Shimungwe Lodge - Thornybush Game Reserve

Shimungwe Lodge is a newly opened lodge that resides in the illustrious Thornybush Game Reserve, which is home to an incredible variety of animals from your general game to the Big Five. Shimungwe is a stylish modern lodge that provides fantastic service, and is fitted with a variety of amenities which ensure you are comfortable during your stay, and that your experiences become irreplaceable memories once your stay has concluded.

Each Suite is classy in their design, each featuring a deck that provides incredible views of the Timbavati Riverbed where animals frequently visit to cool off or drink throughout the day. On particularly warm days, which are not uncommon in Africa, you can also take a dip in the pool that is present at the lodge.

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We were really impressed…..Andy is wonderful!

My husband & I are experienced travelers, when we wanted to visit Botswana and Victoria Falls we didn’t know where to start. I reached out to African Safaris Direct online and within 20 minutes, I received a call to confirm receipt of my request. The phone call went on for 45 minutes where I interrogated Andy and I asked all the questions I had in order to understand the ins and outs of our itinerary 🙂
Our holiday was incredible and I highly recommend Andy Saidy and African Safaris Direct.

Pamela Meyer

Ontario - Canada

What an incredible holiday with African Safaris Direct!

We booked a 2 weeks holiday with Max from African Safaris Direct and we were not disappointed. Max was available around the clock to answer all our questions and take our many calls. He even came up with many wonderful ideas to help us plan our holiday of a life time! Our African safari included four countries, we were blown away to see our itinerary being executed by professional individuals and all services were delivered on time and in the best possible way. Our drivers and guides were first class and we loved the African bush barbeque at our safari lodge, you should try it! Thank you Max for a memorable safari, we will most certainly be back in Africa soon.

Angela & Richard Sutherland

Michigan USA

OVERVIEW

ACCOMMODATION

WILDLIFE

CHILD POLICY

Shimungwe, named after the Bateleur, is the latest addition to Safari Lodges and Classic Retreats in South Africa’s (SLACRSA’s) prestigious portfolio of exceptional African experiences. This luxurious, yet laid-back, family-friendly lodge is carefully crafted around a bend in the dry Timbavati River to bring you the best possible experiences available in the prime game viewing area of the Greater Kruger National Park.

Once reserved for private use by invited guests only, Shimungwe retains an intimate charm and is perfectly suited to exclusive use bookings. The lodge comprises just eight beds as well as comfortable dining and relaxation areas, a private game drive vehicle, and a crystal clear swimming pool.

Each carefully thought out space immerses guests in the unique, tranquil vibe of their surroundings to create a truly authentic southern African safari experience. A day at Shimungwe includes a morning and evening game drive, culminating in an evening meal around the campfire or al fresco with a view. In between, there’s plenty of time to enjoy moments of reflection and relaxation in your luxury suite or around camp.

Each of our four, luxury suites boast a private balcony with unimpeded views of the stunning African bush, allowing guests to continue wildlife spotting long after game drive has ended. Plush, king-sized beds ensure a comfortable night’s sleep and a separate dressing area plus en-suite – complete with an invigorating outdoor shower – are all tastefully decorated in nature’s muted, relaxing tones.

Furthermore, all suites include air-conditioning as standard as well as a tea and coffee station with homemade biscuits and rusks, small fridge and complementary toiletries throughout your stay. Intentionally arranged so that each offers intimate seclusion from the next, they are the ideal place to enjoy quiet time in this peaceful environment.

Game drives are led by knowledgeable and experienced Guides. Upfront of the vehicle, Trackers assist by performing the ancient art of tracking either by form of spoor or in the thickets of the surrounding bush.

This duo of Guide and Tracker will astonish guests with their skill in perusing all forms of sightings and showcasing what nature has to offer, in search of the Big 5; Buffalo, Elephant, Rhino, Lion and the elusive Leopard as well as the little creatures and insects who all play a viral role. Game drives are set around the best suited times of the day to maximize the number of sightings. The early morning adventure starts directly after enjoying a cup of tea or coffee on the deck.

Shimungwe Lodge - Thornybush - Kruger Private Reserves