Lion Sands River Lodge
Lion Sands River Lodge is the original and largest lodge in the Lion Sands Game Reserve, which the official Lion Sands history presents as a family business founded in 1933 (with the lodge itself opening to guests in 1978). It stands on the Sabie River on the Sabi Sand side of the reserve, with views toward Kruger National Park, among ancient trees reported to be over 800 years old. The reserve is family-owned and managed by the MORE family.
Room counts vary by source, generally around 18 to 20 suites, including a mix of luxury and superior luxury categories and at least one two-bedroom family suite; some sources describe river suites with their own private pools. Suites are linked by raised wooden walkways, with king beds (twin on request), air conditioning, mosquito nets, minibars, private wooden decks and bathrooms with outdoor showers, in a contemporary African style.
Morning and late-afternoon game drives with a ranger and tracker pair look for the Big Five and leopard, alongside guided bush walks, birdwatching, astronomy, bush breakfasts and dinners, picnics and village visits, with hot-air ballooning and treehouse sleepouts also offered. Facilities include two heated pools, a spa, a gym, lounges, a curio shop and indoor and outdoor dining with African and gourmet dishes; Wi-Fi is reported throughout. River Lodge is positioned as a livelier, larger lodge within Lion Sands, a natural base for a multi-lodge split with Ivory or Narina.
Frequently asked questions.
Where is Lion Sands River Lodge located?
Lion Sands River Lodge sits on the Sabie River on the Sabi Sand side of the Lion Sands Game Reserve, Greater Kruger, South Africa, with views toward Kruger National Park.
What type of property is Lion Sands River Lodge?
The original and largest lodge within the family-run Lion Sands Game Reserve, offering a livelier, larger-lodge experience than its sister properties.
How many rooms does Lion Sands River Lodge have?
Around 18 to 20 thatched suites depending on the source, including superior and family categories; confirm the current configuration directly with the lodge.
What is the children's policy?
Age rules conflict across sources, ranging from an age-6 recommendation to minimums of 10 or 12 depending on room type. Confirm current policy directly.
What activities are available?
Morning and late-afternoon game drives, guided bush walks, birdwatching, astronomy, bush breakfasts and dinners, village visits, hot-air ballooning and treehouse sleepouts.
What facilities are available?
Two heated pools, a spa, a gym, lounges, a curio shop, a bird hide, indoor and outdoor dining and a boma.
What's the power and Wi-Fi situation?
Wi-Fi is reported throughout the lodge. Power supply and backup arrangements are not published — confirm directly.
What should I know about reservations?
Rates on request. The area is in a malaria region per one source; access is roughly a five-hour drive (520km) from Johannesburg. Confirm check-in times directly.
How do I book Lion Sands River Lodge?
Africa Compass Collection can arrange your booking at Lion Sands River Lodge — whether you're a travel agent or planning directly. Use the "Request a quote" button on this page for a personalised, costed itinerary.