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Overview

Africa is famous for its wildlife and the favourite Big Five in particular, and it comes as no surprise that the 2 million hectares of diverse animal and plant species found in the world-renowned Kruger National Park is of great interest to local and international nature-lovers.

This land of baobabs, fever trees, knob thorns, marula and mopane stretches 253 km from north to south, and lies along the Mozambique border, with Zimbabwe forming its northern border. The area to the southwest of the park is comprised of several different private concessions called the Greater Kruger National Park. The fences between these concessions and the official Kruger National Park have been removed, to allow game to roam freely over an even bigger conservation area. The landscape is divided into 16 macro eco-zones with approximately 147 mammal, 507 bird, 114 reptile, 34 amphibian, 49 fish and 336 tree species, making it a premier game-viewing location.

In addition to grand sightings, a safari treats all other senses. The smell of nature is a delicate blend of veld and flower, dust and early-morning mist. Enjoy a game drive or a walking activity led by expert guides while gaining a deep understanding of species’ behaviour while they move freely in their own environment. It is exhilarating to hear the cracking of dry branches as an elephant herd moves through the trees, while waiting in anticipation for it to emerge. Feel the warm African sun on your body on an open safari vehicle and watch with fascination as the dung beetles execute their peculiar jobs with care. At night, while gathered around a campfire, you might hear the roar of a lion in the distance.

Climate

The Kruger Park is dominated by a subtropical climate with hot and rainy summers and warm, dry winters. Plenty of sunshine makes for enjoyable visits all year around. Rain in the summer months (October to April) manifests as heavy downpours, while winter nights can be chilly.

Each season is unique, and offers something different. Most visitors prefer to visit during the winter months of May – August, for reasons such as pleasant day temperatures and colder nights. Vegetation is sparser, which makes viewing easier and animals are drawn to waterholes to drink, as surface water is scarce. Some prefer to visit during the summer months from August onwards. Summer rains transform the arid park into a lush flowering paradise and the smaller of several animal species can be seen.

Getting There

There are daily flights from the Johannesburg area to the smaller airports near the Kruger National Park. Flights can be chartered from Johannesburg to Eastgate Airport, Skukuza Airport, Phalaborwa Airport as well as Kruger / Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA). Flights from other big regions like Cape Town and Durban have some restrictions in terms of flight schedules and landing options.

National roads to all 9 entrance gates are tarred and well-maintained. The most popular route is from Johannesburg via the N4. Access gates to the Kruger Park and camps are locked during the night, and it is important to consider this when planning your journey. We recommend you calculate for extra time during your journey to ensure you arrive before the closure of the gates (or after the opening in the morning). Times vary from gate-to-gate and also from season-to-season.

Ideal Destination For

Adventure
Bucket List
Culture
Food & Wine
Romance
Safari
Solo Travel
Special Interest
Wellness

Points of Interest

Conservation Efforts: While the Big Five animals can be considered to be the biggest drawing card, the Kruger National Park should be appreciated for its efforts in promoting the preservation of distinctive and intricate natural areas. A variety of different ecosystems host creatures on all levels of the food chain. Since the park’s inauguration, conservation was the mission, and it still is. The park is responsible for implementing policies that will honour legislation pertaining to biodiversity and wilderness conservation. It is a task that requires a high level of integrity – the result is something that is of interest of all its visitors.
Panorama Route: To the west of the Kruger Park lies the mountainous escarpment of the Mpumalanga highlands, generous in scenic landmarks and charming historic towns. Attractions such as the dramatic Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon in the world, God’s Window, Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Mac Mac Falls, to name but a view, are all significant sights. The higher-lying attractions offer endless views of the vistas of the grasslands of the Lowveld.

Jock Main Lodge

Untamed, untouched, unforgettable… Jock Safari Lodge is nestled where the Mitomeni and Biyamiti rivers flow as one, situated in the southwestern corner of the Kruger National Park. The lodge offers 6 000 hectares of exclusive traversing rights in an area of the park which is celebrated for its Big Five game viewing.

Jock Safari Lodge is carefully screened by lush trees and reed walls, the 12 individual thatched rooms at Jock Safari Lodge, impart a sense of aloneness and oneness with the landscape.

Morning and evening drives are performed in covered 4×4 Landrovers conducted by highly experienced rangers in the legendary Kruger National Park.

