The Star

Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers an elegant bush escape

Staff Reporter|Published

For a truly memorable experience, guests may opt for a traditional boma dinner under the stars or a romantic bush dinner (available at an additional cost and subject to minimum and maximum guest numbers).

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Set within an ancient volcanic amphitheatre in the north-eastern reaches of Pilanesberg National Park, Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers an elegant bush escape where luxury meets the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Riverine woodlands, open plains and dramatic landscapes form the backdrop to an unforgettable safari experience.

The lodge’s central hub features a tranquil swimming pool, stylish bar, elegant dining room, traditional boma, conference facilities, reception and a thoughtfully curated curio shop—creating a welcoming space to relax between adventures.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers 69 spacious, 5-star suites in a malaria-free Big Five reserve, all finished in warm, earthy tones that reflect the surrounding bushveld. Each suite includes a private outdoor seating area — perfect for soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild.

Standard Suite

Each beautifully decorated with African-inspired décor – the Standard rooms also feature an outdoor sitting area and a further range of amenities for your pleasure. Two guests can be comfortably accommodated with either a two-single-bed or one-king-size-bed configuration, and each room has an en-suite bathroom, with the adventurous offer of an outdoor shower.

Deluxe Suite

Each of the four Deluxe suites features elegant new furnishings, a plush king-sized bed, and a private living area. The luxurious bathroom boasts a freestanding bath, a sleek vanity, and both indoor and outdoor showers.

Ivory Tree offers four Family Suites, each featuring two bedrooms with a family lounge separating them and doors that open up onto an outdoor area with a plunge pool to cool off during those hot summer days.

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Luxury Suites

Each of the four Luxury Suites features a range of amenities for your comfort and enjoyment, as well as a relaxing outdoor sitting area, a lounge with a flat-screen TV, and a fireplace for chilly bushveld evenings. All four of the Luxury Suites offer heated plunge pools. These Suites are all tastefully decorated with African décor and come with a king-size bed, a sleeper couch in the lounge suitable for a child under the age of 12 years, and an en-suite bathroom.

Family Suite

Ivory Tree offers four Family Suites, each featuring two bedrooms with a family lounge separating them, and doors that open up onto an outdoor area with a plunge pool to cool off during those hot summer days. The main bedroom has a king-size bed, while the second bedroom contains twin beds. This suite accommodates 2 adults and 2 children under the age of 12 years. Additionally, the suite comes with an outdoor shower and an indoor bath.

Royal Pilane Suite

Indulge in the pinnacle of luxury with the Royal Pilane Suite – an exclusive retreat designed for ultimate comfort and style.

This spacious suite features a super king-size bed, which can be converted into twin beds, offering flexible accommodation for up to two guests. The elegant lounge area is fitted with a modern modular couch (non-sleeper), perfect for relaxing in comfort. An expansive bathroom adds a touch of indulgence, complete with a luxurious bathtub and a distinctive double outdoor shower – a refreshing and unforgettable experience.

For those seeking added exclusivity, the Royal Pilane Suite can be booked alongside four deluxe suites, creating a private enclave ideal for intimate gatherings or small groups of up to ten guests.

Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in beautiful settings that celebrate the flavours of South Africa. For a truly memorable experience, guests may opt for a traditional boma dinner under the stars or a romantic bush dinner (available at an additional cost and subject to minimum and maximum guest numbers). Non-exclusive boma dinners are offered at the lodge’s discretion and cannot be pre-booked.

Ivory Tree Game Lodge offers 69 spacious, 5-star suites in a malaria-free Big Five reserve, all finished in warm, earthy tones that reflect the surrounding bushveld. Each suite includes a private outdoor seating area — perfect for soaking in the sights and sounds of the wild.

Image: Supplied

Ivory Tree Game Lodge is a sought-after safari conferencing destination, offering a dedicated conference room that can accommodate up to 120 delegates. A variety of engaging team-building activities are available, including archery, interactive drumming, and quad-bike excursions — ideal for combining business with bushveld adventure.

Guests enjoy two expertly guided game drives daily in open 10-seater safari vehicles. Led by experienced rangers, morning and afternoon drives last between three and four hours, featuring a sunrise coffee stop or a sunset sundowner while tracking the Big Five and an abundance of wildlife in the Pilanesberg.

Tucked into the bush and connected by winding wooden walkways, Amani Spa offers a deeply restorative safari spa journey. Three private, elevated treatment rooms blend seamlessly into the landscape, providing uninterrupted views of the African bush.

Guests can indulge in relaxing massages, luxurious facials, manicures, pedicures and bespoke spa packages designed to rejuvenate mind, body and soul. Amani Spa at Ivory Tree Game Lodge is an award-winner, having received the Safari Spa Award at Les Nouvelles Esthétiques in 2007 and 2013.