Thornybush Private Game Reserve   by Lulie Swanepoel

In quiet seclusion, the Limpopo Province offers you a tranquil sanctuary at the exclusive Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Holiday-makers can enjoy the opportunity of a front-row safari experience as they embark on a journey through this private game reserve. There is an abundance of African birds and wildlife including the Big 5 that offer all kinds of entertainment.

For some direction
If you truly desire some time away filled with luxury and the all the serenity that the bush has to offer, then head towards Thornybush. Adjoining the Kruger National Park, the renowned Thornybush Game Reserve is located approximately 550 kilometres from Johannesburg. Although quite a drive (approximately 6 hours), it's a journey well worth it: a fact attested to by the return of tourists to the reserve time and time again.

For those who prefer to fly, direct flights are available from the international airports in Johannesburg and Cape Town. When you arrive at the Eastgate airport, a 30-minute transfer will take you to Thornybush Private Game Reserve.

Accommodation and activities
Thornybush makes for an ideal safari holiday destination. With near-to-perfect weather all year round, this predominantly open, unspoilt savannah has a range of accommodation available, each with a unique style. You can start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on one of the many activities available.

Some of the activities you can enjoy during your visit are an early morning or late afternoon game drive safari. Qualified and experienced rangers take guests out on open 4x4 safari vehicles where one can encounter smaller game, the elusive cheetah and wild dogs, and of course Africa's 'Big Five'.

If you feel up to the challenge, an informative bush walk is a fascinating experience. A hunt for tracks might just lead to the chance of coming face-to-face with one of the Big Five. Expert guides will teach you more about the wildlife and plant life that inhabit the savannah and riverine forests.

Exciting night drives give visitors the opportunity to experience how the African bush comes alive at night. Many rare and fascinating creatures become active after dark and it's interesting to observe the different sights and sounds of the African bush at night.

For some small-town convenience close to Thornybush, you can venture to Hoedspruit, a charming little town that has retained its rural character through the years. In close proximity to Hoedspruit is the well-known Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. This rehabilitation centre has helped a number of injured and poisoned wildlife species, contributing to the treatment of endangered species too.

Moholoholo's hugely successful breeding programmes have bred a number of big cats of which 150 have been released into the wild. Some of the other animals who call this centre home include three abandoned lions from an Egyptian circus, a cheetah called 'Porshe' and a hippo called 'Humpfree'.

During your time at the Thornybush Private Game Reserve you can be sure that your every expectation will be met. From breathtaking sunsets, exhilarating encounters with African wildlife to luxurious accommodation, your stay at Thornybush will certainly be a memorable one!

About the Author - Exclusive Getaways is a collection of celebrated South African country getaways, including the luxurious Shambalala Game Lodge in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve, Limpopo Province.