Lion Sands River Lodge

Discover a sanctuary for wildlife and astonishing natural beauty at the award-winning Lion Sands River Lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park safari mecca. Where sheer tranquillity removes you from that stressful life, where premium accommodation and game drives in the famous private Sabi Sands Concession leave you forever in awe.

Lions Sands River Lodge boasts unrivalled views over the Sabi River – boldly luxurious with attention to detail for a safari of a lifetime in the sensational Sabi Sands bordering Kruger. So book an authentic safari package deal to this destination for unforgettable wildlife sightings every day. 

It is large and modern but remains earthy and fits into the wild setting of the South African bushveld.  Appreciate two delightful refreshing swimming pools (heated in winter), vast polished wooden viewing decks, secluded bird hide, conference room, Africology Health Spa & gymnasium, curio shop and open-air (Boma) dining area. Learn more about the wilderness than you ever thought possible.

We love Lion Sands River Lodge, an Eden for rediscovery of self and nature, and the first Lion Sands’ lodge to welcome guests. Recently renovated, this famous safari lodge has introduced a new sense of brightness and space, of modern amenities and natural materials, to create a special enclave for couples and families, friends and individual leisure travellers. This is a place for making memories.

Lion Sands is a wilderness destination that enriches the soul and promises life-changing moments and opportunities. Unforgettable experiences. Africa is an extraordinary sweeping landscape of beauty and discovery. And River Lodge is part of that – a cultured reflection of the traditional safari lodge, with sunshine and air, bright modern decor, and few walls to allow everything natural inside. 

Everywhere you go, delightful timber walkways lead you to a spa, gym and pool, and back to the main lodge – listen and see gorgeous water features imitating the sounds of the nearby river. Maybe you will enjoy social time or maybe you will prefer alone time – choose the bar, restaurant, or the cosy firepit lounge on chilly nights – some respite in a luxury home.

Lion Sands River Lodge is super proud of its 8 Luxury Rooms, 6 Superior Luxury Rooms and 4 River Suites, spaced out along the river on a beautiful, manicured path. Private, rustic chic and so tasteful you are in a paradise bush hotel. Luxury rooms offer king size beds, deep bathtubs at the window, private decks and wide folding glass doors. Superior luxury rooms are bigger with vast bathrooms and outside showers too, the use of stone, glass and thatch the natural answer to your relaxation in a timeless zone.   

The River Suites are further away from the lodge and other suites and especially exclusive and remote, each featuring delightful plunge pools. They can include a Family Suite if children come along. Select your ideal safari accommodation for your needs and soak up the river views. 

Situated on the banks of the Sabie River, Lion Sands River Lodge looks east over South Africa’s famous Kruger National Park where the sun rises over animals great and small. These wild beasts move freely between the diverse habitats of the splendid Sabi Sands Game Reserve and Kruger.

Guests catch a plane from Cape Town or Johannesburg to Skukuza, and then the lodge offers transfers to its unique accommodation. Hands-on service and attention to detail make visitors feel right at home in this place of luxury and getting back to nature. The Lion Sands River Lodge, like its name, catches the spirit of the Sabie River where hippo plays and antelope come down to drink.

Accommodation in 20 elegant, thatched chalets soaks in the river views, across the richness of the bushveld beyond. Visitors can sit on their own private wooden decks and watch wild animals drinking. Feel part of the Kruger National Park in rooms that reflect the African bush: serene soft colours enhance the peace that is Sabie Sands River Lodge while indoor and outdoor showers keep guests cool. All rooms feature air-conditioning, overhead fans, king size beds with mosquito nets, mini bars and safes. Raised boardwalks link chalets to the main guest areas.

Here guests are treated to a comfy lounge and bar area with fireplace, an indoor dining area and open air boma for meals around the nightly bonfire. Enjoy the outside safari lounge, the two swimming pools heated in winter, wooden viewing decks, a conference room and a curio shop. A secluded bird hide adds tremendous value to this lodge and for those seeking modern comforts, head for the Lalamuka Health Spa and Gymnasium.