The Camp

Location: Sabi Sand, South Africa
Number of Suites: 9

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge enjoys a privileged location within a historic private game reserve bordering Kruger National Park. The lodge features nine generously sized private villas, including one comprised of two villas connected by a shared living area. Each villa dons the name of an African bird and has a living room, covered patio, garden and swimming pool as well as a separate bedroom featuring an open en suite bathroom with free-standing soaking tub and private outdoor shower. The modern style is interpreted in contemporary furnishings and artwork, colors and patterns that pop against a neutral backdrop of grays and whites, and natural wood tones juxtaposed with concrete, glass and stone finishes. The Sabie River, with flowing water year-round, is on display through each villa’s oversized windows and from private viewing terraces. Baby elephants bathing in the river, zebra, gnu and large crocodiles are the only neighbors you’ll see. Public areas include a library lounge, private bar with fireplace, well-stocked wine cellar, health spa and gym, curio shop, and a magnificent wooden viewing deck built over the river. Both indoor and outdoor boma dining are available. Two different treehouses offer a magical night of luxury under the stars.

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Facilities & Amenities

• En suite bathroom with tub and indoor/outdoor showers
• Shampoo, soap and lotion
• Hair dryer
• Air conditioning
• Room fan
• Fireplace
• Mini bar
• Tea/coffee in room
• 220v charging outlets in room
• In-room safe
• Private plunge pool
• Treehouse star beds (extra cost)
• Spa (extra cost)
• Fitness center
• Wi-Fi in room and main area
• Laundry included
• Local drinks included (house alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks)
• Credit cards accepted (Visa, MasterCard, Diners, American Express)
• Cellular coverage is intermittent

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Wildlife Viewing & Activities

Established in 1933, Lion Sands Private Game Reserve has long protected the amazing wildlife of the Sabi Sand region bordering Kruger National Park. Animals traverse freely between the reserve and the park across a diverse range of habitats. Visitors are likely to see the famous Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant—as well as cheetah, wild dog, plenty of hoofed game, and many of the 500+ bird species that reside here. In addition to traditional game drives in open Land Rovers, bush walks led by expert guides are also offered, a chance to learn about tracking animals and the medicinal uses of plants. Waterhole hides get you close to wildlife without being seen. Special hippo tours observe these animals in their natural environs in the Sabie River, where crocodile are also frequently spotted. Astronomy talks beneath the stars bring the African night sky alive. Bush breakfasts and dinners cooked over an open fire can also be arranged.

The Sabi Sand is known for great leopard viewing, healthy rhino populations and the rest of the Big Five, making it a great wildlife destination for all levels of safari experience. The below chart helps to illustrate major wildlife sightings often experienced here. Other typical sightings may include warthogs, baboons and a number of other mammals, birds and reptiles. Exact sightings will depend on weather and wildlife movements.

Climate

Conservation

The passion to deliver a world-class luxury safari experience is equaled by the lodge owner’s complete commitment to preserving this pristine bushveld and ensuring that the benefits of safari tourism are shared with local communities. Lion Sands is the only private reserve in South Africa to have its own on-site ecologist. Lion Sands’ involvement with the local Henna Preschool has provided the school with new facilities, books, learning materials and healthy meals for the children. Lion Sands invites the children on an annual day excursion to the lodge where they participate in a morning game drive and enjoy lunch prepared by the lodge. This opportunity exposes local children to the world beyond the boundaries of their village, providing wildlife encounters many have never experienced. Lion Sands also supports the local Huntington HIV clinic that is managed by a former employee of Lion Sands. Guests may visit the school and HIV program during their visit.

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