Other activities include game walks, birdwatching, stargazing, visits to rock art sites and spa treatments at the Prilgrims Rest Relaxation Retreat.

Why we like it here

Child-friendly (Children 0 – 5 years old) are taken on game drives in a closed vehicle whereas children from 6 to 11 (subject to certain conditions) join adults on the normal game drives conducted in open vehicles.

Relive one of South Africa’s cultural heritages through the wonderful story of Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, author of the animal classic, Jock of the Bushveld. Original mementoes are on display at the Main Lodge.

There is a range of activities available to enhance your African safari experience! Game drives, Wilderness Walks, birdwatching, spa treatments and golf at the renowned Leopard’s Creek Golf Course.

Things to be aware of

For families or small groups, we recommend staying at Fitzpatrick’s at Jock. The lodge offers three perfectly appointed rooms that caters more for children.

Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodge

Nestled in the unspoiled bush of the Sabi Sand lies a stylishly intimate game lodge – Chitwa Chitwa. Originally a private family retreat, Chitwa enjoys a place of pride on the banks of one of the largest lakes in the exclusive Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Allow your senses to be lured into a passionate balance of African chic and environmental harmony.

Relax in a haven of natural colours and beautiful textures that replicate the beauty of nature’s paintbrush and the serenity of the African bush. Each of the eight individually-decorated retreats boasts a private plunge pool framed by a spacious timber deck overlooking the nearby lake – a popular drinking hole for our wealth of wildlife.

Why we like it here

The most thrilling part of any stay with us is undoubtedly the Chitwa Chitwa safari experience. Our qualified guides and expert trackers ensure an unforgettable safari, enriching the experience with their profound knowledge of this animal kingdom and its complex habitat. Chitwa’s holistic approach to hospitality with specific emphasis on wildlife conservation distinguishes spell-binding sightings of the abundant fauna. Leave enriched with a new perspective and affectionate memories of the very best of the African bush.

Retreat into the privacy of our cosy library and explore the treasures of our unique wine cellar. Outside, a rim-flow swimming pool further enhances the splendour whilst creating the perfect setting to unwind and absorb the sights, sounds and scents of Africa.

Things to be aware of

For a more exclusive experience, Chitwa offers the Chitwa House – a private sanctuary tailored to your every whim with the assistance of an experienced house butler and the enthusiasm of a dedicated ranger. Chitwa House alludes to an element of familiarity as you set the pace in your own private piece of Africa.

Kapama Karula Lodge

Set on the banks of the perennial Klaserie River is the flagship five-star lodge of Kapama Game Reserve: Kapama Karula. Meaning “place of peace”, this ultra-luxurious and prestigious lodge exudes calmness and depicts the pinnacle of elegant safari accommodation, with wraparound views of the African bush enhancing the sense of tranquillity at this exclusive safari lodge.

Kapama Karula has ten Superior Villas, each exquisitely decorated and with generous private space. These suites measure at least 90 m² each, with an opulent en-suite bathroom featuring indoor and outdoor showers, his and hers washbasins, and a bath. Standard in each Superior Villa is a mini bar stocked with a selection of fine wines and champagne, a Nespresso coffee machine, a lock-up safe, an international adaptor, a Wi-Fi connection and an iPod docking station. For guest comfort and convenience, each suite has a telephone, overhead fan and air conditioning, as well as a gas-heated fireplace for cool winter nights. The Superior Villas are wrapped by glass sliding doors, allowing seamless views over the Klaserie River. Each villa has its own outside deck area, full-sized heated swimming pool and sun loungers for relaxation.

There are two purpose-built Superior Villas for families. At 170 m², these Family Villas have an open-plan living room, replete with fireplace, which flows into the master bedroom with its en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom leads off the living room and can be accessed through an inter-leading door or its own entrance. This children’s bedroom is also en-suite and is equipped with a flat-screen TV, selection of movies and a Wii game console.

The multipurpose library is equipped with audio-visual equipment and two Internet stations with complimentary Wi-Fi for lodge guests wanting to connect to home. A romantic fireside dinner for two can be enjoyed in the library, with prior arrangement.

