Find all hotels by Thornybush Collection in Timbavati Game Reserve

"I cannot express how amazing this place was. I've been all over the world, and every aspect of the AM Lodge is by far the most superior. The unique daily game drives had our Bush Bar (best bar in South Africa, thanks to Benjamin and Penwey) interrupted by a Nyala being chased by a wild dog. Literally chasing Lions led to our fantastic guides helping another group get out of a ditch. Even seeing zebras and wild buffalo ended up being so hilarious, it brought tears to our eyes! For the millennials reading this, imagine the perfect mix between Steve Irwin and Wild Boyz. Shepherd is the definition of what a proper host looks like. We had a strange request of being shuttled to a nearby tattoo shop, and they happily obliged. Our chefs made amazing food, with our only request being to show us the local cuisine. That kota sandwich and African buffet was exactly what we were talking about! Way to deliver! At no point did I ever think I was anything less than royalty thanks to the amazing staff, treatment, and accomodations. I don't know how they managed to do it, but they also made it seem like me and my father were the only ones there! As if the entire safari grounds were just for us (even though, they obviously had other guests). I hope to have the chance to visit again. If any guest is considering a safari, the search ends here. "

"The room here was beautifully appointed, and the bed was very comfy. The property was really quiet and it had a lovely pool. It was unfortunately too cold to take a dip in winter. There was wifi available everywhere, but its speed could vary depending on where you were. It would have been nice to have some bathrobes available in the room. The views from the property were lovely, especially when you are on the observation deck and can see the Drakensbergs in the distance. The breakfast and dinner was enjoyable and generally varied each day. The service was also lovely and friendly. I stayed in the Mbali villa so it was about a 5 minute walk down the road back to the main building for meals. In the evenings, they can organise a shuttle to collect you and bring you back as it gets very dark outside. "

"Food was excellent as was the hotel beautifully decorated and loved the motion sensor lights for when you get up in the night for the bathroom "

"Do you want to see the big five while being treated as a royalty? Book the Elephant Plains Game Lodge. Their facility is excellent, location is great, and the level of service is awesome. They will be waiting for you when you arrive because they know that you’re coming and they will pamper you on every step of the way: from the room personalized for your visit to the dining options tailored to your diet to sundowners and welcome back drinks. They make you feel like a family and you would not want to leave. Ever. "

"The minute we arrived we were greeted by lovely staff and elephants at the pool. What followed was a once in a lifetime experience. The positives - Beds are super comfy with electric blankets for those cold nights and a fan for the warm days. The food was AMAZING. I LOVED being seated with fellow safari mates and getting to know people from across the world even though we are total introverts. Our guide Leighton was brilliant, knowledgeable and an excellent driver. And the wildlife…. Wow. I still can’t believe we saw so many lions, leopards and cheetahs, not to mention everything else. Being birders we were worried that we would be ignored and never get a moment to identify a bird but Leighton balanced the needs of the guests so well and had an excellent knowledge of all animals. The only downsides… when we arrived we were so hungry but because our flight was delayed we missed the afternoon safari and had to wait until everyone returned before we could access any food - a wait of 2 hours was really tough and no one explained what was happening. Highly recommend explaining the daily itinerary to people on arrival and having snacks available for purchase. Loved the Couples shower but unfortunately not enough hot water for 2 people. "

"5 Stars – An Unforgettable Stay at Sunbird Oasis Lodge We had the most incredible experience at Sunbird Oasis Lodge! From the moment we arrived, Tommy and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. Their warmth, friendliness, and professionalism were truly exceptional. The facilities were absolutely amazing – beautifully maintained, with thoughtful touches that made our stay both relaxing and memorable. Our accommodation was wonderful: clean, spacious, and comfortable, with everything we needed for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re looking for tranquility or a base for adventure, Sunbird Oasis Lodge delivers on every level. A heartfelt thank you to Tommy and the entire team – your hospitality made all the difference. We can’t wait to return!"

"What a fantastic property right inside the game reserve with daily game drives to catch the big five. The food and service, including impeccable hospitality were the highlight of staying here. It’s a beautiful, luxurious modern property, right across the HDS airport. Highly recommend staying for atleast 2 nights ideally three! "

"This is an exceptional property in the Manyeleti Game Reserve adjacent to the Kruger National Park. It is a magical place where Impala's roam the property and the elephants come to drink water from the pool. The "tents" are very nice with toilet facilities and showers and comfortable beds. The food was good, but the staff are the best! They do everything they can to meet your needs and wants. Everyday there are two game drives into the reserve where you can get very close to amazing game animals. The guides on these drives are very good at their jobs. Ours was named Brilliant and he truly was brilliant. He can find animals, birds and snakes at distance and at night in places I can barely see. He is amazing! We want to thank the staff for making our stay very special-Dan, Mavis, Trevor, Previous, Noa and other...and especially Brilliant!"

"This place is a must go. From the moment you checkin and are greeted by Francisco to the time you leave, you feel like the most important person in the world. The guides we had (Simon, Rudolph) were incredible and got us up close and personal with the animals. We will be taking our family back! "