There is something wonderfully satisfying about packing for a safari. Long before you arrive at the airstrip you begin preparing. Choosing what to bring. What to leave behind. What this trip will need from you. A safari is not the kind of holiday that rewards over-packing. Dust settles on boots quickly here; the same jacket becomes familiar by the second morning drive. The bush asks for less, not more. A few well-chosen...
Shumbalala Game Lodge is nestled in the heart of Thornybush Private Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park
Situated on the banks of the seasonal Monwana river the camp is an unexpected oasis of luxury and comfort in the unforgiving heat of the African bushveld. It is here where you will find the exclusive Shumbalala Game Lodge managed by a team with a friendly yet professional approach to their guests, also overseen by the family themselves.
Accommodation
Set under shady African trees lining the seasonal Monwana River, Shumbalala Game Lodge comprise of a select number of suites with privacy and luxurious comfort in mind.
Game Viewing
See why Shumbalala is a renowned game viewing destination. We offer a variety of activities from game drives, bush walks, to birding and photography excursions.
Our People
It is our pleasure to introduce the heart and soul of Shumbalala Game Lodge.
Guest Reviews
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Shumbalala-Amazing Africa
"My wife and I stayed at Shumbalala for 6 unbelievable days . It was the most incredible 6 days that we will look back on fondly for many years to come. The overall experience was unbelievable, The food prepared by Liam and his team was fantastic and the variety was great. Dani and the lodge staff made sure we were looked after at all times from amazing gin cocktails... Read this review
Michael Koster
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Trip of a lifetime
This was a most incredible experience. Can not say enough about the luxurious lodging, quality of food and the outstanding service. Everything was perfect. Memories of a lifetime. Saw the big five and then saw things like mating leopards, newly born elephant and packs of wild dogs. Incredible.
Marta H
South Carolina
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Amazing Safari Lodge
Such amazing service and wildlife sightings while travelling in the Kruger! Shumbalala is on point form the personalized details in the rooms, knowledgeable guides for safari - walking or driving and the most amazing food! Danielle and the team are 5star!!
N Morris
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Stunning!
The place is amazing, the staff is excellent, lovely & friendly, walking the extra mile to make your stay even more comfortable!The knowledge of Edward and Pieter was beyond…. Thanks Danielle for your kind hosting, thanks Jeandra for making it happen.
J Blaauwhof
Netherlands
Latest News
What To Pack For A Safari: A Seasonal Guide From Shumbalala Game Lodge
Wed May 13, 2026
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The art of noticing: What the bush teaches you to see
Thu April 2, 2026
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At first, safari is about what you see. A lion in the grass, an elephant at the water’s edge, a leopard draped across the branch of a tree. These are the moments you arrive hoping for — the ones you’ve imagined long before setting foot in the bush. They are striking, immediate, and unforgettable in their own right. But over time, something begins to shift. It becomes less about what you see,...
Pangolin Conservation in the Greater Kruger: Walking them back to the wild
Fri March 6, 2026
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For many guests visiting the Greater Kruger, seeing a pangolin is the ultimate wish. It’s rare — and that rarity is part of what makes it so special. Now and then, we hear from a guest who has been fortunate enough to witness one. Danielle, who stayed with us in 2022, was among the lucky few. Most pangolins moving through this landscape are just that — wild, free, and wonderfully elusive. But...
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