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Thornybush Waterside Lodge

Our rating

7/10

Price guide

Highlights

- Family friendly accommodation
- Inter-connecting rooms
- Good value safari experience

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Overview

Situated within a 14,000 hectare private game reserve, Waterside lodge is one of 11 lodges in the Thornybush portfolio. Catering in particular to families. there are 20 comfortable rooms, some of which are inter-connecting, making it a great choice for families travelling together. Whilst the rooms do have a patio and seating area, they don't have any views to speak of, but the main lodge has a lovely view of a waterhole. As well as a spacious and relaxing communal area, there is a good sized pool which children will enjoy cooling off in after a long game drive. Food is served either in the communal area or around the fire in the boma. Children's tastes and dietary requirements can be catered for.

Of all of the lodges that we have visited in the Kruger area, this one had put the most effort into being child friendly. As well as tick lists, water beaker and back pack, kids are also given snacks and sweets to munch on during the game drives, which can be very welcome. In between game drives, there are also several activities arranged for the children, such as bush walks with a ranger and treasure hunts. This is a larger property, so does have a slightly more commercial air, but, as a consequence, you won't be worried about your children disturbing other guests and honeymooners. If your children are quite active and in the 6 - 10 years bracket, then this is an excellent choice.

Thornybush is one of the smaller reserves and is fenced. Because it is that bit smaller, you have good chances of seeing the Big 5 and other animals and birds of interest. Safaris are with a ranger and tracker in open top vehicles which you will probably share with other guests, depending on the number of people staying at the time.

What customers are saying after travelling with Tourdust

Average Rating

based on 534 reviews

(5.00/5)

  • Thank you, we had an absolute wonderful time, and everything was well-planned and as described. Carla was crying on the day of our departure from Ants Nest, she didn’t want to go home and for it all to end, and when I asked how much longer she would want to stay, she responded “four weeks”

    MissingLars B reviewing Best of South Africa for Families on 01 March 2024

  • It was certainly a holiday of a lifetime for us and we loved every minute!! The standard and location of each accommodation was excellent, as was the variety of each different accommodation type. Our schedule was perfect and we managed to achieve everything on our to-do task list. Your documents were also really helpful, as were the driving directions. We all thank you for making this such a wonderful holiday. Happy to leave a review publicly if you point me the right way. Best Steve

    MissingStephen H reviewing Classic Garden Route & Eastern Cape Safari on 01 September 2023

  • Hi Lisa, We had a fabulous time thank you. The accommodation and other ideation were all terrific - that’s so much for your help. The apartment in Cape Town was particularly good - we would never have found that: Boschendal was great as well and game lodge was superb. Thanks again, Alistair

    MissingAlistair A reviewing Cape Town, Garden Route and Kruger on 28 April 2023

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