Family-owned since 1933, Lion Sands is the only private game reserve on the banks of the Sabie River overlooking the Kruger National Park. Guests have a choice of two quite different lodges here, the 6-suite Ivory Lodge having recently featured on Tatler’s list of the ‘Best Hotels in the World’ thanks to its minimalist design and high levels of pampering. Here you don’t even have to get out of bed to spot the wildlife, each luxury suite boasting river views and their own private plunge pools. Yet waiting just 100 metres downstream amidst 800 year-old trees at the very heart of the reserve lies River Lodge. It offers eighteen African-inspired rooms with private decks overlooking the river. General facilities include a health spa and indoor and outdoor bomas, but dining by campfire at the river hide is surely one of the most unbeatable experiences here.

ACCOMMODATION: RIVER LODGE -18 ROOMS. IVORY LODGE - 6 SUITES.
ACCESS: 1¼ HOUR FLIGHT FROM JO’BURG TO SKUKUZA AIRPORT OR 1 HOUR FLIGHT FROM JO’BURG TO MALAMALA AIRPORT.
CHILDREN: NOT ACCEPTED UNDER 10 YEARS.
2 NIGHTS: FROM £485 P.P. IN THE LOW-SEASON. (FLIGHTS AND TRANSFERS EXTRA).
MEAL PLAN: FULL-BOARD. LOCAL BEVERAGES ALSO INCLUDED AT IVORY LODGE.