Shumbalala Game Lodge

Set in a dry savanna of Mopane, Acacias and Umbrella thorntrees, quartered by easterly-flowing rivers densely shrouded in giant figs, fever trees and phoenix palms, the land is an ancient tapestry of natural wonder.

Over-head the Loeries call their sharp warnings, while Hornbills swoop in an ungainly ballet between trees and Vultures circle on thermals portending an electric storm. It is even more of an adventure when you stumble upon a leopard lazing in the V of a Jackalberry tree or; a hyena giving you a lazy yellow eye in the gathering dusk; a majestic bull elephant crashing its way through the riverine thicket in search of sweet reeds or; a surprise sunrise encounter with a lion pride on the prowl.

Thornybush Nature Reserve lies in over 11 000ha of splendid solitude adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Unspoiled and untainted by the world beyond, stone-clad Shumbalala (“Where the lion sleeps”) is a five star journey for the soul, set beneath shady African trees lining the Monwana River, along the banks of which you will spot myriad animals from your large cane wing-back chair poised on a teak deck.

Lodging consists of five luxury suites, all of which have overhead fans, air conditioning, open fireplaces and glass fronts with private viewing decks into the magical African bush. Bathrooms (all with in- and outside showers) have their own glass picture windows to watch the wild world go by as you wash off the heat of the day. The double suite Presidential unit includes a private dining room, lounge, plunge pool and fireside facilities.