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Lion Sands River Lodge

5.0 star property
All-inclusive hotel with 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Lion Sands River Lodge

Terrace/patio
Exterior
Superior Room | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished
Gift shop
Reception

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Free airport shuttle
  • Bar
  • Pool
  • All inclusive
  • Breakfast included
  • Gym

Explore the area

Map
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Skukuza, Mpumalanga, 1240
  • Kruger National Park
  • Paul Kruger Gate
  • Skukuza Golf Course
  • Skukuza (SZK)

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Room options

View all photos for Luxury Room

Luxury Room | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Luxury Room

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for River Suite

River Suite | Private pool

River Suite

  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Room

Superior Room | Premium bedding, minibar, in-room safe, individually furnished

Superior Room

  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Skukuza

Lion Sands River Lodge places you 11.6 mi (18.7 km) from Kruger National Park. This 26-room, 5-star hotel welcomes business and leisure travelers with 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and free breakfast.

Getting around

  • Skukuza (SZK) - 22 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Amukelekani - ‬80 min drive
  • ‪Lapa Restaurant - ‬64 min drive
  • ‪Cattle Baron Skukuza - ‬80 min drive
  • ‪Selati Train Restaurant & Museum - ‬81 min drive
  • ‪Kudyela Restaurant Protea Hotel Kruger Lodge - ‬64 min drive

About this property

Lion Sands River Lodge

All-inclusive hotel with 2 outdoor pools and a full-service spa
Guests of Lion Sands River Lodge have access to a full-service spa, 2 outdoor pools, and a gym. Free valet and self parking are available—or if you're not driving, take the free airport shuttle (available on request). The front desk has multilingual staff on hand 24/7 to help with luggage storage, dry cleaning/laundry, and securing valuables. Other amenities at this all-inclusive hotel include free WiFi in public areas, coffee/tea in a common area, and a terrace.
Beds are dressed in premium bedding and bathrooms offer hair dryers and designer toiletries. Other amenities include patios, minibars, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available on request.
Guests can experience the thrill of a safari, and take advantage of a fitness center. 2 outdoor swimming pools are on site.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Guests can indulge in a pampering treatment at the hotel's full-service spa, Africology Wellness. Services include deep-tissue massages, facials, and manicures and pedicures. A variety of treatment therapies are provided, including aromatherapy. Guests under 10 years old are not allowed in the spa.

Languages

English

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Property amenity

Leopard Sands, Kruger Park

  • Pool
  • All inclusive
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, 4 reviews
$1,053 nightly
The price is $1,211
Jul 28 - Jul 29
Total includes taxes and fees
Leopard Sands, Kruger Park

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Dial-up internet
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free roundtrip airport shuttle from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM at scheduled times and on request
  • Free self parking on site
  • Free valet parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free English breakfast available daily 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM
  • A bar/lounge
  • A restaurant
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Restaurants on site

  • Boma Dinner

Things to do

  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Full-service spa
  • Game drive
  • Game viewing
  • Gym
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Safari
  • TV in common areas

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Gift shop/newsstand
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Safe at front desk
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Change of towels on request
  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop
  • Turndown service
  • Wedding services

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Terrace
  • Vegetable garden

Full-service spa

  • Aromatherapy
  • Deep-tissue massages
  • Facials
  • Manicures/pedicures

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • No elevator
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel

More

  • 1 floor
  • 100% renewable energy
  • Annual offsets purchased for at least 10% of carbon footprint
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Mosquito nets
  • No plastic soft drink bottles
  • Reception hall
  • Rooftop garden
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options
  • Water dispenser usage encouraged

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Bathrobes
  • Designer toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Slippers
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Free bottled water
  • Minibar

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Composting
  • Desk
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Individual furnishings
  • LED lighting
  • Recycling
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters
  • Safe
  • Water-efficient showers

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

This property offers transfers from the airport; to arrange pick-up, guests must contact the property 72 hours prior to arrival, using the contact information on the booking confirmation
Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets or service animals

