River Lodge is the heart and soul of the Lion Sands Nature Reserve - it is the first lodge to be built in the Lion Sands Reserve and has long been the home of the owner family. The lodge faces east and guests are treated to a wonderful sunrise in the morning. On the Sabi Sand side of the reserve, River Lodge offers a chic design interpretation of the traditional safari lodge.

River Lodge is larger then the other options in the reserve. The lodge’s eight Luxury Rooms, six larger Superior Luxury Rooms and four River Suites with private plunge pools are spaced along a path to reveal splendid river views. All rooms are climate-controlled and have a veranda. Some of the rooms stand close together, only separated by a wall and an interleading door - a setup that is ideal for families.

The main building includes a fire pit, swimming pool, boma (dining under the stars), various terraces overlooking the river, a spa and a curio shop.

Lion Sands Game Reserve is part of the Sabi Sand Reserve. From Johannesburg, Lion Sands can be reached in about 1 hour by air, usually to Skukuza Airport. From Cape Town, the flight time is about two hours 30 minutes.

The lodges in the Sabi Sand Reserve are renowned for their excellent game viewing, and encounters with the big five are almost guaranteed. The Kruger Park side is unfenced, allowing the animals to move freely between Kruger National Park and the private nature reserve.

Lion Sands is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Reserve and Kruger National Park, protecting 6,400ha and 6,000ha, respectively, of pristine wildlife habitat, as well as sites of cultural and historical significance. The Sand River borders the area in the north and the Sabie River flows for 12km through the southern part of the reserve. The access to water is always a guarantee for good animal sightings and interesting bird life.

Lion Sands has plenty to offer, including star-gazing, bush breakfasts and dinners, bush walks, hippo tours, safari lunches and exciting game drives. Guests can enjoy the spa facilities or the swimming pool when not participating in activities.

SwissAfrican Travel Service
Dammstrasse 27
8702 Zollikon
Zurich, Switzerland


Telephone: +41 (0)44 451 40 51