Loved by Shimungwe Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve guests
exclusive game drives
delicious food
comfortable rooms
beautiful lodge
amazing staff
"Its intimate size offers an authentic South African bush experience."
Albert vdS from South Africa
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"Our room overlooked the waterhole and we saw elephants, zebra, warthogs and giraffes right from our own room!"
Stephen W from United Kingdom
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"Shimungwe delivered a perfect safari for our family."
Tina G from United States
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"We were able to see all the big five, wild dogs and many other great sitings."
Matthew R from United States
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"The lodge offers an experience that feels much like visiting a friend's beloved home."
Lauren from South Africa
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4-room lodge in Thornybush Game Reserve overlooking a waterhole
Accommodation & Grounds
Shimungwe Lodge has four double rooms, each with a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a private deck. The outdoor swimming pool offers a view of the waterhole and has a shallow end for children. The garden, sun terrace, and outdoor fireplace provide spaces for relaxation between game drives.
Dining
The family-friendly restaurant serves British cuisine with halal, kosher, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. Breakfast choices include continental, buffet, and full English/Irish. The bar offers wine, champagne, and fruits, and afternoon snacks are provided.
Services & Amenities
The lodge offers private check-in/check-out, a safety deposit box, and a concierge. Airport shuttle services (pickup and drop-off) are available, along with daily housekeeping and ironing service. A shared lounge/TV area and board games/puzzles are provided for guests.
Game Drives
Game drives are conducted twice daily in open land cruisers, led by a ranger and a tracker with over 20 years of experience. The lodge sits within the unfenced Thornybush Game Reserve, allowing sightings of the Big Five from the vehicle. Morning coffee and sunset sundowners are served on the drives.
Location
The lodge is located 37 km from Orpen Gate and 37 km from Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport. Nearby attractions include Blyde River Canyon (40 km), Drakensig Golf Club (41 km), and Kinyonga Reptile Centre (42 km). A shuttle service connects guests to the reserve gate and airport.
Highlights
Rooms: 4 double suites with private decks overlooking a waterhole
Dining: British cuisine with halal, kosher, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options
Activities: Twice-daily game drives with experienced ranger and tracker
Location: Thornybush Game Reserve, 37 km from Orpen Gate
Pool: Outdoor swimming pool with a view and shallow end
“This is an intimate safari lodge where exclusivity is felt through its limited number of suites, making game drives with guides like Lucan and Daniel feel deeply personal. The exceptional wildlife sightings, often visible even from the rooms, are complemented by thoughtfully prepared meals and attentive, warm service from the entire team. It's a place that balances robust adventure with genuine comfort, leaving a distinct impression.”
James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Zalimpopo
Select your room type
Shimungwe Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals
Standard Suite
2 persons
30 m²
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
July 2026 - July 2027
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Choose dates to see prices
Check-in/ Check-out
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