River Lodge at Lion Sands Game Reserve 

Lion Sands’ ultra-luxurious flagship lodge is found in the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

This is Lion Sands’ original safari lodge – a contemporary escape in the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve. It’s the largest of the Lion Sands portfolio and is set by the Sabie River, a natural feature that has inspired the lodge’s design to ensure guests get to experience as much of the surrounding wildlife as possible. Relax on the river deck, take a dip in one of the lodge’s pools or head to the Africology Spa for a muscle-relaxing massage or bespoke facial with premium products. There’s a small gym on-site and a thatched lounge area for afternoons relaxing in the shade. Dining is an affair to remember, with the passionate culinary team creating superb dishes from the finest local produce which are then served in beautiful settings like the lantern-lit boma and on the dining deck.

The rooms and suites at River Lodge are soothing and elegant. Each of the eight thatched Luxury Rooms features an outdoor deck so you can enjoy the serene bush from the privacy on your suite, and en suite with rain shower and an egg-shaped bath. The six Superior Luxury Suites are larger and have a layout which seamlessly blends the bedroom with the open-plan bathroom. Four of the six suites interconnect – a great option for families. For the ultimate luxury, the lodge’s four River Suites offer the same features as the Superior Luxury Suites but are set away from the public areas for extra privacy. River Suites have one or two bedrooms, a private plunge pool and expansive decks to take advantage of their breathtaking river views. If your budget can extend to it – particularly if you’re celebrating a special occasion – a night in one of Lion Sands’ treehouses is a must. Taking the treehouse concept to another level, they’re wonderfully remote and offer the chance to sleep outside in the wild, high up in a four-poster bed with a luxurious picnic to enjoy as you listen out to the calls of wildlife in the night.