The River Lodge — Hotel in Maruleng Local Municipality

My wife and I have just had the most exhilarating experience at Thorney Bush main lodge. Everything was perfect. On arrival we were greated by our ranger, Ross, who was fantastic all the way through our game drives over 3 days. Ross and our tracker Hendrick were a great team and found us all of the big 5 and much more. On our last morning we even got to see leopards mating. One evening we managed to get amongst a pride of lions who were around our vehicle in pitch blackness whilst stalking impala and on another trip a group of elephant walked within 10 feet of our vehicle. We were so close to the animals on multiple occasions it made it an incredible experience. Despite these close encounters we felt completely safe and privileged to be so close. The safaris were especially good because of the knowledge that Ross had about the animals, birds and insects and the bush in general. He was also able to get us in exactly the right place to allow us to see the wildlife and take great photos. We stopped each morning for coffee and in the evening for sundowners (drinks) at sunset which allowed more general chat and questions with Ross and Hendrick. We felt really lucky to have them as they were such brilliant trackers and so enthusiastic about the work they do. We learnt so much. The accommodation was luxurious. We had room 8 with a balcony overlooking the watering hole, where just after our arrival a young male elephant arrived for a drink and a shower! The staff were amazing. Our room was always spotless, the food was the most delicious I have probably ever tasted and the staff could not have been more friendly or helpful. Glory our butler was always very attentive and made sure our glasses were always topped up. On our departure we were able to say our thankyous and goodbyes to Ross and Hendrick. This was a lovely touch and was most appreciated...

We celebrated the beginning our honeymoon at the Waterside Lodge within Thornybush Game Reserve and loved every minute!

Getting up at 5:30 has never been so fun and exciting. I feel the cold and so was relieved when the guys had already thought ahead and prepared hot water bottles and blankets. Then stopping off for hot chocolate and snacks in the bush then wine and snacks for sunset was incredible. The dinner we had was delicious and the staff were great! The drivers were super knowledgeable and we got to see the BIG 5 numerous times! To top it all off we returned home to a candlelit dinner on our terrace with sparkling wine and a rose petal bath. Cannot...

I can't say enough about how great the staff is. The guides on the Safari were adventurous and very informative. Thank you to our guide Darryn, tracker Nic and ride along guide Matt for the experience of a lifetime! The accommodations at the lodge were exceptional. The lodges were very nice and comfortable with a great view of the wildlife. I like to eat, and the food was very tasty and plenty of it. Everyone on the staff is courteous and made us feel right at home. We definitely want to come back and this is the lodge we want. Thank you to everyone in the staff at The River Lodge...