Lush Private Lodge
5* Lush is located on the Black Rhino Game Reserve – a private concession area within the malaria-free greater Pilanesberg National Park.
Lush Private Lodge is the most recent addition to the
accommodation options offered by Black Rhino Game Reserve, a private
concession within the internationally acclaimed Pilanesberg National
Park in the North West province.
Tucked into a wooded hillside, this exclusive boutique Lodge stands out
for its minimalistic décor and organic finishes which serve
to ensure Lush blends seamlessly with the surrounding bushveld and draw
your attention to the spectacular views.
Lush gives visitors a choice of five deluxe suites –two of
which are mountain-facing and three bush-facing suites – all
constructed to provide you optimal seclusion and comfort.
Each beautifully-appointed suite boasts an emperor-sized bed (which can
be swapped for two ¾ beds), a full bathroom complete with an
opulent freestanding tub, an open-air shower, extensive timber deck,
and splash pool.
Extra suite amenities include a refreshment station with Smeg mini-bar
and Nespresso coffee machine – where you can brew up a cup of
Lush’s Fair-Trade coffee blend – plus a selection
of luxury body products.
Please note that children aged 11 years and younger are not permitted
except in those cases where the Lodge is booked on a sole-use basis for
a family or group breakaway in which instance visitors of all ages are
welcome.
Lush’s multi-level visitor hub consists of a congenial bar
area, dining space, and sunken lounge. The open-plan interior leads
onto a wraparound viewing platform where you can take in the wonderful
sights and sounds of your immediate environment from the inviting
outdoor sitting area or tuck into the mouth-watering fare in the
designated outdoor dining area. A traditional Boma is set a short
distance from the central visitor hub and serves as the venue for
firelit dinners under star-filled night skies and social barbeques.
There is also a curio shop where you can find a memento of your African
trip including the Lodge’s unique blend of Fair-Trade coffee,
the aroma, and taste of which is sure to remind you of your incredible
getaway.
Having access rights to 55 000 hectares of pristine wilderness, Lush
guarantees visitors a genuinely unforgettable safari foray with the
opportunity to encounter the Big Five, the endangered African wild dog
as well as a great variety of bird- and wildlife species.
Activities include twice-daily game drives – with sunrise
coffee, and early evening sundowner stops along the way – and
guided nature trails accompanied by qualified field rangers.
Alternatively, get a bird’s eye view on the Black Rhino and
Pilanesberg Game Reserve’s resident game by booking a hot-air
balloon excursion.
Keen golfers can head to the nearby Sun City Resort Complex –
which is approximately a half-hour’s drive from the Lodge
– for a round on Sun City’s world-class Gary Player
golf course or one of the Lost City’s courses. Or escape to
Sun City’s Valley of the Waves for a day of family-oriented
thrills and spills.
Renowned for its authentic African ambience, impeccable service, and
unrivalled setting, Lush Private Lodge is the perfect safari
destination for the discerning traveller.
- The team has proudly welcomed guests for dinners under the stars in an exquisite Boma since 2019.
- 2021 saw the opening of the Wine Cellar, which features an
intimate indoor dining venue (great on winter evenings). Outdoor
seating on different levels provides privacy and showcases the
impressive Pilanesberg scenery.
- DELUXE SUITES
In January 2022, an additional Deluxe Suite was launched. Larger in size, more private, and exclusive, guests now have their own personal experience of Africa – best enjoyed from a viewing lounge upstairs, the deck, the heated plunge pool, or the bedroom. - LUSH WELLNESS
TREATMENTS
Launching 1 September 2022, you will have the opportunity to destress and balance your body and mind, by experiencing deep relaxation with our new Lush wellness treatments using organic Terres D’Afrique Products. - --The gym: Besides the high-end equipment, full bathroom facilities and changing rooms, the new gym offers a gorgeous view, turning any workout into a pleasure. The use of the gym will obviously be free of charge to guests.
- --We expect that the two spacious treatments rooms will be a game changer for Lush. A spa menu and product range will be made available closer to the opening date, later this year.
