5* Lush is located on the Black Rhino Game Reserve Bush Lodges
Lush Private Lodge
Lush is located on the Black Rhino Game
Reserve –a private concession area within the malaria-free
greater Pilanesberg National Park.
Lush is located on the Black Rhino Game Reserve – a private
concession within the malaria-free greater Pilanesberg National Park
(55 000ha/135 900ac). The park, encircled by the hills of a volcanic
ring-dyke complex and containing both Kalahari and Lowveld biomes, is a
wilderness Eden. Nearly all animal species endemic to Southern Africa
are to be found here.
The development of the park is considered one of the most ambitious
projects of its kind anywhere in the world. It began with Operation
Genesis in 1979, which game-fenced the area and reintroduced
long-vanished wildlife. Today, Pilanesberg is home to over 7 000
animals – including all of the Big Five, 25 other mammal
species, 350-plus kinds of birds, and innumerable reptile and insect
species.
As a guest of Lush, you are assured a private – and unique
– safari experience, with the rare opportunity to see the
black rhino. The lodge has traversing access to the whole of
Pilanesberg, including the Black Rhino Game Reserve and the
park’s limited-access Wilderness Area – established
for the protection and breeding of this critically endangered animal,
threatened by poaching.
Other successful park conservation initiatives are the Brown Hyena
Project and Cheetah Project. The brown hyena is classified near
threatened and is at risk due to the mistaken belief that they are
harmful to livestock. The cheetah is currently classified vulnerable
– though there is call for its reclassification as
endangered – and is under threat from poaching, habitat loss,
and human-wildlife conflict. Since the lodge’s opening in May
2018, the owners have continuously added new features and upgrades,
supported by a happy team that takes great care of the lodge. Apart
from smaller details, there have been impressive additions, and some
are still in the making:
Rates
inclusive of 15% VAT
• South African Rand • Subject to availability
1 Jan 2025 - 31 Dec 2026
Per Person Sharing Per
Night
Single Per Night
Standard Suites - Per
Person Per Night (sharing)
R7350
R10290
Deluxe Suites - Per
Person Per Night (sharing)
R9800
R13720
Superior Deluxe Suites -
Per Person Per Night (sharing)
R10700
R14980
Exclusive use (up to 16
pax)
R117 600
1 Jan 2027 - 31 Dec 2027
Per Person Sharing Per
Night
Single Per Night
Standard Suites - Per
Person Per Night (sharing)
R 8250
R11550
Deluxe Suites - Per
Person Per Night (sharing)
R11200
R15680
Superior Deluxe Suites -
Per Person Per Night (sharing)
R12000
R16800
Exclusive use (up to 16
pax)
R132000
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!
2026 South African Residents Special
Valid from 06 January –15 Dec 2026
(valid for bookings made 45 days or less, from arrival)
Suite (All Inclusive)
Deluxe Suites (All Inclusive)
Superior Deluxe Suite (All Inclusive)
R5 450 per person per night sharing
R 6 999 per person per night sharing
R7 850 per person per night sharing
R 6 540 per person per night single
R 8 399 per person per night single
R9 420 per person per night single
Exclusive use
Per night for up to 16 Guests
R87 200
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
RATE EXCLUSIONS
Gratuities;
Imported beers, wines, and spirits;
Lush Boutique purchases;
Black Rhino Game Reserve entrance fees of R205 p.p.p.d; (jan-jul 2026) & R220.00 p.p.p.d (Jul – Dec 2026);
Additional activities;
Wellness treatments
Transfers
TERMS & CONDITIONS.
Valid from 06 January – 15 Dec 2026.
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.
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.
2026
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. Bookings are subject to availability and we recommend booking your treatments in advance.
AFRIQUE GOLD MASSAGER900 (1 HOUR) |R1300 (1HOUR 30MIN) 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 R900 (1 HOUR) | R1300 (1HOUR 30MIN) This will increase your lymphatic drainage and stimulates the immune system with Aromatherapy and Acupressure combined, to massage the body.
SCENTS OF AFRICA MASSAGE (AROMATHERAPY) R1100 (1 HOUR) | RR1300 (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 R1100 / 1H30M R1500 FULL BODY This highly specialized massage is ideal for the relief of stiff aching muscles.
AFRICAN HEAD MASSAGE R650 (30MIN) R800 (1 HOUR) African version of the ancient art of head massage, the ultimate in relaxation.
REFLEXOLOGY R650 (30MIN) | R800 (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 R650 (30MIN) | R800 (1 HOUR) Revitalize tired feet with a relaxing foot massage. Leg Massage: Soothes aching legs and stimulates circulation.
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 rainfallis 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
Book 3 nights or more for your honeymoon, and get 50% off on your last night, plus a complimentary back, neck, and shoulder massage each for 30 minutes, in our spa.
