Lion Sands<br/>Reserve

South Africa

Book this stay
Select Your Stay From Lodges at This Reserve
“Experience the luxury and legacy of Lion Sands Game Reserve, where each moment is a chance to reconnect with the Earth, with each other, and with yourself.”
Safari
Family & Generational
Honeymoon
Luxury
Adventure
Solo
Treehouse
Wellness
Group
Conservation Focus
Accessible

Stays

<span class="color--land"> 4 Luxury Lodges: </span>
River Lodge
Narina Lodge
Tinga Lodge

<span class="color--land"> 2 Luxury Residences: </span>
Hinkwenu Residence
Fish Eagle Residence

Adventures

Safaris Big 5
Guided Bush Walks
Game Drives
Tree Houses
Family Adventures

Features

Wellness Spa + Gym
Bush Dining + Cuisine
Family Owned

Conservation Focused

Only Here

Community Initiatives
Celebrations
Artists Residency
Photography Studio
Kosher Dining
Kids Programmes
Private Caretakers

View Our Video

Explore 4 luxury lodges & 2 private residences that blend seamlessly in the environment.

Stay within 6.5 miles of exclusive river frontage on the perennial Sabie River attracting a diversity of wildlife. Welcome this beautiful world, where the most amazing family of people will take care of your every heartfelt need.

Why Stay Here

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Choose Your Experience

Africa will ignite your senses, making every moment feel special. Here, at any of the Lion Sands lodges or residences, every detail revolves around you for an unmatched, incredible Safari.
Game Drives
Details +
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A Ride in the Wild

Indulge in a range of private safaris, big 5 safaris morning & evening safaris, stargazing and delightful safari surprises along the way. All while in the capable hands of an expert qualified field guide.

Walks
Details +
Less -
Expert Guided Walks in the Bush

Led by your expert field guides, these are our walks on the wild side. For those who want to experience the bush, beyond just observing it, there is no more real excursion. Spend a hour or two being part of nature.

Treehouses
Details +
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Romance Under the Cosmos! Sleep Under African Skies

Experience the magic of Africa from our Treehouses — Chalkley’s classic charm, Kingston’s luxury retreat, and Tineyeti’s riverside escape. Fall asleep to the sounds of the wild beneath endless, starlit skies for a true safari adventure.

Creative Lab
Details +
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Capture and Create

Print your favorite photos on high - quality canvas for lasting keepsakes or gifts. Need gear? Rent cameras and get expert advice to capture the perfect shot.

Bush Cuisine
Details +
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Boma Feast: A Taste of Southern Africa

Savor unforgettable boma feasts and safari stops, with menus tailored to all dietary needs, including Halaal and Kosher. Our chefs blend local flavors into contemporary dishes for a true taste of Southern Africa.

Spa & Wellness
Details +
Less -
Unwind and Reconnect with Nature

Reset your spirit at Lion Sands Spa with deep rest, nourishing cuisine, serene forest walks, spa treatments, and yoga on your private deck — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Lions Sands Reserve + Sustainability in Action

<h2 class="ts--heading-l">Sharing <span style="text-transform:lowercase; font-style:italic;">the</span>
<span style="display:block;">Conservation for Future Generations</span></h2>

Established in 1948, Lion Sands Sabi Sand forms part of Sabi Sand Nature Reserve—the oldest private nature reserve in South Africa, with the owner’s grandfather as one of the founders.

Lion Sands is the only private sanctuary with a footprint in both Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and the Kruger National Park. The 31 miles / 50km border between these wild spaces is unfenced, and the wildlife roams freely between them. Lion Sands is home to an unparalleled number and diversity of species, most of which are non-migratory, so you are guaranteed an exceptional safari experience year-round.

View Fact Sheet
Exclusively My<br/>Africa Safari
"Rhythm of the Wild: Your Personalized Safari to Lion Sands" begins here.

