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As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the South African landscape in hues of amber and gold, the Thornybush Game Lodge stands not merely as an accommodation but as a gateway to the untamed beauty of one of Africa’s most cherished sanctuaries.

Established in 1961 and nestled along the perimeter of the expansive Kruger National Park in South Africa, this iconic destination has recently undergone a significant transformation, marrying contemporary luxury with the enduring charm of the classic safari experience.

Travel advisors, take note: Thornybush Game Lodge is a premier destination for clients seeking a modern twist on the African bush experience. With 16 lavish suites, each a haven of sophistication, the lodge ensures a bespoke and intimate experience. Your clients will relish the luxury of private verandahs, the sumptuous comfort of the suites and the personalized service that epitomizes five-star hospitality.

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The Lodge’s Kamara House is ideal for a family vacation. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

For those seeking the epitome of laid-back luxury and exclusivity in South Africa, introduce them to the unrivaled Kamara House. This jewel of the Thornybush Nature Reserve is a brand-new, distinctively exclusive-use villa, designed to redefine the safari experience with unmatched privacy and elegance. Kamara House is an idyllic sanctuary for those special gatherings—be it a family retreat or a celebration among friends—in the serene heart of the bush. Accommodating up to six guests, the villa promises a stay that is as intimate as it is indulgent, allowing your clients to immerse themselves in the tranquil opulence of their own personal African escape.

Kamara House’s tastefully modern interiors are a tribute to the natural beauty it beholds, offering a contemporary take on the classic safari lodge. It is a place where warm, earthy tones and rich, organic textures meet, creating an atmosphere of sophisticated comfort. With a dedicated staff, including a butler, private chef and a personal ranger and tracker team, every aspect of the guest experience is crafted to perfection. The villa’s expansive deck, complete with a rim-flow pool, becomes a stage for relaxation and wildlife observation, while meals are events in themselves, served in the great outdoors or within the villa’s stately dining area.

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Elegant surroundings. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

Finalizing the Kamara House experience is the absolute freedom it offers: The luxury to tailor safari drives and activities to personal preferences, ensuring a truly bespoke adventure. This flexibility, coupled with the encompassing privacy and luxury, positions Kamara House as a pinnacle offering for those looking to provide their clients with an unforgettable sojourn into Africa’s wild heart. It also serves as a perfect offering for families traveling with children, as it allows them to dictate the pace of their own experiences. Here, in this secluded oasis, your clients will find a profound connection with nature, underpinned by the finest hospitality that Thornybush has to offer.

The lodge offers easy access to all the wonders Kruger National Park offers. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

Yet, the transformation of Thornybush Game Lodge and the unveiling of Kamara House extends beyond aesthetics and comfort. At its core, the lodge provides unparalleled access to the Kruger National Park’s wildlife, as there are no fences between the two. Guests can partake in expertly guided safaris to observe Africa’s iconic wildlife, an experience that leaves an indelible mark on the heart. The sight of a lion’s mane billowing in the breeze, the trumpet of an elephant and the stealthy prowl of a leopard are but glimpses into a world that Thornybush proudly showcases.

The lodge’s commitment to sustainability and conservation is integral to its charm. By embracing responsible tourism practices and supporting local conservation efforts, Thornybush plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the natural heritage of the region for generations to come. Travel advisors can assure their clients that their adventure is not only exceptional but also ethically conscious.

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Exploring the wilds of South Africa. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

The recently introduced Library is a standout feature, capturing the imagination of guests and encouraging a deeper connection with the African wilderness. Curated by Gina Waldman of Waldman Studios, this space is a modern-day treasure trove, where guests can explore specimens collected from the Thornybush area, each tagged with fascinating insights from the lodge’s knowledgeable guides. This interactive element transcends the typical safari, allowing guests to touch, see, and learn about the flora and fauna in a uniquely tangible way.

Heading out to explore. (Photo credit: Mayra Bazavilvazo)

As a travel advisor, recommending Thornybush Game Lodge to your clients means offering them a journey that fuses the thrill of adventure with tranquil luxury and environmental stewardship. This destination stands as a beacon of contemporary safari excellence, where every detail is thoughtfully considered to exceed the expectations of the discerning traveler.

For more information, visit thornybush.com/lodge/thornybush-game-lodge and thornybush.com/lodge/kamara-house.

This story originally appeared in worldstompers.com, a family travel website created to inspire families with kids to expand their idea of adventures. You can follow the adventures of the Bazavilvazo family @worldstompers on Instagram and The Worldstompers on Facebook.