My partner and I visited the Lion Sands Resort and stayed at the Ivory Lodge (this is the flagship property for the resort) for our honeymoon, which was a wonderful experience. The rooms are private, and beautifully designed and maintained. At this property they also have a small communal bar/lounge, a sun deck for dining and a small restaurant. It’s very intimate and the majority of time you will spend our on the bush tours; or in your room. If you are looking for a more lively, social experience I would suggest the River Lodge which has a large Fire pit , gift shop, and larger bar area (about 20 rooms vs. the 9 at Ivory). The Ivory Lodge however- is without a doubt, more luxurious. The staff is very welcoming and accommodating, offering fresh hand towels after every bush ride, a glass of bubbly, and is happy to escort you to your room before and after experiences to ensure you are safe and fulfill your every need. You have the same tour guide, butler and cleaning staff for the duration of your stay which makes the experience very personal and customized. The food is well presented and flavorful, but you have to be open to trying some eclectic and exotic foods (kudu,ostrich, deer, curries etc.) They are accommodating and will make exceptions (they even have kosher option) but you need to be open to something new. Not for a picky eater. Food and beverage is all inclusive. The details are top notch and the overall experience is very much 5 Star. Would highly recommend this resort, for the perfect 3-4 day vacation (anything longer then that is mundane and repetitive).

Top notch lodge: beautiful architecture, stunning location, spacious and comfortable rooms, tasty food, excellent guides and trackers, great spa, very attentive staff. We arrived at the river lodge straight from J‘burg /our international flight into SA. Within minutes of arrival at the lodge and first game drive we found ourselves decompressing from everyday and corporate stress. Game drives take place for 3 hours twice a day (5.30am and 4.30pm). The safari vehicles are the most comfortable we have ever experienced and with max. 6 people on each vehicle. Cruising through the beautiful landscape open air so comfortably is already a mediative and highly enjoyable experience, the incredible animal sightings (which in our case happened every day during the 4 days we stayed there) is a plus. Our guide Gus and tracker Tony were simply fantastic. Experts in their field leading to sightings of Big 6 + more and incredibly friendly too. It was a pleasure spending our time in the company of such impressive people. During morning drives there is a coffee & snack stop and in the afternoon there are sundowners with snacks. Gus and Tony always took us to incredibly scenic locations to enjoy these treats. We cannot stop rewatching the videos we made and hopefully experience this live again soon. The lodge itself is very stylish and in a stunning location next to Sabie river. Just lounging by the beautiful pool in between game drives is bliss with antilopes grazing nearby and making the whole experience serene beyond words. There is a little gym, a creative gallery and a boutique on-site. The food is mostly very good. Very good snacks are available prior to each game drive in the lounge, breakfast is delicious, for lunch & dinner there are 3 options to choose from followed by a sweet dessert or fruit. The wine and bubbly in the all-inclusive package was ok, but I think there would be better options in the same price class in a country like South Africa. The spa therapists were great. We went for a deep tissue massage, which was heavenly. Also the great Africology products are available in rooms and are sold in the spa. Finally, our butler Elliott was beyond attentive. Once he knew our preferences, he would pro-actively spoil us for example by already heading our way with our favorite drinks for lunch and dinner. Also once he saw how I prepare my morning muesli (with all bran and almond milk) he went on to prepare it for me exactly as I like it. I never felt so breakfast pampered before! A clear COVID protocol was in place incl. daily measures of temperatures, wearing mask in public areas, mini breakfast buffet brought to each table etc.

My husband and I booked during the early stages of lockdown. This enabled ordinary South Africans like us, to experience the luxury and kind generosity of Lion Sands. Often one finds that on specials the service providers skimp and offer a lesser service. At NO time did I feel as if we were getting the discounted package. For that I commend the whole team. Lorain the chef produced the most delightful gourmet food. The combinations, the balance and not to forget the wonderful plating provided a wonderful food experience. Solly our butler was kind, attentive and anticipated our every need. Anthony and Andries our guide and tracker were lovely. Trying hard to give us the best possible game viewing, sharing knowledge. The room was immaculate and so well designed - decor delightful. My kind of style. We would be honoured and privileged to have another chance to visit you and hopefully SOON. Thank you