Swain-selected staySabi Sand Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South AfricaLion Sands River LodgeA distinctive base for a journey designed around you.Selected by our Destination ExpertsExploreThe storyGalleryExperiencesPlan your stayThe stayWhat to know about this stay.Lion Sands is the only private reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park allowing for exclusive traversing on private concessions. Lion Sands conserves 30,600 acres of a habitat that is home to the highest and most diverse concentration of wildlife in the southern hemisphere offering exceptional game-viewing opportunities. River Lodge offers a connection-rich safari with 18 rooms and social areas like the outdoor firepit, veranda and bar area to gather and catch up on the day. The lodge has a chic design interpretation of the traditional safari lodge with contemporary décor and limited walls that create a flow between interior and exterior with a sense of brightness and space. Wooden walkways connect the main lodge to a spa, a gym and pool. There are eight Luxury Rooms, six Superior Luxury Rooms (two sets with interleading rooms), and four River Suites. A closer lookLion Sands River Lodge, in detail.View all 12 photosBeyond the stayExperiences nearbyGame DrivesHead out each day at sunrise and again in the late afternoon. Lion Sand’s natural animal population includes the Big Five, and the reserve is especially renowned for the quality of its leopard viewing – normally regarded as the most elusive of predators. With exclusive traversing rights on both Lion Sands’ Sabi Sand and Kruger Park sections, guests are assured a truly intimate safari experience.Bush WalksImmerse yourself in the bush, rather than just observing it. All five senses are engaged, as you feel scrub crunch beneath your feet, touch the velvety acacia seed pod, hear the crack of a branch indicating they are not alone, and spot big game at eye level – exhilarating! Local Community ExperiencesAn opportunity to experience a different – and humbling – way of living by visiting culturally- and historically-significant sites to connect with local people.StargazingDuring evening game drives or bush dinners (weather permitting), the field guides will share insights into the skies. A Night in a TreehouseThe million-star Chalkley and Kingston (Sabi Sand) and Tinyeleti (Kruger Park) are the ultimate bush bedrooms, where romantics, adventurers and solitude seekers alike can discover the magic of a night out in African – in complete luxury. A Treehouse Experience is booked in conjunction with lodge accommodation.Spa and WellnessThe hours between safaris are an ideal time to spend being pampered with a selection of indulgent therapies offered by expert therapists in the quiet retreat of the lodges’ spas or open-air bush salas.Mack & Madi Kids’ Adventure ProgramTailor-made activities for children (5 to 11 years) that provide a little extra freedom to explore and just be kids – and make family travel child’s play. Plan with SwainAdd Lion Sands River Lodge to your journey.Tell us where you want to go and how you like to travel. We will recommend the right route, length of stay, and experiences.Start planning →
