The River Lodge at Thornybush

Saseka is the Tsonga word for ‘beautiful’ and this stunning camp, situated in the exclusive Thornybush Nature Reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, is certainly that.

Permanently stationed on Selati Bridge above the Sabie River, Kruger Shalati is a re-envisioned train that pays homage to those who explored the park some 100 years ago. The train takes its inspiration from the early 1920s when the train would overnight on the bridge where it stands today.

There are 31 rooms, consisting of 24 carriage rooms and seven Bridge House rooms, each designed with comfort in mind. The glass-walled train rooms offer astounding views along the river. African design, local art and crafting add a unique feel to rooms and shared spaces. Unwind at the pool while crocodiles, hippos, buffalos and elephants gather at the river’s edge below.

Set in the heart of Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park, RockFig Safari Lodge is perfectly situated for forays into the bush.

There are six chalet-type suites to choose from, with the colour palette in each room inspired by the purple and green hues of local birds and plants. Each suite features indoor and outdoor showers, a private verandah perfect for romantic dinners, and a bath.  Specially commissioned watercolour paintings add a beautiful touch. The structure and interior design of the lodge have also been inspired by the natural setting, creating a luxurious and relaxing space, with a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that segue into each other for guests to make use of.

Take a seat at the counter next to the open-plan kitchen and watch the chef’s team create your meal, or find a warm spot by the fire in the lounge on the cooler evenings. Dine at a shared table indoors, or outdoors, before heading over to the covered lounge with its arresting views, or lounge on the pool deck overlooking the waterhole. Game drives let you cover some ground in the comfort of a vehicle, while walking safaris put you right on the ground, exploring the area under your own steam. On a starry night, the boma area is the best place to be as you gather around a crackling fire, listen to the noises of the bush and recount the best moments of your day.

Monwana Game Lodge is a homely, unpretentious lodge and a thoroughly comfortable place from which to explore the Thornybush Nature Reserve.

There are just four suites in here, two for families which sleep up to four people, a king size suite and one more private suite for honeymooners. All feature private decks or patio areas overlooking the ever-active waterhole or rugged bushveld. You can dine here in private in the evenings as herds of impala stroll by or convene in the communal dining area at the heart of the camp where you’ll also find the swimming pool.

Discover the Kruger-bordering reserve on early morning and afternoon game drives in open Land Rovers on the search for the Big Five and more which can be found here, and there may also be the chance to seek wildlife out on foot on walking safaris.