Lion Sands River Lodge

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Description

Welcome to River Lodge — the heartbeat of Lion Sands Game Reserve, where ancient trees, timeless beauty, and heartfelt African hospitality come together in perfect harmony.

Cradled on the lush banks of the Sabie River, River Lodge is built where giants have stood for over 800 years — trees that have witnessed centuries of sunrises, animal migrations, and quiet moments like the ones you’re about to enjoy. Here, you’re invited to truly pause — to breathe, to connect, and to experience the wild in its most welcoming form.

This is where nature’s rhythm gently becomes your own.

The public spaces at River Lodge have been designed for both togetherness and serenity.

Unwind in the private lounge with its cozy fireplace or sip cocktails in the open-air safari lounge, where the scent of the bush and the sound of distant wildlife surround you.

Meander down wooden walkways to heated pools (perfect even on cooler winter days), or find peaceful solitude in the bird hide — a sanctuary within a sanctuary.

The magnificent River Deck, suspended above the flowing waters, is a place where you’ll feel time slow down — ideal for morning coffee, quiet reflection, or romantic sunset toasts.

For those seeking balance and renewal, the Africology Health Spa and gymnasium offer rejuvenating treatments and wellness in the heart of the wild. Guests can also enjoy curated shopping at the lodge’s boutique curio shop, a collection of handcrafted treasures and mementos.

Dining at River Lodge is a sensory journey in itself, with intimate indoor meals or open-air feasts around the Boma fire beneath a sky scattered with stars.

Every meal is a celebration of local flavors, hospitality, and shared stories.

For families, the Mack & Madi kids' programme brings the spirit of the safari alive for young explorers through adventure-filled activities and hands-on learning — while adults set off on unforgettable game drives and wildlife encounters that bring you thrillingly close to Africa’s most iconic creatures.

River Lodge is more than a destination. It’s a feeling — a soulful retreat that stays with you long after your safari ends.

TripAdvisor Reviews

Availability

Sleeps	Room type
2 adults	Luxury Room
2 adults	Superior Luxury Room
2 adults	River Suite
MAX 2 Adults and 2 Kids	2-Bedroom River Suite

Reasons to choose

Rated one of the Top 20 Lodges in Africa

Idyllic romantic setting

Situated between Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park

Exceptional wildlife experience

Exquisite accommodation with extraordinary views

Dedicated Mack & Madi kids' programme

Facilities

General

24-hour Security
Bar
Eco Friendly
Gym
Internet Access
Library
Mobile Connectivity
Pool
Secure Parking
Spa

Activities

For the ultimate experience in safari activities, Lion Sands River Lodge is the right place to visit. Go on safari adventure during the morning and late afternoon game drives guided by experienced rangers and trackers. The chances of seeing the Big Five are nowhere better than in the Sabi Sands. The time in between safari activities can be used for a range of other activities: relax at the pool, read a book on your own viewing deck or get yourself pampered at the Lalamuka Spa.

Game drives and bush walks
Hippo tours
Stargazing sessions
Game Walks
River tours
Safaris lunches
Wildlife lectures
Bush dinners

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Rates

2026

Dates	Room Type	Board Basis	Rate
4 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026	Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1583
4 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026	Superior Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1740
4 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026	River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2033
4 Jan 2026 - 31 May 2026	2-Bedroom River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2033
01 June 2026 - 30 Sept 2026	Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1796
01 June 2026 - 30 Sept 2026	Superior Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1975
01 June 2026 - 30 Sept 2026	River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2307
01 June 2026 - 30 Sept 2026	2-Bedroom River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2307
01 Oct 2026 - 19 Dec 2026	Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1710
01 Oct 2026 - 19 Dec 2026	Superior Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1879
01 Oct 2026 - 19 Dec 2026	River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2196
01 Oct 2026 - 19 Dec 2026	2-Bedroom River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2196
20 Dec 2026 - 3 Jan 2027	Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1796
20 Dec 2026 - 3 Jan 2027	Superior Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1975
20 Dec 2026 - 3 Jan 2027	River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2307
20 Dec 2026 - 3 Jan 2027	2-Bedroom River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2307

2027

Dates	Room Type	Board Basis	Rate
04 Jan 2027 - 31 May 2027	Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1710
04 Jan 2027 - 31 May 2027	Superior Luxury Room	Per person per night sharing	From $1879
04 Jan 2027 - 31 May 2027	River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2196
04 Jan 2027 - 31 May 2027	2-Bedroom River Suite	Per person per night sharing	From $2196

INCLUDED IN THE RATES

The all-inclusive rate per person per night includes:

Luxurious accommodation
Alll meals teas & coffees, minibar in room, inclusive drinks and selected snacks (all soft drinks, and selection of beers, spirits and house wine)
Bush breakfasts, picnic lunches and bush dinners
Two game drives daily with an accredited field guide and tracker
Game drive refreshments & snacks
Guided bush walks
Hippo Experience
Stargazing
Wildlife lectures
Community visits (excluding weekends, school holidays and public holidays)
Mack & Madi kids' programme
Return transfers between Skukuza Airport and the lodge