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Rates
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Activities
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Getting Here
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Dining
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The Lodge
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Accommodation
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Terms
-
Lush Welness
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Climate
| Rates inclusive of 15% VAT • South African Rand • Subject to availability | |
| Details | 1 Jan 2024 - 31 Dec 2024 |
| Standard Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R6 600 |
| Standard Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R9 240 |
| Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R8 500 |
| Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R11 900 |
| Superior Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R8 950 |
| Superior Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R12 530 |
| Exclusive use (up to 16 pax) | R105 000 |
| Details | 1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2025 |
| Standard Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R7 350 |
| Standard Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R10 290 |
| Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R9 800 |
| Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R13 720 |
| Superior Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (sharing) | R10 700 |
| Superior Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R14 980 |
| Exclusive use (up to 16 pax) | R117 600 |
Child rate:
- Lush accommodates children from the age of 10 years old.
- Children aged 10 & 11 years old are charged 70% of the applicable rate.
- From 12 years, standard rates apply.
- *One child (10 – 16 years old) can be accommodated with 2 adults maximum in any suite.
- Please note children sharing with parents is subject to our occupancy;
* 2 nights minimum stay applies on Fridays and Saturdays.
Look at our Special Offers for SA Residents under our special offers section!
TWICE-DAILY GAME DRIVES
Every day, our skilled and passionate rangers will take you on an adventure & lesson in nature, into the untouched wilderness of the Pilanesberg National Park & Black Rhino Game Reserve, with twice daily game drives. Marvel at the big 5 & take in the stunning scenery, while enjoying a morning coffee, or an afternoon sundowner during your rest stop.
GUIDED BUSH WALKS
Our guided bush walks are an inclusive activity (no additional cost), however, when the bush walk will take place and the duration of the walk, is subject to our rangers’ availability, as well as some other operational logistics around the daily schedule at the lodge, and our occupancy. Kindly let your Lush
reservations consultant know if you are interested in participating in a bush walk, so we can note the request on your booking.
BUSH WALKS RULES & TIPS
- Age restriction: from 16 years to 60 years old;
- Guests over 60 years old, as well as ladies who are pregnant, need to provide a letter from their doctor, confirming they are fit to partake in the activity;
- Any cardiovascular or other medical concerns must be disclosed to the guide at the time of booking;
- Guests with serious allergies to insects or plants should carry the appropriate medication and emergency treatments;
- Please note that walks take place on uneven terrain and there are some inclines and declines; guests should be moderately fit, and be able to walk in uneven terrain unassisted;
- Walks are generally 3 – 5 km, at a mostly leisurely pace;
- Wear light, comfortable, and neutral coloured clothing for your bush walk, and remember to wear a hat and sunscreen.
Pilanesberg hot-air balloon safaris; golf at Sun City’s championship Gary Player and Lost City golf courses; quad biking; cultural tours; archery; and much more.
*Kindly note that the above activities can be booked directly with the suppliers and will be at guests’ own arrangement. Please ask your Lush reservations consultant for more information, contact details, and how to book.
A TYPICAL DAY AT LUSH
Please note these times are flexible, and may vary depending on operational and guest requirements, however, the outline below will give you an idea of what to expect during your stay:
| SPRING & SUMMER | AUTUMN & WINTER | ||
| 05h00 | Wake-up Call | 05h45 | Wake-up call |
| 05h30 | Tea/Coffee | 06h15 | Tea/Coffee |
| 05h45 | Morning Game Drive (+_ 3 hours) | 06h30 | Morning Game Drive (+_ 3 hours) |
| 09h00 | Continental buffet and cooked break- fast is served at the Lodge |
09h30 | Continental buffet and cooked break- fast is served at the Lodge |
| At Leisure | At Leisure | ||
| 13h00 | Light lunch is served | 13h00 | Light lunch is served |
| 16h00 | Afternoon tea is served | 15h30 | Afternoon tea is served |
| 16h30 | Afternoon game drive (≤3 hours) | 16h00 | Afternoon game drive (≤3 hours) |
| 20h00 | Dinner is served at the lodge, in the dining room, on the deck, out in the boma, or in the wine cellar. |
19h30 | Dinner is served at the lodge, in the dining room, on the deck, out in the boma, or in the wine cellar. |
ARRIVAL & DEPARTURE TIMES
Please note our check-in time is strictly 14h00 pm and check-out time is at 11h00 am. Any earlier or later requests are only allowed upon approval.
