Other · Thornybush Game Reserve, South Africa
Shumbalala Game Lodge
Overview
Come to Shumbalala and experience the true spirit of the lion.
Hear the deep, resonant roars echo beneath a canopy of stars as you unwind in luxury on the banks of the meandering seasonal Monwana River. Feel the thrill of discovering the first massive paw print pressed into the dust — and then, the unforgettable moment when untamed Africa meets your gaze with piercing amber eyes.
Nestled within a timeless landscape of Acacia and Umbrella Thorn trees, Shumbalala surrounds you with refined, stone-clad luxury in the heart of an ancient wilderness — untouched, unspoilt, and far removed from the modern world.
Intimate and exclusive, Shumbalala Game Lodge offers just four Superior Suites and one Presidential Suite, ensuring a deeply personal safari experience. Enjoy exceptional game viewing and birdwatching alongside our experienced guides and trackers, or simply relax in the comfort of your private viewing deck and plunge pool as the African bush unfolds before you.
The Presidential Suite features two en-suite bedrooms, a private lounge with indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and an outdoor boma area. Each individual Suite comes complete with its own private plunge pool, each a convenient slider door for added privacy — the ultimate secluded retreat in the African bush.
Come and discover the pride of Africa.
Suites & Rates
Choose how you stay
Presidential Suite
Experience understated African-modern luxury, where expansive wooden decks overlook spectacular wildlife and untamed bushveld views. Two spacious private suites feature elegant bedrooms, lounges, en-suite bathrooms, and private viewing decks facing an active waterhole, each...
Superior Suites
With only 4 stone-clad Superior Suites combining luxury and comfort with elegant bedrooms, stylish lounges, en-suite bathrooms, and private viewing decks, complete with plunge pools, overlooking the lively waterhole. Natural tones, wooden finishes, and...
Details
Good to know
Accommodation & amenities
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Disabled Rooms, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, En Suite Bathroom, External Shower, Fan, Fireplace, Hairdryer, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Facilities, Laundry Service (Available), Lounge Area, Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Outside Shower, Plunge Pool, Private Pool / Jacuzzi, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Smoke Alarm, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
Languages spoken
Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu
Ideal for
Adventure, Big 5, Birding, Flora, Gourmet, Hiking, Leisure, Nature, Relaxation, Star Gazing, Wildlife, Wine
On-site activities
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Services
Airport Shuttle (Available), Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Private Vehicle (Available), Room Service
Nearby activities
Animal Encounters, Bird Watching, Boat Cruises, Catch-and-release Fishing, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Fishing, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Rides, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Hiking, Horse Riding, River Cruises, Scenic Flights, Walks (Self Guided)
Property facilities
Bar, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Library, Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Restaurant, Secure Parking, TV Room, Vegetarian
Location
Where you'll be
Video
See the stay
Shumbalala Game Lodge
Shumbalala Game Lodge
Shumbalala Game LodgeActivities
What you can do
Blyde River Canyon Boat Cruize
The Blyde River Canyon is the third larges canyon in the world and the larges green canyon in the world. This is a world heritage site and not to be missed!Enjoy a guided boat cruise and see the tufo waterfall and hippos or perhaps crocodiles! Additional cost
Early morning and late afternoon game drives
Set out on unforgettable game drives with your expert ranger, who brings the African bush to life through intimate storytelling and incredible wildlife encounters. From the iconic Big Five to the smallest wonders of the bushveld, every drive is personal, relaxed, and unforgettable.Begin your mornings with coffee before heading into the wilderness as the bush awakens around you, pausing for refreshments in the heart of nature. In the afternoons, enjoy sunset drives with sundowners overlooking the African horizon before continuing into the night in search of elusive nocturnal wildlife.Return to the lodge after each adventure to warm hospitality, fine comforts, and memories of close-up encounters with Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife.
Guided Bush Walks
After a sumptuous Breakfast is served either back at the camp or in the riverbed or bush, guests are offered walks to suit their interests and fitness levels and are accompanied by an armed ranger and tracker.Walks allow guests a better chance to see some of the smaller creatures of the bush as well as an opportunity to learn more about the flora and fauna of the region, and to have a chance to follow tracks in more detail.Our Shangaan trackers will enthrall you with their explanations of the medicinal and other uses of the numerous plants and trees along with tales of traditional folklore.
Hot Air Balloon Excursion
One-hour long flight over the scenic, Lowveld section of the Blyde River. As the sun rises, the landscape, the vegetation and, if you're lucky, some wildlife will provide photo opportunities. Game spotting cannot be guaranteed but on most flights, we see plains game such as giraffe and wildebeest. Terms & Conditions apply - additional cost.
Jabulani Elephant interaction
Interact with the largest land mammal on earth!These gentle giants will steel your heart and invade your senses.Totally worth it. Additional cost
Ready to plan your stay?
Tell us your dates and we'll handle the rest — flights, transfers and the lodge itself.
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