• Leopard sighting on game drive in Thornybush Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, South Africa
    Experiences at Shimungwe
  • A rare sighting of a Ground Hornbill perched in a tree, Thornybush Game Reserve, Greater Kruger
  • A couple enjoying their Big Five African safari, excited to see a giraffe on Thornybush Game Reserve, Greater Kruger
  • Elephants playing and swimming in a water hole, game drive in Thornybush Game Reserve, Greater Kruger
  • A couple enjoying an evening drink at the bar, Shimungwe Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve

Experiences

From thrilling big five game drives to quiet moments under star-filled skies, every stay at Shimungwe offers a variety of ways to connect with the African bush. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, learning, or time together, our range of experiences allows you to shape your safari in a way that feels personal and meaningful.

Experience the adventure of a Big Five safari in Thornybush Game Reserve, part of the world-renowned Greater Kruger ecosystem. At Shimungwe Lodge, our twice-daily guided game drives and immersive safari activities offer guests the opportunity to encounter Africa’s most iconic wildlife while enjoying a personalised, intimate safari experience.

A Typical Day on Safari

A typical day begins with an early morning game drive, followed by breakfast back at the lodge. Guests then have time to relax in their suites or around the pool, enjoying the facilities, or observe wildlife around the lodge or in the riverbed, before heading out again in the late afternoon for an evening game drive, ending in the dark, using spotlights. The day often concludes with dinner under the stars, reflecting on the day’s sightings.

Game Drives

Game Drives

Discover the thrill of following a pride of lions or sitting amidst a herd of elephants as they peacefully feed and play just metres away.

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Nature Walks

Nature Walks

Step out of the vehicle and experience the bush on foot – walking the very game paths forged by elephants and rhinos over thousands of years.

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Specialist Adventures

Specialist Adventures

From wildlife photography and birding to yoga retreats, build your safari around a specialist theme or interest with an exclusive-use booking of our intimate, boutique safari lodge.

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Conservation Experiences

Conservation Experiences

A visit to the reserve’s K9 Anti-poaching unit is a highlight for guests wishing to learn more about how their stay contributes to conservation.

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Family Safari Celebrations

Family Safari Celebrations

Celebrate life’s special moments together in the heart of the African bush, with an exclusive use booking that can be tailored for guests of every age.

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Honeymoon

Honeymoon

Celebrate the start of your next chapter surrounded by the romance of the African bush, and our special Honeymoon package.

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Birdwatching

Birdwatching

With over 300 bird species found in the area, Shimungwe is a wonderful destination for bird enthusiasts.

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Stargazing

Stargazing

With almost no light pollution, the night skies of the southern hemisphere above Shimungwe are breathtaking.

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