Guests are welcome to arrive from 13h00 pm for a light lunch and check in is at 14h00 pm.*
DISTANCES FROM
THE LODGE
Nearest major cities:
- Pretoria – 185km/115mi.
- Johannesburg – 200km/125mi.
Nearest airports:
- Pilanesberg International Airport – 40km/25mi.
- Lanseria International Airport – 165km/103mi.
- O.R. Tambo International Airport – 230km/143mi.
ESCAPISM AWAITS
BY ROAD
Only 2,5 – 3 hours’ drive from Johannesburg, guests
have the option to either self-drive, or take a road transfer to Lush.
Directions to
Lush By Road for self-driving:
- From Johannesburg, take the R512 past Hartbeespoort Dam and exit onto the N4 towards Rustenburg
- Travel along the N4, then take the R556 (Sun City/Pilanesberg National Park) exit
- Turn right at the stop onto the R556, and continue on towards Sun City
- Pass the Sun City gate and then Sun Village Shopping Centre (both on the right)
- At the four-way stop, turn right onto the R565 Derdepoort road
- Continue on for approx. 27km – the entrance to Black Rhino Game Reserve is on the right
- Friendly gate staff will direct guests on to Lush
ROAD TRANSFERS
Road transfers to and from the lodge can be booked
directly with our preferred suppliers. Please enquire with your Lush
reservations consultant for assistance and a quotation for your
required road transfers.
BY AIR
Currently, the Pilanesberg Airport is unfortunately not
operational for commercial flights, however, chartered flights are
still possible, and can be arranged through referral by our
reservations team.
Guests would then need to take a short 45-minute road transfer from the
airport to the lodge. Please enquire with your Lush reservations
consultant for more information and further assistance.
The best way to travel to Lush by air, would be by helicopter.
Guests will land in a dedicated landing area, which is just
10-minutes’ drive from the lodge, in the Black Rhino
Headquarters, and will be collected by the team from the landing area.
Should you wish to travel to Lush by helicopter, please ask your Lush
reservations consultant to assist you with a quotation, and further
details.
WITH A SPRINKLE OF ITALIAN FLAIR
Dining is an essential part of the Lush experience. Days here are punctuated by culinary delights – as anticipated as the activities. All menus celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients in freshly prepared dishes. The Lupini family ethos of cooking now for now ensures consistent quality and satisfaction. Dining options range from light and healthy to downright indulgent, but special dietary requirements – including vegetarian and gluten-free – are catered for on request. Private dining can also be arranged.
- Breakfast – continental buffet and cooked meals to order
- Lunch – lighter meals that do not skimp on flavour
- Afternoon tea – spreads of sweet and savoury treats
- Dinner – chef’s signature tables and fireside barbecues
During your stay it is also possible to dine privately on your deck, as well as some other special and private locations around the lodge. Whether you are celebrating a birthday, an achievement or milestone, an anniversary, your honeymoon, or you are planning to propose to your special person;
we can help you plan the perfect celebration dinner & setup during your stay.
For romantic occasions, we can arrange to spoil you with a romantic private dinner on your deck (weather permitting), or in our beautiful wine cellar, as well as a romantic turndown in your suite with candles, a bubble bath, and complimentary bottle of sparkling wine (on request), during your stay.
Guests celebrating their birthday at Lush, will receive a complimentary birthday cake with candles, and a special birthday serenade from our amazing staff.
For wine enthusiasts, we can arrange private wine tastings during your stay with our sommelier (subject to availability).
Please make sure to let our reservations team know of your special occasion & requests, so we can make it extra special for you.
