Lion Sands River Lodge

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

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

August 2025

September 2025

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Exceptional

Popular amenities

Free airport shuttle
Bar
Pool
All inclusive
Breakfast included
Gym

Explore the area

Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Skukuza, Mpumalanga, 1240

Kruger National Park
Paul Kruger Gate
Skukuza Golf Course
Skukuza (SZK)

Room options

Luxury Room

Very good

River view
Sleeps 2
1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

River Suite

River view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

Superior Room

River view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

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 securing valuables, luggage storage, and dry cleaning/laundry. 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

Similar properties

Pool
All inclusive
Parking included
Free WiFi

$935 nightly

Aug 23 - Aug 24

Total includes taxes and fees

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

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

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.

Will I be able to park 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.

Does Lion Sands River Lodge have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

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.

Can I book a room with a balcony 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

9.6

Exceptional

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Traveled with family

Apr 24, 2025

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

Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

simon

Mar 11, 2025

Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Osama

Feb 10, 2025

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

Feb 3, 2025

Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Natalie

Traveled with partner

Jan 25, 2025

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

Dec 9, 2024

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

Nov 28, 2024

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

Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

David

Dec 30, 2022

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

10/10 Excellent

James

Jul 19, 2019

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

Apr 14, 2019

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

Jan 26, 2019

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

Jan 20, 2019

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

Jan 13, 2019

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

Dec 8, 2018

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

Nov 23, 2018

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

Nov 20, 2018

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

Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2018

10/10 Excellent

Michael

May 7, 2018

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

Sep 27, 2016

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

Mar 15, 2016

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

Oct 25, 2015

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

May 22, 2014

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

Jun 27, 2013

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

May 16, 2013

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

Apr 13, 2013

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

Jun 21, 2012

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.

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Photo gallery for Lion Sands River Lodge

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Room options

View all photos for Luxury Room

Luxury Room

View all photos for River Suite

River Suite

View all photos for Superior Room

Superior Room

About the neighborhood

Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Getting around

Restaurants

About this property

Lion Sands River Lodge

Languages

Similar properties

Leopard Sands, Kruger Park

Leopard Sands, Kruger Park

Property amenities

Internet

Parking and transportation

Food and drink

Restaurants on site

Things to do

Conveniences

Guest services

Outdoors

Full-service spa

Accessibility

More

Room amenities

Bedroom

Bathroom

Food and drink

More

Policies

Check-in

Check-out

Special check-in instructions

Access methods

Pets

Children and extra beds

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You need to know

We should mention

Property is also known as

Frequently asked questions

Lion Sands River Lodge Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

9.6/10

9.6/10

9.6/10

9.8/10

10/10

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Laura

Laura

10/10 Excellent

simon

simon

8/10 Good

Osama

Osama

10/10 Excellent

Amy, Novi

Amy

10/10 Excellent

Natalie

Natalie

10/10 Excellent

Joshua