Shimungwe Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve

Shimungwe is a hidden gem in Thornybush Game reserve! We were thoroughly spoiled with mouthwatering food and excellent gameviewing! Lucan and Danny, our guide and tracker, went out of their way to find the big five. We had ample time to relax in the presence of these awesome animals observing them up close! To our delight, Lucan has extensive knowledge of birds and trees too and we were able to enjoy ticking many interesting species off our list. The friendly staff made our stay so comfortable and relaxing, we really felt valued and at home. We had an unforgettable experience and would love to visit Shimungwe again!

I recently spent a couple of days at Shimungwe Lodge with friends, and it was undoubtedly one of the best safari experiences I’ve ever had. Nestled amongst the trees overlooking the seasonal Timbavati River — which we were fortunate enough to see flowing — the lodge exudes a cozy ambiance. Its intimate size offers an authentic South African bush experience. The food was out of this world, with three hearty meals prepared daily by a fantastic chef, with dinner being a three course meal most nights. As well as snacks and drinks being served on the morning and evening game drives. Our guide, Lucan, and tracker, Daniel, each with over 20 years of experience, showcased their profound love and knowledge of the bush. They provided us with unforgettable sightings, including a leopard in a tree, lion cubs, and wild dogs, and more, whilst patiently answering all our questions. I would absolutely love to return and highly recommend Shimungwe Lodge — 10/10!!

Book this for the best safari and tracker guides!!! We saw everything including a pride of lions on a hunt. The guide has 25 years of experience and the tracker has 21 years of experience. They are brothers and not only work well together, but are very knowledgable. The most amazing food and accommodations, you will not be disappointed. We had the best game drives, drinks, sunrises and sunsets. Staff are EXCEPTIONAL.

Went for 3 nights and we were able to see all the big five, wild dogs and many other great sitings. Amazing staff and accommodations. Food is also great. Two game drives a day with sun down drinks at a new location every day. Would definitely go on all the game drives. Will definitely go again.

Our stay was amazing. The lodge is small and cozy and the staff exceeded all expectations.. We had been to South Africa before, but this time was even better. The location is very good to spot the Big 5. It is unfortunate that these vacations have to come to an end.

What an amazing place ! Karli & her team make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive… the small size, four LARGE double rooms makes you feel like you are a guest in a good friend’s house. A cool pool and adjacent water hole fill the down time between early morning & late afternoon game drives. And what INCREDIBLE GAME DRIVES. Lucan & tracker Danni are likely the best team in the whole Kruger, we were often first to find the game before other lodges and got to spend as much time as we wanted with the finds. Being part of Thornybush in the greater Kruger ( no fences ) the number of game vehicles is strictly limited. While every game drive varies on our first one we saw giraffes - leopard - and a MASSIVE pride of lions within the first two hours and had ticked the big five by the end of the first drive. The food is delicious and varied & the Amarillo coffees on the morning game drive were very welcome way to start the day. Just a 30 minute drive from Hoedsprut, airport transport can be arranged if you don’t have a car I couldn’t recommend Shimungwe more highly, you’ll make memories….