Throughout the lodge guests will find intimate areas which they can retreat to in between game activities. Spend time playing board games on the couches, sip coffee in the bar lounge, do some stargazing from the main deck, or enjoy a delicious meal, while immersed in the sights and sounds of the surrounding bush. Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the lodge.
FACILITIES AVAILABLE FOR YOUR ENJOYMENT:
- Bar & coffee lounge serving specialty coffees and a selection of local and international wines, beers, and spirits.
- Open-plan dining and lounge area warmed by two fireplaces in the cooler months.
- Breakfast bar where guests can help themselves to beverages and buffet choices during breakfast.
- Viewing and dining deck with tables set out for mealtimes, coffee breaks, and sundowners.
- Boma for authentic and truly South African social outdoor dinners, with a barbeque (braai), central firepit, and dining tables.
- Italian wine cellar for intimate dinners in a unique setting, with Italian-influenced cuisine and private tables for dining.
- Lush Boutique Curio Shop offering a bespoke selection of gifts, trinkets, souvenirs, products and accessories which make wonderful gifts and keepsakes.
Bush-facing or mountain-facing luxury suites
Designed with privacy and every comfort in mind, with stunning views of the bush and mountain, each Suite offers the following amenities for your comfort;
- Emperor-sized bed, convertible to 3⁄4-bed set
- Pause area with well-stocked Smeg minibar, Nespresso machine and coffee pods
- In-room, free-standing bath with a view
- Separate toilet
- Walk-in rain shower
- Deluxe botanical-infused body products
- Open-air outdoor shower made private by curved walls and bushveld foliage
- Bathrobes & Slippers
- Hairdryer
- Personal safe
- Air-conditioning, personally adjustable
- Private splash pool and deck, with cushioned loungers and two-seater table
- Reusable water bottles
- Insect repellent
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
Larger in size and affording more privacy & direct views into the wildlife area from the upstairs viewing deck. Our Deluxe Suites offer the following amenities;
- Emperor-sized bed (convertible to 3/4-bed set) with mosquito net
- Pause area (incl. Smeg kettle, minibar and Nespresso coffee machine)
- Private lounge
- Dedicated work/desk area
- Separate in-room freestanding bath
- En-suite shower room with spacious walk-in shower
- Private dressing and vanity area & separate toilet
- Outside bath and double open-air shower
- Deluxe botanical-infused body products
- Insect repellent
- Heated splash pool
- Large upstairs viewing deck
- Airconditioning, personally adjustable
- Hairdryer
- Personal safe
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Reusable water bottles
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Deluxe interior and exterior spaces and sizes, a dedicated lounge space and a working desk area;
- With closer, more distinct views of the mountains and the open bush (there is no fence line so there is a greater possibility of seeing wildlife);
- Larger outside decking area spaces complemented with a larger heated pool;
- Double outside shower and a private outside bath;
- A private entrance and a private upstairs viewing area with panoramic views of reserve;
- Ultimately more privacy and better positioned in the lodge.
Our most luxurious Deluxe Suite, the Superior Deluxe Suite offers complete privacy from the main lodge and guest areas and has a different look and feel to any of our other suites. Amenities are the same as in our Deluxe Suites, with a few added extras.
WHAT MAKES OUR SUPERIOR DELUXE SUITE UNIQUE:
- Offers complete privacy and exclusivity being furthest away from the main lodge and guest areas;
- The outdoor private deck is the largest deck of all our suites. This space also offers a number of different guest experience and seating areas;
- The possibility of intimate and unique wildlife experiences (no deck railings or fences);
- Superior and luxurious interior and exterior spaces, complemented by beautifully curated décor and furniture, create a thoughtful balance of luxury and African feel, different to any of our other suites;
- Our Superior Deluxe Suite will afford guests the ability to really make their stay exclusive, and lends itself perfectly to special occasions, and romantic secluded getaways.
