
The Thornybush Collection of Lodge offerings consist of ten Lodges, 9 of which are located in the Thornybush Nature Reserve and one in the Northern part of the Sabi Sand. Thornybush Waterside Lodge will from mid-January 2012 have access to an even greater Reserve making game viewing some of the best in the Country.
A well known destination for local and international visitors Thornybush has earned its reputation as one of the countryÂ’s finest bush experiences. Situated within 14 000 hectares of pristine wilderness, adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Thornybush Nature Reserve is a true escape from the madness of city life. This haven, which is just over 5 hours drive from Johannesburg has scooped numerous world firsts, both for conservation and hospitality.
Thornybush has evolved over the years into a visitors paradise, “our collection of Lodges offers something for everyone. Bush lovers can saturate themselves, not only in the big five, but also in the remarkable fauna and flora,” while less than enthusiastic bush goers can recoup their sanity relaxing in the luxurious surrounds, enjoying delicious cuisine and pampering themselves at one of the spas. Whatever your preference you never leave Thornybush the same as when you arrived. Testimony to this are the numerous visitor comments, the message is clear once you’ve experienced Thornybush it changes you profoundly. Each Lodge has been carefully selected to provide a variety of differing experiences and designed to meet the varying pockets of discerning travellers.
All of our Lodges are air-conditioned, and twice daily game drives in open landrovers accompanied by experienced Rangers and trackers are the focus of your game visit.
We look forward to welcoming you to The Collection.
Getting to and from the Lodges:
There are daily flights from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport to Hoedspruit, Nelspruit and Phalaborwa as well as chartered flights directly into Thornybush Airstrip. Bateleur Air Charters also operates a daily scheduled charter shuttle service direct to Thornybush Airstrip as well as the Northern Sabi Sand region for Simbambili Game Lodge. The scheduled flights connect with a pick-up service and transfer to the lodge of choice.
Should you prefer to drive, the journey takes approximately 5 hours from Johannesburg.
Transfers to Thornybush and Simbambili may be arranged through The Thornybush Collection reservations department.





Thornybush Game Lodge
(Graded 5 star by the Tourism grading council of South Africa)
Thornybush Game Lodge boasts 18 stylish air-conditioned luxury suites and 2 family suites, all with extensive living areas overlooking the seasonal Monwana River. From within the luxurious suites, each with full en-suite facilities and private decks, sweeping vistas can be enjoyed over the savannah and an ever-active water hole. Superb attention to detail and highly personalised service make for a memorable stay.
Enjoy exciting dawn and dusk safaris in open Land Rovers or optional mid-morning bushveld walks. Take a moment to browse in the intimate library or simply enjoy a treatment in the Thornybush Amani Spa or relax at the pool with your favourite cocktail as you bask in AfricaÂ’s glorious sunshine. An African safari can be a life-changing experience.
- 18 Luxury Suites & 2 Family Suites
- Indoor & outdoor shower
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- Children of all ages welcome
- Children's activities available
- Baby sitting available at an additional cost
- Air conditioning
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Mini bar facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Conference & Incentive Groups
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (additional Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 40 guests in camp
- Thornybush Amani Spa
Special Notes: The Thornybush Game Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%
Children younger than 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis.
Children from the ages of 2 years to 5 years old are accommodated at 25% of the adult tariff, children between 6 years and 11 years old are accommodated at 50% of the adult tariff, sharing a family room with the parents.
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| Thornybush Game Lodge |
Suites
Family Suites
Children 6 - 11 years
Children 2 - 5 years
|
R 5, 107.00
R 5, 605.00
R 2, 803.00
R 1, 402.00
|
Shumbalala Lodge
(Graded 5 star by the Tourism grading council of South Africa)
4 Suites & 1 Presidential suite (max 8 guests)
With a maximum of eight guests, youÂ’ll be spoiled with privacy and exclusivity at this exceptional game lodge. The four luxury suites, each equipped with an open fireplace, a picture window bathroom and private viewing deck are set in the shade of trees lining the Monwana Seasonal Dry Riverbed.
The two bed-roomed presidential suites, in addition to all of the facilities of the standard suites, boasts a separate dining room, lounge and a private boma styled deck and plunge pool - the ultimate in luxury and exclusivity!
