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The River Lodge at Thornybush

Thornybush Game Reserve, Orpen Road, Hoedspruit, 1380, South Africa

Love at First Sight

Discover the beating heart of Africa at The River Lodge at Thornybush, where unsurpassed luxury meets the wilds of Africa.

With only six luxury suites including the 2 bedroom Royal Suite, the lodge accommodates a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring personalized service levels and opulent intimacy during your experience. The opportunity to reserve the entire lodge for small groups is also a reality; perfect for a post or pre honeymoon party or weddings.

The public areas are elegantly furnished and views of the surround Big 5 wildlife area are at every turn.

Each suite has its own private plunge pool, however the highlight most certainly is the main rim-flow sparkling pool, where thirsty groups of elephants tend to frequent.

The lodge is situated in the Thornybush Game Reserve, which is part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Limpopo, South Africa.

Romance

For many an African safari is a bucket-list experience, and this is precisely what we offer.

Blend into the wilderness in unsurpassed luxury; large and airy suites with deluxe amenities, open the bathroom doors and take a bubble bath overlooking the Timbavati River Bed below; fine-dining in your suite, in the bush or in the main area where elephants and other wildlife may join you; exciting morning and evening adventures into the bush with our knowledgeable guides to experience the finest in African wildlife viewing...

Your Stay

From arrival to departure you will be treated like kings and queens, nothing is too much trouble for us, and we thrive on ensuring our guests have a life experience!

Only catering up to 12 guests at anyone time, the lavish suites are spacious and every amenity has been thought of.

The three River Lodge Suites radiate elegance and luxury. The stack-able glass doors allow the wilderness right into your suite, offering a unique relaxed wildlife experience even from the comfort of your extra length king size bed or indoor lounge area. Each suite offers views of the Timbavati River which is frequented by a variety of wildlife. Take a skinny dip in your private plunge pool whilst sipping on a gin-tail without a care in the world. The large bathroom offers indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a Victorian style bath thoughtfully placed to ensuring that you dont miss a thing!

The aptly named Honeymoon Suite is tactfully situated along an old and well-used elephant trail in a private corner of the lodge area. Surrounded by Combretum trees as well as views of the Timbavati River Bed the newly added 100 square meter suite surpasses all expectations. Natural light filters through the shadows cast by the Magic Guarris trees rooted within the teak deck; home to an infinity swimming pool that can be heated for use on cold-winter nights. An indoor fireplace adds to the romantic ambiance of the suite, which offers all the luxuries of the others; just more-so!

The epitome of a luxury safari experience; The Royal Suite offers you your own private villa on the banks of the Timbavati River in the Greater Kruger National Park! At 220 square meters, this well-appointed bush villa exceeds even your wildest expectations; luxurious, spacious and secluded. The villa extends via boardwalk under the riverine trees adjoining two en-suite 85 square meter bedrooms, separated by a large living and dining area. The heated rim-flow pool adorning the deck has become a popular stopover for many Kruger elephants seeking an alternative freshwater source on their foraging festivals along the Timbavati river! The Royal Suite presents an ideal option for friends or family travelling together who wish to enjoy their own private safari experience.

What to Do

No part of Africa is without mystery; it has captured the imagination of the world and thrills us with its untold secrets! Thornybush Nature Reserve is no exception. Situated in the lush bushveld of the Lowveld, the private reserve has a fascinating history dating back to 1955, when the original Thornybush farm measured just 1640 hectares.

Today the Thornybush Game Reserve forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park after the north- eastern boundary fence was removed in 2017. This has allowed for natural wildlife migration patterns to resume, which has resulted in a supreme game-viewing experience. It’s not unusual to witness some of the great Kruger tuskers exploring new Thornybush territories, as well as the rare white lions of the Timbavati.

Both the critically endangered black and white rhino call Thornybush home, whilst the iconic leopard and cheetah are regular sightings. Painted Wild dogs; also listed as threatened, make regular trips to Thornybush adding to the excitement of a safari at Thornybush.

