An Irish American, called Guy Aubrey Chalkley, who came to South Africa at the height of the gold rush, originally owned the land. A hunting enthusiast, Chalkley often ventured into the wilds and it was on one such adventure that he stumbled across the lands that would become the basis of the world-famous Sabi Sand Game Reserve. In 1933 Guy purchased the property, originally called Kingstown and renamed as Lion Sands, and established the reserve.
His passion for the conservation and protection of this wilderness area was passed down through four generations to the three More brothers who now own and run Lion Sands Private Game Reserve. Ever since the earliest days where hot water was the epitome of luxury, the More family's intention was to keep the area in its original, pristine state. Today, the family employs a fulltime ecologist - the only reserve in the Sabi Sand area to do so - to monitor the effects of commercialisation on the wilderness.
Lion Sands has two camps for guests to stay in: the exclusive Ivory Lodge and River Lodge (a 3 minute walk downstream from Ivory Lodge).
Ivory LodgeIvory Lodge is Lion Sand’s premier suites/villas. If you are a couple looking for an exclusive and luxurious getaway, or a luxury safari honeymoon or romantic bush getaway, then Ivory Lodge will be ideal for you. The Lodge comprises of six generously sized privately situated villas (a maximum 12 guests), each with a separate living room, heated swimming pool and an open plan en-suite bathroom with an enclosure for the outdoor shower – 6-star luxury in the middle of the bush! Breathtaking views of the Sabie River, which has flowing water all year around, can be viewed through the oversized windows of your villa or from your private viewing terrace. Baby elephants bathing in the river, zebra, kudu and the large Nile crocodile are the only neighbours you shall see. The lodge is about overriding exclusivity with complete privacy, where each suite is operated as a private villa.
River LodgeRiver Lodge is the soul of Lion Sands and has been built on the banks of the Sabie River, positioned on a site with trees dating back 800 years. Facing due east, the lodge catches the sun as it rises over the Kruger National Park. Hosted by a family of staff that make it feel like home away from home, the lodge is about spirit, warmth and nature. Here you are invited to relax and experience African hospitality at its finest. River lodge, being larger than Ivory Lodge, offers guest 18 luxurious thatched bedrooms. Each room carries through the distinctive cream and beige theme with luxury décor. This creates a tranquil bush haven for guests – cool in the summer and cosy in the winter. Each room has a fabulous en-suite bathroom with pebble in-laid floors, indoor and outdoor shower and wooden viewing deck. The rooms are linked to all public areas by raised wooden walkways. The public areas at River Lodge offers guests the following: a private lounge and bar with fireplace, an outdoor safari lounge, 2 swimming pools (heated in winter) – one mostly un-shaded (available for the sun worshippers) and the other shaded by a magnificent tree. Wooden viewing decks, a secluded bird hide, a magnificent River Island Deck built on the river, a conference room, Lalamuka Health Spa & gymnasium, curio shop & both an indoor and open-air (Boma) dining area. As you walk around, you gain a great feeling of space and a relaxed atmosphere. River Lodge is great for families wanting to experience the luxury African safari, however the lodge will not accommodate children under the age of 10. While visiting Lion Sands we spent some time relaxing on the River Island Deck, and very quickly found ourselves very relaxed. Apart from a fantastic game experience, the luxury safari experience at this lodge is truly superb.
The Tree House…One unmissable activity is to overnight in the Lion Sands Tree House. The tree house makes for an utterly unique experience. Guests can choose to head out to their tree house either after dinner, or at sunset, when they'll be provided with a picnic dinner to enjoy while absorbing the sights and sounds of the bushveld at dusk.
Your tree house, built high up in a 100-year-old Jackalberry tree, is completely private and secluded and accommodates just two people in luxurious comfort. Once ensuring you're safe and comfortable the ranger will leave you to enjoy the African night on your own and return to the lodge, 15 minutes away. At dawn you will either be able to radio the lodge or your ranger will collect you at the pre-arranged time. While not for the fainthearted, it's an unforgettable experience that may well be the highlight of your African stay. Please note that the cost of this activity is over and above your room rate at either of the lodges. Your room is always kept for you if you sleep in the Tree House, just in case the weather turns or you feel the need to seek the sanctuary of your villa at any time during the night.
