Buffalo Thorn Lodge
R565 Black Rhino Game Reserve, Pilanesberg National Park, Moses Kotane Local Municipality South Africa
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About
#12 of 20 Specialty lodging in Pilanesberg National Park
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Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
Charming
Languages Spoken
Afrikaans
Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Centre with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Billiards
Highchairs available
Shuttle bus service
Hot bath
Outdoor pool
Private pool
BBQ facilities
Convenience store
Non-smoking hotel
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Safe
Coffee / tea maker
Electric blanket
Whirlpool bathtub
Seating area
Iron
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Kitchenette
Dishwasher
Microwave
Refrigerator
Kitchenware
Bath / shower
Hair dryer
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Location
Full view
Contact
R565 Black Rhino Game Reserve, Pilanesberg National Park, Moses Kotane Local Municipality South Africa
Getting there
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29Reviews1Q+A7Room tips
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Having been to the lodge before I was excited to return, albeit more than 2 years later than planned. Jumari and Evan were very friendly and everyone enjoyed the weekend - especially the jacuzzi. Even two days of rain didn't dampen the enthusiasm, although the load shedding on the last day was disappointing, especially as it affected the availability of water. Jumari's communication before our visit was excellent and she very kindly made a plan when there was a sudden change in our accommodation. The hot towels she provided after every game drive were also a welcome touch. Unfortunately, I must mention that Buffalo Thorn's 5-star rating is currently not warranted and the following needs attention: - ensure that the facilities work (e.g. hot water, spa bath, hairdryer and lights; have a generator back-up for power outages) - consistency is king (e.g. if there's ground coffee, include a plunger; if there's a turndown service, do it every night; if there are gowns, have enough and make sure that they are spotless; if there are wet towels, dry or change them; if you provide a step to assist in boarding the game vehicle, make sure it's always there) - look at quality (e.g. chipped, mismatched, faded and broken crockery, utensils, lampshades and lounger covers should be replaced) - maintenance is important (e.g. broken or damaged game vehicles; occasional dirty dishes and the odd room that is not 100% clean can be managed) Despite these suggested improvements, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and Jumari was quick to attend to any issues raised. An excellent cheetah and cub sighting; lion, elephant and rhino aplenty; jackal, impala, wildebeest, giraffe, zebra, hippo and bird photographic opportunities; as well as interesting tree and animal behaviour highlights, excited even the most blasé amongst us. Thanks to Evan for even taking the die-hards out in the rain and for enduring the rowdiness of the group. It was sad not to see any animals at the waterhole but with all the rain in the park, this wasn't unexpected. However, the resident spurfowl and hornbills were a real treat. Thank you to everyone who made this a very special birthday surprise for my husband over the Easter weekend.…
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Date of stay: April 2022
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Service
Room Tip: The two units on either side of the living area have lofts for younger guests. Beware the...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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My husband and I visited Buffalo Thorn Lodge as part of a group of friends for a long weekend in March 2022. This place is exquisite. We could truly relax around the pool and soak up the sun for 4 perfect days straight, reconnecting with old friends - the jacuzzi and lookout was a treat. Twice a day game drives afforded us new knowledge about the animals we found under the skilled guidance of our ranger Evan. His passion for the bush and its animals is contagious and his knowledge is vast and impressive - we especially loved the little anecdotes from his personal experiences which were shared. We still cannot decide which of the animals we encountered were our favourites - the elephant family or the dung beetles, the lion who caught and ate (and was injured by!) a porcupine, or the cheetahs next to the road. I will be keeping a close eye on Evan's blog posts from now on! Rooms and amenities were always perfectly clean and comfortable thanks to the housekeeping staff under Jumarie's supervision, and best of all was that I didn't need to wash one dish the entire time! We returned home well-rested and with a new appreciation for our beautiful country and all it has to offer.…
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Date of stay: March 2022
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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We had the most fabulous time at Buffalo Thorn Lodge. The lodge was amazing and the views from the deck were the best. We even had a pregnant cheetah that came to drink at the waterhole. Truly amazing! Ewan and Yumarie were the best hosts ever. Nothing was too much trouble and they made sure that everything "just happened" ...... Ewan's knowledge of the bush, animals, fauna and flora were out of a text book. We learnt so much each and every game drive. He's really amazing! We will never forget how to tell the difference between a white and black Rhino.
