Thunzi Bush Lodge
Maitland Street, Port Elizabeth 6018 South Africa
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Avg. R 2,871 /night, 1/24 - 1/25
R 3,149
per night
R 2,529
per night
R 1,908
per night
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About
#2 of 25 lodges in Port Elizabeth
Location
Rooms
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Thunzi in isiXhosa means “in the shade,” describing a typical lazy afternoon in the forest valley. This tranquil sanctuary of coastal forest can be found 20 minutes West of Gqeberha & is nestled at the base of a 44 hectare private valley overlooking a pristine & lush river wetland. Luxury 4* Self-catering Chalets are fully equipped & have their own private boma’s (selected chalets have hot tubs) nestled under a milkwood/acacia tree in the indigenous forest where family & friends can gather & enjoy a few drinks & braai (barbeque). Added extras for your convenience include DSTV select & Netflix, FREE WIFI, dressing gowns, air-conditioning, starter packs of tea/coffee amenities, heating, hair dryer, daily housekeeping service & laundry facilities. Come and enjoy our one of a kind Stargazing Dome. A meandering boardwalk leads you onto a spacious deck where you will discover Thunzi’s romantic dome with distinct finishes and so much more…
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Boating
Canoeing
Babysitting
Children's playground
Couples massage
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Hiking
Fishing
Kids' outdoor play equipment
Facial treatments
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
BBQ facilities
Baggage storage
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Picnic area
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Laundry service
Ironing service
Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Kitchenette
Flatscreen TV
Extra long beds
Bath / shower
Safe
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Clothes rack
Iron
Laptop safe
Microwave
Oven
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Electric kettle
Kitchenware
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
Room types
Mountain view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
Star ratings are intended to indicate the general level of features, amenities, and services to expect. This property is classified according to TGCSA - Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.
HOTEL STYLE
Mid-range
Great View
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Xhosa
Location
Maitland Street, Port Elizabeth 6018 South Africa
Getting there
Port Elizabeth Airport
27.1 km•
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Car Hire
10 Restaurants
within 10 kilometers
Reviews
Traveller rating
- 324
- 84
- 17
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- 1
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Detailed Reviews
The pricing is quite steep but there is room for improvement to justify the spend. There was a short staffing issue and the lady in reception had to end up cleaning the rooms as well. This led to there being a few areas missed. The bath was not cleaned and there were dead insects that were left lying on the bathroom floor. The overall cleanliness was well done. The firelighters that were provided were already opened and dried out and we actually struggled to get the fire going in the evening. We were only able to replace the firelighters in the morning due to the reception area closing after 5pm, the day before. The grounds are neat and well maintained. The service was excellent in that when ever we requested anything, the staff was very kind and helpful in making our stay comfortable and memorable. Michelle (Manager) was also very friendly and accommodating to meet our requests before arrival. It's an amazing experience that my wife and I would recommend to anyone.
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Date of stay: March 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We just want to thank the staff at Thunzi Bush Lodge for making our stay there memorable. The place was great very high standards. They provide quality utensils which really made me feel like I was home away from home.
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Date of stay: March 2022
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Our stay at Thunzi Bush Lodge was most enjoyable. The privacy, views, quietness and cleanliness of the chalet was exactly what we needed at the time. The chalet was well equipped and we had everything that we needed. Our stay was made more enjoyable by the very competent and friendly staff. Thank you very much for a peaceful and quiet weekend.
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Date of stay: December 2020
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Trenwyth Pledger, Owner at Thunzi Bush Lodge
Responded 11 Feb 2021
We always appreciate feedback and to hear that we are doing everything right, thank you for taking time to write the review. With the past few months being so uncertain it is such a pleasure to open Thunzi Bush Lodge up again to guests so they can enjoy all the fresh air and peace and tranquility. We look forward to seeing you sometime soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
As mentioned in the other reviews it is a nice location in a nature reserve with a lot of space. When we visited the place for 2 nights we happened to be the only guests and the service was nearly non existent. We first had to wait for 15 minutes at the gate (arriving at the normal time) for the gate to be opened. When we requested for services, we were informed that these were not available and received contradictory information. They filled the pool with some water and left it unattended and if we had not closed the tap it would have overflown ... and there were signs on the property not to waste the water. It was like they were sleeping all day at the reception.
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Date of stay: November 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Many of the reviews don’t do this Lodge justice. We arrived at Kingfisher on New Year’s day and our cottage was immaculate with the hot tub fired up, a stack of wood and a really well equipped kitchen. Fluffy bathrobes and comfy beds, hot water, a great brai and swift checkin. We were only stopping over but on the little walk we actually did realised there is so much more to explore in the grounds. The surrounding area didn’t seem to have a great deal to offer at a glance and there is high fencing everywhere; the lodgr could use some sort of a restaurant or cafe if the owners feel minded to do it at some point. There are lots of cute little nooks and crannies to picnic and sit, clearly a lot of thought has gone into making it special. Huge potential.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Trenwyth Pledger, Owner at Thunzi Bush Lodge
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you for your glowing review! We're thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful experience during your stay at Kingfisher Lodge. It's great to know that you found your cottage immaculate and well-equipped, and that you enjoyed the hot tub, comfy amenities, and convenient facilities. A few years ago, we did operate a restaurant on the premises. However, as the demand for self-catering accommodations grew and foot traffic for the restaurant dwindled, we made the decision to transition to offering ready meals and picnic baskets instead. We strive to adapt to our guests' preferences while still providing convenient dining options during their stay. We're delighted you discovered the charm of our grounds and hope to welcome you back soon for more exploration and relaxation!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Thank you for a wonderful stay. We so needed to escape and Thunzi certainly was the perfect choice. We loved the cosy wooden lodge with all modern appliances, super friendly staff, beautiful walks and picnic spots. "Essence" spoilt us by lighting our fire and ensured that we had everything we needed. We will certainly be back.