Arrival
& Departure Times
Check-in: 14h00 | Check-out:
11h00
*Deviation to these times by special arrangement only
VIEW OUR RATES HERE
Lush offers all-inclusive rates, with the following inclusions and
exclusions.
Child rate:
- Lush accommodates children from the age of 10 years old.
- Children aged 10 & 11 years old are charged 70% of the applicable rate.
- From 12 years, standard rates apply.
Inclusions
- Luxury accommodation;
- all meals; all teas/coffees and soft drinks;
- selected local beers, wines, and spirits;
- in-room minibar;
- 2 game drives per day, with drinks and snacks;
- Guided bush walks (subject to ranger availability);
- Wi-Fi access;
- Gym;
- Limited laundry service;
- 15% VAT.
- Gratuities;
- Imported beers, wines, and spirits;
- Lush Boutique purchases;
- Black Rhino Game Reserve entrance fees of R150.00 p.p.p.d;
- 2025 Conservation / Gate Fee will be increasing from 01 January, to R170.00 per person per day.
- Additional activities;
- Wellness treatments;
- Road transfers.
- *Guests may settle payment for the entrance/conservation fees, and any additional items upon checkout with their final bill.
- *One child (10 – 16 years old) can be accommodated with 2 adults maximum in any suite.
- Please note children sharing with parents is subject to our occupancy; please contact reservations to check availability.
Payments & Cancellations
Deposit Policy
For all bookings made
within 30 days of travel
Full payment Is required within 48 hours of your booking.
For all bookings made
more than 30 days of travel
A 50% deposit Is required within 48 hours of your booking and the
balance 30 days prior to arrival.
Payment can be made via bank transfer, credit card (Master/Visa) or
bitcoin.
Cancellation Terms
- Lush Private Lodge reserves the right to cancel any reservation based on the non-payment of either the deposit or the balance of payment, without notice. Such cancellation may attract cancellation fees as set out hereunder.
- In the event of a reservation being cancelled by or on behalf of the traveller in writing after Lush Private Lodge has issued confirmation, the following cancellations fees will apply:
- Cancellations made with more than 60 days to travel forfeit the 20% deposit
- Cancellations made with 60 days or less to travel forfeit the full payment
- No refunds are made for missed services, except in verifiable extenuating circumstances. Verifiable claims will only be considered if received in writing within thirty (30) days of the service being missed, and any refunds made will be at the discretion of Lush Private Lodge. Compassionate circumstances will be taken into account for cancellations due to uninsurable events.
Travel Insurance:
It is the responsibility of each visitor to Lush Private Lodge to
ensure that adequate and comprehensive travel insurance is in place
from the time of confirmation of a booking at Lush Private Lodge and
that details of such insurance are available during the time of travel.
Such travel insurance must cover the visitor against all risks
including but not limited to costs of cancellation and curtailment,
damage, delay, evacuation, medical treatment, hospitalization, illness,
inconvenience, injury, loss, repatriation and theft. Lush Private Lodge
cannot accept any liability for any of these events under any
circumstances.
- Our spa is now open - you will have the opportunity to destress and balance your body and mind, by experiencing deep relaxation with our new Lush wellness treatments using organic Terres D’Afrique Products
- We now also have a gym with fitness equipment available for guests to use during their stay
LUSH WELLNESS - SPA & GYM
Our on-site gym and spa provide the perfect balance to offset all the indulgence and excitement of your safari activities, with some much-needed relaxation and rejuvenation.
Destress and balance your body and mind, by experiencing deep relaxation with our Lush wellness treatments, done by our friendly and qualified spa therapists, using organic Terres D’Afrique Products. We recommend prebooking your treatments before your arrival, to avoid disappointment.
Bookings can be made with our reservations team.
Our guest gym is well equipped to provide a refreshing and revitalizing workout experience during your stay at Lush.
Please inform your Therapist of any medical conditions, muscular pain, joint injuries or allergies prior to your treatment.
YOUR HEALTH
& WELLNESS IS ALL THAT MATTERS.
We are committed in restoring and balancing your body through our
wellness treatments, which are created to nurture and relax you.
