Lush Private Lodge
5* Luxury Game Lodge in the Black Rhino Game Reserve
Lush Private Lodge is the newest addition to the accommodation options provided by Black Rhino Game Reserve, a private concession within the world-renowned Pilanesberg National Park in the North West province.
Secluded amid an indigenous forest grove, this elite boutique Lodge stands out for its understated style and natural finishes which serve to emphasise the beauty of the surrounding wilderness and draw your focus to the magnificent views.
Lush offers guests a choice of five luxury suites – three of which are bush-facing and two mountain-facing suites – all designed to afford you maximum privacy and comfort.
Each exquisitely-appointed suite features an emperor-sized bed (which can be exchanged for twin ¾ beds), a full bathroom complete with an indulgent freestanding tub, an open-air shower, expansive wooden platform, and plunge pool.
Additional suite facilities include a refreshment station with Smeg bar fridge and Nespresso coffee machine – where you can prepare a cup of Lush’s Fair-Trade fresh coffee blend – and a range of deluxe body products.
Please note that Lush only caters to children aged 12 years and older unless in those instances where the Lodge is booked on a sole-use basis for a family or group getaway in which case guests of all ages are welcome.
Lush’s multi-level guest hub comprises a congenial bar area, dining room, and sunken sitting room. The open-plan interior leads onto a wraparound viewing deck where you can laze away the tranquil sunny afternoons in the inviting outdoor living area or tuck into the delicious cuisine in the social outdoor dining space. A traditional Boma is positioned a little distance from the main guest hub, the perfect venue for al fresco dinners alongside a central firepit and cosy barbeque evenings under starry night skies.
There is even a gift curio shop where you can hunt for a souvenir of your African adventures including the Lodge’s bespoke blend of Fair-Trade coffee whose taste and aroma are sure to prove a special reminder of your amazing breakaway.
Having exclusive traversing rights across 55 000 hectares of untamed bushveld, Lush assures guests an authentic and memorable safari experience with the chance to see the Big Five, the endangered African wild dog as well as a great diversity of other game species.
Activities include twice-daily game drives – with morning coffee and late afternoon sundowner stops along the way – and guided nature walks accompanied by certified field rangers. Or enjoy a fresh perspective on the Black Rhino and Pilanesberg Game Reserve’s resident bird- and wildlife by booking a hot-air balloon excursion.
Golf enthusiasts can escape to the nearby Sun City Resort Complex – which lies about a half-hour’s drive from the Lodge – for a round on Sun City’s championship Gary Player golf course or one of the Lost City’s courses. Alternatively, head to Sun City’s Valley of the Waves for a fun-filled family day.
With a sound reputation for warm African hospitality, flawless service, and superb setting, Lush Private Lodge is the ideal safari destination for the sophisticated traveller.
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:
- 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.
- Later this year, the Spa with 2 treatment rooms will open together with a fully equipped Gym.
- 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.
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Rates - Terms
- Specials
- The Lodge
- Activities
- Dining
- Getting Here
- Lodge Life
- Need To Know
- Spa
| 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 750 |
| Superior Deluxe Suites - Per Person Per Night (single) | R12 250 |
| Exclusive use (up to 16 pax) | R105 000 |
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.
Look at our Special Offers for SA Residents under our special offers section!
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;
- guided bush walks,
- 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.
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
| 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.
BOOK 3 NIGHTS & 1 PERSON STAYS
FREE ON THE 3RD NIGHT
- Applicable to our SADC Resident Special (bookable within/from 45 days to arrival)
- Not applicable to single occupancy bookings, sharing only
- Standard terms & conditions apply
- Cannot be combined with any other promotion
- Applicable to all suite types
- 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;
- 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
Lush is a contemporary lodge, shaped around the environment. Minimalistic décor andnatural finishes put the focus on the view, at once drawing guests to outdoor living spaces.
3 Bush-facing Suites and 2 Mountain-facing Suites, designed with privacy and every comfort in mind, each include: an emperor-sized bed (convertible to a 3/4-bed set); pause area (incl. Smeg minibar and Nespresso coffee machine); in-room freestanding bath; en- suite shower room with spacious walk-in shower; private dressing and vanity area; separate toilet; open-air shower; range of deluxe body products; expansive outdoor furnished deck; private splash pool; air-conditioning, and personal safe
1 Deluxe Suite, larger in size affording more privacy, and direct views into the wildlife area from the upstairs viewing deck. This suite offers the following: an emperor- sized bed (convertible to 3/4-bed set); pause area (incl. Smeg 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; range of deluxe body products; large heated splash pool; large upstairs viewing deck; air- conditioning, and personal safe
Our 3rd Deluxe Suite, which will be called a Superior Deluxe Suite, will be opening on 01 August 2023
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
Main guest area, run on traditional Italian hospitality, with: a bar; open-plan dining/ lounge area; outdoor lounge; and wrap-around viewing/dining deck
African boma, for social outdoor dinners, with: a barbeque; central firepit; and dining tables
Lush Boutique, with a range of select items – including the lodge’s blend of fair- trade coffee – for guests to take home something of their time here
Lush Wellness Treatments, destress and balance your body and mind, by experiencing deep relaxation with our organic Terres D’Afrique Products.
Please note: children 12 years and older are welcome; age restriction is revisable if the lodge is booked exclusively
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
Guided morning bush walks bring you closer to nature – offered by the lodge, on request
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
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
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
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.
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.
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.
Afrique Gold Massage.
R700 – 60min | R1100 – 90min
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 – 60min | R1100 – 90min
This will increase your lymphatic drainage and stimulates the immune system with Aromatherapy and Acupressure combined, to massage the body.
Boleta (aromatherapy) Massage.
R800 – 60min | R1200 – 90min (Full body)
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.
R900 – 60min | R1300 – 90min (Full body)
This highly specialized massage is ideal for the relief of stiff aching muscles.
African Head Massage.
R500 – 30min
African version of the ancient art of head massage, the ultimate in relaxation.
Reflexology.
R500 – 30min | R700 – 60min
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 – 60min
Revitalize tired feet with a relaxing foot massage. Includes a leg massage which soothes aching legs and stimulates circulation.
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
+27 14 004 0056 / 014 004 0056