Thornybush Game Lodge runs like a well-oiled machine. They are very precise with time and schedule, which is probably a good thing for a lodge of this size. The lodge itself is on the large side: spacious and very well constructed (with 18 suites and 2 family suites). The rooms are all aligned along the seasonal riverbed and there’s a beautiful walk way that leads to the rooms where you can see some animals grazing. Rooms are quite spaced-out, given the number of rooms, so perhaps not the best option if you have difficulty walking long distances.
They also have 2 family suites which have a small sitting area with sleeper couch for children and private plunge pool on the deck. There’s a kids safari programme.
The food was fantastic – great variety of food and very well presented. Plus the staff were some of the best I’ve seen. They call you by name and you feel as you are the only guest in camp.
Game viewing was very good given the time of year. We’ve seen the Big Five on our two drives, with an unexpected and magnificent black rhino sighting! They now have completely open borders with the Kruger reserves (via the Timbavati), as fences were dropped a couple of years ago. Definitely good place for game-viewing as the guide and tracker were excellent.
Great game-voiewing, good food and amazing staff, is definitely a big YES to me. Overall, we really enjoyed our short stay.
