Thornybush Game Reserve: A Complete Guide to Safari in the Greater Kruger Park

Thornybush has a story stretching back to the 1950s, when it became one of the first private reserves in the Greater Kruger. Over the years, it has played a pioneering role in conservation, from bold elephant relocations to today’s innovative rhino protection and wildlife research projects. From the moment you arrive, you walk through decades of dedication to protecting Africa’s wild heart.

Since the fences between Thornybush Game Reserve and Kruger National Park came down in 2017, the reserve has become truly boundless. Now forming part of an unfenced wilderness surpassing two million hectares, this move restored ancient migration routes and allowed animals to roam freely - meaning that at any moment you might encounter one of the Big Five or even wild dogs trotting along in perfect formation. In Summer, it’s not unusual to see a tusker elephant wandering in from Kruger to feast on our fruiting marula trees and, in winter, huge herds of up to 200 buffalo huddled together at dwindling waterholes.

Where is Thornybush Game Reserve?

Thornybush Game Reserve is situated just East of Hoedspruit, in the Limpopo Province, in the north-eastern part of South Africa.  In 30 - 45 minutes from Hoedspruit airport by car, you'll find yourself at the gates to this prestigious wilderness area. From there it's a quick 15 minute transfer to Shimungwe Lodge.

Is Thornybush Part of the Greater Kruger?

Thornybush Game Reserve is part of the Greater Kruger Park wilderness area, with it's fences on the north and eastern boundaries open to the Timbavati and onwards across the Kruger National Park all the way to the border with Mozambique.

Wildlife in Every Direction, in Thornybush Game Reserve

Life in Thornybush Game Reserve bursts from every corner. Home to more than 300 bird species, both black and white rhino, and a thriving population of predators and plains game, wildlife sightings are both spectacular and plentiful. Thanks to our highly experienced team of guides and trackers, you could begin your day on a game drive watching lions lazing in the morning sun and end it with a leopard curled around the branches of a jackalberry tree. And then, there are the quiet moments in between – zebras trotting through the dust, giraffes browsing on acacia leaves or the sight of elephants drinking silently at sunset. Intimate encounters in the wild that stay with you long after you’ve left.

Thornybush is often lucky enough to be chosen by predators like Hyena and Wild Dogs as places to host their den-sites, and raise their young, making for wonderful viewing of the life cycle of these interesting, threatened species.

Conservation in Thornybush

Conservation is at the very core of Thornybush Game Reserve. This area has been home to big five wildlife forever, and the area has been protected since the 1950's. During this time there has been continued focus on the nurturing and protection of the varied natural biomes across the area as well as careful attention to all wildlife inhabiting it. Over seven decades there have been numerous rhino translocations, extensive wildlife research together with a comprehensive anti-poaching strategy. The south of the farm hosts the reserves K9 Anti-poaching unit where they make extensive use of specially trained dogs to lead this protection initiative.

The Magic of the South

So, where does Shimungwe fit in? Our lodge is tucked down in the south of Thornybush Game Reserve, where it’s quieter, more secluded, and utterly enchanting. Here, the landscape is shaped by leafy drainage lines alive with birdlife, the tranquil glow of Sunset Dam framed by the distant Drakensberg Mountains and the winding Timbavati River that has sparked countless stories and legends of Kruger.

This part of the reserve feels wonderfully unhurried, where the wilderness seems to stretch out just for you. It’s the perfect setting for an intimate lodge like Shimungwe, where evenings end with stories around the fire and mornings begin with elephants gently meandering through the drainage line below your suite.

Why Thornybush Steals the Heart

What is it, then, that makes Thornybush Game Reserve so special? To spend time here is to be reminded of nature’s resilience, beauty, and mystery. It’s a place where conservation is lived daily, where wildlife thrives, and where guests can witness Africa’s most iconic creatures living life unmistakably wild and unfiltered.
At Shimungwe, we are proud to call this corner of Thornybush Game Reserve home. For us, every safari is about more than sightings - it’s about creating memories that will stay with you forever. Whether it’s the thrill of hearing lions roar at dusk or simply soaking in the stillness of the bush, Thornybush has a way of leaving its mark on your soul.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thornybush: 

How big is Thornybush Game Reserve? 14,000 hectares
Where is Thornybush Game Reserve? Thornybush Game Reserve is located in Limpopo province, South Africa. It is part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem, adjoining the Kruger National Park. with lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo all present. Sightings are frequent, but because the animals are wild and free-roaming, no safari can guarantee seeing every species.
What wildlife can I see in Thornybush Game Reserve? In addition to the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), you can also see hyenas, wild dogs, hippos, giraffes, crocodiles, zebras, and other wildlife. 

Is Thornybush part of Kruger National Park? No. Thornybush is a private game reserve rather than part of Kruger National Park itself. It forms part of the Greater Kruger ecosystem and shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to move freely between the reserves.
How is Thornybush Game Reserve different from Kruger National Park? As a private reserve, there are fewer vehicles, more flexible safari times and the chance to off-road or even take a bush walk with our professional guides and trackers.

What is the best time to visit Thornybush? Thornybush can be visited throughout the year. The winter is dry, offering cooler temperatures and thinner vegetation, making wildlife easier to spot. Summer brings warmer weather, rainfall, lush vegetation and excellent birding. 

How many days do you need in Thornybush? We recommend at least three nights to give you enough time to enjoy the rhythm of the bush and experience several game drives. A longer stay allows more time for different wildlife sightings and a more relaxed safari experience.

Can you drive off-road in Thornybush? Yes. As a private reserve, Thornybush allows experienced, qualified guides to leave the roads when appropriate, to follow wildlife sightings. Off-road driving is subject to safety, environmental and reserve guidelines, taking the welfare of the animals and condition of the terrain into account.

Are game drives included at Thornybush lodges? This depends on the lodge and its rate structure, but at Shimungwe Lodge, two guided game drives per day are included in the all-inclusive safari rate, weather permitting. Drives take place in the early morning and late afternoon/evening, when wildlife is generally most active.

How do you get to Thornybush? The easiest option for most travellers is to fly to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS) and arrange a road transfer to the lodge. You can also drive by road from Johannesburg to Thornybush, which takes approximately six hours to Shimungwe. Private and charter flight options are also available.

Is Thornybush suitable for first-time safari travellers? Yes. Thornybush is particularly well suited to first-time safari travellers because game drives are fully guided by experienced rangers and trackers, so guests don't need to navigate the reserve themselves. The combination of excellent wildlife viewing, expert guiding and comfortable lodge accommodation makes it an accessible introduction to safari. With only four suites, you'll enjoy an intimate atmosphere, uncrowded game viewing and an unrushed all-inclusive safari experience.