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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Specials
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Activities
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Getting Here
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Dining
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Lodge Life
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Accommodation
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Terms
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Need to Know
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Lush Welness
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Climate
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A Day at Lush
| 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!
Valid from 01 April – 15 December 2024.
| Suite | Deluxe Suites | Superior Deluxe Suite |
| R 4 900 per person per night sharing | R 6 500 per person per night sharing | R6 990 per person per night sharing |
| R 5 880 per person per night single | R 7 800 per person per night single | R8 388 per person per night single |
| Exclusive
use Per night for up to 16 Guests |
R78 400 | |
RATE 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 with refreshments (subject to availability of a ranger);
- Wi-Fi access;
- Gym
- 15% VAT
- Gratuities;
- Imported beers, wines, and spirits;
- Lush Boutique purchases;
- Black Rhino Game Reserve entrance fees of R150.00 p.p.p.d;
- Additional activities;
- Wellness treatments
- Transfers
- Valid from 01 April – 15 December 2024.
- Bookable from/within 45 days to arrival.
- Valid for SADC Residents only.
- A minimum 2-night stay applies over weekends, public holidays, and long weekends on the special rate.
- Kindly note that availability is not guaranteed, should guests wish to wait to book the special rate.
- Should guests wish to book more than 45 days in advance
- Full payment required upon confirmation.
INTO THE WILD
I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy. – Ernest Hemingway
Lush guarantees you authentic safari adventures to write home about. Exclusive traversing in Black Rhino Reserve and the Pilanesberg’s Wilderness Area offers the opportunity to explore an untouched environment. Access also to the public section of the park increases your chances of encountering a large variety of wildlife.
Game drives, with scenic stops for refreshments – offered by the lodge, on the traditional twice-daily basis
Bush walks are now included at no additional cost (subject to ranger availability and other logistics)
Hot-air balloon flights* give you a different perspective on the herds – booked with a trusted tour operator, on request
Golf* at the nearby championship Gary Player and Lost City golf courses, set in parkland and bushveld, respectively – transfers by arrangement
*At an additional cost; please enquire upon making your Lush reservation
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.
BY ROAD
Self-drive directions:
- From Johannesburg, take the R512 past Hartbeespoort Dam and exit onto the N4 towards Rustenburg
- From Pretoria, take the N1 north 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
BY AIR
SA Express airline
locally services Pilanesberg International Airport. The airline offers
twice-weekly flights (Mondays and Fridays) connecting
Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport and Cape Town
International Airport with Pilanesberg. An airport car rental service
is available, and lodge transfers can also be arranged.
Airlink
https://www.flyairlink.com/en-za/flights-to-johannesburg
Transfers
We will be happy to arrange transfers directly to and from the lodge – contact reservations for more information.
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
Lush is a contemporary lodge, shaped around the environment. In fact, it is a shepherd’s tree – sheltered from the wind and warmed by the morning sun, between hill and plain – that marked the position of the main lodge. Its minimalistic décor and natural finishes put the focus on the view, which at once draws you outside. With this in mind, multi-level interior-flowing-to-exterior spaces are designed for outdoor living. Spend time between safari activities reading or playing board games on the couches, sipping coffee in the bar lounge – a favourite spot to rendezvous at any time of day – or stargazing from the deck.
Facilities:
- Bar lounge serving the lodge’s own brand of specialty coffee, 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 for guests to help themselves to beverages and buffet choices
- Viewing/dining deck with tables set out for meal times, coffee breaks, and sundowners
- Boma for social outdoor dinners, with a barbeque, central firepit, and dining tables
- Lush Boutique offering a range of select items for guests to take home something of their time here
- Complimentary Wi-Fi with access throughout the lodge
Our wellness facility will open as soon as we can resume operations. The professional spa will offer single and couple treatments and is complemented by a fully equipped gym and a quiet studio for yoga, pilates and meditation.
The dining experience at Lush has become a signature feature. Building a wine cellar at Lush was the natural progression and it is ready to receive its first visitors to enjoy a glass of excellent South African wine. The informal atmosphere provides a relaxed setting for a candle lit dinner for two or a family meal. The roof’s stargazing deck doubles up as a romantic dinner venue.
Choose from three Bush-Facing and two Mountain-Facing Suites – distinguished only by their views. Covered walkways lead to each, interspersed between the trees and with their own private entrances. Wilderness-inspired interiors, innovative use of space, and extended fold-back glass doors mean you feel immersed in nature even when in your suite. Their décor gives a nod to the Lupini’s Italian heritage, though much of the furnishing is local, supporting South African artisans. Designed with every comfort in mind, your Suite is not simply a base from which to explore the surrounds, but a living space.
Amenities:
- Emperor-sized bed, convertible to ¾-bed set, with down duvet and pillows
- Pause area with well-stocked Smeg minibar, and Nespresso machine and coffee pods
- In-room, free-standing bath with a view
- Walk-in rain shower with botanical-infused body products
- Open-air shower made private by curved walls and bushveld foliage
- Bathrobes of terry cotton and full-length
- Hairdryer with two speed and three temperature settings
- Air-conditioning, personally adjustable
- Private splash pool and deck, with cushioned loungers and two-seater table
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.
Arrival&Departure
Times
Check-in: 14h00 | Check-out:
11h00
*Deviation to these times by special arrangement only
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 beers, selected wines and spirits;
- in-room minibar;
- limited laundry;
- gym
- two safari activities per day, with refreshments and snacks;
- Wi-Fi access;
- 15% VAT
Exclusions
- Gratuities;
- premium beers, wines and spirits;
- Lush Boutique purchases;
- additional activities;
- at an additional cost and subject to availability of a guide;
- Black Rhino Reserve fees of R150 per person per day (subject to change without prior notice);
- transfers;
- spa treatments
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.
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
ENSURING YOUR COMFORT
WEATHER
Average temperatures in mid summer (January) range from a low of 19°C/66°F to a high of 31°C/88°F, and in midwinter (July) from a low of 4°C/39°F to a high of 21°C/70°F.
Average annual rainfall is 622mm/24in, and usually occurs in the form of afternoon thundershowers during the period from December to March.
WHAT TO WEAR AND PACK
Comfort is the order of the day, though you may wish to dress more elegantly for dinner i.e. sport shirts and slacks for men, dresses or blouses and pants for women. For game drives and bush walks, wearing neutral-coloured, natural fibre clothing is recommended, and we suggest packing the following items to ensure you are all set for your safari experience:
- Sturdy walking shoes
- Warm pullover and windproof jacket (evenings and the winter months can be chilly)
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm
- Insect repellent (provided by the lodge, though you may wish to bring along your preferred brand)
- Camera, video camera, spare memory cards, and charging equipment
- Binoculars
- Waterproof bag for personal items
A DAY AT LUSH…
…happens in your own time. But the outline below gives guests an idea of what to expect
| 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 breakfast is served back at the lodge | 09h30 – Continental buffet and cooked breakfast is served back 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 back at the lodge, in the dining room/on the deck/out in the boma | 19h30 – Dinner is served back at the lodge, in the dining room/on the deck/out in the boma |
LUSH WELLNESS.
Luxury in the Bush is offering you the greatest opportunity to destress
and balance your body and mind, by experiencing deep relaxation with
our Lush wellness treatments using organic Terres D’Afrique
Products.
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.
| 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 breakfast is served back at the lodge | 09h30 – Continental buffet and cooked breakfast is served back 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 back at the lodge, in the dining room/on the deck/out in the boma | 19h30 – Dinner is served back at the lodge, in the dining room/on the deck/out in the boma |
