Description

Set alongside the quiet rushing waters of the Sabie River, the Lion Sands River Lodge sits at the heart of Lion Sands Game Reserve – one of South Africa’s most exciting safari reserves, with an extraordinarily high density of wildlife, which includes the ‘big five’ safari game. Located to the northwest of the country, not far from the Skukuza rest camp, the resort overlooks the world-famous Kruger National Park.

With the untouched safari park as their back garden, each of the River Lodge’s 20 luxury suites are designed with a wooden decked terrace, so you can enjoy an afternoon tea in the company of the Sabie River’s rushing waters or spotting wildlife in the offing. Each suite has been decorated with an interior inspired by the game reserve – with the minimalist walls broken by African artwork. Each spacious suite also has a luxury en-suite bathroom complete with deep-set tub, which can also lead out onto the outdoor terrace.

Having spent the day in search of big game wildlife by Land Rover or exploring the meandering woodland pathways on foot, the resort has a number of leisure pursuits designed to help guests unwind. The on-site spa resort specialises in popular Africology treatments – created using ingredients only available in the local area. Guests can stop by for an indulgent detox manicure, a balancing scalp and leg ritual, or perhaps a session of Africology Shea aromatherapy. The resort also has a state-of-the-art gymnasium complete with free weights, cardio and yoga equipment, for when you feel in need of some physical rejuvenation.

When to travel

Visitors can enjoy Kruger National Park and wildlife viewing year round, however the experience does change depending on the season. In the summer months (October to March), it gets very hot. The rains mean that the scenery is quite spectacular but the foliage is more dense, water is more abundant and wildlife can be tricker to see. However there are lots of beautiful migratory birds during the summer months. The daytime temperature in the winter months (May to September) are ideal, however it does get a little chilly at night and in the early morning.

Location

Lions Sands River Lodge is at the heart of the Lion Sands Private Game Reserve on the banks of the Sabie River, overlooking Kruger National Park. Lions Sands reserve is at the southern end of the vast Sabi Sands Reserve 520km (or 5 hours) northeast of Johannesburg, close to the Mozambique border.

It takes approximately 5 to 6 hours to  drive from Johannesburg to the lodge or one hour 45 minutes from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. Alternatively the quickest option is to fly to nearby Skukuza Airport.