The luxury spa offers a range of health and beauty treatments in four deluxe treatment rooms. For a body workout, the fitness centre is equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and weight-lifting equipment, or you can run or walk on the treadmill or cycle on the Wattbike. After working up a sweat, visit the steam room, or relax in the pool. You can also browse through the curio shop for those special gifts to take home. Then head out on an exciting game drive.

Why we like it here

Stunning views onto the Klaserie River from all main areas and villas.

On-site luxury wellness centre.

Exclusivity as there are only 12 villas.

Only 6 people per vehicle and the family villas come with their own private guide and vehicle.

Fully inclusive.

Fly-in packages available.

Things to be aware of

Other camps have access to the spa so this is not exclusive to Karula guests.

Lion Sands Narina Lodge

Lion Sands Game Reserve is set along the banks of the perennial Sabie River in South Africa. It is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park. Each of its lodges has its own allure and each has breathtaking views of the river – especially when the animals come to drink. Lion Sands Narina Lodge, one of the four luxury riverside lodges, is on the Kruger Park side of the reserve. It is an organic chic styled lodge, set on the river with a wonderful sense of remoteness and peace. The main lodge connects via raised wooden walkways to a spa sala and nine separate Suites.

These luxury suites are perched on stilts among 100-year-old trees just up from the water, affording guests complete privacy in the wilderness. Glass sliding doors and windows open up your sanctuary to the outside, while a romantic canopy bed, sink-into-me couches, an egg bath that you can wallow in up to your chin and a personal bar, all add to the delight of being in Africa – in style. And then there’s the ultimate in bush bedrooms and romance, where guests get to spend a night discovering the magic of sleeping out under the stars in complete luxury at Tinyeleti Treehouse. Guests arrive at sunset to a picnic dinner, spend the dusk hours watching animals wander past (at a safe distance), and fall asleep counting shooting stars. A field guide is always on radio call should guests feel they need assistance. Tinyeleti Treehouses comfortably sleep two adults and two children (10 to 14 years).

Why we like it here

Enjoy two game drives daily with an FGASA-accredited field guide and tracker.

Enjoy spa therapies which are offered in the quiet retreat of the bush sala.

Dining is an occasion in itself, from morning safari pancake stops to dinner at your table on the lodge deck.

No dietary requirement or preference is too much trouble for the chefs at Narina Lodge.

Premium Cape wines complement each meal.

Lively boma barbeques and surprise bush feasts tend to get everyone chatting around the fire.

Lion Sands is home to 450 of South Africa’s 850 plus birds including the rare southern ground hornbill.

There is a Mack & Madi kids’ programme which keeps the younger ones busy.

There is a MORE Boutique where you can buy South African keepsakes.

Narina Lodge is situated in the south of the Kruger National Park, which covers nearly two million hectares of land and is home to more mammal species than any other game reserve on the continent.

Things to be aware of

Narina Lodge welcomes children 10 years and older.

Lion Sands Game Reserve is located in a low-risk malaria area.

Mobile coverage is fair.

Wi-Fi is available in public areas.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge is a masterpiece of design, artistry and innovation in harmony with nature. There is evidence of nature at work everywhere, resulting in almost every facet of the lodge being embraced by the surrounding environment.

From the immaculately designed 12 luxury suites – including the Amber Suite – to the thrilling safaris with close encounters with Africa’s wildlife, gourmet food, unparalleled warmth and true African hospitality, you are immediately aware of a sense of calm and a restorative spirit amidst the luxury and lavish touches that is uniquely Earth Lodge.

Why we like it here

Family-owned.

Their hospitality offers a relaxed feeling of being at home in the bush.

National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World have given their stamp of approval on Earth Lodge’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

Holistic and ethical safaris showcasing all the bush has to offer.

Unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience, where tourism is conservation and is part of growing their link between conservation, community and hospitality.

The vision behind Earth Lodge is that it blends into the surrounding environment and offers a uniquely African experience. The lodge is a masterpiece of artistry and innovation in harmony with nature.

Things to be aware of

Children under the age of 13 years are not permitted unless the lodge is booked on an exclusive-use basis.

The rates and packages are fully inclusive and include a selection of beverages, but exclude premium brands and private collection wines.

All rates exclude a Guest Conservation Contribution, which is a conservation fee that goes directly to supporting anti-poaching efforts.

