Aerial view of the main lodge above the riverbed at Thornybush Game Lodge, Greater Kruger
All lodges & villas

Greater Kruger, South Africa

Thornybush Game Lodge

At a glance

Children

All ages

Activities

Under-6 not on game drives unless management authorises — private vehicle recommended

Malaria

Low-risk malaria area

Private vehicle

Available — recommended for families

Why families love it

Thornybush Game Lodge for families

Welcoming children of all ages, this lodge is an excellent choice for a family safari in a low-risk malaria area. A dedicated kids' programme offers engaging activities like baking and bug walks, while the option of a private vehicle provides valuable flexibility on game drives. The swimming pool is also perfect for relaxing between your safari adventures.

Who it suits

Under 6

Kids programme; shared game drives 6+

Ages 6–11

Well suited

Teens

Well suited

Multigenerational

Possible — check room setup

Family facts

Private vehicle
Available — recommended for families
Kids programme
Kids activities (baking, beading, bug walks, treasure hunts)
Babysitting
Babysitting — extra cost
Pool
Yes
Wi-Fi
Yes
Access
Hoedspruit (HDS) 20 min; Thornybush airstrip

Family accommodation

Where your family will stay

Maximum guests
30

Luxury Suite

15 available

Sleeps 2

Experiences

What your family will do here

  • Walking Safaris
  • Birding Safaris

Rates & pricing

What a stay costs

From ZAR 19,800 per person per night

Plus mandatory park/conservation fees

SeasonDatesRate
2026 rateLuxury Suite1 Jan 2026 – 31 Dec 2026ZAR 19,800per person per night
2027 rate (Jan–Mar)Luxury Suite1 Jan 2027 – 31 Mar 2027ZAR 19,800per person per night
2027 rate (Apr–Dec)Luxury Suite1 Apr 2027 – 31 Dec 2027ZAR 21,500per person per night

Family & child pricing

  • Ages 0–11 (Three children sharing, travelling with two adults): Under 12: 50% of adult rate each when three children share, travelling with two adults; triples on request for children under 12
  • Ages 0–11 (In separate room with one adult): Under 12: 75% of adult rate in a separate room with one adult
  • Private vehicle required for children under 6 to go on game drives: R17,500 per day, book 24–48 hours ahead

Mandatory fees

  • Thornybush Nature Reserve levy (incl. community and conservation levies and TOMSA): ZAR 650 per person per day · Payable in addition

Single travellers: Single R29,700 pppn (50% supplement)

Single travellers: Single R32,250 pppn (50% supplement)

Typically included

  • Wi-Fi
  • Meals
  • Laundry
  • Game drives
  • Local drinks
  • Accommodation

Typically excluded

  • Park fees
  • Premium drinks
  • Private vehicle

Published rates, subject to availability and confirmation at the time of booking.

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

What age do children need to be to stay at Thornybush Game Lodge?

Children of all ages are welcome.

Can children go on game drives / activities?

Under-6 not on game drives unless management authorises — private vehicle recommended. Walking safaris are from age 16.

Is there a kids' programme or babysitting?

Kids activities (baking, beading, bug walks, treasure hunts). Babysitting — extra cost.

Can we have a private vehicle?

Available — recommended for families.

Is Thornybush Game Lodge in a malaria area?

Thornybush Game Lodge is in a low-risk malaria area — please take advice from a travel clinic.

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Next step

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