Shumbalala Game Lodge

Shumbalala Game Lodge is canopied by lush African trees along the Monwana River and is found in the heart of the Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Boasting just four Superior Suites and one two-bedroom Presidential Suite, this intimate lodge is perfect for friends and families in search of a Big 5 experience.

Each air-conditioned Superior Suite at Shumbalala Game Lodge offers views of the dry riverbed or the waterhole, which is frequented by the wildlife in this region. For the colder seasons, guests can enjoy the warmth of an in-room fireplace and the picture window bathroom offers an unmatched atmosphere. For those wanting a more adventurous experience, step out onto your private outdoor shower and take in the sights of Africa. Relax in the lounge or on your private viewing deck, read a book or just soak up the tranquillity, smells and sounds of the bush that surrounds you! Each of the Superior Suites boasts a luxury plunge pool.

The two-bedroom Presidential Suite includes two full en-suite bedrooms, a private dining room, private lounge, fireplace, a wrap-around private deck with outside dining facilities, a private boma and two private plunge pools.

The main lodge features, game viewing decks and swimming pools, there are also two guest lounges, a curio shop and a library in which to relax between game drives.

Sumptuous cuisine prepared by the well-trained chef is enjoyed either on the lodge decks positioned to ensure scenic vistas or by candlelight in more formal surroundings in the main dining room accompanied by a crackling fire in winter. Open air fire-side dinners are an occasion, and an opportunity to share your experience.

Your knowledgeable and experienced ranger conducts professional early morning and later afternoon/evening game drives in an informative and relaxed fashion. Following brunch, guests are welcome to enjoy the camp's relaxing facilities, but informative bush walks are offered for the more adventurous. For the birding and photography enthusiasts, the reserve has plenty to offer and game are encountered at close range. Rangers are trained to consider your special interests during game drives and walks.

About Thornybush Game Reserve

Adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park lies 14,000 hectares of pristine African bushveld, this is the Thornybush Game Reserve. The reserve is home to an abundance of species - 147 mammals including the "Big Five", 114 reptiles, 507 birds, 49 fish, 34 amphibians and 336 trees. The reserve is predominantly open savannah and with a near perfect year-round climate, it is the ideal African safari holiday destination.

The classic bush landscape both absorbs and comforts you as if you’ve happened upon an old friend. A well-known destination for local and international visitors Thornybush has earned its reputation as one of the country’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 Game Reserve has evolved over the years into a visitor’s paradise. Bush lovers can saturate themselves, not only in the big five, but also in the remarkable fauna and flora.