Thornybush Game Reserve

Overview

Thornybush Game Reserve is a private game reserve located adjacent to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. It offers a unique safari experience with a variety of wildlife and luxurious lodges.

Known for its exceptional wildlife viewing and conservation efforts, Thornybush is a premier destination for African safaris.

Wildlife Safari Eco-Tourism

Location

Address

Guernsey Road, Hoedspruit

Neighborhood: Kruger National Park Area

Coordinates

-24.366700, 30.933300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Included in lodge stay

Children

Included in lodge stay

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

May-October

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Best wildlife viewing

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 day

Recommended

3-4 days

Full Experience

5-7 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

• Newborn animals
• Birdwatching

summer

Warm and rainy

• Lush landscapes
• Thunderstorms

autumn

Cool and dry

• Cooler temperatures
• Clear skies

winter

Cool and dry

• Cooler mornings
• Dry vegetation

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID Binoculars Camera

seasonal

Rain jacket Waterproof boots

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Stay with guide
• Follow safety instructions

Medical facilities: First aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Credit cards, Cash

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Typical Costs

entry R500

parking Included

food R200

souvenirs R300

Dress Code

Casual, Neutral-colored clothing, Comfortable walking shoes, Bright colors, Heavy perfumes

Booking Tips

• 3 months
• Official website
• 48 hours
• Available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Thornybush Game Reserve App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Game drive schedule, Wildlife guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Lodges, Restaurant

Charging Stations: Lodges

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP)

Distance: 100 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

taxi

R800 1.5 hours

private_transfer

R1200 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

car_rental

R500/day 1 hour

private_transfer

R600 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique wildlife experiences

Historical Significance: Part of the greater Kruger ecosystem

Insider Tips

Best lodges for leopard sightings
Early morning game drives

Local Recommendations

• Try local cuisine at lodges
• Ask for experienced guide

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Nkosi

where_is Wena

how_much Kanti

beautiful Hleze

ticket Itikiti

Guide Languages: English, Local dialects

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Near waterhole

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Low angle for animals

Result: Stunning wildlife shots

#safari #wildlife #thornybush

Photography Rules

allowed areas All outdoor areas

prohibited areas Lodges

flash photography Not allowed during night drives

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

Distance: 10km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Wildlife Center

Blyde River Canyon

Distance: 50km