In addition to the game viewing decks and swimming pools, there are two lounges, a curio shop, cellar and a library in which to relax between game drives. After an uplifting experience in the bush, with your senses inspired by all that is in nature, return to the luxury of your suite.
Exciting dawn and dusk safaris will give you the opportunity to view the Big Five. Lazy afternoons can be spent by the poolside listening to the sounds of the bush.
- 4 Suites
- 1 Presidential Suite (2 en-suite bedrooms)
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- Children of all ages welcome on request - to be accommodated in Presidential Suite with parents
- Air conditioning & over head ceiling fans
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (additional Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 8 guests in camp
Special Notes: The Shumbalala Game Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50% and 100% for Presidential Suite
Shumbalala Game Lodge accommodates a maximum of 8 guests
Children under 12 accommodated in Presidential Suite sharing with parents
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
Shumbalala Game Lodge
|
Suites
Presidential
Add pax @ Presidential
Entire camp - Suites
Entire camp incl. President
|
R 5, 595.00
R 7, 795.00
R 5, 595.00
R44, 760.00
R55, 950.00
|


Chapungu Lodge
(Graded 4 star by the Tourism grading council of South Africa)
8 Luxury Tents (16 guests)
Chapungu Luxury Tented Camp may be found in the heart of the Thornybush Nature Reserve. Tastefully furnished in old world colonial splendour, in a style and class of a bygone era.
Eight luxury air-conditioned en-suite tents offer private and exclusive accommodation.
Boma dinners are an occasion and an opportunity to savour the finest fare. A superb selection of wine is available in the lodgeÂ’s wine cellar. Settle around a log fire to recount the daysÂ’ game experiences before retiring to the lounge for a night-cap, or the comfort of your tent.
Our passion for hospitality and the excitement of dawn and dusk safaris in an open Land Rover ensuring close and unrestricted encounters with the wild.
The more adventurous are encouraged to join an experienced game ranger on a bushveld walk as he interprets and discusses Africa's footprint.
- 8 Luxury en-suite Tents, with bath on deck
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- No children under 12 years of age, unless entire lodge is booked (unable to accommodate triple rooms)
- Air conditioning & over head ceiling fans
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (additional Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 16 guests in camp
Special Notes:The Chapungu Luxury Tented Camp rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%
Chapungu Luxury Tented Camp accommodates a maximum of 16 guests
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| Chapungu Tented Camp |
Luxury Tents |
R 2, 853.00
|
Thornybush Waterside Lodge
(Graded 5 star by the Tourism Grading council of South Africa)
20 Suites (40 Guests)
Set on the banks of a tranquil lake encompassed with breath-taking views of the African bushveld, Thornybush Waterside Lodge affords instant relaxation. The lodges 20 comfortably appointed air-conditioned Thatched Suites blend into the natural habitat and are located along pathways surrounded by an abundance of trees and manicured gardens. En-suite air- conditioned accommodation tastefully decorated by crisp white bedding.
Highly skilled rangersÂ’ and trackers ensure Big 5 game viewing opportunities during dawn and dusk safaris, whilst bushwalks are for the more adventurous. Guests are invited to relax and take in the African surrounds after breakfast on the main deck area overlooking the lake, the swimming pool or alternatively retreat to the comfort of your suite.
Thornybush Waterside Lodge will from mid-January 2012 have access to an even greater Reserve making game viewing some of the best in the Country.
- 20 Luxury Suites
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- Children of all ages welcome
- ChildrenÂ’s activities available
- Air-conditioning
- Tea & Coffee making facilities
- Mini bar facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Conference & Incentive Groups
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (add. Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush walks (optional – per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 40 guests in Camp
Special Notes:The Thornybush Waterside Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%
Children younger than 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis.
Children from the ages of 2 years to 5 years old are accommodated at 25% of the adult tariff, children between 6 years and 11 years old are accommodated at 50% of the adult tariff, sharing a family room with the parents.
Thornybush Waterside Lodge accommodates a maximum of 40 guests
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013
Per person sharing per night |
Thornybush Waterside Lodge |
Suites Children 6 – 11 yrs Children 2 – 5 yrs |
R 3, 421.00 R 1, 711.00 R 856.00 |
Serondella Game Lodge
(Graded 4 star by the Tourism grading council of South Africa)
3 Suites & 1 Family Suite (8 guests)
In the midst of the big five Thornybush Nature Reserve lies Serondella Lodge. Here you will have excellent opportunities for spectacular photographs of big game species visiting the close by water hole.