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Singita Lebombo lies on the N’wanetsi River in a 33 000-acre private concession in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. This dramatic lodge comprises of 15 loft-style suites, bold in style, and suspended above the N’Wanetsi River as if floating between river and sky. They were inspired by the many eagles’ nests built into the cliff face of the river bank. These sophisticated glass-walled suites are romantic hideaways leading outdoors onto elevated wooden viewing decks where guests may sleep out with nothing more than mosquito netting between them and the stars. Throughout the lodge, the imaginative use of glass, wood, steel, and layered fabrics in muted shades invites the surrounding landscape indoors.

The suites are as follows: thirteen Lebombo Suites with sweeping views across the vast wilderness, two 2-Bedroom Suites with private plunge pool and views of the river, one private-use 4-Bedroom Villa with private swimming pool, lounge, dining room and deck. Built low down on the river bank beneath mature trees, the private villa is fully staffed, has an open-plan kitchen and its own boma. Other highlights of the lodge include a roof terrace and wine studio, an interactive kitchen, an espresso bar, a help-yourself deli, and an additional 25-metre lap pool. All communal areas of the lodge have been pushed out to ensure that the outside bursts in, offering elegant, calm and meditative spaces immersed in a dramatic landscape of giant euphorbia trees.

Why we like it here

The exclusive concession is a richly diverse habitat with abundant game.

Singita Lebombo is working towards being as sustainable as possible, to protect large tracts of wilderness for future generations and to never lose sight of their primary focus: conservation.

The exquisite wine studio is a multi-level retreat which boasts a library, multi-media room, wine studio and rooftop viewing area.

There is a Singita Boutique & Gallery where you can buy some African memories to hold onto.

Things to be aware of

Dependent upon area coverage, there is mobile phone signal.

There is complimentary internet (Wi-Fi) access, however due to the remote location of the lodge, the wireless connection can be slow and intermittent.

Children aged 10 and over are welcome in all suites. Children under 10 years old are welcome in the 2-bedroom suites and the villa. All normal safari activities can be tailored to suit families.

In the interest of safety, children’s participation in game activities is at the discretion of your guide.

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge

Lion Sands Game Reserve is set along the banks of the perennial Sabie River in South Africa. It is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park. Each of its lodges has its own allure and each has breathtaking views of the river – especially when the animals come to drink. Ivory Lodge, one of the four luxury riverside lodges, can be found on the Sabi Sand side of the reserve, arguably Africa’s most pristine Big Five territory. This contemporary-style lodge – built of concrete, timber, glass and steel – is a clean-lined masterpiece.

The lodge attracts those in search of time away in their own space. From your bed, deck or private plunge pool, this is one of the best places to look in on Africa – uninterrupted. Here, hospitality is designed entirely around you. Its 8 one-bedroom Villas and 1 two-bedroom Fish Eagle Villa are peaceful refuges – each with a private plunge pool and relaxation areas. The self-contained Fish Eagle Villa also incorporates a spa treatment room and gymnasium, and comes with a personal chef, field guide and a private open safari vehicle for your game drives.

A guest spa and fitness area is set away from the main lodge and Villas. And then there’s the ultimate in bush bedrooms, where guests get to spend a night discovering the magic of sleeping out under the stars in complete luxury at either Chalkley or Kingston Treehouse. Guests arrive at sunset to a picnic dinner, spend the dusk hours watching animals wander past (at a safe distance), and fall asleep counting shooting stars. A field guide is always on radio call should guests feel they need assistance.

Why we like it here

It is a 5 star ultra-luxurious lodge on a Big 5 property.

Extraordinary views come standard with each room.

Dining experiences take place wherever you wish and are accompanied by beautiful meals and wines.

Kosher food is freshly prepared on-site in a separate kitchen – at an additional cost.

The MORE Gallery includes a safari boutique which sells rare and beautiful items, as well as treasured art pieces.

Enjoy two game drives daily with an FGASA-accredited field guide and tracker.

Indulge in time at the wilderness spa.

Lion Sands is home to 450 of South Africa’s 850 plus birds including the rare southern ground hornbill.

There is a Mack & Madi kids’ programme which keeps the younger ones busy.

Things to be aware of

Ivory Lodge welcomes children to its villas from 10 years and older. While at the Fish Eagle Villa, children of all ages are welcome.

