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A natural riverine paradise
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve, Mpumalanga
Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre helps injured lions.
© South African Tourism
Did you know?
The first camp was built at Lion Sands in 1933.
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve offers the only lodges in the famous Sabi Sand Reserve, located on the banks of the Sabie River, a favourite drinking spot for elephants, impalas, baboons and many other animals - and a favourite stalking ground for leopard.
The river lodge is positioned in a pristine riverine forest amongst ancient trees. The area is well known for excellent game viewing and has a lower concentration of lodges compared to other areas of Sabi Sands.
With only the river separating the lodge from the world famous Kruger Park, Lion Sands provides a great diversity of fauna and flora. The unique location makes it a perfect place in the African bush for a wedding - the reserve will help you organise the biggest day in your life from scratch!
Lion Sands also offers the Ivory Lodge, an ultra luxurious getaway in the bush that was voted ‘Best Hotel in World 2006' by Tatler magazine.
Exclusivity and privacy are the keywords here, with private dining areas, spa treatments and complete relaxation. ‘Lalamuka' means unwind in Shangaan and this is exactly what Lion Sands is all about. A range of body and facial treatments are available to help rid you of urban stresses.
Visitors don't only have to wait for the animals to come to the river. Game drives and bush walks are excellent opportunities to get eye to eye with Africa's wildlife including that most formidable predator, the lion.
You'll also encounter other members of the 'big five' (buffalo, elephant, rhinoceros and leopard). The staff will also happily arrange a breakfast or dinner in the bush for a true African experience - the already delicious food tastes even better under the stars or the warm morning sun.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
How to get here
Airlink has one flight daily from Johannesburg to the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Guests are collected from the airstrip and transported to the lodge. You can also fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport on scheduled flights direct from Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town. Transfers to Lion Sands can be arranged and take about two hours.
Tours to do
There is an extensive range of activities to choose from, from meals in the bush, to guided walks, spa treatments, cultural excursions and even golf.
Get around
Once you arrive, you will be transported in the reserve's 4X4 vehicles.
What will it cost
This is a luxury reserve and is priced accordingly.
Length of stay
Two days is adequate; a week even better.
What to pack
Don't forget your camera, hat and walking shoes. The reserve will provide the rest.
Where to stay
You have a choice between the luxury Ivory or River Lodge, or the ultra-exclusive Lodge 1933.
What to eat
Look forward to versatile five-star cuisine with wines to match.
