Lion Sands River Lodge
Family-friendly luxury on the Sabie River — with famous treehouse sleep-out experiences
About Lion Sands River Lodge
Lion Sands River Lodge is a family-friendly luxury safari lodge in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, overlooking the Sabie River on the boundary with Kruger National Park. The lodge offers a comprehensive safari experience that caters equally well to couples, families, and groups — a rare combination at this level of luxury.
Eighteen rooms are spread along the river, each with views over the water where elephant, hippo, and a parade of other wildlife come to drink. The décor is elegant but warm, with an emphasis on comfort and natural materials. Family rooms and interconnecting options are available.
The lodge is particularly famous for its treehouse sleep-out experiences — elevated platforms set in the bush where guests spend a night under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African night. Three treehouses — Kingston, Chalkley, and Tinyeleti — offer varying levels of luxury, from rustic platforms to fully furnished suites in the canopy.
Game drives in the Sabi Sand deliver outstanding Big Five sightings, with the famous Sabi Sand leopards a particular highlight. Rangers and trackers are highly experienced, and the personalised service ensures every guest feels well looked after.
What's Included
Rooms & Accommodation
Luxury Room
River-facing room with deck, air con, and en-suite
Superior Luxury Room
Larger room with outdoor shower and premium river views
Family Room
Interconnecting rooms ideal for families with children
Safari Experience
Wildlife Commonly Seen
Leopard (famous Sabi Sand sightings), lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, wild dog, cheetah, hippo, crocodile, giraffe. Excellent river birding.
Best time to visit: Year-round; May-September for dry season
Amenities & Facilities
Location & Getting There
Address: Lion Sands River Lodge, Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga, South Africa
GPS: -24.9200, 31.5300
Enter via the Sabi Sand gate system. Fly into Skukuza Airport or KMIA. Lodge transfers are included or can be arranged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elevated platforms in the bush where guests spend a night under the stars. Three options from rustic to luxurious. Booked separately and subject to availability.
Yes — Lion Sands welcomes families with children of all ages. Family rooms, kids' menus, and adapted game drives are available.
Yes — River Lodge overlooks the Sabie River, which forms the boundary between Sabi Sand and Kruger National Park.