Waterbuck Lodge

Waterbuck Lodge

Waterbuck Lodge is a charming and tranquil choice for nature lovers, surrounded by a lush wetland within the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve’s bushveld environment.

The lodge offers grandstand views of passing wildlife drawn to its perennially green surroundings and accommodates just eight guests, making it a popular choice for small groups, couples, and solo travellers alike.

Extreme privacy, superb facilities, and personalised attention ensure every guest enjoys a comfortable and relaxing stay, interspersed with exciting animal encounters.

Communal areas include an informal lounge and dining area where guests spend many happy hours exchanging stories over refreshing drinks and expertly prepared meals. 

An elevated outdoor deck offers excellent views over the nearby waterhole with its many furred and feathered visitors and the secluded swimming pool is a welcome indulgence on hot summer days, with its cool waters, green lawns, and comfy sun loungers.

When evening falls, glimmering lanterns lead the way to a traditional African boma for fireside dining against a backdrop of the bush chorus. 

Waterbuck Lodge offers a supremely relaxed, home away from home vibe and welcomes children of all ages. It’s an excellent choice for an exclusive use booking with friends and family.

Location

Waterbuck Lodge boasts an excellent location for safari-goers in search of the Big Five. The lodge occupies a prime spot in the prestigious 14 500 hectare Thornybush Private Nature Reserve within the Greater Kruger National Park, near Hoedspruit.

The open savannah and mixed woodland habitat that forms much of the reserve is a haven of animal activity surrounded by a water estuary and numerous waterholes.

The lodge is 472km from Johannesburg and 136km from the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport near Mbombela.

Guests can drive or fly into Thornybush Private Nature Reserve on a charter flight and enjoy a short game drive to the lodge.

Accommodation Options​

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This exclusive camp offers just four suites accommodating two guests each.

Each suite is a stand-alone unit, to enhance the privacy and tranquillity of your stay, boasting a private deck and views over golden grasslands or the nearby waterhole.

Furnishings are simple yet luxurious with high quality finishes and famously comfortable double beds fitted with high-quality linens and silky throws. The subdued colours of the African themed décor complement the restful ambience of the rooms, while the overhead thatch and wooden accents emphasise the connection with nature.

Sliding glass doors ensure seamless integration with the outside world and the outdoor shower is a treat for those who seek to truly immerse themselves in nature.

The full en-suite bathrooms are spacious, with fluffy towels, powerful showers, his and hers basins, and large windows for bathing with a view.

Environment

As part of the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, Waterbuck Lodge plays an integral role in conserving the fauna and flora of these pristine spaces through conservation levies as well as educating guests about the natural world.

All the lodges in this reserve are important employers of local communities and play an active part in skills development and managing human-animal conflict. As a whole, the reserve is committed to uplifting and empowering local communities and supporting their initiatives.

When you book a stay at Waterbuck Lodge, you’re helping them achieve these goals.

Room Types

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Suites

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.
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Local Attractions

Morning game drives in the care of experienced and engaging game rangers are the perfect way to start every day on safari.

On your return, a hearty breakfast sets the tone for a day of utter relaxation, while more energetic guests can enjoy a game walk with an expert tracker.

A classic high tea experience signals the start of the late afternoon game drive that can reveal Africa’s most elusive night creatures.    

Those who crave the ultimate sunrise excursion can book a hot air balloon safari with a nearby operator.