Thornybush Jackalberry Lodge

Right as we were leaving we were so sad to learn that Jackalberry is closing with new ownership! That’s really a shame because this is such a special place. As many reading this will attest, there is a wide range of safari lodge options… but almost all are either super cheap or insanely expensive. Jackalberry was the one option that served a niche in the middle. While still pricey, it felt like a true luxury boutique resort without having to mortgage your house! We had the honeymoon suite which was a huge space with an indoor/outdoor shower. We used the outdoor several times and showered just feet away from the grazing nyala! The food and service was superb from start to finish. We laid out by the pool with a cold drink between drives one day and saw elephants and giraffe at the nearby watering hole. The tracker and guide (Andre and Victor) really seemed like the best in the business. We were constantly tracking the best animals first and radioing to the other groups, not the other way around. Overall, this was such a special, intimate lodge experience that we’ll never forget. If you have a chance to grab one of the last few spots at Jackalberry, do it you won’t be disappointed!

Jackalberry Lodge offers an exceptional South African safari experience that combines impeccable service and stunning surroundings. From the moment you arrive, the warm and friendly staff go above and beyond to ensure your stay is nothing short of amazing. Here's a breakdown of what makes Jackalberry so special: Lodge: Situated within the private Thornybush Nature Reserve, Jackalberry Lodge captures the essence of a South African safari and surpasses all expectations. The lodge property and grounds are meticulously maintained, creating a pristine and inviting atmosphere. Upon arrival, Zoe, one of the property managers, extends a heartfelt welcome, setting the tone for your stay. The main building, along with all the other structures, features beautiful thatched roofs and tasteful, comfortable furnishings. Additionally, there is a well-stocked curio shop offering a range of high-quality merchandise, including shirts, hats, jackets, and local-inspired artwork. Villa: The thatched suites at Jackalberry are simply breathtaking, surpassing what the website photos can convey. The rooms are not only visually stunning but also incredibly comfortable. The king-size bed ensures a restful night's sleep after your exhilarating game drives. The well-appointed bathroom provides all the essential amenities, including plush bathrobes. However, it's worth noting that replacement items such as razors and hairbrushes are not readily available, so it's advisable to bring your own. Meals: The culinary experience at Jackalberry Lodge is truly exceptional. Each meal is a delight, offering a diverse range of options that cater to even the most discerning palates. The staff is attentive to guests' preferences and goes out of their way to accommodate special requests. Families with young children are particularly well taken care of, with the kitchen creating personalized dishes for the little ones. Breakfast and lunch present a variety of hot and cold choices, while dinner alternates between plated meals and buffet-style dining. All the food is expertly prepared, bursting with flavor, and presented beautifully. Game Drives: The highlight of the Jackalberry experience is undoubtedly the captivating private reserve. However, even the most extraordinary surroundings can fall short without the right team guiding your safari. The game drives at Jackalberry are led by knowledgeable and skilled guides and trackers who excel in their roles. The open Land Cruiser vehicles provide an unobstructed view of the breathtaking wildlife. Each person is provided with a fresh bottle of water, and rain gear is available, although we were fortunate not to need it. The morning drives are customized to meet the desires of the guests, and the guides, both at Jackalberry and other lodges within the reserve, work tirelessly to ensure an unforgettable experience. Even when multiple guides converge on a sighting, the atmosphere remains respectful and unhurried, allowing ample time for each group

What a magic experience, I cannot recommend this place more... everything from accommodation, staff, game drives, food, setting was fabulous. Our fantastic informative guide, Gerhard and his wonderful tracker, Lot, found us the most amazing game and we experienced the best sightings possible... we were so lucky :) We saw the Big 5, little 5, Baby 5, ugly 5 and so much more... and a night and day kill with lions and guess what.... We saw a PANGOLIN!!! Can you believe it! The morning coffee and evening sun dowers stops were just mind blowing! Comfort our butler and Prudence looked after us like rock stars and Mavis, the chef, spoilt us with delicious meals :) Zoe and Natalie welcomed us and made as feel at home and confirmed our flights which was super kind :) We have been to many game reserves and Jackalberry is definitely top of our list. This was one of the most memorable family holidays ever :) It is also great to have a lodge that caters to the South African market, we hope to be back :)

We arrived at Jackalberry Lodge to be warmly greeted by the manager Omphile Nsangwana-chikusi, known to us as “Opie”. The staff couldn’t do enough to accommodate us and make our stay enjoyable. We had a luxury tent complete with an en-suite bathroom. They even did our laundry! Food was good and plentiful. Our last evening we were served a private champagne dinner on our balcony. Exciting game drives were arranged for us with our most knowledgeable guide, “Simi”. Great trip! Highly recommend!

Accomodation was perfect, the food was good and the Staff were all lovely. Game drives were awesome. We kept thinking surely, the next one can’t compare to the last, but every time something special happened and we were never disappointed! Highlights were seeing a young Leopard at dusk, the overwhelming feeling of seeing Lions after being expertly tracked by our Tracker, another pair of lions “making love” right beside me, a spectacular encounter with a large herd of Elephants walking past us on both sides, each one pausing to take a look at us as they passed and a pack of Wild Dogs destroying an Impala. Right up until the very end, the last game drive seemed to miraculously squeeze in everything that we hadn’t seen previously. I’m sure this was due largely to the expertise of Victor and Gerhard, our Guide. My adrenaline levels have gone through the roof. Gerhard was very knowledgable, informative and always made sure that everyone in the vehicle got a good view. We were in awe of Victor and his brilliant tracking skills. Together, Gerhard and Victor make a formidable team. So many special moments to cherish. We hope to be back.

We had a fantastic family holiday in one of the most special places in RSA. Warm weather in winter, exceptional staff at the lodge, a relaxed atmosphere and awesome sunrises. Our Ranger Wes has a wealth of knowledge, endless enthusiasm and is committed to make each game drive memorable. Our tracker Elliot was great with the children, has a heart for the bush and phenomenal skills. We saw white rhino, leopards, wild dogs and their pups, hyaena cubs, lion....the list was just magical. We enjoyed the peace of the bush and the excitement of the oxbirds. It brings a renewed appreciation and respect for the miracle of nature. Got some amazing photos to share the memories. The early mornings were all worth it. Groot Dankie!