Lion Sands River Lodge is an awarding-winning, luxury  safari retreat set along the Sabie River in the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve. Blending natural beauty with refined elegance, the lodge features luxurious river-facing suites, stylish open-air spaces, and exceptional dining. Guests enjoy front-row views of wildlife from private decks, world-class service, and unforgettable safari experiences in one of Africa’s most iconic game-viewing regions.

Named for third place in the Top 25 Resorts and Safari Camps in Africa, you need not move far to appreciate extraordinary wildlife, or to marvel at the spectacular riverside view. This tranquil sanctuary captures the entrancing spirit of the Sabie River.

Guests are encouraged to make River Lodge their very own private safari home, ensuring that the time spent on safari remains the highlight of their visit to South Africa.

From R 26,688

per person per night
Rates may vary according to season. Specials may be available.
  • Local Experts

  • Best Available Rate

  • Personal Concierge

Rates

  • River walks
  • Bird watching
  • Astronomy
  • Safari lunches
  • Wildlife lectures
  • Wellness treatments
  • Local village tour

Regrettably, no children below the age of 10 years are permitted at Lion Sands River Lodge. Children between the ages of 10 and 15 will be charged 50% of the adult sharing rate (given that they sleep in the same room as the parents. Children of 16 and older pay the full adult rate when in their own room.

Detailed Description

Lion Sands River Lodge Accommodation

Nestled along the banks of the Sabie River in the heart of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Lion Sands River Lodge invites guests into a refined safari sanctuary where the wilderness flows right to your doorstep. Each room and suite has been crafted to reflect the rhythms of the wild while offering elegant comfort and peaceful seclusion.

Luxury Rooms

  • Elegant river-facing rooms with direct deck access
  • King-sized bed (convertible to twin) and private terrace
  • Deluxe en-suite bathroom with indoor and open-air shower
  • Mini-bar, safe, tea/coffee station, plus air-conditioning and fan

River Suites

  • Located further from the main lodge for enhanced privacy
  • Expansive decks and plunge pool overlooking the river
  • Spacious lounge area, luxurious bath and outdoor shower
  • Ideal for couples seeking an elevated bush retreat

Two-Bedroom River Suite

  • Comes with separate bedrooms, lounge area and pooling deck
  • Private plunge pool and terrace for up to four guests
  • Freedom to experience togetherness while enjoying individual space

Lion Sands River Lodge Main Lodge Facilities

From the moment you arrive, the shared spaces blend seamless elegance with nature’s grandeur, creating a base for both adventure and relaxation.

  • Two swimming pools positioned for optimal river views
  • Spacious open-plan lounge and dining area overlooking the Sabie River
  • Riverside boma and fire-deck for evenings immersed in the bush
  • Boutique shop, art gallery and optional in-lodge spa treatments
  • WiFi in communal areas, and inclusive guest amenities throughout

Lion Sands River Lodge Cuisine

Dining at Lion Sands River Lodge is more than a meal – it is a moment in the wild. Breakfasts begin beneath golden morning light, lunches drift lazily on the deck with wildlife as your dining companions, and dinners are served beside the river or under the stars in the boma. The culinary team works with fresh, seasonal ingredients, crafting menus that celebrate South African flavours infused with creativity. Drinks, snacks and light fare are available throughout the day, all designed to heighten your immersion in the safari experience.

Lion Sands River Lodge Activities

Adventure and discovery await at Lion Sands River Lodge, from dawn drives to starlit returns, every moment is tailored to the environment and the guest.

  • Morning and afternoon open-vehicle game drives into the Sabi Sands
  • Bush walks led by experienced rangers and trackers on request
  • Campfire conversations, river-bank sundowners and wildlife tracking
  • Stargazing and photo-op sessions from vantage decks overlooking the river

Whether you’re gather­ing by the fire at dusk, slipping into your private plunge pool after a drive, or simply listening to the Sabie gently running past your deck, Lion Sands River Lodge offers a safari that lingers long after you depart.

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