Tucked away in the heart of the Thornybush Game Reserve lie Farmstead and Waterside at Royal Malewane, offering a unique safari experience that is both intimate and indulgent. And from the moment we arrived, it was clear that this wasn’t just another safari lodge…

The interiors are striking in true Liz Bizen style, with unusual pops of colour that stand out beautifully against the bush surroundings. It’s an unexpected contrast but it just works! Proof that a safari aesthetic doesn’t have to be all neutral tones and wood. Every space feels considered, from the elegant suites to the open-plan living areas, all designed to embrace the surrounding wilderness.

Most meals are enjoyed al fresco and tapas-style, whether overlooking the watering hole as wildlife wanders by or beneath a sky filled with stars. One particularly special evening was when the staff came together for a traditional Shangaan performance - an incredible display of singing and dancing that felt full of life and energy. Guests are encouraged to join in, and while my own participation may have been awkward at best, it was met with such warmth and enthusiasm that I couldn’t help but embrace the moment.

Mornings started with a 5:00am wake up call and an early morning game drive, during which the reserve delivered in the most spectacular way. There were elephants everywhere - entire herds, mothers with their calves, all moving gracefully through the bush. Having access to the full 14,000 hectares of Thornybush meant no two drives were ever the same, each one offering a new perspective of this vast, untamed landscape. One of the most relaxing moments of the trip was an in-room massage, the ultimate indulgence after an early morning out in the wild and an experience not to be missed. Listening to the birds as skilled hands worked away any lingering tension was pure bliss. But beyond the beauty, the wildlife, and the luxurious touches, what truly made this stay special was the staff. Every interaction was warm and kind, and their passion for this place was evident in every detail.

Both Farmstead and Waterside at Royal Malewane really are more than just a safari destination. It’s an experience that stays in your soul long after you’ve left. The combination of thoughtful design, incredible wildlife encounters, and genuine hospitality makes it a place I’d return to in a heartbeat.