In the heart of South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park ecosystem, the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve is renowned for exceptional Big Five game viewing, abundant wildlife, and rich birdlife across its unfenced wilderness.
The Thornybush Collection is a portfolio of family-owned luxury lodges located within the reserve, united by strong conservation values and offering some of the finest safari experiences in South Africa.
Are you planning your African safari? Collaborate with SAFARI.COM for a bespoke and luxury safari. Our award-winning team moves to the beat of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. We are here to craft a journey that lives on within your memories long after you return home. Fill the pages of your life story with unforgettable moments in Africa.
Below, we share our Top 5 Thornybush Lodges, as selected by our expert consultants, each offering a remarkable way to experience this extraordinary reserve.
Game drives at Shumbalala Game Lodge
Thornybush Game Lodge
Experience Africa inside and outside during your time at Thornybush Game Lodge. Thornybush Game Lodge epitomises 5-star safari luxury, capturing Africa’s soul and refined by classic and upmarket finishes.
Each of the 18 private suites and 2 family suites overlooks the seasonal Monwana River or lush riverside bush. Facilities only add to the lure of this exquisite lodge in the wild, and include an award-winning spa, swimming pool, gym, and outdoor boma where guests can dine under the stars.
Africa’s call from the wild is felt far and wide, and you will be immersed in every experience. As for safari adventures, few other places can compare. Exceptional game drives and walking safaris allow sightings of the reserve’s abundant, ever-present wildlife. More than 147 mammals call it home, including the Big 5.
Why We Love It:
This lodge is ideal for family getaways, with a fun kids’ program and dedicated rangers who ensure little ones discover Africa in meaningful ways. Guests can also arrange babysitting services.
Stay Pay Special:
Stay 3 Nights, Pay for 2 – Valid until 28 February 2026.
Stay 4 Nights, Pay for 3 – Maximum of 6 travelers per group.
Valid for travel between 1 March – 30 June 2026 & 1 November – 15 December 2026.
Amazing support an service. Hello! it was simply fantastic. And i thank SAFARI.COM very very much because since the begining you helped me with agility and fast feedback for everything we needed and had sucess to find a place it was perfect to us! thank you so much!
- Viviana Barros
Main lodge deck and seating at Thornybush Game Lodge
Game drives with refreshments in Thornybush Game Reserve
Shumbalala Game Lodge
Embrace Africa’s wild side from an elegant and intimate setting in the heart of Africa. Align your pace to the rhythm of Africa and prepare for the safari of your dreams at the Shumbalala Game Lodge. Presidential and superior suites exist in quiet harmony with the vast, outstanding savannah before it, shaded by Acacia and Umbrella Thorn trees.
Friendly, professional guides welcome guests to relax and reset during their African safaris. Relax in your peaceful suite, styled in earthy hues and soft, natural tones. These suites showcase the raw beauty of the outdoors from private wooden decks.
Since the Thornybush Nature Reserve shares unfenced borders with the renowned Kruger National Park, unrivalled wildlife and Big 5 viewings are a given! Enjoy dawn and dusk open-vehicle game drives, bird-watching, and guided bush walks.
Why We Love It:
There is no holding back when it comes to dining experiences! The lodge’s chef team aim to please and highlight African cuisines to perfection. Their classic South African braai is not to be missed!
Stay Pay Special:
Stay 4 Nights but only pay for 3 Nights.
Valid during these dates: 7 Jan - 2 Apr, 8 Apr - 31 July, 1 Nov - 15 Dec 2026
Amazing team, location and overall experience. Everything from start to finish was far better than I could imagine. Having a business trip coupled to our stay made things complex, but the team was there every step of the way. From air tickets, baggage storage, pick up and top off in completely different cities and with a n amazing safari, my wife and I are grateful for such an amazing experience. Top notch all around!
- Henrik
The Presidential Suite at Shumbalala Game Lodge
Cultural demonstration at Shambalala Game Lodge - What better way to start the evening
Saseka Tented Camp
Are you looking to redefine the traditional camping experience, surrounded by the presence of roaming wildlife? Book your stay in The Thornybush Private Nature Reserve’s exclusive Saseka Tented Camp. Each of the camp’s nine luxury tents accommodates two guests and features a private plunge pool, game-viewing deck, outdoor shower, air conditioning, and a bathtub.
Saseka translates to beautiful in Tsonga, which is perfectly suited to this camp. Thoughtful African accents enhance the rustic and contemporary design styles. Start your day with a delicious bush breakfast, enjoy immersive Big 5 game drives, unwind in your private luxury tent, and finish the day with a riverbed dinner.