Serondella Lodge accommodates only eight guests in 3 luxuriously appointed suites and a family suite. The camp is set along the banks of the Monwana tributary. Each suite is carefully positioned to ensure privacy and stunning vistas. The lodge is flanked by two water holes, affording guests the opportunity to enjoy the abundance of big game and birdlife from spectacular viewing decks.
A highly qualified ranger and tracker team will take you on a journey for the soul as you experience close and unrestricted encounters with all that is Africa from an open Land Rover. For the more adventurous guest, you will be invited to join your ranger on a bushveld walk.
Superb cuisine and personal attention is what Serondella Lodge offers.
The lodge also welcomes children of all ages.
- 3 Standard Suites
- 1 x Family Suite (3 en-suite bedrooms)
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- Children of all ages welcome, baby sitting available at an additional cost
- Air conditioning
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (additional Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 8 guests in camp
Special Notes:
The rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%, unless entire lodge is booked
Serondella Lodge accepts a maximum of 8 guests
Children under the age of 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old are accommodated at 25% of the adult tariff, and children aged between 6 and 11 years old are accommodated at 50% of adult tariff, sharing with parents
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| Serondella Game Lodge |
Suite & family Suite
Children 6 - 11 years
Children 2 - 5 years
Entire Camp
|
R 3, 152.00
R 1, 576.00
R 788.00
R20, 173.00
|
n'Kaya Lodge
(Graded 4 star by the Tourism grading council of South Africa)
4 suites (8 guests)
NÂ’Kaya Lodge is situated in the heart of the Thornybush Nature Reserve adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park.
NÂ’Kaya Lodge combines luxury with natural simplicity.
The lodgeÂ’s four thatched suites are built around the edge of a clearing, distanced from one another to ensure guests total privacy. Shaded by tall trees, the suites look out over the LodgeÂ’s superb pool and towards the backdrop of the Norther Drakensberg Mountain Range.
Each suite consists of a large en-suite bedroom and an en-suite lounge area separated by an inter-leading door. The lounge area upon request may be converted into a second bedroom to accommodate children.
- 4 Luxury Suites
- Air conditioning
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Children of all ages welcome, however no babysitting available at the lodge
- Honeymoons
- Boma
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (add. Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 8 guests in camp
Special Notes: The N'Kaya Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%, unless entire lodge is booked
N'Kaya Game accommodates a maximum of 8 guests
Children under the age of 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old are accommodated at 25% of the adult tariff, and children aged between 6 and 11 years old are accommodated at 50% of adult tariff, sharing with parents
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| N'Kaya Game Lodge |
Suites
Children 6 - 11 years
Children 2 - 5 years
Entire Camp
|
R 2, 918.00
R 1, 459.00
R 730.00
R18, 675.00
|
Waterbuck Lodge
(Graded 4 star - Pending)
4 suites (8 guests)
Waterbuck Lodge, exquisitely positioned in the southern part of The Thornybush Nature Reserve boasts 4 air-conditioned luxury suites with magnificent views from both the generous sized bedroom and en-suite bathrooms.
In between exciting dawn and dusk safaris in open Land Rovers, take time to relax and enjoy the central entertainment and dining area, flanked by an inviting swimming pool and bar area. Or you are invited to simply withdraw into the sounds of the African bush on the tanning deck or lazing by the swimming pool.
The main deck area continues to provide a further comfortable watch point to the abundant wildlife whose home is the feature watering hole adjacent to the Lodge.
- 4 Luxury Suites
- Boma
- Children of all ages welcome, baby sitting available at an additional cost
- Air conditioning
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (add. Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 8 guests in camp
Special Notes: The Waterbuck Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%, unless Entire Lodge is booked
Waterbuck Lodge accommodates a maximum of 8 guests
Children under the age of 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis.
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old are accommodated at 25% of the adult tariff, and children aged between 6 and 11 years old are accommodated at 50% of adult tariff, sharing with parents
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| Waterbuck Lodge |
Suites
Children 6 - 11 years
Children 2 - 5 years
Entire Camp
|
R 2, 896.00
R 1, 448.00
R 724.00
R18, 534.00
|


Monwana Lodge
(Graded 4 star)
3 Suites, 1 Honeymoon Suite & luxury Monwana Suite - Family friendly (8 guests)
In the midst of the big five Thornybush Nature Reserve lies Monwana Lodge. The perfect safari experience. At Monwana Lodge let us indulge you in the sights and sounds of Amazing Africa.