Children on safari are welcome for all ages on a private game drive, while on normal game drives, children need to be at least 10 years old.

Kingston Treehouse comfortably sleeps two adults and two children (10 to 14 years), unlike Chalkley which only sleeps two adults.

Lion Sands Game Reserve is located in a low-risk malaria area.

Mobile coverage is rated fair.

Singita Ebony Lodge

The new Singita Ebony Lodge is located in South Africa’s Sabi Sand on the banks of the Sand River. It is a fresh and contemporary interpretation of the classic safari lodge. External walls have given way to canvas and glass, creating new safari “tent-style” suites which maximise views and space, and allow guests to be immersed in nature. The lodge is styled to recreate the romance and adventure of tented camps in days gone by. Interiors are enhanced by the lustre of well-polished ebony and mahogany woods and natural fibres in cool tones. Furthermore there is the rich, golden glow of old brass, hand-woven baskets, traditional khaki and beige tent canvas, and exposed thatch.

The 12 suites are as follows: 8 x suites ideal for singles and couples traveling together, 2 x Lewis suites ideal for families with teenage children, 2 x family suites ideal for families with small children. (The family suites include an en-suite master bedroom and an en-suite twin bedroom as well as a dining and lounge veranda area with a stone fireplace, and a private viewing deck with heated plunge pool). There is also 1 x Ebony Villa which comprises two family suites with access to an additional private lounge, swimming pool and deck area, which connects these two individual suites. It includes a private guide and vehicle, chef, host and banakeli (personal waiter). There is a private entrance and boma, so small groups searching for complete seclusion will be at ease. This villa is suited to up to four adults and four children under 12 years, or up to six adults and teenagers.

Why we like it here

Outdoor pavilion decks – ideal for dining and relaxing – are suspended off the river banks as if hanging in the trees.

Daily game drives with professional guides and trackers provide the perfect opportunity to get up close to Africa’s incredible animals, while evening drives reveal the elusive magic of nocturnal Africa.

Camera kits suited to wildlife photography are available for rent during your stay.

Enjoy a walking safari and experience the bush up close.

Singita is recognised as one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, with an extensive cellar showcasing a premium selection of wines. Personalised wine tastings within the lodge’s temperature-controlled cellar are a favourite among guests – for connoisseurs and casual tasters alike.

Enjoy a spa treatment in the tranquility of the Spa, out on a private deck, or in the comfort of your suite.

Children of all ages are welcome. There are babysitting services available and tailor-made activities to suit each family.

Things to be aware of

In the interest of safety, children’s participation in game activities is at the discretion of your guide.

It is recommended that children are at least 15 years old for the walking safari.

Dependent upon area coverage, there is mobile phone signal.

Royal Malewane

Royal Malewane is an exclusive safari lodge – a haven of old-world charm and stylish splendour. The lodge is located in Thornybush Private Game Reserve on the western border of the Greater Kruger National Park, in South Africa. It is an intimate and luxurious safari lodge with 6 palatial Luxury Suites, 2 spacious 2-bedroomed Royal Suites and Africa House – an exclusive-use bush villa with 6 bedrooms. With classic décor, it exudes the romance and beauty of a bygone age, while offering every modern comfort.

The Farmstead is the latest addition to Royal Malewane located just 12 minutes drive south of the existing lodge. Accommodation here consists of a main lodge area, three Luxury Farm Suites and The Farmhouse – a three-and-a-half bedroom villa offering private services. There is a double spa treatment room offering a variety of indulgent treatments as well as a gym. The land here is elevated offering dramatic views over the canopies of the Greater Kruger National Park, while the lodge itself surrounds a watering hole popular with the abundant wildlife. Guests at The Farmstead will enjoy the same remarkable service and delicious cuisine synonymous with Royal Malewane while experiencing the ultimate Big 5 safari with the most qualified guiding team in Africa.

Why we like it here

Royal Malewane’s qualified guiding team (guides and trackers) is exceptional – which means you get an unrivalled wildlife experience with fascinating insights into the complex ecosystems of the South African bushveld. And your safety is ensured.

The game viewing is excellent.

Indulge in sensual treatments at the tranquil Waters of Royal Malewane Bush Spa.

Let the passion of Royal Malewane’s chefs delight you with nightly feasts of good honest food under the African stars. Meals are accompanied by a handpicked selection of South Africa’s finest wines.