Customize your dream safari to Lion Sands in the iconic Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Africa’s legendary Big 5. With "Exclusively My Africa" by Wild Earth Stays, every detail—from logistics & lodges to close-up wildlife encounters—is tailored to your rhythm, your dreams, and your desire for the wild.

Request a personal experience or see our list of sample itineraries.

Choose Your Experience

Africa will ignite your senses, making every moment feel special. Here, at any of the Lion Sands lodges or residences, every detail revolves around you for an unmatched, incredible Safari.
Game Drives
Details +
Less -
A Ride in the Wild

Indulge in a range of private safaris, big 5 safaris morning & evening safaris, stargazing and delightful safari surprises along the way. All while in the capable hands of an expert qualified field guide.

Walks
Details +
Less -
Expert Guided Walks in the Bush

Led by your expert field guides, these are our walks on the wild side. For those who want to experience the bush, beyond just observing it, there is no more real excursion. Spend a hour or two being part of nature.

Treehouses
Details +
Less -
Romance Under the Cosmos! Sleep Under African Skies

Experience the magic of Africa from our Treehouses — Chalkley’s classic charm, Kingston’s luxury retreat, and Tineyeti’s riverside escape. Fall asleep to the sounds of the wild beneath endless, starlit skies for a true safari adventure.

Creative Lab
Details +
Less -
Capture and Create

Print your favorite photos on high - quality canvas for lasting keepsakes or gifts. Need gear? Rent cameras and get expert advice to capture the perfect shot.

Bush Cuisine
Details +
Less -
Boma Feast: A Taste of Southern Africa

Savor unforgettable boma feasts and safari stops, with menus tailored to all dietary needs, including Halaal and Kosher. Our chefs blend local flavors into contemporary dishes for a true taste of Southern Africa.

Spa & Wellness
Details +
Less -
Unwind and Reconnect with Nature

Reset your spirit at Lion Sands Spa with deep rest, nourishing cuisine, serene forest walks, spa treatments, and yoga on your private deck — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Lions Sands Reserve + Sustainability in Action

<h2 class="ts--heading-l">Sharing <span style="text-transform:lowercase; font-style:italic;">the</span>
<span style="display:block;">Conservation for Future Generations</span></h2>

Established in 1948, Lion Sands Sabi Sand forms part of Sabi Sand Nature Reserve—the oldest private nature reserve in South Africa, with the owner’s grandfather as one of the founders.

Lion Sands is the only private sanctuary with a footprint in both Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and the Kruger National Park. The 31 miles / 50km border between these wild spaces is unfenced, and the wildlife roams freely between them. Lion Sands is home to an unparalleled number and diversity of species, most of which are non-migratory, so you are guaranteed an exceptional safari experience year-round.

View Fact Sheet
Exclusively My<br/>Africa Safari
"Rhythm of the Wild: Your Personalized Safari to Lion Sands" begins here.

Customize your dream safari to Lion Sands in the iconic Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Africa’s legendary Big 5. With "Exclusively My Africa" by Wild Earth Stays, every detail—from logistics & lodges to close-up wildlife encounters—is tailored to your rhythm, your dreams, and your desire for the wild.

guests |
From $ pp/night

Discover the soul of Africa at Lion Sands River Lodge, nestled along the Sabie River in the world-renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve. <br/> With just 20 luxury suites, the lodge offers an exclusive and deeply personal safari experience surrounded by breathtaking wilderness. <br/> <br/> Watch the Big Five from your private deck, embark on guided bush walks, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of the wild. Natural beauty flows through every moment—from serene riverside views to starlit boma feasts.<br/> <br/>"At Lion Sands River Lodge, you don’t just visit the wild—you become part of it," says James Papagno." It's a place that touches your soul and calls you back to nature."