Enjoy early morning and late afternoon daily game drives to discover members of the BIG 5 as well as plenty of other species of wildlife. Experience the bush on foot with our qualified guides as they show you the smaller things you miss whilst out on the vehicles; insects, tracks and dung identification is fascinating!

The surrounding area offers a host of other activities you can enjoy; such as helicopter flights into the Blyde River Canyon, visits to wildlife rehabilitation centres, hot air ballooning and tours to the Panorama Route.

The Food of Love

Feast on a diverse assortment from the breakfast buffet whilst awaiting a cooked breakfast of your choice. Slip into the afternoon with a delectable lunch served on the deck overlooking the semi-circle pool which is often visited by elephants. Enjoy stylishly plated romantic dinners, whilst listening to the sounds of the African night.

Adding to the culinary pleasures of The River Lodge at Thornybush, we also offer bush-breakfasts and more social boma dinners. Private dinners can also be requested in the privacy of your suite. Dietary requirements are respected and catered for and our chefs strive to offer you the variety of culinary delights.

    Accommodation:
  • Boutique Hotel
  • Lodge
  • Unusual/Unique Property
  • Villa
    Setting:
  • Nature Reserve
  • River
  • Woodlands
    Hotel features:
  • All Inclusive
  • Amazing Sunset
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Heli Pad
  • Panoramic View
  • Private Dining
  • Restaurant
  • Swimming Pool
Recommended for:
  • Adventurous
  • Exclusive
  • Fine Dining
  • Luxury
  • Natural Wonders
  • Once in a Lifetime
  • Romantic Dinner
  • Safaris & Wildlife
  • Tours & Excursions

Weddings at The River Lodge at Thornybush

    Wedding services:
  • Reception Only
  • Renewal of Vows
  • Same-Sex Weddings
    Wedding locations:
  • Game/Nature Reserve
Ceremony capacity: 20
Reception capacity: 20

Romantic Breaks

Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari
Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari

Make 2020 the year of plenty and get one night on us when spending 3 nights at The River…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Occasions

Proposals

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Anniversaries

Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Birthdays

Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Honeymoons

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package

Spend 3 nights or more on honeymoon at The River Lodge at Thornybush and the gorgeous bride pays half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details

Babymoons

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package

Spend 3 nights or more on honeymoon at The River Lodge at Thornybush and the gorgeous bride pays half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details

Renewal of Vows

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Accommodation

River Lodge Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Day Beds
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower
Honeymoon Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower
  • Infinity Pool
The Royal Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Complimentary Movie Library
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower

Special Offers

Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari
Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari

Make 2020 the year of plenty and get one night on us when spending 3 nights at The River…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package

Spend 3 nights or more on honeymoon at The River Lodge at Thornybush and the gorgeous bride pays half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details

Exclusive Offers

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Honeymoon Suite Package
Honeymoon Suite Package

Spend 3 nights or more with us in our Honeymoon Suite and the beautiful bride pays half price!

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package
River Lodge Suite Honeymoon Package

Spend 3 nights or more on honeymoon at The River Lodge at Thornybush and the gorgeous bride pays half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details

Passion Thrillers

River Lodge Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Day Beds
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower
Honeymoon Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower
  • Infinity Pool
The Royal Suite
  • Amazing Views
  • Bathtub for 2
  • Complimentary Movie Library
  • Emotional Shower
  • Feature Shower

Seasonal Offers

The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details

Valentine's Offers

Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari
Pay 2 and Stay 3 - South African Safari

Make 2020 the year of plenty and get one night on us when spending 3 nights at The River…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!
The Royal Suite Buddymoon Stay!

Bring two of your closest friends on honeymoon with you and the bride + friend will only pay half…

Package includes 3 night stay

More Details
Long Stay Special Offer
Long Stay Special Offer

Book to stay 5 nights or more at The River Lodge at Thornybush and receive 30% off your entire…

Package includes 5 night stay

More Details
Last Minute Booking Special Offer
Last Minute Booking Special Offer

Book within 7 days of your arrival date and receive 25% off the total of your accommodation.

Package includes 1 night stay

More Details