River Lodge: Creating Connections Between People and the Wilderness

With decades of history behind its name, Lion Sands River Lodge carries a rich legacy of both impeccable hospitality and wild, unforgettable memories. Situated on the banks of the Sabie River in the Lion Sands Game Reserve, River Lodge offers uninterrupted views of the river's perennial flow. Here, the riverbanks create a natural stage where Africa's wildlife gathers and their stories unfold. This makes the lodge’s communal areas the perfect place for you to connect with others and nature.

Drawing inspiration from the African landscape, the lodge’s architecture and interiors incorporate neutral tones, natural textures, and open spaces that seamlessly invite the outdoors in. The structural stone, timber, and thatch complement the surrounding wilderness and soft seating and modern finishes ensure comfort is always just an arm’s reach away. Outdoors, spacious wooden decks offer breathtaking views of the water, while indoors, large floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural light to flood in, creating an airy and interconnected atmosphere.

You can choose from a range of accommodation options, each with its own unique offering. Our river-facing rooms open onto private decks, where afternoons can be whiled away to the sounds of birdsong and the distant rumble of elephants. The more spacious river-facing suites, set further away from the main lodge, offer enhanced peace and tranquillity. The natural ambience is of course best enjoyed from the edge of the suites’ private plunge pools. In our interleading rooms or family suites, larger groups can find generous spaces designed for both social and quiet moments.

For those seeking a truly extraordinary experience, Lion Sands Sabi Sand also offers spectacular treehouses where the boundary between you and the wilderness dissolves. The Chalkley and Kingston treehouses feature a lavishly draped king bed and a dining setup for a private picnic-style dinner. Lanterns and solar-powered lighting create a warm, romantic atmosphere, whilst the absence of walls allows you to sleep beneath the stars, listening to distant calls and the soft rustling of the bush.

Once rested and revitalised, the real adventure begins! In time for sunset or sunrise, you will set out in open safari vehicles driven by professional field guides and trackers. Trust that you are in good hands. Our safari teams can expertly read the land, following even the faintest of prints and subtle signs that reveal the movements of elusive predators or gentle giants. As the sun casts its golden hues over the landscape, feel your excitement build as you discover what waits behind each new turn – a leopard lounging in a marula tree, lions licking clean their paws after a hunt, or a herd of elephants gently making their way to the river.

Upon your return from your wild adventures, you will be invited to embark on a culinary journey. Whether on the dining deck or in the open-air boma, your table becomes a theatre of flavours under star-studded skies. Our culinary team takes locally sourced ingredients and transforms them into artfully crafted dishes that celebrate every element. From traditional braais to delicate creations best paired with fine wines, every guest’s dietary requirements are carefully considered. For our Jewish guests, we uphold kosher standards and offer a self-supervised option, ensuring complete peace of mind as you savour every bite.

Lion Sands River Lodge is a feeling that lingers long after you’ve left. Here, nature moves at its own pace, inviting you to do the same. Take a moment to pause, to breathe, to truly be present and to connect with the world and those around you. As you leave, you take more than just memories with you; you carry the essence of the bush, a reminder that some places are not just visited, but felt forever.

Discover more about River Lodge by watching our YouTube Video below.

To start your own Lion Sands story, please visit: www.more.co.za/lionsands