A Bespoke Safari Sanctuary – set along the banks of the perennial Sabie River in the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers an ultra-luxury safari experience where every detail is thoughtfully tailored to the guest. With only a handful of private villas, each with its own plunge pool, relaxation deck and refined finishes, the lodge blends architectural elegance with wild African rhythms. Expect uninterrupted views of wildlife, minimal vehicle disturbance and a deep sense of personal space.

Located in the Southern Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Lion Sands Sabi Sand is the only Reserve in South Africa to offer a safari in both the Sabie and Sand River ecosystems. The Reserve is family owned and managed by the 4th generation More Family. Their grandfather was one of the founding members of the Sabi Sand Wildtuin in 1948 instilling a long history of community and conservation. There is a unique programme of activities for guests to tailor-make their stay including the famous Chalkley & Kingston Treehouse experiences.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Accommodation

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers distinct villa categories, each designed to feel like a private bush home rather than a standard lodge room.

One-Bedroom Villas

• Individually elevated beside the Sabie River with panoramic bush and river views.
• Master bedroom with ensuite bathroom featuring free-standing bath, indoor and outdoor shower.
• Private lounge area with fireplace and full glass walls, merging indoor comfort with outdoor terrain.
• Heated plunge pool on the deck, plus covered patio for game-viewing and relaxation.

Two-Bedroom “Fish Eagle” Villa

• Designed for families or friends travelling together, offering two fully private bedrooms and shared lounge/deck space.
• Includes its own plunge pool, elevated viewing deck and ultra-tailored service with dedicated guide, butler and vehicle.
• The level of exclusivity here rivals that of a private residence.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Chalkley Treehouse

The African landscape stretches as far as the eye can see at Lion Sands, and this is a special place to capture and enjoy its vastness and splendour. Guy Aubrey Chalkley once set up camp in a majestic centuries old Leadwood Tree to escape predators roaming the plains below. This is be the ideal place to build the ultimate bush bedroom, the Chalkley Treehouse. The tree house is a secure and lavish platform under the African stars, with all the comforts of a five star safari lodge. Lion Sands Ivory Lodge takes guests to the tree house at sunset, where drinks and a scrumptious Gourmet Basket await them. The hours of African dusk can be enjoyed relaxing and absorbing the vastness of the bushveld as it transforms from day to night, before turning in for slumber beneath the incredible night sky.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Kingston Treehouse

Make your way through rows of magnificent white boulders and across a small drawbridge, and you will find Africa unfolding in front if you. Set amid the pure and untouched wild, you will be surrounded by African bush and uninhibited wildlife at its best. Kingston is equipped with full bathroom and shower facilities, and Africology products to complete your sensory experience. Kingston is an experience for your Bucket List. But we must warn you …. once will never be enough. The Kingston Treehouse is constructed entirely from wood and glass, with contemporary décor in understated hues of greys, white, black and purple. No matter what the weather has in store, you will have a safe and luxurious setting with a unique window to enjoy the ever-changing views.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Main Lodge Facilities

The communal areas at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge balance open bush expanses with intimate luxury comforts, ensuring each guest experience is seamless and immersive.

• Open-plan lounge and bar overlooking the river, with floor-to-ceiling glass and timber detailing.
• Dining room and expansive wooden deck for meals with riverfront wildlife views.
• Boma fire-deck for evening dinners beneath stars and the bush sounds.
• Spa and gym facilities tucked away within the lodge grounds for guest relaxation between drives.
• Boutique and wine cellar offering fine South African vintages and stylish souvenirs.

Cuisine

At Lion Sands Ivory Lodge, dining is crafted as part of the safari journey itself. Breakfasts are served on your deck as the bush awakens, lunches feature flowing views of the river and dinners can take place either inside the lodge or outdoors in the boma under a galaxy of stars. The culinary team blends fresh, locally-sourced ingredients with international flair, while also catering to bespoke dietary requests. From intimate private dining to full-service meals, the experience is both refined and rooted in place.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge Activities

Wildlife, space and discovery lie at the heart of activities on offer at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge.

• Twice daily open-vehicle game drives led by expert guide-tracker teams across the Sabi Sand terrain.
• Guided bush walks (subject to conditions) allowing closer inspection of tracks, insects, birds and plants.
• River-front relaxation and wildlife sightings directly from your deck or lounge area—hippos, elephants and birdlife often visit the Sabie River.
• Optional spa treatments and wellness experiences for time away from the bush excitement.