Lion Sands
The Sabi Sand Reserve is the oldest of South Africa’s private reserves, and the origin of wildlife tourism in Southern Africa. It is home to a vast natural animal population including The Big Five and countless other species (some of which are critically endangered). Flanking the Kruger National Park, animals pass unhindered between the unfenced reserves. Known for its extraordinary leopard viewing, safari enthusiasts could not find a better place for close-contact animal sightings that many would insist are the best in the world.
The Sabi Sand Reserve (Sabi Sand Wildtuin) shares a 50km (31.25 miles) unfenced border with the Kruger National Park. This extraordinary and unique wilderness area comprises a collection of privately owned game reserves which combine to form a mammoth tract of pristine game land (65 000 hectare/ 153 000 acres). Being privately owned, safaris are not restricted to specific times and routes. Open vehicles are able to traverse off road and into the dense bush, tracking animals in their natural habitat.
The Sand River flows through the reserve for 50km (31 miles) from north west to south east, while the Sabie River flows on the southern boundary. Because of these continuous water sources, the area enjoys one of the highest and most bio-diverse wildlife populations in Africa. Over two hundred different species live in abundance, and the dynamic bird life will appeal to both seasoned “twitchers” and amateur enthusiasts alike.
The Sabi Sand Reserve is renowned for the quality of its leopard viewing (the most elusive of predators). Visitors will also be treated to close contact sightings with elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and a vast variety of antelope and other species.
Safari Lodge
Lion Sands River Lodge
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
River Lodge is the origin of the Lion Sands safari – the elemental safari. Here guests can expect a sophisticated interpretation of the traditional safari lodge, with an emphasis on clean lines, optimised natural light and contemporary décor.
The dining experience includes the traditional Boma ‘with a twist’; the signature Riverbed dinners and deck dining, in the shade of the trees and overlooking the Sabie River. Breakfast is a home-styled experience.
Safari Villa-Exclusive use
Lion Sands Fish Eagle Villa
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
Fish Eagle Villa is the ultimate private safari experience for families and smaller groups of friends, and comes with its own Chef, as well as dedicated Field Guide and private safari vehicle. The Fish Eagle Villa also has its own wellness area (with double treatment room) and private exercise facility – as well as lap pool and jetty overlooking the Sabie River.
The Fish Eagle Villa is able to accommodate up to 6 people sharing (including 4 adults and 2 young children sleeping on single beds in their parents’ room), each of the two Suites having an en-suite open plan bathroom, as well as outdoor shower area.
Safari Lodge
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa
A lodge built ‘of the earth’, with natural materials which will only enhance the surrounding bush environment. The timeless design incorporates steel, wood, thatch, glass, water & sand. A sophisticated mid-century architectural contemporary theme defines the interiors, with bold furniture and edgy décor, ambient lighting, inferences of tribal design and highly textured finishes – all of which combine to make Lion Sands Ivory Lodge an utterly sensory experience.
Ivory Lodge’s interiors reflect an elegant balance between intelligent design and an organic expression of the earth. Light, sound, flow, wood, water and air weave into the golden thread of the lodge’s architectural inspiration.