Valid from 01 Jan – 31 Dec 2026.
For your honeymoon, we will also arrange to spoil you with a romantic private dinner on your deck (weather permitting), or in our beautiful wine cellar (subject to availability), as well as a romantic turndown during your stay.
*Spa treatments are subject to availability and must be booked in advance.
Safari Activities
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.
NEARBY & ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES
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.*
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.
Exclusions
Gratuities;
Imported beers, wines, and spirits;
Lush Boutique purchases;
The Conservation Levies R250 per person per night and R115 per child (5 - 9 years) per night
Black Rhino Game Reserve entrance fees of R195 per person (Once off)
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
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
PRIVATE DINING
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.
Suites
Suites · max 2 guests
Five Suites
Bush or mountain-facing
Private plunge pool
Outdoor shower
Slip behind timber doors into a cocoon made for easy safari living.
From the emperor-size bed you can watch dawn paint the sky, then pad
across the room to a freestanding bathtub for a relaxing soak with
premium botanical-infused bath products.
An indoor rain shower and a foliage-screened outdoor shower let you
choose how wild you want to feel, while a chic pause area keeps a Smeg
minibar and Nespresso coffee machine within arm’s reach.
Outside, your deck features a plunge-perfect splash pool, cushioned
loungers and a two-seater table, ideal for sunset G&Ts and
lantern-lit dinners.
Perfect
for
Couples who want classic safari luxury, a private dip pool and the
chance to shower, dine and recline Al fresco, surrounded by the African
bush.
Amenities
Emperor-sized bed,
convertible to ¾-bed set
Pause area with well-stocked
Smeg minibar
Nespresso coffee 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
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
Superior Deluxe Suite
Superior Deluxe Suite · max 2 guests
One of a kind
Expansive private outdoor
deck
Exclusive safari residence
Total seclusion
Unique décor and
a different look & feel
Our Superior Deluxe Suite delivers total seclusion and a design
language of its own. Tucked at the farthest edge of the lodge, it is
ringed by open bushveld for a unique wildlife experience.
Inside, ample space and bespoke African décor found nowhere
else on the property create a special blend of sophistication and
sense-of-place. Step past the emperor-bed draped in mosquito netting to
a lavish bathroom wing, mirrored in scale outdoors with a starlit tub
and double rainfall shower.
The expansive hardwood deck is the largest at Lush, featuring a heated
plunge pool and several seating areas with multiple loungers, daybeds,
and dining nooks. Add the stocked minibar, Nespresso coffee machine,
deluxe botanical body products and high-speed Wi-Fi shared with the
other suites, and you have a private safari residence perfect for
milestone celebrations, romantic getaways, or your honeymoon.
Perfect
for
Milestone celebrations, honeymoons and special occasion stays that call
for absolute exclusivity in the most private location, farthest from
the main lodge, with the possibility of closer, more intimate wildlife
encounters.
Amenities
Emperor-sized bed,
convertible to 3/4-bed set, with mosquito net
Expansive deck, with
multiple seating zones
Large upstairs viewing deck
Pause area with well-stocked
Smeg minibar and kettle
Nespresso coffee machine and
coffee pods
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
Double open-air shower
Deluxe botanical-infused
body products
Insect repellent
Heated splash pool
Airconditioning, personally
adjustable
Hairdryer
Personal safe
Bathrobes & slippers
Reusable water bottles
2 DELUXE SUITES
2 DELUXE SUITES · max 2 guests
Two Deluxe Suites
Panoramic viewing deck
Larger, heated splash pool
Dedicated lounge
Double outdoor shower
Private outdoor bathtub
Our Deluxe Suites are larger in size, affording more privacy and
elevated views from the upstairs viewing deck. Your Deluxe Suite
promises the next level of space, seclusion and scenery.
Enter through a private walkway to find a generous lounge anchored by a
plush sofa and work desk. A separate dressing room leads to your
spa-like bathroom, featuring a soaking tub indoors, a double rainfall
shower and Al fresco bath outdoors.
Up a short flight of stairs is an expansive rooftop viewing deck
offering uninterrupted vistas across the reserve. Back at ground level,
the private heated pool and spacious deck invite indulgent lazing
between game drives.
Perfect
for
Travellers who prize seclusion and space. Much larger and more spacious
than a Suite, our Deluxe Suites each have a dedicated lounge, work
area, rooftop deck, and a larger heated pool.
Amenities
Emperor-sized bed,
convertible to 3/4-bed set, with mosquito net
Pause area with well-stocked
Smeg minibar and kettle
Nespresso coffee machine and
coffee pods
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
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
WHAT MAKES OUR DELUXE SUITES DIFFERENT FROM OUR SUITES:
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.