Monwana Lodge accommodates eight guests in 3 luxuriously appointed suites, a Honeymoon Suite or the Monwana Suite which is child friendly. The lodge is set along the banks of the Monwana seasonal dry river bed, with views of the ever active waterhole. Each suite is carefully positioned to ensure privacy and stunning vistas.
A highly qualified ranger and tracker team, host you on a journey in search of all that is offered on natureÂ’s palette. For the more adventurous guest, you will be invited to join your hosts on a bush walk.
Superb cuisine and personal attention is what Monwana Lodge offers.
The lodge also welcomes children of all ages.
- 3 Standard Suites, 1 Honeymoon Suite, 1 Monwana Suite (child friendly)
- Curio Shop, Boma
- Children of all ages welcome, baby sitting available at an additional cost
- Air conditioning
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (add. Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional – per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 8 guests in camp
Special Notes:Rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%, unless Entire Lodge is booked
Monwana Lodge accommodates a maximum of 8 guests
Children under the age of 2 years old are accommodated on a complimentary basis.
Children between the ages of 2 and 5 years old are accommodated at 50% of the adult tariff, and children aged between 6 and 11 years old are accommodated at 75% of adult tariff, sharing with parents
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 Dec 2013 Per person sharing per night |
| Monwana Lodge |
Suites
Honeymoon Suite
Monwana Suite
Children 6 – 11 years
Children 2 – 5 years
Entire Camp |
R 3, 135.00
R 3, 135.00
R 4, 323.00
R 1, 568.00
R 784.00
R 20, 064.00
|


Nkelenga Tented Camp
(Self Catering Lodge)
Within the Northern Thornybush Nature Reserve lies Nkelenga Tented Camp.
This intimate camp accommodates a maximum of 10 guests offering you a self catering experience in an air-conditioned main house with loft, perfect for accommodating children, and 3 en-suite tents.
At Nkelenga Camp you can enjoy your own privacy, whilst still enjoying the luxury of a private game drive hosted by your own ranger and tracker team.
A dedicated housekeeper will ensure that daily housekeeping is taken care of.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and excellent game viewing whilst overlooking the large active dam, or simply by relaxing next to the pool.
- Main homestead with loft area
- 3 en-suite tents
- Self catering accommodation
- Children of all ages welcome, no babysitting available
- Full kitchen in main homestead
- Ballooning & Helicopter flips available (additional Cost)
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety)
- A maximum of 10 guests in camp
Special Notes: The Nkelenga Tented Camp rates are per Lodge per night, inclusive of VAT
Nkelenga Tented Camp accommodates a maximum of 10 guests
 |
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
No of rooms |
01 January - 31 December 2013 Camp per night |
| N'Kelenga Tented Camp |
Tents
Self catering
|
Whole camp
Max 10 pax
(8 pax max on game drive vehicle)
|
(Monday to Thursday)
R 7, 500.00 |
(Friday to Sunday)
R 8, 600.00 |
*** The above rate is for Entire camp per night ***
Simbambili Game Lodge
(Graded 5 star by the Tourism Grading council of South Africa)
7 Suites & 1 Waterhole Suite (16 Guests)
Simbambili Game Lodge is a highly individualized destination for the discerning traveler located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Set in magnificent trees along the meandering Manyeleti Dry riverbed, with views over extensive savannah grassland that teems with wildlife visiting an ever popular water hole.
Sophisticated yet simple, each suite has spectacular views whether from the unique en-suite bathrooms, outside salas or individual private plunge pools.
Guests are encouraged to enjoy the remarkable and unique wildlife of Africa, whether it is your choice to linger at a close encounter with lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo or to be amazed by the extensive array of birds and insects, or simply relax in the Sanctuary Spa.
Your ranger and tracker team will astound you with their ability to track big five game, either on foot or from an open landrover.
The amazing safari experience is complimented by elegant cuisine, a selection of fine wines and by the warmth of true African hospitality.
