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Lion Sands River Lodge

5.0 star property
All-inclusive hotel in Skukuza with spa and safari

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your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Lion Sands River Lodge

Terrace/patio
Property amenity
Reception
River Suite | Bathroom | Separate tub and shower, designer toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobes
Superior Room | Bathroom amenities | Separate tub and shower, designer toiletries, hair dryer, bathrobes

Reviews

9.6 out of 10

Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Airport transfer
  • Pool
  • Bar
  • Free breakfast
  • Gym
  • Spa

Main amenities (12)

  • Daily housekeeping
  • Restaurant and bar/lounge
  • Full-service spa
  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Fitness center
  • 24-hour room service
  • Airport shuttle
  • Terrace
  • 24-hour front desk
  • Coffee/tea in a common area
  • Air conditioning
  • Garden

Feel at home (6)

  • Private bathroom
  • Separate bathtub and shower
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Laundry facilities

Room options

Available filters for rooms
Showing 3 of 3 rooms

View all photos for Luxury Room

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

Luxury Room

Highlights

Patio
Individually furnished
Air conditioning
Premium bedding
Ceiling fan
Eco-friendly toiletries
Hair dryer
Designer toiletries
  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed OR 2 Twin Beds

View all photos for River Suite

River Suite | Private pool

River Suite

Highlights

Patio
Individually furnished
Air conditioning
Premium bedding
Ceiling fan
Eco-friendly toiletries
Hair dryer
Designer toiletries
  • 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

Highlights

Patio
Individually furnished
Air conditioning
Premium bedding
Ceiling fan
Eco-friendly toiletries
Hair dryer
Designer toiletries
  • River view
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed
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About the neighborhood

Map
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Skukuza, Mpumalanga, 1240

What's nearby

  • Paul Kruger Gate - 64 min drive
  • Kruger National Park - 64 min drive
  • Skukuza Golf Course - 80 min drive
  • AM Spa Kruger - 80 min drive
  • Londolozi Game Reserve - 99 min drive

Getting around

  • Skukuza (SZK) - 22 min drive
  • Mala Mala (AAM) - 156 min drive
  • Airport shuttle (surcharge)

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

Enjoy your visit to Skukuza with a stay at Lion Sands River Lodge. You can visit the spa to indulge in deep-tissue massages, facials, or aromatherapy, and Boma Dinner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Other highlights at this luxurious hotel include 2 outdoor pools, a bar/lounge, and a fitness center.

All inclusive

This hotel is all-inclusive. Onsite food and beverages are included in the room price (some restrictions may apply).

Gratuities and taxes

Gratuities are included and additional gratuities at guests' discretion are accepted.

Food and beverages

All meals, snacks, and select beverages included
Basic alcoholic beverages included

Languages

English

At a glance

Hotel size

  • 26 rooms
  • Arranged over 1 level

Arriving/Leaving

  • Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
  • Check-out time is 10:00 AM

Restrictions related to your trip

  • Check COVID-19 restrictions.

Special check-in instructions

  • This property offers transfers from the airport (surcharges may apply); 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
  • This property doesn't offer after-hours check-in

Required at check-in

  • Credit card, debit card, or cash deposit required for incidental charges
  • Government-issued photo ID may be required
  • Minimum check-in age is 18

Children

  • Children (9 years old and younger) not allowed
  • No cribs (infant beds)

Pets

  • No pets or service animals allowed

Internet

  • Free WiFi in public areas

Parking

  • Free onsite self parking
  • Free onsite valet parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking on site

Transfers

  • Airport shuttle (available on request)*

Other information

  • Designated smoking areas (fines apply)

Property amenities

Food and drink

  • Free English breakfast each morning 7:00 AM–11:00 AM
  • Restaurant
  • Bar/lounge
  • Coffee/tea in a common area
  • 24-hour room service
  • Water dispenser

What to do

  • Hiking/biking trails
  • Safari
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Golfing nearby

Services

  • 24-hour front desk
  • Dry cleaning/laundry services
  • Luggage storage
  • Wedding services
  • Multilingual staff
  • Porter/bellhop

