Thornybush Waterside Lodge

Staying at Waterside Thornybush made our South Africa experience such a success, fun, enriching and memorable. When friends and family asked us if Africa was safe to go to, Waterside made it super safe, worries and hassle free! We were able to discover this lodge through A2A Safari. Game Drive Upon our arrival at our lodge, after some rest, we had our first game drive. There was both fear and excitement going on route to try to witness the Big 5 (elephants, lions, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos). We were told that there are some times that even it so many days of driving around, some passengers do not get to see the Big 5. What a treat to see 3 young cheetahs who are brothers, a lion and a lioness resting under a tree, and rhinos. We were about 6 to 8 ft away from these wild animals, driving on a customized open land rovers. Tracker and Ranger We had an excellent duo of tracker (Stanley) and ranger and guide (Enrico). The tracker looks at footprints, poop, and smell of pee of animals determining if the tracks are fresh or not. They sometimes go down from the vehicle to look on foot to spot the animals. When the animals are spotted, the guide drives through the thorny bushes and some trees giving a better and closer view of the animals in their natural habitat. We learned also that both of ranger and tracker have to undergo a certification course. Our game drives would have not been possible without the of Enrico and Stanley. They are such a wonderful duo! They made us felt safe and warm in all our game drives. Enrico has lots of stories and information to share making us appreciate the Big 5 and other precious animals so much more. The safari was indeed the highlight of our South Africa visit. Rico and Stanley brought us to the many zones in the reserve – from north, south, east and west. We saw the differences of those places too. We were able to take lots of photos and videos. Cocktails After viewing some animals, our guide park in some safe place away from the wild animals and our tracker will prepare some cocktails which choices of sodas, sparking water, or very good South African wine; and some fingerfood like fruits, dried meat, and chips. Life is good! Sunsets I did not expect that sunsets in winter would be beautiful. God painted a beautiful sky canvas hues of orange and yellow with the forest as a backdrop too. Nature is the best artist! Welcome drinks When we get back to the lodge, we are welcomed by warm towels and welcome drinks such as Amarula. Morning game drive To prepare for the morning game drive, we are up at 5 a.m. and put on our thermals. A wake-up call from the lodge will also be our alarm. Our lodge offers us some light snack with coffee, tea, and fresh juice. At 5:30 a.m., we hopped on our range rover with the guidance of our tracker and guide. We are given fleece blankets and bag of warm water to keep us comfortable during the ride. The drive at first goes to 5km/hr so that the there will be less cold air. As the sun rises, we increase in speed a bit and we get to track the animals! What a different adventure. The ride goes till about 8:30 a.m. After which, a healthy breakfast awaits us and our butler who we loved at first sight! Animals It is indeed a wonderful opportunity to see various animals in their natural habitat, and for these animals to allow us to view them even for just a short while. We saw the Big 5 -- cheetahs, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. We also wild dogs, some birds, impalas (are everywhere), wild pigs, giraffes, zebras, etc. It is a very good learning experience! Breakfast at the Lodge Waterside Thornybush offers a hearty and healthy breakfast. There is a buffet of grains, fruits, yoghurts, juices. The chef also has some breakfast specials such as wraps and eggs Benedict. They also make fantastic omelettes. My favorites include the whole grain wheat and warm breads, and mushroom and cheese omelette oozing with umami taste! African coffee smells good and warms the tummy. Best taken looking at the view of the river which has a hippo submerged in it. There are some monkeys roaming around too and they can possibly get your bread while you dine. Impalas do visit in the afrernoon just by one's lodge. They are just so peaceful to look at. Outside Waterside, just walking distance can be seen are some giraffes and zebras eating. Lunch At 1 p.m., lunch is served. The Chef and her/his buffet awaits all guests. Cuisines vary. The BBQ's and dipping sauces are always good; more so the different salads and dressings that boasts of the bounty of South Africa. It must be the mountains, soil, air and water that nurtures all the fruits and vegetables that make them so delicious. One feels so clean and healthy. Whoever the chef is concocts dishes that makes the mouth water and tickle the buds. High Tea Tea and other drinks and some light snacks are served at 3 p.m. to prepare guests for the afternoon game drive. We skipped this in the 4 days we were there because we were stuffed from lunch. We hopped on the Range Rover just before 330 pm to view the animals again. Dinner Dinner at Waterside Lodge are special. The kitchen and staff set up dinners in various vicinities in the lodge. The chef would greet the guests and present the menu. Guests are served with hot soup to warm the tummy and the entire body. The dinner is set with bonfire and guests are given blankets as warmers. The buffet consists of salad, assorted cheeses and dried fruits. Mains include BBQ (either chicken, sausage, or lamb) and some stews. On some nights, there were South African staples like Chaka Laka and Impala stew. They also had grilled vegetables. Dessert consisted of fresh fruits, chocolates, and warm pudding. These are all good paired with South African wines. Room Our room at the lodge was spacious and always clean. The bedroom opens to a balcony, overlooking the river lodge where several animals can be spotted such as birds, snakes, and a submerged hippo. The room has a separate toilet and bath. The toilet doesn't have bidet. The bath area has a bath tub with some salts to choose from, a clothes rack in case you want to hang some clothes and fresh towels. The shower area is a bit open. It is tiled but there is an open space between the wall the roof that taking a bath in winter mornings or in the evenings are such a challenge! Really, really cold.Good thing the warm showers are enough to compensate. They also offer cheap laundry services. The bed is comfortable. When we go out for afternoon and morning rides, we are sure to go home to a warm bed. Yes, the levels of warmth can be adjusted. The room has complimentary tea and coffee; and water. It has a ref too. The room is well lit too. Escorts At night, no one is allowed to go out unescorted. There are animals roaming around even leopards. Just give them a call and someone will come knocking at your door to pick you up. Chefs are gracious and ready to greet guests at lunch and dinner. Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Highly recommending Waterside Thornybush! Once you are in this lodge, no need to worry. They will take care of everything! Thank you for giving us a beautiful stay, Waterside Thornybush.