About Serondella
INCLUDES DRINKS! An old favourite in Thornybush has been transformed with stunningly contemporary new rooms exhibiting a stylish Afro-Scandi modernism. Serondella is also unusual in catering to kids of all ages, including having 2 Family Suites!
Serondella – meaning “Place of the Elephants” in the Tsonga language - is an old favourite amongst the lodges in the Thornybush reserve. Now though it has been completely reimagined, with the lodge taking advantage of the COVID lockdowns to do a major renovation and modernisation! The makeover has brought Serondella bang-up-to-date with stunningly contemporary rooms that have elevated it effortlessly back into the 5-star bracket!
Serondella re-opened in 2021 boasting a contemporary Afro-Scandi look and feel that really elevates the lodge compared to the "old" Serondella! One of the things that makes Serondella quite different to the majority of upmarket game lodges is the strong emphasis on family safaris, with kids of all ages being welcomed here. Serondella’s original offering consisted of two one-bedroom suites and a two-bedroom family suite, each of which has undergone a wonderful makeover. A new addition is “Willem’s Den”. This three-bedroom family suite was previously the owner’s private retreat. After a complete transformation, it is now available to guests and features a private boma and heated plunge pool.
Just to expanding on the subject of how Serondella accommodates kids: children under 12 must share with adults in the Family Suites with up to 5 year olds staying free whilst 6 – 11 year olds are charged half the adult rate, provided there are at least 2 children (if only 1 child aged 6-11 years shares with two adults in a family suite, the adult sharing rate will then apply) When it comes to game drives, for families with children under the age of 6, a private vehicle can be arranged at an additional cost so the littlies can also enjoy going out on drive! A special children’s program is also available for younger guests at certain times of the day to keep them occupied, whilst babysitting services are available in the evenings over dinner time so mom and dad can enjoy a romantic dining experience in peace!
As you would expect, the game viewing at Serondella is top-notch – located in a private concession in the north-east sector of the renowned Thornybush Reserve, and overlooking an active waterhole, the lodge’s position is simply perfect for an unforgettable safari experience! The lodge lies nestled in a riverine forest on the banks of the ephemeral Monwana river, with stunning Feverberries, Appleleaves and Boerbeans making up an attractive background. The view over the lodge waterhole often throws up superb sightings of the animals that gave Serondella its name – elephants! Since the fences between Thornybush and Kruger were dropped back in 2017, the animals’ natural migration paths have been restored and game viewing even further enhanced, with a big influx of ellies not to mention huge herds of African buffalo that now move through the reserve at times!
The air-conditioned suites are welcoming retreats with private decks and luxury, high quality amenities. Indoor and outdoor showers feature prominently but a highlight has to be the private heated plunge pools! (the 2 Family Suites also boast their own private lounge areas and extra bedrooms). The contemporary Afro-Scandi décor is carried out throughout the lodge, complemented by unique Anton Smit art. A heated infinity swimming pool overlooking the lodge's waterhole is the focal point of the main public areas. And if lazing around the pool doesn't appeal then there's a fully equipped gym for those guests determined to keep in shape, whilst there's also a lovely bush Spa (with a gorgeous romantic bush bath) offering a range of pampering treatments and massages for those who just feel like being spoiled rotten! The lodge has also commenced an exciting culinary journey, starting with a commitment to using organic and locally sourced produce for artisanal dishes, and a wine list created under the guidance of sommelier extraordinaire Carrie Adams and David van Niekerk of High Constantia.
But a lodge is nothing without its people, and Serondella is proud of its revitalized team. Expect to be dazzled by a bright smile and a warm heart from each of its members, from the experienced guides and trackers to the fastidious housekeepers, passionate chefs and professional hosts.
