• safari lodge with swimming pool

Shimungwe: a luxury safari lodge in Thornybush Game Reserve

Discover an intimate, four-star safari lodge, hidden in one of the world’s leading big five game destinations, the acclaimed Greater Kruger National Park, in South Africa.

Combining the warm charm of a welcoming bush home with magnificent views over the seasonal Timbavati River, Shimungwe is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an authentic safari experience. Towering trees and a thoughtfully crafted design create an understated, African-inspired luxury that heralds both tranquility and comfort in a spectacular location. 

Why choose Shimungwe Lodge for your safari?

Located in the prestigious Thornybush Game Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem in South Africa, Shimungwe offers an intimate, boutique luxury safari experience. With just four tastefully appointed suites, the lodge is ideally suited to couples and small groups looking for a private, personal escape as well as family gatherings who prefer the exclusivity of reserving an entire camp. With fewer guests, the experience is tailored, unhurried, and focused on meaningful connections with the African bush.

Our Suites

Shimungwe is an intimate, boutique safari bush lodge with four luxurious suites, spacious places for private relaxation and time to enjoy the dappled light. They have private, en-suite bathrooms with beautiful views and invigorating outside showers. Each of our luxury suites boast a private balcony with unimpeded views of the stunning African bush along the Timbavati riverbed, allowing guests to continue wildlife spotting long after game the drive has ended.

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Game Drives

For many guests a Big Five African safari is the highlight of their trip. Both morning and night, our passionate and experienced local guide and tracker team will take you on mesmerizing game drives into the African bushveld for a genuine, uncrowded African safari experience.

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Location

Shimungwe Lodge is nestled on the banks of the Timbavati River in the wild south of the iconic Thornybush Game Reserve located within the Greater Kruger National Park. We are located near the town of Hoedspruit and only a 45-minute drive from the Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport.

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Experience Shimungwe

With just four tastefully-appointed suites, the lodge is ideally suited to couples and small groups looking for a private luxury safari escape as well as family gatherings who prefer the exclusivity of reserving an entire camp.

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Reviews

  • The family atmosphere is what sets this lodge apart

    We recently had the pleasure of spending four nights at Shimungwe, and what an extraordinary experience it was! Nataly, Gerhard and the entire team ensured that every moment of our stay was truly unforgettable. The accommodation was superb, the food boundless, the staff were some of the friendliest we've ever encountered, and the game drives were exceptional, with a huge range of animals seen on every drive .We have... Read this review

    John Bennett, May 2026

  • Best trip of my life!!!!

    My husband and I went to Shimungwe lodge for our honeymoon and I am not exaggerating when I say this was hands down the best trip of our lives. The service was second to none, the accommodations were perfection and the staff was warm and wonderful. My husband has celiac and the kitchen staff went above and beyond to ensure no cross contamination. The meals were the best food... Read this review

    BackPacker324700 , May 2026

  • An excellent experience

    This was my 3rd trip to Thornybush Reserve and the best. The lodge has 4 rooms, a max of 8 guests , so everyone is treated as an individual. Karlien is great, always there and super helpful. The room staff and catering staff were amazing. Meals were creative and very tasty. Lucan & Daniel are excellent on the Drives, very knowlegable and everyday a suprise.Best safari experience to date.

    Chris S, April 2026

    Texas, USA

  • Beautiful setting

    Beautiful setting for an African lodge with incredible service and food with unique sightings of African wildlife!

    Sian Hartshorne, April 2026

    South Africa