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children 9 and younger (only guests older than 9 are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Destination fee: ZAR 160 per person, per stay. This fee does not apply to children under 2 years of age.
  • Resort fee: ZAR 573.99 per person, per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
Cashless transactions are available
This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 2 PM
  • Check-out: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is open 24 hours a day. For convenient arrivals and departures, you can take advantage of the free airport shuttle (available during limited hours). Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Lion River Lodge
Lion Sands Lodge
Lion Sands River
Lion Sands River Kruger National Park
Lion Sands Sabi Sand All-inclusive property Kruger National Park
Lion Sands River Lodge Kruger National Park
River Lodge Lion Sands
Lion Sands River Lodge South Africa/Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Lion Sands Sabi Sand Resort
Lion Sands Sabi Sand Kruger National Park
Lion Sands Sabi Sand
Lion Sands River Hotel Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Lion Sands Tinga Lodge Kruger National Park
Lion Sands Tinga
Lion Sands Tinga Kruger National Park
Lion Sands River Lodge Kruger National Park
All-inclusive property Lion Sands Tinga Lodge
Lion Sands Sabi Sand
Lion Sands River Lodge
All-inclusive property Lion Sands Tinga Lodge
Lion Sands Tinga Lodge Kruger National Park
Lion Sands Tinga Kruger National Park
Lion Sands Tinga
Lion Sands Sabi Sand
Lion Sands River Lodge
All Inclusive Lion Sands Tinga
Lion Sands River Lodge All-inclusive property
Lion Sands Sabi Sand
Lion Sands Tinga Lodge
Lion Sands River All Inclusive

Frequently asked questions

Can I book all-inclusive rate plans at Lion Sands River Lodge?

Lion Sands River Lodge is an all-inclusive resort and rates come with all meals.

What's there to do within easy reach of Lion Sands River Lodge?

This hotel is located in Skukuza, close to Kruger National Park, Paul Kruger Gate, and Skukuza Golf Course. You'll also find Paul Kruger Statue and AM Spa Kruger nearby.

Is parking available on site at Lion Sands River Lodge?

Yes, valet parking and self parking are offered for free at the hotel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Is there a spa at Lion Sands River Lodge?

Africology Wellness is the hotel's spa and services include deep-tissue massages, aromatherapy, and mani/pedis.

Does Lion Sands River Lodge feature a casino?

No, Lion Sands River Lodge doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Lion Sands River Lodge?

No, this hotel doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there are 2 outdoor pools.

What do couples enjoy most about Lion Sands River Lodge?

This boutique hotel offers plenty of amenities for couples including 2 outdoor pools, a bar, and a restaurant.

Are there hot tubs at Lion Sands River Lodge?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Lion Sands River Lodge have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

Yes, Lion Sands River Lodge serves free English breakfast at Boma Dinner each morning.

Will Lion Sands River Lodge allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets and service animals aren't allowed at Lion Sands River Lodge.

Does Lion Sands River Lodge have connecting rooms?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from Lion Sands River Lodge?

The closest major airport to Lion Sands River Lodge is Skukuza (SZK), which is 6.6 mi away (22 minutes by car). Another top airport is Mala Mala (AAM), which is around 10.9 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Lion Sands River Lodge?

Yes, every guestroom at Lion Sands River Lodge comes with a patio with some featuring river views.

Does Lion Sands River Lodge have a wedding venue?

If you plan to exchange vows during your trip, consider the wedding services available at Lion Sands River Lodge.

Lion Sands River Lodge Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

simon

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Osama

Liked: Staff & service
We had a major problem in our room and that ants spiders and mosquitoes were in the room. The main door is not sealed property, allowing for these insects to enter. Staff could not find a solution for this problem.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Amy, Novi

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The whole trip was like a dream. We saw all of the big 5. The service was outstanding.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We would definitely recommend Lion Sand’s River Lodge! We came here for our honeymoon and this was the most special holiday of our lives. We stayed in the River Suite, which was beautiful, as was the rest of the hotel. The service was fantastic - every member of staff (whether that be in the restaurant, behind the bar, cleaning staff, reception, etc) were incredibly kind, chatty and attentive. The food during our stay was excellent. The highlight of this trip was certainly the game drives. We had Jason (field guide) and Abraham (tracker) and both guys were incredibly knowledgeable, skilled and just very nice people - we really hope that our paths cross again some day! We have been given memories that will last a life time! Josh & Jennifer
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

The Place to Stay for Safari!