You may spot Nyalas grazing just moments from your tented suite, as you unwind under the African sun. Tune into every moment in Africa without distractions or limits. Rich and diverse wildlife includes the Big 5, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, hippo, hyena, and varied birdlife.
Why We Love It:
Saseka strikes a perfect balance between raw safari adventures and sophisticated luxury. As a guest, you can look forward to intimate experiences and a constant connection to the surrounding natural elements.
Stay Pay Special:
Stay 3 Nights, Pay for 2 – Valid until 28 February 2026.
Stay 4 Nights, Pay for 3 – Maximum of 6 travelers per group.
Valid for travel between 1 March – 30 June 2026 & 1 November – 15 December 2026.
Perfect Perfect Perfect, Perfect Safari. Drives twice a day. Lovely lodge. Staff couldn't do enough for us. Food was delicious with whatever drinks you wanted. A wonderful experience. Booking was extremely easy ...Anja Meyer at Safari.com took care of everything
- Ken S
Main camp dining area at Saseka Tented Camp
Hot Air Balloon Excursion in Thornybush Game Reserve
Serondella Game Lodge
Welcoming families to unforgettable South African safaris, the 5-star Serondella Game Lodge is cherished by all who experience its warm hospitality and exceptional wildlife encounters. Luxury and family suites offer modern comforts, elegant finishes, and exquisite views that leave you in constant awe of Africa’s magnificence.
Highly qualified trackers and rangers lead twice-daily game drives through the Thornybush Nature Reserve. Children can look forward to planned activities, while custom game drives for kids ensure endless fun for all!
Are you booking a safari vacation for a large group? Serondella Game Lodge can accommodate up to 14 guests in luxury, air-conditioned suites featuring indoor/outdoor showers, as well as family suites with their own heated pools and private lounge areas.
Why We Love It:
Serondella is perfectly positioned beside the Inyoni Pan, where kingfishers dive by day and the floodlit water at night creates exceptional photo opportunities from your private deck. The lodge also overlooks a nearby waterhole, regularly attracting elephants and other wildlife.
Honeymoon Special:
Stay 3 Nights And One Of The Happy Couple Gets 50% Off Their Accommodation Rate
Valid Until 19 December 2026 Excluding The Period From 20 December 2025 – 08 January 2026
Valid Within 1 Year Of Wedding Date
Safari Dream Come True. A trip of a lifetime. To see wild animals in their natural habitat is to see them for the first time. Our field guide and tracker were true ambassadors of the wildlife reserve. Our lodgings were amazing. Our safety and comfort a priority.
- Artagnan
The Botsotso Family Suite at Serondella Game Lodge
Morning game drive when the animals are their most active - Thornybush Game Reserve
Waterbuck Lodge
Situated along a water estuary within the thick bushveld of the Thornybush Reserve, the Waterbuck Lodge is an oasis of luxury and tranquility in the bush. Stay in one of just four suites, each reflecting an elevated, traditional African safari style.
High thatched ceilings, large sliding doors, private balconies, and bathrooms with indoor-outdoor showers create a seamless connection to the wild that lies beyond. Facilities at Waterbuck Lodge include a swimming pool, outdoor boma, and a library.
Your stay includes two game drives a day, led by experienced guides and trackers, as well as immersive bush walks and all meals. Every day spent in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve will differ, and you will be creating memories that live on forever.
Why We Love It:
Discover a variety of exciting attractions just a short distance from Waterbuck Game Lodge. Enjoy boat cruises, helicopter flights, culture tours, hot air balloon safaris, and treetop canopy tours.
Stay Pay Special:
Stay 4 Nights but only pay for 3 Nights.
Valid during these dates: 7 Jan - 2 Apr, 8 Apr - 31 July, 1 Nov - 15 Dec 2026
Most amazing experience. This was the most amazing experience. The food, the service, the room, the atmosphere, and the guide were incredible. Would totally go again.
- Lisa R
Fireplace in Waterbuck Lodge for the cold evenings
Game viewing at its best from the standard suite at Waterbuck Lodge
Start Planning Your Safari with Confidence
Ready to make timeless family memories? At SAFARI.COM, we’re here to help you find the best safari deal for you and your loved ones. Let our expert team craft something extraordinary. We will guide you with heart, insight, and insider knowledge every step of the way, before, during, and long after your journey. It’s time to explore!
Email us at [email protected], hit the WhatsApp button above, or call us toll-free on 1-888-SAFARIS (US & Canada).
