Shumbalala Lodge

Key Takeaways

• The "Big Five" Thornybush Private Game Reserve
• A private and intimate game lodge awaits
• Excellent cuisine and wine cellar
• Air conditioning in the superior suites
• Dining facilities and open-air boma area
• Big 5 safaris, game drives and bush walks
• Swimming pool and plunge pool options
• Presidential Suite overlooking the seasonal Monwana River

Lodge Information

• Lodge type; Safari Lodge
• Location; Thornybush Private Game Reserve, South Africa
• Lodge size; 5 Safari Suites
• Recommended stay; 2-5 nights

Explore The "Big Five" Of The Thornybush Private Game Reserve At Shumbalala Lodge

Shumbalala Lodge in the Thornybush Game Reserve in the Limpopo Province of South Africa is a private and intimate safari lodge that offers luxurious accommodation for up to eight clients (the Thornybush forms parts of the Greater Kruger National Park).

Experience the peace and serenity of this remote destination with views over the seasonal Monwana River while enjoying a unique underground wine cellar.

Shumbalala provides the perfect backdrop for "Big Five" safari experiences and romantic getaways.

At Shumbalala, relax by the outdoor swimming pool while admiring the beauty of the African bushveld or explore the local wildlife up close and personal on a game drive.

To make an even more remarkable stay, guests can enjoy the Presidential Suite, which features a private plunge pool and a deck with captivating views.

The cuisine at Shumbalala Game Lodge stands out from the rest, with an extensive list of wines to accompany every meal. The chefs prepare fresh meals that showcase local produce and flavours from around South Africa. Whether guests dine indoors or al fresco, they can enjoy a delicious meal in the heart of the bush.

Reserve Information

Thornybush Game Reserve is an exquisite wildlife and birding destination in South Africa's Greater Kruger National Park. The private reserve sprawls across 14,000 hectares of untouched South African bushveld, providing visitors with a remarkable safari experience. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot the area's "Big Five" (elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros and lion) as well as many other species, such as cheetah, wild dog, giraffe and zebra, to mention only but a few.

The diverse vegetation of Thornybush Private Game Reserve is home to a variety of birdlife and can also be seen from the air on game drives or open-vehicle game viewing.

Visitors can also explore the private game reserve on foot with an expert guide, allowing for a more intimate safari experience.

Rooms And Suites

Four luxury suites with views out over the Monwana River offer guests air-conditioned comfort, an open fireplace, king-sized beds, a private viewing deck and that all-important outdoor shower.

One Presidential suite offers up two en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, a private viewing deck and a, wait for it, a private Boma. The perfect setup for couples travelling together or families with older kids in tow

Shumbalala Lodge accommodates a maximum of eight people at any one go ensuring privacy and exclusivity for all guests.

Cuisine And Wine

Shumbalala's expert chef and kitchen team prepare delightful breakfast, lunch, high tea or dinner delicacies.

You can have your meals in three different locations: the formal dining area in the central guest area of the lodge, outside next to a fire in the boma, or in private on the verandah of your suite.

A good selection of South African wines and beers accompanies the cuisine.

At Shumbalala Lodge, each meal is an opportunity to savour delicious delicacies surrounded by "the wild world of Africa".

Lodge Facilities

The Shumbalala facilities are designed to provide guests an exceptional stay – from comfortable lodgings to all the necessary amenities.

The central guest area offers a variety of amenities – two comfortable lounges, a library full of books and magazines, and a curio shop with local wares.

In addition, visitors have the option to swim in the pool, as well as to unwind on one of the viewing decks, and appreciate the magnificent wildlife of South Africa.

The lodge also features an outdoor boma area – perfect for star-gazing under the African night sky.

Safari Activities

Shumbalala Lodge offers a range of exciting and unforgettable safari activities. Twice daily game drives with experienced guides and trackers allow visitors to observe the abundant wildlife in its natural habitat.

Each day starts early with a morning game drive that allows for a peaceful and intimate experience, the perfect way to start the day. In the late afternoon, a second game drive allows one to witness the African sunset and spot nocturnal animals that emerge at night.

For those looking to get up close and personal with wildlife, guided bush walks after breakfast/brunch offer visitors the chance to take in all of the fascinating knowledge the Shangaan trackers share regarding the surrounding wildlife, birdlife, trees, plants, insects and local history and culture.

Spa And Wellness

Shumbalala Lodge offers a unique and luxurious spa and wellness experience. Guests can indulge in various treatments, including traditional African body therapies, reflexology, aromatherapy, hot stone and Swedish massages, and facial rejuvenation treatments.

The qualified spa staff at Shumbalala Game Lodge use natural ingredients from the local area to give guests a truly memorable spa experience.

The lodge also offers yoga classes led by experienced instructors and bespoke aromatherapy treatments utilizing various healing oils which can help soothe the mind, body and soul.

Guests have access to an outdoor heated pool where they can relax after a massage or yoga class to take in the stunning views of the reserve.

In Conclusion

Shumbalala Lodge offers an unforgettable safari experience that combines luxury accommodation, incredible cuisine and wine list, Big 5 Safaris and many other activities.

Shumbalala is perfect for couples looking to get away from it all or families who want a unique African adventure. With its stunning views of the Monwana River and private plunge pools in each suite, the lodge provides guests with the ultimate escape into nature's beauty.

Whether you are looking for peace and serenity or an exciting game drive through Thornybush Game Reserve – Shumbalala has something special just waiting for you!