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9 Suites
9 Suite
2 guests | King Bed
From $0 pp/night
Stay at Lion Sands Narina Lodge:
featuring just nine private suites elevated above the Sabi River in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. <br/> 

Enjoy plunge pools, sweeping bush veld views, and intimate Big Five safari experiences. <br/>

Soak up the simple pleasures of life and the deep connection with the river and nature. Living feels easy here. <br/>

Narina Lodge lets you feel Africa’s soul in absolute comfort,

Details +
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9 Suites
9 Tinga Suite
2 guests | King
From $2924 pp/night

River-Facing Luxury at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge <br/>
Discover nine elegant suites overlooking the Sabie River, where vintage safari style meets modern luxury. Each suite offers a private deck and plunge pool, perfect for watching hippos, elephants, and giraffes pass by.<br/> <br/> Unwind in your riverside sanctuary, then connect via elevated walkways to the main lodge with its spa, bar lounge, pool, and open-air boma. <br/> At night, fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the African bush—a true Big 5 safari experience in the heart of Sabi Sand Reserve.

Details +
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Lodge Suite
Lodge Suites
guests |
From $0 pp/night

AS OF APRIL 2025, IVORY LODGE IS  UNDER RENOVATION:  <br/> <br/> At Ivory Lodge, eight exclusive suites offer the ultimate in privacy and comfort, each with a private lounge, deck, and plunge pool overlooking the wild riverscape.

<br/> Every detail — from your favorite wine stocked in your maxi bar to personalized safari experiences — is tailored just for you.

Details +
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1
1 Fish Eagle Residence
6 guests | Sleeps up to 6 Adults & 2 Children
From $ pp/night

Tucked deep along the Sabi River, Fish Eagle Residence is your private gateway to Africa’s soul. Here, nature comes to you—elephants drinking at the river, birds carving the sky—while you savor every moment from your own secluded sanctuary.

With private air access and a hidden entrance, your days are yours to shape. Drift between sunrise safaris, barefoot bush walks, quiet family meals, refreshing swims in the 10m lap pool, and wellness rituals set to the sounds of the wild.

Your personal team—concierge, chef, butler, and field guide—ensures every detail is effortless. At Fish Eagle Residence, time slows, nature breathes, and you rediscover the luxury of simply being.

Details +
Less -
1
1 Hinkwenu Residence
6 guests | Sleeps up to 6 Adults & 2 Children
From $ pp/night

Tucked deep along the Sabi River, Hinkwenu Residence is your private gateway to Africa’s soul. Here, nature comes to you—elephants drinking at the river, birds carving the sky—while you savor every moment from your own secluded sanctuary.

With private air access and a hidden entrance, your days are yours to shape. Drift between sunrise safaris, barefoot bush walks, quiet family meals, refreshing swims in the 10m lap pool, and wellness rituals set to the sounds of the wild.

Your personal team—concierge, chef, butler, and field guide—ensures every detail is effortless. At Fish Eagle Residence, time slows, nature breathes, and you rediscover the luxury of simply being.

Details +
Less -

Choose Your Experience

Africa will ignite your senses, making every moment feel special. Here, at any of the Lion Sands lodges or residences, every detail revolves around you for an unmatched, incredible Safari.
Game Drives
Details +
A Ride in the Wild

Indulge in a range of private safaris, big 5 safaris morning & evening safaris, stargazing and delightful safari surprises along the way. All while in the capable hands of an expert qualified field guide.

Walks
Details +
Expert Guided Walks in the Bush

Led by your expert field guides, these are our walks on the wild side. For those who want to experience the bush, beyond just observing it, there is no more real excursion. Spend a hour or two being part of nature.

Treehouses
Details +
Romance Under the Cosmos! Sleep Under African Skies

Experience the magic of Africa from our Treehouses — Chalkley’s classic charm, Kingston’s luxury retreat, and Tineyeti’s riverside escape. Fall asleep to the sounds of the wild beneath endless, starlit skies for a true safari adventure.

Creative Lab
Details +
Capture and Create

Print your favorite photos on high - quality canvas for lasting keepsakes or gifts. Need gear? Rent cameras and get expert advice to capture the perfect shot.