Lush wellness offers you the perfect combination of nature, ancient
wisdom and modern expertise plus a dash of luxury in the bush.
SPA ETIQUETTE.
We request that you please be ready 10 minutes before your
treatment time. Kindly wear your robe prior to your treatment.
Spa treatment prices are subject to change without any prior notice
This gentle yet tension releasing massage using TDA’s specially formulated blends of your choice. Promotes an amazing balance on tired muscles
TRI-TOUCH MASSAGE R700 (1 HOUR) | R1100 (1HOUR 30MIN)
This will increase your lymphatic drainage and stimulates the immune system with Aromatherapy and Acupressure combined, to massage the body.
BOLETA (AROMATHERAPY) MASSAGE R800 (1 HOUR) | R1200 (1HOUR 30MIN)
This massage technique aids in de-stressing the body and mind and balances energy to create deep relaxation. We use holistic organic plant oils to envelop the senses.
DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE 1H R900 / 1H30M R1300
This highly specialized massage is ideal for the relief of stiff aching muscles.
DETOXING PINDA MASSAGE R900 (1 HOUR) | R1300 (1HOUR 30MIN)
A detoxing massage using TDA detoxing oil (buchu, black & pink pepper) and heated botanical pindas made of baobab seeds and indigenous botanicals. The combination of heat, deep & micro pressure and lymphatic drainage movements, increases blood flow and drains lymph to the lymph nodes, helping eliminate toxins.
AFRICAN HEAD MASSAGE R500 (30MIN)
African version of the ancient art of head massage, the ultimate in relaxation.
REFLEXOLOGY R500 (30MIN) | R700 (1 HOUR)
Balance the body’s systems and release tension through pressure points on the feet this incorporates our special Reflexology Wooden stick.
FOOT MASSAGE R500 (30MIN) | R700 (1 HOUR)
Revitalize tired feet with a relaxing foot massage. Leg Massage: Soothes aching legs and stimulates circulation.
RADIANCE FACIAL
- DETOXING R900 (1 HOUR)
A refreshing and detoxifying combination of mineral mask, lymphatic
drainage techniques and indigenous African botanicals help eliminate
toxins and leave skin glowing with health and vitality
SUN KISSED
FACIAL - HYDRATING R900 (1 HOUR)
While not a substitute for proper pre-sun protection, successful
aftercare with photo-protective botanicals helps to offset the negative
effect of the sun’s UV radiation by reducing Inflammation,
protecting cells DNA & reducing the negative effects of
oxidative stress.
ETERNAL CRYSTAL
LIGHT FACIAL – ANTI AGEING R900 (1 HOUR)
Illuminate your face and rediscover the light that shines within with
this age-defying facial: a combination of icy cold jasper crystal
wands, warm spice pindas, and potent active ingredients that reduce
fine lines by literally ‘straightening’ the damaged
collagen, while omegas help restructure and regenerate skin cells.
SENSORY FULL
BODY SCRUB R700 (1 HOUR)
Expand your sensory experience by adding this to your treatment
SENSORY CRYSTAL MASSAGE
R900 (1 HOUR)
This treatment can only be done as a single treatment An invigorating
and immune-boosting treat featuring a constant alternation of hot and
cold crystal balls to revitalize body, senses and immune
system.
31°C/88°F, and in mid winter (July) from a low of 4°C/39°F to a high of 21°C/70°F.
Average annual rainfall is 622mm/24in, and mostly occurs in the form of afternoon
thundershowers during the period December to March.
WHAT TO PACK FOR YOUR STAY
- Hats or caps
- Sunscreen (lotion or spray)
- Sunglasses and/or clear glasses for evening drives
- Comfortable, closed walking shoes / trainers
- Swimming costumes
- Shorts and sandals for around the lodge
- Neutral-shade, light clothing
- Weather-proof jackets (in case of cooler or rainy days)
- Light jackets for early mornings and late afternoons on game drives
- Binoculars
- Camera
- International power adaptor (buy at the airport, type M)
