• safari lodge with swimming pool
Discover an intimate, four-star safari lodge hidden in one of the world’s leading big five game destinations – the acclaimed Greater Kruger

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

Located in the prestigious Thornybush Game Reserve, Shimungwe offers an intimate, luxury safari experience.

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 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

  • A wonderful, warm lodge

    The lodge offers an experience that feels much like visiting a friend’s beloved home. Set above a riverbed, one has a feeling of living in the trees. It has been lovingly and thoughtfully designed to be exceptionally functional and casually chic without feeling as clinical as a ‘hotel’. Where most lodges are muted tones of beige, white & brown, Shimungwe is colourful and warm. I’d be remiss in particular,... Read this review

    Lauren, March 2026

    Johannesburg, South Africa

  • Idyllic

    We recently spent a few idyllic days at Shimungwe and can't rate it highly enough. The lodge is both intimate and luxurious. Nataly and her staff were professional and the meals and accommodation exceptional. The game drives with Lucan and Danni were simply magnificent with incredible sightings too. This really is a gem in the bush and we can't wait to visit again. Definitely worth putting it on your... Read this review

    Vanessa Connelly, March 2026

    Western Cape, South Africa

  • Incredible

    It's was such a treat! Amazing place with great staff, very organized. Food from the chef was stunning! Lucan and Dan are absolutely incredible rangers!It was a great experience would definitely recommend if you're looking for a place to go on safari - you can't go wrong with Shimungwe!

    Traveler0406002...., December 2025

  • My go to place in Africa

    Amazing place , beautiful relaxing location with fantastic rides with experienced knowledgeable rangers . Five stars all round .. cannot be beaten on quality … will definitely be back … it is my go to place in Africa

    Odyssey33263...., September 2025

    Sale, United Kingdom