Bush Cuisine
Details +
Boma Feast: A Taste of Southern Africa

Savor unforgettable boma feasts and safari stops, with menus tailored to all dietary needs, including Halaal and Kosher. Our chefs blend local flavors into contemporary dishes for a true taste of Southern Africa.

Spa & Wellness
Details +
Unwind and Reconnect with Nature

Reset your spirit at Lion Sands Spa with deep rest, nourishing cuisine, serene forest walks, spa treatments, and yoga on your private deck — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Lions Sands Reserve + Sustainability in Action

<h2 class="ts--heading-l">Sharing <span style="text-transform:lowercase; font-style:italic;">the</span>
<span style="display:block;">Conservation for Future Generations</span></h2>

Established in 1948, Lion Sands Sabi Sand forms part of Sabi Sand Nature Reserve—the oldest private nature reserve in South Africa, with the owner’s grandfather as one of the founders.

Lion Sands is the only private sanctuary with a footprint in both Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and the Kruger National Park. The 31 miles / 50km border between these wild spaces is unfenced, and the wildlife roams freely between them. Lion Sands is home to an unparalleled number and diversity of species, most of which are non-migratory, so you are guaranteed an exceptional safari experience year-round.

View Fact Sheet
Exclusively My<br/>Africa Safari
"Rhythm of the Wild: Your Personalized Safari to Lion Sands" begins here.

Customize your dream safari to Lion Sands in the iconic Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Africa’s legendary Big 5. With "Exclusively My Africa" by Wild Earth Stays, every detail—from logistics & lodges to close-up wildlife encounters—is tailored to your rhythm, your dreams, and your desire for the wild.

Lions Sands Reserve + Sustainability in Action

<h2 class="ts--heading-l">Sharing <span style="text-transform:lowercase; font-style:italic;">the</span>
<span style="display:block;">Conservation for Future Generations</span></h2>

Established in 1948, Lion Sands Sabi Sand forms part of Sabi Sand Nature Reserve—the oldest private nature reserve in South Africa, with the owner’s grandfather as one of the founders.

Lion Sands is the only private sanctuary with a footprint in both Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and the Kruger National Park. The 31 miles / 50km border between these wild spaces is unfenced, and the wildlife roams freely between them. Lion Sands is home to an unparalleled number and diversity of species, most of which are non-migratory, so you are guaranteed an exceptional safari experience year-round.

View Fact Sheet
Exclusively My<br/>Africa Safari
"Rhythm of the Wild: Your Personalized Safari to Lion Sands" begins here.

Customize your dream safari to Lion Sands in the iconic Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Africa’s legendary Big 5. With "Exclusively My Africa" by Wild Earth Stays, every detail—from logistics & lodges to close-up wildlife encounters—is tailored to your rhythm, your dreams, and your desire for the wild.

Choose Your Experience

Africa will ignite your senses, making every moment feel special. Here, at any of the Lion Sands lodges or residences, every detail revolves around you for an unmatched, incredible Safari.
Game Drives
Details +
Less -
A Ride in the Wild

Indulge in a range of private safaris, big 5 safaris morning & evening safaris, stargazing and delightful safari surprises along the way. All while in the capable hands of an expert qualified field guide.

Walks
Details +
Less -
Expert Guided Walks in the Bush

Led by your expert field guides, these are our walks on the wild side. For those who want to experience the bush, beyond just observing it, there is no more real excursion. Spend a hour or two being part of nature.

Treehouses
Details +
Less -
Romance Under the Cosmos! Sleep Under African Skies

Experience the magic of Africa from our Treehouses — Chalkley’s classic charm, Kingston’s luxury retreat, and Tineyeti’s riverside escape. Fall asleep to the sounds of the wild beneath endless, starlit skies for a true safari adventure.

Creative Lab
Details +
Less -
Capture and Create

Print your favorite photos on high - quality canvas for lasting keepsakes or gifts. Need gear? Rent cameras and get expert advice to capture the perfect shot.

