Shimungwe Lodge

Shimungwe Lodge Welcome to our intimate, 4* safari lodge nestled on the Timbavati River in the Greater Kruger

The story of Shimungwe begins long before the first guest arrived.Nestled beneath ancient trees and overlooking a quiet ...
01/06/2026

The story of Shimungwe begins long before the first guest arrived.

Nestled beneath ancient trees and overlooking a quiet riverbed, our intimate safari home carries a name deeply connected to this landscape and the people who have called it home.

In our latest blog, we share the story behind the name “Shimungwe” and what it represents today, a place of meaningful connection, genuine authenticity, and a deep respect for the wild spaces that surround us.

For us, Shimungwe has always been more than a lodge. It is a feeling of belonging, of slowing down, and of becoming immersed in the rhythm of the African bush.

Read the full story - https://www.shimungwe.com/naming-shimungwe-lodge-thornybush-greater-kruger/ (LINK IN BIO)



Come for the Big Five.... Stay for everything else this expansive wilderness has to offer 🌿From majestic kudu tip-toeing...
28/05/2026

Come for the Big Five.... Stay for everything else this expansive wilderness has to offer 🌿

From majestic kudu tip-toeing between the trees to giant owls and cheeky mongooses - there's so much to see and discover on every game drive.

Though lions and elephants might be the main attraction, many guests are surprised at just how enchanting these "smaller" things can be.

Want to experience authentic Africa? Join our passionate and experienced guides as they explore the wilds of the Greater Kruger!

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26/05/2026

A slightly more eventful elephant encounter at the lodge this week 😮🐘

Guest captured these two bulls having a stand-off that eventually led to a heated fight of clashing tusks!

The older, larger elephant stood his ground, making the challenger soon realise the error of his ways....

Why do elephants do this? Most likely there is a female in the area in oestrus - causing males to gather from far in order to fight for the chance to mate with her (female elephants only come into oestrus for a few days every four years - so it's a big event!)

Elephants are not territorial animals so do not typically fight over other resources like space or food.

What a fantastic moment for our guests 🙌💚

Gather them in the wild 🐘Some celebrations deserve more than a restaurant table or a gathering hall. They deserve elepha...
22/05/2026

Gather them in the wild 🐘

Some celebrations deserve more than a restaurant table or a gathering hall. They deserve elephants at the waterhole, stories shared around the fire, and three generations discovering the wild together.

Our latest blog explores the magic of multi-generational safaris and why exclusive use bookings at Shimungwe have become such a special way to celebrate milestone birthdays, family reunions, anniversaries, and precious time together.

With just four suites, private use of the lodge, and experiences tailored around your family, it becomes less of a holiday and more of a shared adventure. From children learning tracks in the dust to grandparents watching the bush come alive at sunset, these are the moments that stay with you long after everyone goes home.

Read the full story and discover why families are choosing the African bush for their biggest celebrations ✨

https://www.shimungwe.com/multi-generation-family-celebration-exclusive-use/

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Not just for show 🐾Unlike dogs, hyenas, and cheetahs, lions keep their claws protected inside a sheath of skin and fur a...
20/05/2026

Not just for show 🐾

Unlike dogs, hyenas, and cheetahs, lions keep their claws protected inside a sheath of skin and fur above their paw pads. This stops them from wearing down as they walk - and ensures they stay deadly sharp for catching prey!

Just like a domestic cat, they will also scratch them on trees in their territory - acting as a visual and scent marker for their presence whilst also keeping their claws in tip top condition by removing dead outer layers.

Who knows which other big cat in South Africa does this? 👀

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19/05/2026

A thirsty herd of elephants came to drink right in front of the Lodge 😍🐘

We can't quite believe the normally dry Timbavati riverbed is still flowing at this time of year - but there's no complaints when we're treated to priceless moments like this!

What a perfect way to pass the morning. Join us on an intimate safari in the quiet south of Thornybush Private Nature Reserve 🦒

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Breakfast at Shimungwe 🥐After your morning game drive, step onto our open-air dining deck where a feast of freshly-baked...
15/05/2026

Breakfast at Shimungwe 🥐

After your morning game drive, step onto our open-air dining deck where a feast of freshly-baked pastries, cold meats, fruits, cheeses, and cereals await.

For those that prefer a hot breakfast, our chefs are on hand to make your meal to order, from a selection of eggs, tomatoes, sausages, bacon, and more!

Experience the wild with us - visit www.shimungwe.com today ✨

13/05/2026

Just 30 seconds of nature sounds and a leopard in a tree.... This is what life is all about ✨

Escape to the Greater Kruger at Shimungwe 🐆

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Another incredible sighting of the Avoca breakaway lionesses! Through low growls, swishing tails, and an occasional swip...
11/05/2026

Another incredible sighting of the Avoca breakaway lionesses! Through low growls, swishing tails, and an occasional swipe, it's clear who was the leader of this pride. Any lion that dared to get too close to her part of the meal got a swift correction...

Our lucky guests watched for half an hour as they feasted, before finally moving on to explore other parts of the reserve.

It's never a dull day at Shimungwe! Join us by emailing [email protected] today ✨

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Each evening at Shimungwe, the boma comes alive with the crackle of fire and the soft light of lanterns dangling from br...
08/05/2026

Each evening at Shimungwe, the boma comes alive with the crackle of fire and the soft light of lanterns dangling from branches overhead. Whether exchanging stories over a bottle of wine at the bar, or relishing a traditional South African braai - evenings here offer a peaceful atmosphere as the sounds of the night filter through the air.

For those seeking a truly intimate, immersive stay in nature - welcome home 🍃

Address

Thornybush Private Nature Reserve
Hoedspruit

Telephone

+27732853656

Website

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