There is complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the lodge.

Private safari vehicles can be arranged on request.

Things to be aware of

Children of any age are welcome at Africa House or in the Royal Suites. Unfortunately, no children under 10 years can be accommodated in the Luxury Suites unless booked exclusively.

Children of all ages are welcome in The Farmstead.

The Greater Kruger National Park refers to the over twenty private reserves to the west of the Kruger National Park, which add 180 000 hectares to the reserve. In total, the whole area covers 2 000 000 hectares of unfenced, wild reserve with free movement of game across this spectacular land.

Royal Malewane offers a kosher-compliant kitchen.

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge

Lion Sands Game Reserve is set along the banks of the perennial Sabie River in South Africa. It is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park. Each of its lodges have their own allure and each has breathtaking views of the river – especially when the animals come to drink. Tinga Lodge, one of the four luxury riverside lodges, is on the Kruger Park side of the reserve, nostalgic in style and reminiscent of the “Out of Africa” era. Despite creating an old-fashioned look and feel, its décor has managed to capture the nostalgia of the pioneer days while remaining perennially fashionable and classically romantic.

Tinga Lodge has nine private suites, set apart on their own piece of high bank over the water. Each consists of a deluxe king-sized bed draped in mosquito netting, air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, a private lounge, and a bathroom with an enormous bath and shower. There is also a private deck with a plunge pool and loungers, which transforms into a perfect place for a romantic dinner just for the two of you. Additionally, there is a two-bedroom private Hi’Nkweni Villa that comes with its own butler, field guide and open safari vehicle for a more exclusive bush experience.

And then there’s the ultimate in bush bedrooms, where guests get to spend a night discovering the magic of sleeping out under the stars in complete luxury at Tinyeleti Treehouse. Guests arrive at sunset to a picnic dinner, spend the dusk hours watching animals wander past (at a safe distance), and fall asleep counting shooting stars. A field guide is always on radio call should guests feel they need assistance. The shared areas at Tinga include the lounge, a pool and a boma area with a fireplace, all making ideal places to mingle with other guests.

Why we like it here

Enjoy pampering massages, wraps and facials on offer at the spa which is open to the bush.

Whether it’s a boma feast or a safari refreshment stop, the chefs transform local recipes into contemporary dishes.

Wine tasting of Premium Cape wines can be done here.

Lion Sands is home to 450 of South Africa’s 850 plus birds including the rare southern ground hornbill.

It is a 5 star lodge on a Big 5 property.

There is a Mack & Madi kids’ programme which keeps the younger ones busy.

There is a MORE Gallery where you can buy South African keepsakes.

Tinga Lodge is situated in the south of the Kruger National Park, which covers nearly two million hectares of land and is home to more mammal species than any other game reserve on the continent.

Things to be aware of

Tinga Lodge welcomes children 10 years and older.

Lion Sands Game Reserve is located in a low-risk malaria area.

Lion Sands River Lodge

Lion Sands Game Reserve is set along the banks of the perennial Sabie River in South Africa. It is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Kruger National Park. Each of its lodges has its own allure and each has breathtaking views of the river – especially when the animals come to drink. River Lodge, one of the four luxury riverside lodges, can be found on the Sabi Sand side of the reserve, arguably Africa’s most pristine Big Five territory. It offers a chic design interpretation of the traditional safari lodge. The décor is contemporary and a lot of effort has been put in to creating a flow between interior and exterior. The effect is that of lived-in luxury or an informal dinner party and it is easy for guests to feel at home here.

River Lodge’s accommodation comprises 8 Luxury Rooms, 6 Superior Luxury Rooms and 4 River Suites (each with its own plunge pool). One of the Family River Suites includes a second children’s en-suite bedroom, laid out with their own amenities, to give children (and their parents) their own space. Wooden walkways lead off to a spa, gym and pool, and back to the main lodge, where the deck’s connected water features give the impression of floating on the river. And then there’s the ultimate in bush bedrooms, where guests get to spend a night discovering the magic of sleeping out under the stars in complete luxury at either Chalkley or Kingston Treehouse. Guests arrive at sunset to a picnic dinner, spend the dusk hours watching animals wander past (at a safe distance), and fall asleep counting shooting stars. A field guide is always on radio call should guests feel they need assistance.

