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As Thunzi Bush Lodge celebrates its 20th anniversary, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on an extraordinary journey that began with a dream, blossomed through passion, and thrived in harmony with nature. Nestled in the coastal forests of the Eastern Cape, Thunzi has grown from humble beginnings into a sanctuary of peace and unmatched natural beauty. Here’s a look back at the remarkable journey so far.
Thunzi Bush Lodge was born from a shared dream between Mark and Trenwyth Pledger, who had spent years living and working across Southern Africa. Their time managing quarry sites in Botswana, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania and Namibia sparked the idea of owning a piece of land and creating a lodge that captured the essence of Africa’s natural beauty. In 2002, that dream became a reality when they stumbled upon an overgrown, unkept piece of farmland near Port Elizabeth. This land, once a wildflower farm with no electricity or water, became the foundation for Thunzi Bush Lodge. With only a small rondavel on the property, they began building from scratch.
On August 14, 2004, they welcomed their first guests -Australians- who were treated to a South African culinary delight that began with butternut soup and ended with hot lemon cups for dessert. From those early days, the lodge grew, offering guests not only a place to stay but an experience deeply rooted in African hospitality, complete with wholesome South African home-cooked meals and intimate cultural evenings around the boma. A key figure in the lodge’s development was Babaan, a caretaker of the land who helped build the forest walk that is still in place today.
The path to success wasn’t without its hurdles. Just three months into running the lodge, Mark and Trenwyth realized they needed marketing expertise to grow their brand. Back then, marketing was more traditional – expensive magazine ads, printed brochures, and limited global reach. Over time, as the world of digital marketing evolved, so did Thunzi, growing from word-of-mouth to becoming a well-known destination.
The lodge’s transition to a self-catering model in 2012 allowed the Pledgers to focus on their growing family of triplets while catering to the local market’s preference for a more private experience. The move was a game-changer, leading to a surge in local visitors who loved the proximity to Port Elizabeth but felt miles away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Thunzi Bush Lodge has hosted some iconic events, from being featured on the popular South African shows Boer Soek ’n Vrou and Ultimate Braai Master to hosting corporate functions and personal celebrations. One standout moment was when the lodge won the prestigious National Lilizela Award in 2016, followed by three consecutive Provincial Lilizela Awards—a testament to the unwavering quality and experience offered at Thunzi.
Valentine’s Day picnics and annual events like the Herald Bride & Groom dinner and the Amarok Bakkie launch became part of Thunzi’s legacy. Personal moments have also added to the magic. Trenwyth’s 40th birthday was celebrated with family and friends at Thunzi, a memorable weekend that not only marked a personal milestone but also celebrated the success and joy of the lodge’s two-decade journey.
In 2022, Thunzi took a bold step forward by adding the country’s first-ever stargazing dome in partnership with Onceuponadome. This unique addition—three pod-like structures set amidst the pristine wilderness—has added an extra layer of allure to the lodge, providing an unforgettable experience for those looking to connect with nature in a truly magical way.
Despite these modern touches, the heart of Thunzi remains…a tranquil bush experience. Continuous upgrades have kept the lodge in step with changing times while preserving its authentic, natural charm.
Reflecting on the past 20 years, Trenwyth extends her deepest gratitude to Mark and their children for their unwavering support. “Mark, in particular, has been an exceptional business mentor,” Trenwyth says. “His wisdom and encouragement have been invaluable to my growth, and I am forever thankful.”
She also expresses her appreciation to the dedicated staff who have worked tirelessly to make Thunzi a home away from home for guests, as well as to the lodge’s loyal visitors, partners, and suppliers. “Your ongoing support, encouragement, and loyalty over the past two decades have been instrumental in our success. We are honored to have had you by our side.”
As Thunzi Bush Lodge looks forward to the next chapter, its mission remains unchanged: to provide a tranquil retreat in the heart of nature, where guests can unwind, reconnect, and discover the magic of Africa. With exciting new developments and a commitment to offering unique, unforgettable experiences, Thunzi is poised for many more years of success.
So, here’s to the next 20 years of memories, milestones, and magic at Thunzi Bush Lodge!
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me.
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