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Date of stay: September 2021
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: Peace and quiet, stunning setting, great hosts
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We have just returned from a 3 day stay - a family of 10. the staff were very friendly , Ivan and Aumarie were fantastic!! The game drives were a highlight for us, Ivan is a wonderful game ranger, answered all our questions, made the game drives so enjoyable. It was the best holiday we have had and all our family were blown away. Our family came from USA, UK and Mosselbay. Thank you!!!! A private lodge with a swimming pool and jacuzzi . If you love the bush in luxury, your own game drives and Ranger this is the place to go!!!
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Date of stay: September 2021
Rooms
Service
Sleep Quality
Room Tip: All the rooms are great, one room faces the waterhole but on the deck you see all, the elephants...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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I have read the glowing reviews, especially about the hosts Ivan and Joumarie. I do agree it is a lovely lodge. The staff is very friendly and made for a memorable stay. Doing all the mundane things that needed to be done. However, we were not impressed with the ranger. Though he has a thorough knowledge of his field, his treatment of his guests bordered on contempt. He clearly do not understand his role fully and when to draw the line. The share holders of this lodge is welcome to contact me if they require more detail. Despite this, we still enjoyed our stay and had a good time.
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Date of stay: March 2021Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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+1
Our family had a rough beginning of December, with losing our Mum very suddenly. This trip had originally been arranged with her in mind, so we all went and she was with us in spirit. What an amazing getaway! From the attention to detail provided by Jumarie and her team in the accommodation and amenities, to the extensive knowledge shared with us by Evan on our game drives, and Hendrik on the game walk. We couldn't have asked for a more fitting way to remember Mum, and even the animals who came to visit gave us a show. Whether you're a solo/couple/group traveller this is something to be experienced at least once in your lifetime.
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Stayed at the lodge for 4 nights, 5 days with family and kids- loved every second. Covid safe, amazing amenities, perfect for families and kids, exceptionally knowledgeable ranger and excellent management team, great game, personalized touches, couldn’t recommend it enough and I will definitely be back again!
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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+1
Our family came to spend few days away from today’s Corona reality and to have fun together. This place was just perfect.The lodge gave it to us all. The ranger made sure we won’t leave the place disappointed. We have seen things on the game rides that were very rare to spot and not only once. We enjoyed fully equipped kitchen and the braai area. The lodge is situated by a small dam and many animals come to drink there so we could just sit and watch animals from the lodge as well. It was just amazing.
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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+1
Our visit to Buffalo Thorn Lodge was an absolute treat. The accommodation is fabulous, spacious and private. The lodge is well equipped, and beautifully laid out. The staff are warm and unobtrusive. Ranger Evan and hostess Umarie are very knowledgeable, kind and helpful. The game drives were fabulous and we were really spoiled with sightings. What a treat!
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Date of stay: December 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Fantastic lodge. Absolutely perfect for families. Hospitality top notch and Evan & Jumarie really goes the extra mile. No shortage of equiment to make it a luxury experience. Evan's knowledge on game drives is exceptional and we thoroughly enjoyed every minute. Will definately be back. "Ziziphuss Mucronata" thank you for the most memorable weekend. Take care till we see again.
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Date of stay: August 2020Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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PRICE RANGE
US$885 - US$1 135 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaNorth-West ProvinceMoses Kotane Local MunicipalityPilanesberg National Park
NUMBER OF ROOMS
5
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Claim Your Listing Frequently Asked Questions about Buffalo Thorn Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Buffalo Thorn Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Nare Walking Safaris (0.9 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Buffalo Thorn Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and a lounge.
Which room amenities are available at Buffalo Thorn Lodge?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Buffalo Thorn Lodge?
Guests can enjoy a lounge and barbeque facilities during their stay.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Buffalo Thorn Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness centre during their stay.
Does Buffalo Thorn Lodge have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Buffalo Thorn Lodge offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.