Thornybush Collection, Game Lodges, Safaris, Reviews, Videos

Thornybush Collection, Game Lodges, Safaris, Reviews, Videos. A cluster of opulent safari lodges in South Africa, the Thornybush collection is known for offering some of the best bush experiences in the country. Each lodge is situated on a riverbed or overlooks a waterhole, allowing visitors to enjoy the outdoors in sumptuous comfort. With the first lodge opening its doors in 1961, Thornybush is one of the first nature reserves in the Greater Kruger National Park. Since then, the Thornybush collection has expanded its distinguished collection of lodges, and it now runs operations in both the Sabi Sand and Thornybush Private Nature Reserves.

The history of the company dates back to when safari pioneer Norman Carr created a safari experience centered on community and conservation in Zambia seventy years ago. This philosophy has been upheld by Time + Tide, which has created a more “grounded” travel experience based on preserving Africa’s unique history, animals, people, and cultures.

Set within the greater Kruger National Park

They have worked on a variety of wildlife projects over the past few decades, including the first relocation of an entire elephant herd from Kruger, one of the first leopard introductions onto a private reserve, in-depth research on the critically endangered pangolin, and the first release of a black rhino onto a lowveld private nature reserve. Their attempts to improve the local community, including their extremely successful “Thousand Herbs and Vegetable Garden” initiative, which consists of two small farms maintained by local businesses and provides the lodges with fresh produce, are part of their solid dedication to sustainable travel principles.


Thornybush Game Lodge

The goal of the Thornybush collection is to create memorable, immersive, and transformative experiences. Every safari directly and positively affects both people and the ecosystem. These lodges offer the best service, delectable food, and professional guides, making them the ideal retreat for discovering the Greater Kruger’s amazing wildlife.

Thornybush Collection Tours and Safaris

Browse through our suggested safaris and tours, each of which includes a stay at a five-star lodge run by the Thornybush collection, or get in touch with the Bespoke African Safari Co. Expert for help creating the ideal custom itinerary.

Elephant on Game Drive in South Africa

The amazing biodiversity, animals, rich culture, and sunlight of South Africa have made it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. It is also the location of Cape Town, known as “the Mother City,” which was named the top tourist attraction in 2014. Visiting South Africa on a safari tour is an unforgettable experience.

Thornybush Collection Accommodation

Each lodge in the Thornybush collection is in a prime location and places a strong emphasis on authentic experiences and an eco-conscious way of living. Plan your Thornybush adventure by perusing the collection below or getting in touch with us.

Thornybush Collection Reviews

Thornybush’s mission is to introduce you to the magic of safari and the unspoiled splendor of the Greater Kruger Park. You may sleep to the sounds of nature while the stars silently dance in the night sky, and you can wake up with the birds as the sun warms the ground.

Whether on a honeymoon or a family vacation, our guests will never forget their time in the bush thanks to the wide variety of animals they will encounter and the high standard of accommodation at our luxury safari lodges.

A life altering experience

TripAdvisor ratings by The Bespoke African Safari Co.
Client: Ally Nehme
Country: Montreal, Canada

I was in Thornybush Game Losge which was the best life experience I have ever had . Our guide Kilmon and the entire staff were unbelievable . If I can give 100 stars , I would . We visited at the beginning of November . Weather was just right . Slept in Luxury tent listen to the Lions roar . The food was flown in daily fresh and succulent and we ate like Queens ! Do not even hesitate . Worth every penny !we even saw Hyena in the day and a Cheetah live killing an impala then feeding her 5 baby cubs
Date of stay: November 2022
Traveled with friends

The Highlight of our Southern Africa Trip

TripAdvisor ratings by The Bespoke African Safari Co.
Client: DrillerBurlington
Country: Burlington, Canada

We stayed four days at the Thornybush Waterside Lodge. Everything was perfect from our pretty cottage to the excellent food to our twice daily safari outings. Our driver/ guide Louis was exceptional at finding the animals, all of the “big five”and so much more. he was a wealth of information about tracking, animal habits, native plants. They guides work in great concert with one another so that all the safari groups get a chance to see everything possible. It made for an exceptional experience.
Date of stay: February 2020
Room Tip: try for a cabin close to the lodge