Shimungwe Lodge

Shimungwe Lodge

Shimungwe, named after the Bateleur, is the latest addition to Safari Lodges and Classic Retreats in South Africa’s (SLACRSA’s) prestigious portfolio of exceptional African experiences.

This luxurious, yet laid-back, family-friendly lodge is carefully crafted around a bend in the dry Timbavati River to bring you the best possible experiences available in the prime game viewing area of the Greater Kruger National Park.

Once reserved for private use by invited guests only, Shimungwe retains an intimate charm and is perfectly suited to exclusive use bookings. The lodge comprises just eight beds as well as comfortable dining and relaxation areas, a private game drive vehicle, and a crystal clear swimming pool.

Each carefully thought out space immerses guests in the unique, tranquil vibe of their surroundings to create a truly authentic southern African safari experience. A day at Shimungwe includes a morning and evening game drive, culminating in an evening meal around the campfire or al fresco with a view. In between, there’s plenty of time to enjoy moments of reflection and relaxation in your luxury suite or around camp.

Apart from the chance to enjoy extra game viewing at a waterhole placed in front of the lodge, guests will find themselves surrounded by many species of birds and their accompanying soundtrack, which is so typical of the African bush.

Location

Shimungwe rests easy in the tranquil environment of the esteemed Thornybush Game Reserve, within the internationally-acclaimed Greater Kruger National Park environment.

Here nature roams free, presenting opportunities for guests to enjoy delight and discovery any moment of the day. The lodge is ideal for unforgettable family gatherings or couples’ escapes and lends itself well to exclusive-use bookings.

This lush environment abounds with some of Africa’s most acclaimed fauna and flora, embellished by colourful and abundant birdlife, and fascinating small creatures.

You can look forward to coming across vast herds of buffalo and elephant, all of the Big Five, Cape hunting dogs, and pangolin during your safari at Shimungwe.

Accommodation Options​

Shimungwe Lodge has mastered the marriage of understated luxury and a relaxed home-away-from-home atmosphere.

The four semi-detached units are positioned to maximize comfortable interactions between small groups of family and friends, without infringing on privacy. All the communal areas exude a warm, welcoming atmosphere thanks to décor that reflects the rich hues of nature.
Each one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite features air-conditioning, en-suite facilities, a private deck with views over the bush, and a wonderful open air shower.

Environment

Shimungwe’s location alongside the dry Timbavati River places guests in a prime position for exciting interactions with some of Southern Africa’s most incredible wildlife species.

It’s here, in the heart of African bush that you ‘ll find yourself immersed in a pristine bushveld and woodland savannah environment, dotted with towering knob thorn and marula trees.

This tranquil, healthy ecosystem is home to signature species like lion, leopard, elephant, wild dog, hyena, cheetah and both black and white rhino.
The trees are alive with over 300 species of birds with rare creatures like Pel’s fishing owls, Verreaux’s eagles, and golden and white throated pipits waiting to be ticked off your list. 

Room Types

Suites
Each of the four suites offers intimate seclusion from the next, providing the ideal place to enjoy quiet time in this peaceful environment, without missing out on any potential game sightings. Relax on the large veranda overlooking the waterhole or dam with unfettered views of the landscape to maximise your enjoyment of the birds, animals, and views.

Local Attractions

Arise to steaming aromatic coffee every morning as you venture out on exhilarating game drives into the awakening bush, where you could encounter some of Africa’s most elusive creatures on the prowl.

Experienced guides never tire of bringing the bush to life for every moment of these sunrise outings and then repeat the process as the sun sinks below the horizon during your afternoon excursion.

Close by, a host of sights and adventures await along the Panorama Route which offers sights of the area’s best known geological formations and enigmatic waterfalls.