Lion Sands River Lodge
Kruger National Park 1240 South Africa
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Dining (85)
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About
#15 of 40 Specialty lodging in Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Location
4.9
Cleanliness
4.9
Service
4.9
Value
4.7
Travelers' Choice
Family owned since 1933, this international award winning private game reserve spans across the world famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park. Lion Sands has four lodges; Lion Sands Ivory Lodge & Lion Sands River Lodge (Sabi Sand) and Lion Sands Tinga Lodge & Lion Sands Narina Lodge (Kruger Park). Each has a unique style, but is a reflection of Lion Sands' five-star signature of sophisticated interiors, unique experiences and service excellence.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free internet
Pool
Fitness / spa locker rooms
Free breakfast
Free airport transportation
Photo copier / fax In business center
Spa
Parking garage
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Heated pool
Private pool
Plunge pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast available
Breakfast buffet
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Kids' meals
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Wine / champagne
Airport transportation
Body wrap
Couples massage
Facial treatments
Foot bath
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Manicure
Massage
Neck massage
Pedicure
Steam room
24-hour security
Baggage storage
Concierge
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor fireplace
Outdoor furniture
Shops
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun umbrellas
Butler service
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Clothes dryer
Dry cleaning
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Allergy-free room
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Housekeeping
Minibar
Electric blanket
Walk-in shower
Interconnected rooms available
Private balcony
Room service
Safe
Seating area
Telephone
Wardrobe / closet
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Private bathrooms
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
HOTEL STYLE
River View
Charming
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans
Location
Contact
Kruger National Park 1240 South Africa
Getting there
Rental CarsSee all Sabi Sand Game Reserve rental cars
1099Reviews36Q+A100Room tips
Reviews
Traveler rating
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Our #1 favorite vacation! Ozy and Heavy were the best duo for game drives and the rest of the staff were attentive and friendly at all times. We truly felt removed to another world. If Kruger is the area you want to visit, this is the resort to stay at.
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded 6 days ago
Thank you for your kind words. Ozy and Heavy really are a great duo and they love sharing their knowledge with our guests. You will see plenty of Ozy's excellent wildlife images and video on our social platforms. We are truly glad you loved your stay and hope you will join us again. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We loved this safari lodge. The guides (especially Simon)were so knowledgeable and passionate about sharing their beautiful country. Our room was attractive and very comfortable. They set up outdoor meals and sundowners out in remote locations. Food was outstanding. Star filled skies-magnificent!
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded 6 days ago
Thank you! We do love spoiling our guests with special surprises and we are glad you loved the outdoor meals and sundowners. We have passed on your compliments to Simon who sends his best wishes. We hope you will be back. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
This place is that rarified find of perfection. The accommodations are wonderful, the staff courteous and yet the whole ambiance is one of cozy comfort. Our guide Raymond was knowledgeable and Amu our tracker had super vision! We saw the big 5 and many more. Truly a magical experience.
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Date of stay: March 2023Trip type: Traveled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
It was wonderful to have you join us. So glad you loved your game drives and coming back to cool off in your pool. Thank you for leaving such a lovely review. We have passed on your compliments. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
It's truly hard to find the right words to summarize how much we loved our stay at Lion Sands! We happened to visit after incredibly heavy rainfall in the area, and even despite the challenges brought on by muddy and wet roads, the staff were in great spirits and didn't miss a beat or overlook a single detail. We took advantage of as much as we could - morning and afternoon game drives, the spa, the pool, the bar, the computer for photo editing and printing, and a night in the Kingston treehouse. We especially loved our game drives, largely due to our safari guide and tracker, Ozy and Heavy. They were excellent! We saw the Big 5, enjoyed coffee and cocktails, and had so much fun. Going into the trip, we described it as 'once in a lifetime,' and before we left, we were already planning our next visit. And, one last note - we ended up forgetting something at the property as we continued on our travels, and the team went above and beyond to get it back to us before we returned to the US. We can't thank you enough!!…
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Date of stay: February 2023
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Thank you for these lovely words. We had so much fun with both of you. The rainfall just added to the adventure. So glad you were able to experience the magic of Kingston Treehouse too. You truly lived every moment of the Lion Sands experience, and we look very forward to welcoming you back. We hope you are loving your canvas prints and think of us whenever you look at them. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We stayed at Lion Sands at the start of our honeymoon and what a way to start! The property is amazing with beautiful views over the Sabie river. The staff were really warm and welcoming. The game drives were amazing and exceeded our expectations. We particularly enjoyed the boma night with all the staff. We would also recommend staying in the treehouse!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: February 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Feb 14, 2023
Thank you so much for your kind words. There is no disputing that Lion Sands has that African safari romantic setting. We are so glad that you enjoyed your honeymoon here with us. The treehouse an absolute must indeed. We hope to see you on one of your anniversaries. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Words cannot describe how magical lion sands river lodge is. The staff is so welcoming and feels like family. Our guide Gino was phenomenal! He is so knowledgeable & genuine and truly made our experience unforgettable. Our ranger Patrick literally found every animal we wanted to see he is so talented! Given was such a great server our entire stay and Alice was so nice & helpful with our camera. The massages were incredible and the food was out of this world. Every meal, every little detail, was amazing. This will forever be my favorite place and trip in the world!