Facilities

  • Safe-deposit box at front desk
  • Rooftop garden
  • Garden
  • Terrace
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • Television in common areas
  • Mosquito nets
  • Fitness center
  • 2 outdoor pools
  • Full-service spa
  • At least 80% of food locally-sourced
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian dining options
  • Annual offsets purchased for at least 10% of carbon footprint
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Locally-owned & organized tours & activities
  • Local artist showcase
  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community & sustainability
  • Local culture & ecosystem education
  • 100% renewable energy
  • Double-glazed windows
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Comprehensive food waste policy
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • No plastic soda bottles
  • Water dispenser
  • Reception hall

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

Room amenities

Home comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Minibar
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Bathrobes and slippers

Sleep well

  • Turndown service
  • Premium bedding

What to enjoy

  • Patio
  • Individually furnished

Freshen up

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

Stay connected

  • Desk

Food and drink

  • Free bottled water
  • Reusable coffee/tea filters

More

  • Daily housekeeping
  • In-room safe
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Energy-saving switches
  • LED light bulbs
  • Composting
  • Recycling
  • Water-efficient showers only

Special features

Spa

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.

Dining

Boma Dinner - This buffet restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests can enjoy drinks at the bar.

Fees & policies

Mandatory fees

You'll be asked to pay the following charges by the property at check-in or check-out. Fees may include applicable taxes:
  • 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

Optional extras

  • Airport shuttle service is offered for an extra charge

Pool, spa, & gym (if applicable)

  • Guests under 10 years old are not allowed in the spa

Policies

This property does not have elevators.
This property uses solar energy, plus a grey water recycling system and eco-friendly cleaning products.
This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted.
Cashless transactions are available.

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

Is there a pool at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, there are 2 outdoor pools.
Are pets allowed at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Sorry, pets and service animals aren't allowed.
Is parking offered on site at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, there's free self and valet parking.
Is airport shuttle service offered by Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, an airport shuttle is available.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Lion Sands River Lodge?
Check-in start time: 2 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.
What is there to do at Lion Sands River Lodge and nearby?
Have fun during the warmer months with activities such as hiking. Additional recreation onsite includes game viewing, a wildlife and game drive, and a safari. Indulge in a treatment at the spa and enjoy a swim in one of the 2 outdoor swimming pools. Lion Sands River Lodge also has a fitness center and spa services, as well as a garden.
Are there restaurants at or near Lion Sands River Lodge?
Yes, there's an onsite restaurant, Boma Dinner.
Does Lion Sands River Lodge have any outdoor private spaces?
Yes, every room features a patio.
What's the area around Lion Sands River Lodge like?
Lion Sands River Lodge is located a short 1-minute walk from Greater Kruger National Park.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Exceptional

3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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!
James, 3-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Amazing place with super friendly staff and guests.
Sylvia, 2-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Very friendly staff and top notch room quality. Wildlife wonders right up to your porch!
3-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

4-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Amazing, special place. One of my favorite spots in the world.
CY, 4-night romance trip
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Ben, 3-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Great service, great people.
Great service.
1-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

2-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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!
Verified Hotels.com guest review

8/10 Very Good

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.
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified Hotels.com guest review

6/10 Good

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.
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

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.
Verified Expedia guest review

10/10 Exceptional

Miki, 2-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

La magie de l’Afrique
Sejour agréable. Rangers au top. Merci Lucia pour ta bonne humeur durant le séjour. Les personnes qui étaient avec nous pour les safaris étaient très sympathiques. Nous avons eu un problème avec la compagnie aérienne et toute l’équipe était présente pour nous accompagner pour trouver une solution. L’endroit est magique. Nous avons pu voir des lions, buffles et éléphants du lodge
Charif, 3-night trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

10/10 Exceptional

3-night trip
Verified Expedia guest review

8/10 Very Good

2-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

8/10 Very Good

Hotel maravilhoso
O hotel é fantástico , os funcionários excelentes , atenção total com os hóspedes . O problema ficou por conta do local , nessa reserva Sabi Sabi não conseguimos ver nenhum Leão , participamos de 5 safaris . Vimos todos os outros animais , os guias são muito atenciosos e parecem empenhados em encontrar os animais mas me arrependi de ter ficado só nesta reserva pq o custo é alto para não conseguir ver os BIG 5 . Até a quantidade de girafas e zebras achei pequena . As acomodações são inesquecíveis, a casa é muito bem decorada e confortável . Para quem as acomodações é o mais importante este é o hotel indicado !
Marcia, 3-night family trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review

8/10 Very Good

SATORU, 2-night romance trip
Verified Hotels.com guest review