Thornybush Game Lodge - Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Thornybush Game Lodge is a hotel near Timbavati Private Nature Reserve.

Location
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger & Mpumalanga Lowveld, South Africa, Southern Africa
Type
tented_camp
Coordinates
-24.411210, 31.168299
Price range
luxury
Email
[email protected]
Website
https://www.thornybush.com/
Activities
Spa, Wellnes, Family Safari
Amenities
Spa, Wellness, Bar, Library

PlnrScore: 51/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

1915 species observed within 20 km, 61 mammals, 266 birds.

  • Lion (Mammalia, 213 observations)
  • Southern Giraffe (Mammalia, 179 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 172 observations)
  • Spotted Hyena (Mammalia, 135 observations)
  • Plains Zebra (Mammalia, 130 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 128 observations)
  • White-backed Vulture (Aves, 116 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 112 observations)
  • Leopard (Mammalia, 110 observations)
  • Grey Foam-nest Tree Frog (Amphibia, 108 observations)

Best Time to Visit Thornybush Game Lodge

The best months to visit Thornybush Game Lodge are January, March, April, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 24.88°C, rainfall 131.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 71.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 24.86°C, rainfall 126.8mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 72.1%
  • March: Great, temperature 24.2°C, rainfall 47.4mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 68.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 22.25°C, rainfall 39.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 67.9%
  • May: Great, temperature 19.95°C, rainfall 24.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 67.2%
  • June: Great, temperature 17.8°C, rainfall 14.4mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 61.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 17.68°C, rainfall 6.7mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 57.4%
  • August: Great, temperature 19.77°C, rainfall 4mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 55.7%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.08°C, rainfall 15.3mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 55.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 22.94°C, rainfall 38.5mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 61.2%
  • November: Great, temperature 24.99°C, rainfall 72.9mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 61.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.33°C, rainfall 131.1mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 69.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What can we expect from the wildlife viewing at Thornybush Game Lodge, given its location near Timbavati?

We find the game viewing at Thornybush truly exceptional, thanks to its prime location within the Greater Kruger ecosystem. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, often tracking the Big Five with impressive skill, and we especially love the frequent leopard sightings here. The open-vehicle safaris offer an intimate connection with the bush, and the sunsets are sensational during sundowners.

How does the "tented camp" experience at Thornybush Game Lodge balance luxury with being in the bush?

We adore how Thornybush masterfully blends the thrill of a tented camp with uncompromising luxury. Your private tented suite feels incredibly spacious and timeless, offering all the comforts of a high-end hotel while allowing you to hear the sounds of the bush at night. We particularly recommend the private decks for quiet moments watching wildlife pass by.

When is the absolute best time to visit Thornybush Game Lodge for an optimal safari experience?

For prime wildlife viewing, we recommend visiting Thornybush during the dry winter months, from May to October. The vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot as they congregate around water sources, and the cooler temperatures are perfect for game drives. However, the summer rains bring lush landscapes and newborn animals, which is also a beautiful, albeit different, experience.

We're considering a family safari at Thornybush Game Lodge; what makes it particularly suitable for children?

Thornybush truly excels at creating memorable family safaris, and we've seen firsthand how well they engage younger guests. Their dedicated children's program often includes bush walks, tracking lessons, and even junior ranger activities, making the experience educational and exciting. We appreciate that they offer family-friendly accommodations and flexible game drive options to suit different age groups.

What is the wellness and spa experience like at Thornybush Game Lodge, and is it a worthwhile addition to our safari?

We absolutely recommend indulging in the spa and wellness offerings at Thornybush; it's a perfect complement to the exhilarating safari days. The treatments are designed to rejuvenate, often incorporating local ingredients, and the serene setting overlooking the bush is incredibly calming. It's a luxurious way to unwind and reflect on your wildlife encounters.

Other Safari Lodges in Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Parks in Greater Kruger & Mpumalanga Lowveld

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for South Africa

Travel advisory for South Africa