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Feb 13, 2023
You definitely know how to make our day. We absolutely love delighting our guests and we are elated that we are your favourite place in the world. What an honour indeed. We truly are blessed with incredibly passionate and dedicated people on our team. Thank you for recognising them. We all hope to see you again. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We had the most memorable stay at Lions Sands River Lodge. Everything was exceptional with first class service throughout, and every detail thought of. Incredible staff, accommodation, food. The game drives were amazing with extremely knowledgeable and interesting guides and trackers. We definitely did not want to miss one drive! The decor and facilities are also exceptional, clean and beautiful.
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Feb 9, 2023
Thank you. Lion Sands Game Reserve is an incredible location, and we are so glad you had such a wonderful experience with us. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The lodge was amazing. The people are friendly, helpful, and genuine. The guide and tracker were knowledgeable, listened to what the group wanted to see, and we could tell they enjoyed what they do. It was crazy how close we got to the animals and felt completely safe. The lodge itself was modern and wide open. We had animals along our path to our rooms every day. (nothing intimidating) The room was over the top. I recommend the rooms with the pool. It was the perfect place to hang out between game drives. The food was tasty and there was a decent variety to make everyone happy. I highly recommend the Lion Sands River Lodge!
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023Trip type: Traveled on business
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Jan 24, 2023
Thank you so much. Your review means a lot to us, and we are so glad to be part of your happy memories. We certainly agree about the pool being the place to be in between game drives! We hope we shall see you again. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We loved the energy of the staff at the Lion Sands. It was so thoughtful for the head chef to meet with us briefly when we arrived. When he found out that I prefer a vegetarian diet (but was perfectly fine to roll with anything served), he immediately created a vegetarian menu that was placed at my table at every meal! Our rooms were huge and very luxurious. We appreciated that when we enjoyed something out of the mini bar (like a Diet Coke!), those items were immediately restocked upon the next visit by housekeeping. Our guide, Ozy, is such a delight - articulate, knowledgeable, well-mannered, funny, and careful to engage every member of our family. Ozy is an incredible team with Heaviness "Heavy", the tracker. Heavy has bionic hearing. With all the chattering and bantering in the jeep amongst our family members, Heavy would be able to single out faint animal sounds and know what might be happening close by. We saw everything. We also know we got incredibly lucky. One cannot script animal behavior and yet, we witnessed lions eating their fresh giraffe kill. We also watch a leopard stack two individual impala kills like cord wood up in her tree branch refuge. We rode down to the riverbank one afternoon and watched a large bloat of hippos of all ages enjoy the rushing current over their huge bodies. Our trip to Lion Sands fell over New Year's Eve. The staff at Lion Sands transformed the lounge into a disco. We had an absolute blast dancing and enjoying a few beverages with the young guide staff, our adult kids, and the other guests.…
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Date of stay: January 2023
Value
Rooms
Service
Room Tip: The rooms are essentially bungalows. Our family had three rooms and they all seemed equally...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Jan 16, 2023
What a special time we had with your family. Ozy and Heavy are certainly experts and your sightings were truly memorable. What a lovely evening New Year's turned out to be. A perfect way to welcome in the New Year, and a good way to celebrate the big 6 0 Kate. Count us in for the 70th or sooner if you prefer. Best wishes from our team. Until next time... Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Our experience at Lion Sands was faultless; Pierre and Joe as Ranger and Tracker make a phenomenal team, with both of them engaging our children and opening all of our eyes to the wonders of nature. At our Lodges, Sindiie did an amazing job of keeping things perfectly clean and shipshape. Phili ensuring we had incredible service & drinks without asking, working tirelessly with the excellent Chefs to produce a range of food which was not only well presented and delicious, but also our rather selective children were eager to eat. Overall this was customer service on a level we have not experienced elsewhere. I must also mention the fuss that was made for my wife’s birthday – this was unexpected and absolutely made her day! All staff were amazing; nothing being too much trouble and worked together as a great team to make our stay at Lion Sands a truly memorable safari experience. …
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Review collected in partnership with this hotel
Date of stay: January 2023
Value
Rooms
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helpful
Response from MORE Family Collection Lodges and Hotels, General Manager at Lion Sands River Lodge
Responded Jan 13, 2023
It was an absolute pleasure to spoil all of you as much as we could. Being on safari is such a special time to reconnect with one another and we are so glad you have such memorable moments. We have passed on your compliments to the team. We appreciate the kind words, and we hope you will join us again. Kind regards, Jopie van Rooyen, General Manager, Sabi Sand, Lion Sands Game Reserve
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
$2,117 - $2,495 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
lion sands river hotel sabi sand game reserve
LOCATION
South AfricaKruger National ParkSabi Sand Game Reserve
NUMBER OF ROOMS
18
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Claim Your ListingLION SANDS RIVER LODGE - Updated 2023 Prices & Reviews (South Africa/Sabi Sand Game Reserve)
Frequently Asked Questions about Lion Sands River Lodge
What are some of the property amenities at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free breakfast, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a desk.
What food & drink options are available at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
Is parking available at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, free parking, a parking garage, and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and locker rooms available in the fitness center during their stay.
Does Lion Sands River Lodge have airport transportation?
Yes, Lion Sands River Lodge offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Is Lion Sands River Lodge located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.08 miles away from the center of Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Are any cleaning services offered at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, dry cleaning and laundry service are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Lion Sands River Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English and Afrikaans.
Does Lion Sands River Lodge have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the river view available here.
Is Lion Sands River Lodge accessible?
Yes, it offers reduced mobility rooms and facilities for disabled guests. For specific inquiries, we recommend calling ahead to confirm.