Arrival/Check-In: Lion Sands was the final destination of our trip to Africa, and based on our itinerary, Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport proved the best arrival airport. Unfortunately, this airport is almost a three-hour transfer to the lodge as opposed to Skukuza Airport (from which we departed), only a few minutes away. But as they say, you can’t get there from here. We arrived at the lodge complex as the sun was setting, and once through the lodge gates, it took another 20 minutes to reach the entrance of the River Lodge — one of four including Ivory, Narina and Tinga. We were greeted by candlelit lanterns and led into the main communal area for our introductions and check-in. We had just enough time to get to our rooms and settle in while elephants ate the leaves off the trees just outside. We turned off the lights and watched this show for a few minutes. Afterward, we headed to dinner outside on the dining deck overlooking the river and then played a game of Scrabble in the bar/ lounge area before retiring for the evening. We had a big next day with an early safari and a transfer to the Ivory Lodge.
Guest Quarters: The River Lodge uses a great deal of natural stone and wood for a warm feel, while the Ivory Lodge is open with large windows, thatched roofing and light colors for a natural look. Unfortunately, the River Lodge experienced a significant fire that virtually destroyed the communal area just a week after our return home. I am pleased to report no one was injured, and construction and repairs are well underway. The River Lodge is set to reopen May 1, 2018. All the cottages were unaffected by the fire. The Ivory Lodge consists of eight villas, each taking the name of a bird; we were housed in the Tawny and Sandpiper villas. Sandpiper opened with a huge wooden door into a breathtaking living space. We were amazed by the herd of elephants drinking in the river just 150 yards away from the villa’s back porch. Upon entering the villa, we encountered a kitchen/bar area immediately to the right with everything we could desire, including a chilled bottle of South African sparkling wine. Beyond and toward the sliding doors, a comfortable sitting area offered the choice of watching the animals from inside or outside. A large deck included chaise longues and a plunge pool. To the left a massive bedroom featured a king-sized bed, and a few stairs led to a magnificent bathroom with double sinks, a large vanity and a soaking tub with a separate shower. Outside the bathroom was a wood-walled outdoor shower surrounded by a stone wall. It was like showering in your own private garden.
Services/Amenities: Our meals were exquisite at both the River and the Ivory lodges, offering just about anything you could imagine in a luxurious camp setting. The staff is there to please. Of course, we were there to see the animals in their natural environment, and that is what we did. We witnessed the aftermath of a zebra kill by a pride of lions. After getting their fill, the pride rested and laid around for two days digesting their meal. Giraffes, lions, rhinos and a host of elephants are all here for viewing and picture taking. The team of skilled trackers takes you out in an open-air Range Rover for your safari. Afternoon safaris end with a sundowner cocktail session where you can stretch your legs and enjoy an adult beverage while watching the sun set over the South African landscape. A must experience for any trip to Africa.
TOP TAKEAWAYS:
◆ Following a pair of leopards as they returned home from their day of hunting
◆ Enjoying company and a cocktail as the moon rose over the African bush
◆ Laughing at the lion cubs as they slept in the afternoon shade
◆ Lion Sands is incredibly luxurious but at the same time natural and part of the environment.
Lion Sands Game Reserve
Sabi Sand Reserve
Kruger National Park
1260, South Africa
tel 27 11 880 9992
lionsands.com
Read This Next
Review: Kimpton Hotel Palomar
February 2025
Feb 26, 2025All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Mar 17, 2025UN Tourism Announces Best Tourism Villages in 2024
From Caviahue-Copahue in Argentina to Tra Que Vegetable Village in Vietnam, travelers can now discover the 55 newest Best Tourism Villages of 2024 as researched by UN Tourism. These are not overcrowded, mass-tourism villages, but instead very rural destinations that have consolidated their position as key players in sustainable tourism and community development.
Sponsored Content
Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive
Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.
March 2025
Mar 17, 2025Buenos Aires Embraces Life with Art, Music, Sports and Fine Food
The fascinating city of Buenos Aires has managed to maintain its appeal for travelers despite Argentina’s roller coaster economic history.
Daily
Mar 17, 2025Welcome the Arrival of Tulip Season in Amsterdam with Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky
Every spring, Amsterdam’s parks and fields erupt into an array of colors with the arrival of tulip season. To help travelers have the ultimate experience, Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam offers three curated experiences celebrating the iconic flower through historical insights, natural immersion and gourmet food.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
Slideshow
Mar 17, 20256 Reasons to Put Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Santa Fe, New Mexico, with us.
Norwegian Debuts Late Disembarkation Option
March 2025
Mar 15, 2025Glamorous Flamingo Las Vegas Gets Pool Makeover
Daily
Mar 14, 2025Daily
Mar 13, 2025Sedona, Arizona, Hotel Promises Perfect Nature-Centric Stay
Immerse yourself in nature with a stay at L’Auberge de Sedona. This luxury property in Sedona, Arizona, invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its accommodations and outdoor experiences.
Sponsored Content
Madrid: The Charm of an Authentic City
They say Madrid is in vogue for many reasons: its lifestyle, its heritage, its cuisine and all of its new attractions. And it’s true, because Madrid is on the radar of travelers looking for a cutting-edge destination that still holds onto its essence. Join us as we explore its charms.
Daily
Mar 13, 2025Ancient Baths Brand Opens Second Location in New York City
AIRE Ancient Baths officially opened the doors of its second New York City location March 1, bringing even more wellness to New Yorkers and visitors. Following the success of its location in Tribeca, AIRE New York Upper East Side debuts, blending ancient traditions from Roman, Greek and Ottoman civilizations.
ShareThis