: 20 luxury suites
BEST FOR: • Couples • Multi-generational families • Private Groups
ACTIVITIES:
- Big Five game drives
- Night drives
- Guided walking safaris
- Bird watching
- Spa & Wellness Centre
- Fitness Centre
- Community Trips
- Exclusive Photoshoots
Why We Love Thornybush Game Lodge
The Thornybush Nature Reserve is especially well known for its predator sightings, making this lodge a firm favourite for big cat enthusiasts. Excellent guiding, limited vehicle numbers at sightings, and the ability to drive off-road within designated areas consistently deliver memorable and intimate wildlife encounters.
Insider Tip:
If you’re interested in big game walking safaris, Thornybush Game Lodge has a dedicated walking safari guide who can take guests out independently of vehicle-based activities. This means you don’t need to coordinate with the rest of your family or group, offering far greater flexibility and a more personal bush experience.
Explore More South Africa Safaris
South Africa offers exceptional Big Five safaris and diverse landscapes year-round. Explore our suggested itineraries below, or let us tailor one for you.
14-DAY CAPE TOWN & BIG FIVE HONEYMOON
Fancy a honeymoon in the most romantic locations around Southern Africa? We’ve got just the itinerary planned for you! Our Southern Africa Honeymoon itinerary will take you from Cape Town to the Greater Kruger, onwards to Zimbabwe and finally finishing in whimsical Mozambique. Expect nothing but the best for this once in a lifetime trip.
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From $11,500
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The Best of South Africa
This all-inclusive South Africa itinerary is the perfect choice for your first time in Africa. We’ll take you on a whirlwind 10-days exploring Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, followed by an adventurous safari in the bush of South Africa.
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