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Date of stay: June 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
This was our 4th time returning😀Nov 2021 it was myself and my husband in the Heron Cabin, we then went back with the kids in Kingfisher Jan 2022, then we just had to introduce our friends to Thunzi so we went again in Kingfisher in June 2023 as a couple and now in Jan 2024 went as a family again in Kingfisher. We've tried other holiday destinations in between but honestly don't think anyone can top Thunzi😀 from Reception staff (Sibongile) to housekeeping down to Maintanance staff (Adam / Vuyani) and Chess the dog they are thee absolute best💯 Thunzi is such a gem, the Tranquility, waking up to the sounds of the birds chirping and my absolute favorite with our last visit, being surrounded with the most beautiful butterflies. Its an understatement to say that the pool is amazing, the picnic on the bardge is heaven. Paddle boats on the lake and fishing rods is the cherry on top. Around every corner you'll find a special spot. Picnic areas, seating areas and don't get me started on the Dome. The huge chess board was a total winner as my son loves to challenge me in chess all the time. Thunzi really spoiled us!! Everything is so convenient irrespective of the weather. The hot tub, the braai area and fully equipped kitchen. The views, the horses in the distance. What a special home away from home 😀 I'm literally calling it my holiday house already 🙃 i love the walk in shower in the one bedroom and the one bath in the other room. I love how both rooms have their own entrance. The aircon and diff variety of channels on the TV is an absolute favorite to the kids especially after whole day swimming, followed with the hot tub and a nice warm bubbly bath. I can just go on and on. Take my word for it or not, but do yourself a favor and go and experience Thunzi, you so rightfully deserve it ♥️ Kingfisher is definitely seeing us again on my birthday in May. THERE IS NO DOUBT ABOUT IT 😀 😁 😜 😊 a special shout out to Dinky😊 was so great meeting you. Thank you for everything and may Thunzi keep on blossom 🌸 every day 🙏 ❤️ 💙 💜
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Trenwyth Pledger, Owner at Thunzi Bush Lodge
Responded 29 Jan 2024
Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words! We're absolutely thrilled to hear that you've returned to Thunzi for the fourth time and that each visit has been so memorable for you and your family. It's heart-warming to know that you've appreciated every aspect of your stay, from our dedicated staff members to the tranquil surroundings and convenient amenities. We can't wait to welcome you back for your birthday in May! Your support means the world to us, and we look forward to continuing to provide you with exceptional experiences every time you visit. Until then, take care and see you soon! 😊🌸🎉
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Spick n' span resort with chalets that are well stocked with appliances. Everything in the chalet was clean, neat and tidy and of good quality. Staff was on hand on our arrival and very helpful showing us the whereabouts of the chalet. the braai area was even raked and everything was in place including ample wood and firelighter. Most enjoyable evening away from home.
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Date of stay: March 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Trenwyth Pledger, Owner at Thunzi Bush Lodge
Responded 04 Jun 2021
Thank you Larissa, we look forward to you staying with us again!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Excellent facility and conditions, excellent views, aligned to nature and perfect to truly breakaway and rest...…
I suggest the 3rd room at Nguni should have an option for a double bed or two single beds. We were promised that the two single beds would be converted, however this didn't materialize. Nguni would normally have friends and it becomes a bit tricky as to who takes which room.
I suggest the 3rd room at Nguni should have an option for a double bed or two single beds. We were promised that the two single beds would be converted, however this didn't materialize. Nguni would normally have friends and it becomes a bit tricky as to who takes which room.
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Date of stay: January 2021
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The unit we book were very neat and clean, the one chair on the patio are about to break so we did not use it. There were no wood at the jacuzzi, but then we ask the guy that help us brought it down and start the fire for us We hade a picnic, It was very disappointed there were no basket for us to carry all the items down so we hade to word with that we got. the amount we paid for the food was also disappointed very small amounts and the one cheese were rotten
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Response from Trenwyth Pledger, Owner at Thunzi Bush Lodge
Responded 12 Dec 2023
Good Morning - We so sorry for your recent experience. We strive to offer our guests top quality services at all times. We have recently changed our manager and can assure you we will make sure this doesnt happen again
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It is about 5 km from the new mall.
"Staying longer than one night ? consider choosing a larger chalet so you have more space. Heron is comfortable but not spacious."Read full review
PRICE RANGE
R 1,926 - R 2,593 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaEastern CapePort Elizabeth
NUMBER OF ROOMS
7
Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Please see our partners for more details.
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Claim Your ListingTHUNZI BUSH LODGE - UPDATED 2025 Reviews & Price Comparison (Port Elizabeth, South Africa)
Frequently Asked Questions about Thunzi Bush Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Holmeleigh Farmyard (6.1 km), Animals in Wonderland (4.7 km), and Apiarista (4.7 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, free parking, and laundry service.
Which room amenities are available at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Guests can enjoy barbeque facilities during their stay.
Is parking available at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Yes, free parking and secured parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Conveniently located restaurants include Elephant Walk, Barnacles Restaurant, and Bluvibez Café.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Thunzi Bush Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, and Xhosa.