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Trip Overview
Duration
6 Days | 5 Nights
Tour Date Options
3 - 8 July 2026
Location
The Westcliff Johannesburg
Monwana Game Lodge
Thornybush Nature Reserve
Begin in Johannesburg at the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, positioned above the northern suburbs, with spectacular views across the world’s largest urban forest. On match day, step into the intensity of test match rugby as South Africa face England at Ellis Park – you’ll enjoy it in a hospitality suite with Butch James as your host.
After the final whistle, shift from stadium mayhem to the wild bushveld. Butch will travel with you to Thornybush in the Greater Kruger for three nights at Monwana Game Lodge. Here, luxury and wilderness define your stay. Early morning and late afternoon safaris offer incredible wildlife encounters in this world-famous reserve.
Your Match Day Experience
Springboks vs England - Nations Championship 2026
Venue: Ellis Park Stadium
Included:
- Hospitality test match tickets
- Refreshments and snacks in the hospitality suite
- Private road transfers to and from Ellis Park
An magnificent test match experience in one of world rugby’s most storied stadiums.
Your Safari Host
Butch James
Private Rugby Host
Butch James is a Rugby World Cup winner and former Springbok flyhalf who earned 37 Test caps for South Africa and played a key role in the 2007 World Cup triumph. Recognised for his physical intensity and disciplined game management, he competed at the highest level of international and club rugby over a distinguished career.
For this journey, Butch joins guests for the test match at Ellis Park and the safari at Thornybush. In the bush, away from the stadium’s pace, he shares his passion for wilderness, and his stories from a legendary rugby career. Butch offers a profound connection to South Africa’s sporting and natural heritage in the stadium in the wild.
The Lodge
Monwana Game Lodge
Or similar, dependent on availability.
Located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger, Monwana is a contemporary safari lodge shaped by luxury, innovation, and light. Each suite is generous and private, with a separate lounge and plunge pool offering fantastic views of the bush. Clean architectural lines meet natural materials, creating an atmosphere that feels both grounded and refined.
Days begin early with steaming coffee and a snack before heading out with Butch, your ranger and tracker. The reserve is known for close-up predator sightings, and superb guiding. Between safaris, time stretches – you can sit on your deck overlooking the water, read in the shade, or simply listen. Evenings gather around contemporary cuisine, excellent wine, and the distant sound of wildlife moving through the dark.
Included
- Luxury suite accommodation
- All meals and local beverages
- Conservation levies
- Twice daily game drives
- Return commercial flights to and from Hoedspruit
- Road transfers to and from Monwana
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in South Africa
You’ll arrive at OR Tambo International Airport to be met by VIP assistance for immigration, customs and baggage collection before an escort to your private transfer driver. From here you’ll travel to the Four Seasons Hotel, The Westcliff and settle in for the evening.
Day 2: Match Day
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll have time at leisure before heading to Ellis Park stadium in a private transfer for the match build-up. In the hospitality suite, you’ll meet your host – Butch James. He will provide insights and stories as you watch the Springboks take on England in the Nations Championship 2026. You return to the hotel by private transfer after the match.
Day 3: Safari Time
You’ll fly from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport on a scheduled domestic flight before heading to Monwana Game Lodge in Thornybush by private transfer. After settling into your suite, it will be time for your first safari in the Greater Kruger. Butch James joins your group on all safaris.
Day 4 and 5: On safari
Your days begin at dawn with a hot drink before your morning safari with Butch, your private guide and tracker. Afternoons bring another opportunity to explore the reserve, known for exceptional wildlife experiences and predator viewing. Between drives, you can relax on your private deck or enjoy a spa treatment.
Evenings unfold with cocktails, refined dining, and conversation around the fire with Butch as your host and raconteur.
Day 6: Depart
You head out for a final morning safari before breakfast. Afterwards, you’ll transfer to Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport for your domestic flight back to Johannesburg. From there, you’ll connect with your onward international flight.
Pricing
Starting from
Per Person Sharing
Starting from
Per Person Single
