Monwana

After doing safaris in South Africa every year for 40 years, I’d put Monwana among the best. The staff’s warmth and hospitality are amazing, and they pay great attention to detail in the rooms and throughout. The food is excellent, and even the included “house” wines are premium. Other reserves with wine included usually offer average bottles, but Monwana has a cellar to be proud of. Thornybush is a very good game reserve too. We saw a lot with an excellent ranger and tracker, and the vehicles are spacious and comfortable, with a limit of six guests per vehicle. Monwana has got it right. Well done. I’d really recommend a stay here.

The Monwana Residence is a showstopper. I stayed two nights at Monwana Game Lodge, and the two matching master suites gave us lovely privacy. There are thoughtful luxury touches like a pillow menu, outdoor shower, and bath with a view, plus shared spaces that work well for friends, families, or small groups. Service was warm and personal, almost like coming home. Yvonne, the Food and Beverage Manager, went above and beyond, and our guide Marinus was professional, a great storyteller, and exceptional at guiding. The drives were fantastic, with a lioness and her cubs as our most memorable sighting. The food was 10/10, especially the braai, and the cocktails were excellent, including Lounging Leopard! The wine collection is one of the most impressive I’ve seen at a lodge. The atmosphere manages to feel quiet, romantic, and family-friendly alongside the high-end service. Nothing to fault. Highly recommend.

The elephants at the property’s watering hole were a highlight. We saw a massive herd drinking there, and occasionally an animal could be spotted from the gym overlooking the river bank. The spa, pool, and the plunge pool in our room were great too. Game drives were really fun, with knowledgeable trackers and guides. Monwana feels like home, and the staff like family. You can sense how much every staff member cares about the place. The food was delicious and the room design gorgeous. This property is something special, and I can’t wait to come back. Highly recommend.

We made memories we’ll cherish at Monwana. Elephants came to drink almost right in front of our doorstep, and our room was gorgeous. The guides were fantastic, the meals lovely, and all the staff were so friendly and welcoming. It was a real luxury bush experience.