Bush Cuisine
Details +
Less -
Boma Feast: A Taste of Southern Africa

Savor unforgettable boma feasts and safari stops, with menus tailored to all dietary needs, including Halaal and Kosher. Our chefs blend local flavors into contemporary dishes for a true taste of Southern Africa.

Spa & Wellness
Details +
Less -
Unwind and Reconnect with Nature

Reset your spirit at Lion Sands Spa with deep rest, nourishing cuisine, serene forest walks, spa treatments, and yoga on your private deck — all surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Why you'll stay forever
Features only at <br/> Lion Sands Reserves
Wild Life

Not only is the reserve home to the Big 5, but is renowned for its leopards. Spot the endangered pangolin, African wild dogs, African civet and over 500 bird species.

Cuisine

From boma feasts to safari stops, dining promises to be a highlight of your stay. On deck, communal, and in open bush settings.

Photography Lab on Site

Hire photographic equipment and print your personal photos onto high-quality canvas, to create a special keepsake or pass on as gifts.

A Treehouse With History

Stay at Ivory + River Lodge and sleep under the starry sky after a lantern lit dinner in a n open tree house. Built on the site where the owners’ ancestor Guy Aubrey Chalkley once set up camp in a leadwood tree, rests the infamous Chalkley Treehouse.

MEET
YOUR HOST
Joffers McCormick
Connections Matter!

Meet your dedicated Stay Host and Wild Earth Stay team members during a live consultation and let's plan your perfect journey as a team.

Your host will be joined by members of the Wild Earth team to walk you through your stay and answer your questions live.

From the Wild at Heart

Populated by the CMS. Do not edit.

Name, Date, Source

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

Our Dream Safari Came True! We would definitely recommend Lion Sand’s River Lodge! We came here for our honeymoon and this was the most special holiday of our lives. The service was fantastic.

Joshua,
Dec 2024,
Trip Advisor

Wow & Absolute Awe! One of the greatest Experiences of my Life! The whole trip was like a dream. We saw all of the big 5 & the service was outstanding.

Natalie,
Jan 2025,
Trip Advisor

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Browse all destinations where this brand brings nature and comfort together.

Discover the full portfolio of stays by location. From there, let our expert team craft a custom itinerary tailored to your travel dreams.

Where on earth
BE BOLD.
GO SOMEWHERE NEW.
Location
South Africa / Africa
-24.9723,31.5312
Kruger National Park, Sabi Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa
NEAREST AIRPORT
Skukuza Airport
A road transfer from the airport delivers guests to Lion Sands Game Reserve in a short game drive.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
May – September
Wildlife viewing is the best during the dry winter season spanning from May - Sept.
Where on earth
Your Private Cabin Aways your Choosing
No items found.
Exclusively My<br/>Africa Safari
"Rhythm of the Wild: Your Personalized Safari to Lion Sands" begins here.

Customize your dream safari to Lion Sands in the iconic Sabi Sand Reserve, home to Africa’s legendary Big 5. With "Exclusively My Africa" by Wild Earth Stays, every detail—from logistics & lodges to close-up wildlife encounters—is tailored to your rhythm, your dreams, and your desire for the wild.

MEET YOUR HOST
Joffers McCormick
Connections Matter!

Meet your dedicated Stay Host and Wild Earth Stay team members during a live consultation and let's plan your perfect journey as a team.

Your host will be joined by members of the Wild Earth team to walk you through your stay and answer your questions live.

From the Wild at Heart

Populated by the CMS. Do not edit.

Name, Date, Source

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

“Perhaps the most unique feature, is the opportunity to stay under the stars, in the middle of the bush, in the safety of a treehouse!”

KATRYNM, DEC 2022

Our Dream Safari Came True! We would definitely recommend Lion Sand’s River Lodge! We came here for our honeymoon and this was the most special holiday of our lives. The service was fantastic.

Joshua,
Dec 2024,
Trip Advisor

Wow & Absolute Awe! One of the greatest Experiences of my Life! The whole trip was like a dream. We saw all of the big 5 & the service was outstanding.

Natalie,
Jan 2025,
Trip Advisor