Thornybush Game Reserve

About Thornybush Game Reserve

The Thornybush Private Game Reserve promises the family safari holiday of a lifetime, thanks to its impressive collection of wildlife, gorgeous landscapes, and excellent facilities. This beautiful retreat is adjacent to and part of the Greater Kruger Park, which is a joint venture between the world-renowned Kruger Park and the reserves and parks around it.

Did you know? Thornybush Game Reserve, which is just over 5 hours drive from Johannesburg, has scooped numerous world firsts, both for conservation and hospitality.

This reserve covers 10 000 hectares of some of the most magnificent bushveld that Africa has on offer. Because of its vast space and proximity to the Kruger National Park, Thornybush is home to an incredible variety of birdlife and other wildlife species.

The Big Five is always a highlight, and visitors going on safaris and game drives are invariably thrilled to see one of these in their natural habitat. They comprise the graceful African elephant, the powerful lion, the elegant leopard, the prehistoric-looking rhinoceros, and the mighty buffalo. In addition to these, visitors should look out for the tall giraffe as it grazes from highest branches, cute mongoose, and quirky zebra.

The rangers and guides are fully qualified and have ample experience in the bush. They understand the landscapes, and they can read tracks and droppings. They are trained to deal with any possible danger and to make excursions into the veld fun and interesting. Bush walks with these guides are also available, for those that are feeling a little more adventurous.

A number of guided safari packages are on offer; and include drives in the early morning and evening to allow passengers to see the widest variety of diurnal and nocturnal animals. Thanks to its being situated in the heart of the savannahs of the Lowland, Thornybush tends to experience gorgeous weather all year round. This makes it ideal for families looking for a great destination for their annual summer holiday, or those wanting to take a mid-year break during the cooler (and quieter) winter months.

Thornybush Game Reserve, which is just over 5 hours drive from Johannesburg. There is also a scheduled flight every day from Hoedspruit.