n'Kaya Lodge in Thornybush Game Reserve
Coming home
- Grading: 4 Star
Address: Thornybush Private Game Reserve, Limpopo Province
Children: Children are welcome on request
Bed capacity: 8
Location
In Southern Africa, which is thought of as the origin of mankind, instils a longing in all of us. We long for the quiet beauty, yet fierce survival instincts of Africa and the wild. We long to see the magnificent animals in their glorious habitat, the way Africa is thought of in dreams. We long to feel the cool breeze on our skin as we witness the breath taking sunset over the pristine vista of Southern Africa.
The serene Thornybush Game Reserve is located within 14 000 hectares of untamed African bush and finds itself adjacent to the world renowned Kruger National Park. The landscape itself is populated by a variety of African fauna and flora, including the magnificent big five. Thornybush is authentically wild, whilst ensuring absolute serenity in luxurious surrounds. Because of this, Thornybush has been renowned as one of the most excellent bush experiences in the world.
The Lodge
'n'Kaya is the isiZulu word for 'home' and that encapsulates the feel of this lodge. Guests will feel right at home in this fantastic lodge. n'Kaya is inside the vastly magnificent Thornybush Game Reserve. Surrounded by tall forest trees and a visible view of the Drakensberg Mountains, n'Kaya Lodge is truly a magical experience.
The lodge is family friendly, but is still private and intimate. The tall trees provide insulation, keeping cool in summer and warm in winter. The provide a calm atmosphere and a magnificent home to the many different species of birds who call n'Kaya their home.
Pool Deck
The pristine sparkling swimming pool is visible from all the suites. This is the perfect place to relax on those hot summer days. Guests can relax in the beautiful swimming pool while thinking of all the magnificent animals they saw on their morning safari. There truly is no better way to spend a relaxed summer afternoon.
Health Spa
n'Kaya is relaxing in itself, but for extra pampering, such as massages, facials and other treatments, just a few minutes drive away is the Thornybush Game Lodge, where the Amani African Spa is available for guests to unwind and cleanse themselves of stress.Boma
n'Kaya's Boma is perfect for night-time dining. While the lodge boasts a gorgeous lounge and dining area, the Boma makes for truly magical evenings under the sparkling African stars.
Accommodation
Accommodation is offered in:
- Four spacious luxury suites
The Suites
There are only four suites at n'Kaya Lodge, making for an intimate getaway. The suites are all spaced apart, provide the utmost in tranquil privacy.
All four of the suites are air-conditioned with large, spacious bedrooms. The indulgent en-suite his-and-her bathrooms provide an indulgent sanctuary.
The suites have a cosy lounge, which can be converted into a single bedroom, thus making the suites available for 3 people, or two adults and two children. The suites overlook the pool and have a small private terrace from which guests can absorb the lush environment.
- Bathroom amenities include shampoo, conditioner, hand cream, shower gel, etc.
- Separate bath and shower, and second toilet
- Two international adaptors
- Voltage 220
- Safe in room
Game Safaris
As dawn is starting to warm the African earth, you will receive a wake-up call. You will get into the open-top Land Rover and your accompanying rangers and trackers will take you on an adventure. The times of departure are planned to suit the optimal time for wildlife viewing and this is normally in the early morning. In summertime game drives depart at 5:30 and again at 15:30 after lunch. In wintertime game drives depart at 6:00 and again after lunch at 15:30. Everything that your rangers and trackers know about the landscape, the animals and the vegetation, will be shared with you. Thornybush Game Reserve is home to 147 mammals including the "Big Five", 114 reptiles, 507 birds, 49 fish, 34 amphibians and 336 trees, which you can experience on the drive. After some time, the Land Rover will stop and break for coffee and tea. You can stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp, fresh air. You will be treated with a cold towel in summer and a hot towel in winter. You will also be kept warm and cosy with hot water-bottles and blankets on the vehicle in winter. The game drive will then continue. After the drive, a scrumptious breakfast will be served back at the lodge, the riverbed, or the bush.
After a day filled with walks, or relaxation and a lovely late lunch, you will be taken on an afternoon game drive into the bush to view rarely-seen nocturnal animals by torchlight. As the sun begins to set over the sweeping savannahs, you will get out at a remote, scenic spot and watch the enigmatic sunset allowing you to savour a truly magnificent sight. You will then return to the lodge to enjoy a 3 course plated and buffet dinner.
- Breakfast 09:00-10:00 - depending on season
- Lunch 15:00-15:30 depending on season
- Dinner 20:00 depending on season
Rates
Please contact us for our latest rates and availability.
Lodges offer varied rates which change from time to time. Rates depend on service levels, the type of lodge or hotel, number and age of guests, the time of year, location and any specials which may apply at time of enquiry.
- Rates are quoted in South African Rand (ZAR) and are inclusive of VAT
- Rates are subject to change without prior notice
Children:
- Children of all ages are welcome upon request
- Children of 6 years and older are welcome on game drives
Rate Inclusions & Exclusions
- Accommodation
- All meals, teas, coffees and snacks
- Dawn and dusk safaris in open Land Rovers and bushveld walks
- Bar
Weddings and Honeymoons
Can you imagine your dream wedding? Does it include the fresh African terrain, traditional African dancers serenading you whilst you romantically exchange your vows at sunset? We offer this and have many other visions for your perfect wedding. Attention to the finest detail, the breath taking surroundings, luxurious accommodation and the divine cuisine will ensure that your wedding day will be absolutely thrilling and unforgettable. Your experience will be unique and beautiful at the Thornybush Game Lodge, part of the Thornybush Collection, along the Manyeleti river and the natural African environment.
After your enchanted wedding, you and your partner can get swept away in the peaceful, yet adventurous tranquillity of n’Kaya Lodge for a romantic getaway honeymoon. Lounge in your romantic bedroom with your partner, share the wonderful experience of the game drives and hold hands while strolling along the trails. Make your honeymoon unforgettable.