Incredible! This is the place to stay when going on safari. My wife loved the spa and the staff really pampers you!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Sylvia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Amazing place with super friendly staff and guests.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff and top notch room quality. Wildlife wonders right up to your porch!
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

CY, New York, NY

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing, special place. One of my favorite spots in the world.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Come for the safari but enjoy the location!

The main reason to stay here is of course the safari drives, and these were exceptional. it seemed like every drive we saw something amazing. The rooms are well appointed and the staff do a great job with keeping everything in good order. Food was of good quality and staff are friendly. The pool area is wonderful to relax in; we saw elephants from it!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great service, great people.

Great service.
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Amazing place in sabi sands reserve

Just returned from three magical days at the Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sands reserve at Kruger Park Super luxury suites with private pools and decks to watch game in river, we saw elephants and rhinos. Had a semi private butler at meals and the wine sommelier, Reggie, laid out the good stuff for us. Saw lions, leopards, rhinos, hippos and lots of others. Lion Sands set the standard for the private Sabi Sands lodges. Their River Lodge property is next door and offes same game drives at slightly less indulgence

10/10 Excellent

Natasha, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Beyond Amazing

The staff, super friendly and were happy to go out of there way and listen to your personal preference to make you stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Cleanliness 110% Completely worth the price you pay! Luxury lodges Great food the game drives were beyond expectations Could not have asked for a better experience! Hope to return in the near future

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa, New York, NY

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
I can't say enough about this place. It was a memorable experience. Our only regret was not staying longer. The game drives, ranger, tracker, butler, house keeping, lodge staff, room, ambiance were all spectacular! Looking forward to a repeat visit.

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great safari

We stayed in river lodge which is very good with good river view. The catering and room services are wonderful. All the staff are very polite and helpful. We had 4 safari game drives. Our ranger Liam is very passionate and has good knowledge on everything in the forest! We enjoyed the safari a lot!

8/10 Good

Michael, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great Hotel but pricey

This was a beautiful hotel, the room was nice and comfortable and filled with wildlife. The food was excellent and so was the staff. The tree-house we stayed at for a night did not meet expectations... we got there just about two minites before sunset and did not have time to take enough pictures and soak it all in. Our hot dinner was ice cold and the toilet did not have the water turned on. Having said that the place was beautiful and romanitically decorated.

10/10 Excellent

SC Couple, Greenville, SC

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Outstanding lodge and staff

Lion Sands was beyond our expectations in everyway. We planned this trip as a once in a lifetime experience and within a day were thinking - we have to come back here. The staff was amazing in every way and made the entire stay much more enjoyable. The rooms were spacious and bedding and bathroom were great. The food was delicious and the evening meals varied in location with entertainment provided some nights. The safari guides and trackers were beyond belief in their knowledge of the animals, birds, plants, etc. with the opportunity to explore with your guides 6 to 8 hours a day. We are telling everyone what an amazing place this was and recommending it to all.

10/10 Excellent

EZ, Sydney

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Amazing wildlife and great service

We had a wonderful time at Lion Sands. Very friendly staff, great food and fantastic game drives with knowledgable guides.

6/10 Okay

Toni, Australia

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great except for LIMITED "all-inclusive"

Having just come from a resort where all-inclusive included all items in the VERY WELL stocked mini-bar as well as laundry, we were very disappointed that this wasn't the case at Lion Sands. Even at lunch, dinner and the bar, we were only offered 1choice of red wine, which wasn't very good. Considering the price of this hotel, we felt these extras should be included.

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Excellence from Top to Bottom

In 3 days we did not encounter a poorly trained staff member. The entire team is impressive. They institute numerous small, unique features that speak to a wise business plan carried out with attention to detail. The food was especially excellent and beautifully presented.

10/10 Excellent

Miki

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

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