Open your heart to the wild beauty of Thornybush Game Lodge—one of South Africa’s much-loved and iconic safari lodges which have recently been renovated for a fresh, modern look!
The Game Lodge opened in 1961 and since has been a trailblazer in the Kruger National Park. And, after a 7-week closure, the Game Lodge has reopened with a new appeal, that still retains its classic safari charm.
Before getting into it, why don’t you also check out 15 eco-lodges throughout southern Africa?
Tell me about Thornybush
Thornybush is a world-renowned luxury safari destination within South Africa’s Greater Kruger Park area. The unfenced boundary with the Kruger National Park allows wildlife to roam freely, which gives the lodge access to traversing rights over 15 000 hectares of the unspoiled African wilderness.
As a result, its game viewing is exceptional. Guests will encounter up-close sightings of the Big Five as well as a wonderful diversity of general game and bird species during their stay.
Thornybush safari lodges are set on meandering riverbeds and waterholes and each one is unique with its magical qualities. While the lodges cater to suit all travelers, it’s the longevity of an owner-run business, a passion for conservation, and the people of Thornybush that is at the heart of what we do best.
Operation Transformation
Texture and tone played leading roles in the vision designs Caline Williams-Wynn of Artichoke and her team had for the transformation. Wood, steel, leather, and rattan combine with neutral pops of colours such as charcoal and saffron as well as greenery to create a modern interpretation of an iconic luxury safari.
Williams-Wynn says: “The new look for Thornybush Game Lodge is all about what the guests can see and touch. It’s all in the detail but at the same time not minimising all the comforts required for a 5-star Lodge. The colour palette has longevity and is classic.”
The Guest Experience
Guests will now experience a more spacious feel to the property, with the rooms being less cluttered and more practical making stays even more relaxing and comfortable. The Lodge has been resized to offer 16 beautiful modern luxurious suites to create a more intimate experience with all the 5-star amenities a guest could want and more.
Melanie Parker, Head of Operations at Thornybush said:
“Thornybush Game Lodge has been reimagined but yet still preserving its legendary charm and history. As a result, it will continue to be a favourite South African Lodge because of the hospitality, staff, and amazing game-viewing experiences.”
The refurbishment has introduced a special new space at the lodge now known as “The Library” and the pool area has been increased in size, offering guests more opportunities to lounge in groups and enjoy the area even more! Plus, the bar area has had a facelift…and those poolside G&Ts are calling…
As part of the refurbishment program, May 2023 will also see the opening of Kamara House, a private safari villa, overlooking a small riverbed. This new luxury safari accommodation is aimed at multigenerational families or small groups. A new spa, gymnasium, and wellness center with a pool will also be revealed in May 2023.
Simbambili Game Lodge will also undergo a soft refurbishment in July 2023.
What you get at thornybush:
- Unfenced and part of the Greater Kruger National Park
- Great diversity of wildlife and general game
- Premium hospitality services and facilities
- Luxury accommodation in a variety of camps and lodges
- Unique safari tent experience at Saseka
- Easy access by air
- Big 5 safari animal sightings
- Plains game
- Honeymoon safaris
- Family safaris
- Photographic safaris
- Fly-in safaris
- Celebrations, weddings, birthdays, and special occasions
For more info: www.thornybush.com
Rates: SA Residents rates start from – R5,800 per person
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Featured Image: Supplied