- 7 Luxury Suites
- 1 Waterhole Suite with separate lounge area overlooking the Waterhole
- Indoor / outdoor shower
- Private Plunge pool
- Sala (daybed)
- Curio Shop
- Boma
- No children under the age of 12 years accepted, unless entire lodge is booked
- Air - conditioning & over head ceiling fans
- Tea & coffee making facilities
- Mini bar facilities
- Weddings & Honeymoons
- Game Drives & Bush Walks (optional - as per lodge safety
- A maximum of 16 Guests in camp
Special Notes: The Simbambili Game Lodge rates are per person sharing per night, inclusive of VAT and are subject to a single supplement of 50%
Simbambili Game Lodge accommodates a maximum of 16 guests
 |
|
| Lodge Name |
Room Type |
01 Jan - 31 December 2013 Per person sharing per night |
|
| Simbambili Game Lodge |
Suites
Waterhole Suite
|
R 6, 129.00
R 6, 752.00
|
Thornybush Collection Terms and Conditions
Rates Include
- All meals, teas, coffees and snacks
- Accommodation
- Dawn and dusk safaris in open Land Rovers and daily Bushveld walks
- Thornybush Game Lodge, Shumbalala Game Lodge and Simbambili Game Lodge include local sundowner drinks on game drives
Rates Exclude
- Bar and curio purchases
- Telephone and laundry expenses
- Airport transfers
- TOMSA levy of 0.5% of accommodation value per person per night for all Lodges
- R 80.00 per person per booking Conservation fee
- Simbambili Lodge / Sabi Sand Reserve gate vehicle entrance fee & per person fee
- Waterside, N’kaya, Serondella, Waterbuck, Monwana and Chapungu Lodges – no drinks are included
General Information The Thornybush Collection reserves the right to stipulate a minimum stay over weekends, public holidays and holiday periods. A weekend constitutes a Friday and a Saturday night. One night bookings are not generally accepted but may be made at the discretion of The Thornybush Collection reservations staff.
To make a reservation please provide the following information:
- Surname and Christian names as they appear in the passport
- Nationality
- Arrival and departure methods
- Any special dietary requirements or special requests
- Mobile contact number
- Room configuration - double / twin or single beds
DEPOSIT AND PAYMENT POLICYGENERAL DEPOSIT POLICY
For all bookings, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required within seven (7) days of the making of a reservation, unless a booking is made within 30 days prior to the scheduled date of arrival in which case full payment is required to secure the reservation.
The balance of the account must be paid, in advance, no less than 30 days prior to the scheduled date of arrival. All other extras must be settled with The Lodge prior to departure.
Please note that a reservation is not confirmed or secured until this deposit requirement has been paid in full. The Thornybush Collection reserves the right, without notice to release any accommodation held where the required deposit has not been paid in full within the stated period.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Upon confirmation of reservation, The Thornybush Collection reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee equivalent to:
60 to 31 days prior to arrival at the lodge = 25% Cancellation fees
30 to 00 days prior to arrival at the lodge = 100% Cancellation fees
All deposits of 25 % received on confirmation are Non-Refundable.
PAYMENTS
Payments can be effected by either:
a) Credit Card, kindly request a credit card authorization form from The Thornybush CollectionÂ’s reservations department. This document must be completed and returned by fax / e-mail to The Thornybush Collection.
b) Bank transfer to – The Thornybush Collection Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd
FNB Sandton
A/c Name: Inzalo Investment Holdings (Pty) Ltd
A/c No: 62357054958
Branch code 260950 since 3.05.2012
SWIFT code FIRNZAJJ
Sandton,2196
Payments must be made in South African Rands and a copy of the deposit slip faxed through to +27-11-803 7350
TRAVEL CANCELLATION INSURANCE
Guests are obliged to ensure that they have adequate travel insurance to cover the financial implications of The Thornybush CollectionÂ’s Cancellation Terms and Conditions. Guests will bear the sole and absolute responsibility therefore.
HEALTH MATTERS
Since Malaria is endemic to the Limpopo and Mpumalanga region where The Thornybush Collection lodges are situated, it is essential to ensure that anti-malarial precautions be taken throughout the year. It is the CompanyÂ’s sole and absolute responsibility to ensure that all guests, tour leaders, tour guides, drivers, guides, pilots and the like consult with their doctors and/or pharmacist prior to attending TC lodges in order to ensure that all necessary precautions against malaria are timeously taken.
Contact Details