Why we like it here

It is a 5 star lodge on a Big 5 property.

Extraordinary views come standard with each room.

Dining is much anticipated at River Lodge, from pop-up bush breakfasts to riverbed dinners.

Meals often mean a lively Boma barbecue or a surprise bush feast which gets everyone chatting around the fire.

Kosher food is freshly prepared on-site in a separate kitchen – at an additional cost.

Enjoy the selection of renowned Cape Wines with your meals.

There is a Barista’s Station for delicious artisanal coffees.

The MORE Gallery includes a safari boutique which sells rare and beautiful items.

The Memory Lab helps turn your photos into personal artworks, from print onto canvas.

Enjoy two game drives daily with an FGASA-accredited field guide and tracker.

Make time for yourself with an aromatherapy massage at the open-air spa.

Lion Sands is home to 450 of South Africa’s 850 plus birds including the rare southern ground hornbill.

There is a Mack & Madi kids’ programme which keeps the younger ones busy.

Things to be aware of

River Lodge, compared to the other Lion Sands lodges, has a more social atmosphere, by way of its many large guest’s areas.

River Lodge welcomes children 10 years and older.

Kingston Treehouse comfortably sleeps two adults and two children (10 to 14 years), unlike Chalkley which only sleeps two adults.

Lion Sands Game Reserve is located in a low-risk malaria area.

Mobile coverage is rated fair.

Experience the thrill of a game drive

Hot-Air Ballooning Over Kruger

Partake in a cooking class

Embark on a Walking Adventure

Visiting a Cultural Village

Visit the local community

Hire photographic equipment for incredible lifelong photos

Spectacular wildlife sightings of Africa’s Big 5

Rhino Dehorning for Conservation

Take a walk on the wild side

Take a walking safari through the bush

Spend time with a sommelier

Dine under the African night sky

Meet the Dixie community in their charming little village

Explore the bush on foot to see all things big and small on a guided walking safari

Sleep under the stars

Heli Flight Over Blyde River Canyon

A Romantic Star-Bed Treehouse

Take gumboot dancing lessons

Soak in a bubble bath with uninterrupted views of the Sabie River

Watch the awesome spectacle of wildlife in their habitat on a game drive

Participate in an afternoon game drive

Learn about traditional medicine at the local Shangaan village

Eat dinner under the stars

Sleep in a tree house

Slumber in a treehouse, under the twinkling African sky

Witness the wildlife on an exciting Game Drive

Gaze at the stars in the African night sky

Stargazing on an evening game drive

Golf at the famous Leopard Creek Golf Course

Slumber in a treehouse, under the twinkling African sky

Spectacular wildlife sightings of Africa’s Big 5

Partake in a cooking class

Stargazing on an evening game drive

Experience the thrill of a game drive

Spend time with a sommelier

Take gumboot dancing lessons

Golf at the famous Leopard Creek Golf Course

Gaze at the stars in the African night sky

Hire photographic equipment for incredible lifelong photos

Embark on a Walking Adventure

Learn about traditional medicine at the local Shangaan village

A Romantic Star-Bed Treehouse

Participate in an afternoon game drive

Witness the wildlife on an exciting Game Drive

Take a walk on the wild side

Visit the local community

Watch the awesome spectacle of wildlife in their habitat on a game drive

Eat dinner under the stars

Meet the Dixie community in their charming little village

Sleep in a tree house

Dine under the African night sky

Soak in a bubble bath with uninterrupted views of the Sabie River

Explore the bush on foot to see all things big and small on a guided walking safari

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Kruger & Greater Kruger

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Overview

Climate

Getting There

Ideal Destination For

Points of Interest

Kruger & Greater Kruger Activities

Visiting a Cultural Village

Private Bush Dinner

Horseback Safari

Hot-Air Ballooning Over Kruger

Embark on a Walking Adventure

Photographic Hides

Rhino Dehorning for Conservation

A Romantic Star-Bed Treehouse

Heli Flight Over Blyde River Canyon

Recommended Properties

Royal Malewane

Lion Sands Narina Lodge

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Chitwa Chitwa Private Game Lodge

Kapama Karula Lodge

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge

Singita Ebony Lodge

Lion Sands River Lodge

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge