Thunzi Bush Lodge, Hornbill Chalet -Self Catering

Spacious and family-friendly, this two-bedroom chalet (double & twin) has a full bathroom with bath and separate shower, a fully equipped open-plan kitchen, and lounge with forest views from the balcony. Features a private boma in the forest, wood-fired hot tub, DSTV Select & Netflix, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, Nespresso machine (starter pods provided), dressing gowns, and daily servicing. The space “Where Nature Reflects You!” Thunzi, meaning “in the shade” in isiXhosa, captures the spirit of this peaceful retreat tucked away in a pristine coastal forest valley. Situated in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, the lodge is just 25 km from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and 2 km from the untouched Maitland Beach. Surrounded by indigenous trees, birdlife, and wetlands, Thunzi offers a private 44-hectare escape ideal for couples, families, and nature lovers alike. Its convenient location also makes it a natural stopover on the scenic Garden Route. Thunzi Bush Lodge offers luxury 4-star self-catering accommodation with a blend of comfort and rustic charm. Accommodation options include wooden chalets and a signature Stargazing Dome, all thoughtfully positioned for maximum privacy and views. Each unit features a fully equipped kitchen, wood-fired hot tub OR outdoor bath, under cover BBQ or private boma, and modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, DSTV Select, Netflix, air-conditioning, and Nespresso machines (starter pods provided). Daily housekeeping is included. Guest access On arrival guests will buzz reception for the main gate inter comm. Once guests have checked in they will be supplied with a gate remote to come and go as they please. Other things to note Activities & Surroundings Guests can unwind at the Lazy Lizard swimming pool, stroll through shaded forest paths, or enjoy a massage in the comfort of their chalet. On-site activities include birdwatching, bass fishing, sandboarding on our grassy hill, and forest or beach walks —Maitland Beach is just 3 km away. Kids can enjoy the swings, jungle gym, garden chess, and sandboarding fun. The surrounding ecosystem blends coastal forest, acacia thicket, and wetland—home to over 350 bird species, including the Knysna Turaco, Narina Trogon, African Rail, and Flufftails. Wildlife sightings may include bushbuck, vervet monkeys, and the rare blue duiker. The lodge borders Maitland Nature Reserve, offering hiking trails from 3 to 11 km and access to the iconic Maitland sand dunes. Addo Elephant Park and several wildlife attractions are within a short 15–60 minute drive. Our Story Thunzi Bush Lodge was founded in 2004 by Mark and Trenwyth Pledger. After purchasing the unspoiled land in 2002, they combined their skills—Mark in mechanical engineering and construction, Trenwyth in tourism and hospitality—to build the lodge from the ground up. Today, Trenwyth oversees the property’s operations and is respected across the South African tourism industry for her personal touch, high standards, and commitment to excellence. Thunzi has been honoured with multiple awards, including the Lilizela Awards (2016–2019) and TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for eight consecutive years.