Dining at the Reserve: What to Expect from the Thatch Café & More

When you think of a day out at the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, thrilling animal encounters and wide-open bushveld often come to mind. But what truly completes your safari experience is the food — and dining at the reserve is an experience in its own right.

Whether you’re fuelling up after a predator feeding or relaxing while the kids enjoy the play area, the Thatch Café and other on-site dining options ensure no one goes hungry.

Thatch Café: The Heart of Family Dining

Located at the Welcome Centre, the Thatch Café offers more than just a meal — it provides a moment to relax, reconnect, and recharge. The café serves a variety of hearty dishes designed to please both adults and little ones. From tasty burgers and crisp salads to pizzas and classic South African favourites, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. All meals are freshly prepared, and the warm, rustic atmosphere under the thatched roof makes it a cosy spot even in cooler months. This family-friendly restaurant is surrounded by the Cradle Bike Park, The Little PidiPidi Play Park, and is just a stone’s throw away from the Chobe Deck.

Neck & Deck Restaurant: Dining with a View

The Neck & Deck Restaurant is an open-air dining venue surrounded by views of animals, including the occasional giraffe. Enjoy our delectable Afro-fusion menu in this beautiful setting, offering breakfast, light meals, burgers, pizzas, main courses, and sundowners. With seating for 300 guests, an exclusive wine cellar, and a children’s play area, it’s the perfect spot for cyclists, families, and nature lovers. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.
Outdoor dining area at Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve restaurant in South Africa

Plan Ahead for a Perfect Day

To make the most of your visit, check the entrance fees and ticket options before you arrive. This will help you plan your budget and timing — especially if you’re considering breakfast at the café or a full-day family outing.

Dining with a View: Food and Wildlife Combined

There are few places where you can enjoy quality meals while feeling truly immersed in nature. At the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, dining at the reserve is not an afterthought — it’s part of the adventure. You might even spot some buck or birds while sipping your drink!

In Summary

Dining at the reserve is more than just a necessity — it’s a highlight of your visit. With freshly prepared meals, kid-friendly spaces, and serene surroundings, the Thatch Café, Neck & Deck, and picnic areas make every bite part of the experience. Whether you stay for a few hours or the whole day, the food offerings ensure that every visitor leaves satisfied. So next time you plan your visit to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, come hungry — the wild has never tasted this good.
Outdoor dining area at Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve restaurant in South Africa

When you think of a day out at the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, thrilling animal encounters and wide-open bushveld often come to mind. But what truly completes your safari experience is the food — and dining at the reserve is an experience in its own right.

Whether you’re fuelling up after a predator feeding or relaxing while the kids enjoy the play area, the Thatch Café and other on-site dining options ensure no one goes hungry.

Thatch Café: The Heart of Family Dining

Located at the Welcome Centre, the Thatch Café offers more than just a meal — it provides a moment to relax, reconnect, and recharge. The café serves a variety of hearty dishes designed to please both adults and little ones. From tasty burgers and crisp salads to pizzas and classic South African favourites, there’s something to satisfy every appetite. All meals are freshly prepared, and the warm, rustic atmosphere under the thatched roof makes it a cosy spot even in cooler months. This family-friendly restaurant is surrounded by the Cradle Bike Park, The Little PidiPidi Play Park, and is just a stone’s throw away from the Chobe Deck.

Neck & Deck Restaurant: Dining with a View

The Neck & Deck Restaurant is an open-air dining venue surrounded by views of animals, including the occasional giraffe. Enjoy our delectable Afro-fusion menu in this beautiful setting, offering breakfast, light meals, burgers, pizzas, main courses, and sundowners. With seating for 300 guests, an exclusive wine cellar, and a children’s play area, it’s the perfect spot for cyclists, families, and nature lovers. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.
Outdoor dining area at Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve restaurant in South Africa

Plan Ahead for a Perfect Day

To make the most of your visit, check the entrance fees and ticket options before you arrive. This will help you plan your budget and timing — especially if you’re considering breakfast at the café or a full-day family outing.

Dining with a View: Food and Wildlife Combined

There are few places where you can enjoy quality meals while feeling truly immersed in nature. At the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, dining at the reserve is not an afterthought — it’s part of the adventure. You might even spot some buck or birds while sipping your drink!

In Summary

Dining at the reserve is more than just a necessity — it’s a highlight of your visit. With freshly prepared meals, kid-friendly spaces, and serene surroundings, the Thatch Café, Neck & Deck, and picnic areas make every bite part of the experience. Whether you stay for a few hours or the whole day, the food offerings ensure that every visitor leaves satisfied. So next time you plan your visit to the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, come hungry — the wild has never tasted this good.

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