Big 5 Safari & Romantic Sleep-out at Lion Sands 

When it comes to intimate safari experiences, Lion Sands Private Game Reserve has it down to a fine art. Four luxurious lodges nestle on the private reserve, each offering five star accommodation, impeccable service, decadent cuisine and an unforgettable safari experience. 

Lion Sands River Lodge is a family favourite, providing a warm and relaxed atmosphere that makes families feel right at home. The lodge has a total of 8 luxury rooms, 6 superior luxury rooms, and 4 river suites. The river suites are ideal for couples as they are located furthest from the guest areas and offer private plunge pools, outdoor showers and the most incredible river views. Boma dinners under the stars and relaxing spa treatments add to the romance. 

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge boasts a timeless design; incorporating steel, wood, thatch, glass, water & sand. The lodge is small with eight opulent villas and one double-suite villa, affording a more exclusive experience. Each villa is fitted with an en-suite bathroom, outdoor shower, lounge with fireplace, private pool and a large viewing deck. The guest facilities are first-class and include an expansive relaxation area and viewing deck, along with a spa and gym. 

Lion Sands Narina Lodge resembles that of a luxurious treehouse, with raised wooden walkways and stilted suites set beneath a canopy of century old trees. The lodge lies in the Kruger National Park, overlooking the Sabie River. The spacious suites are private and well-appointed with opulent en-suite bathrooms, comfortable lounge areas, air conditioning, private viewing deck and a plunge pool. The central guest area offers an intimate setting at night with a roaring fireplace, candle-lit dinner and an opportunity to learn more about the stars. 

Lion Sands Tinga Lodge boasts nine luxurious suites and a two bedroom exclusive use villa that is perfect for families with young children. Each of the luxury suites are dressed with en-suite bathrooms, lounges, air conditioning, private viewing decks and a plunge pool. Tinga too offers candle-lit dinners, stargazing opportunities and a comfortable lounge area with a fireplace. Rejuvenating spa treatments are also part of the offering at Tinga. 

The Lion Sands Game Reserve nestles in both the Kruger National Park and the private Sabi Sands Game Reserve, offering all their guests an incredible game viewing advantage. Each of the lodges offer morning and afternoon open-vehicle game drives, guided walking safaris, hippo tours, bird watching, star gazing, local school visits, wildlife lectures and rejuvenating spa treatments.

A particular favourite for couples is the luxurious sleep-out experiences in the bushveld. There are three sleep-out decks on the Lion Sands Private Game Reserve. The Chalkley and Kingston Treehouses are reserved for the guests at Ivory Lodge and River Lodge, whilst the Tinyeleti Treehouse is for Tinga and Narina guests. 

The sleep-out experience does carry an additional charge but it is undoubtedly worth every cent. 

Arriving at sunset, you and your partner are escorted up into the treehouse by a guide and provided with a two way radio in case you wish to head back to the lodge during the course of the night. You then sit down to enjoy a picnic and a few drinks whilst admiring the breathtaking sunset and watching animals on the passby. As the sun disappears, you are left to enjoy the star-lit sky and the sounds of animals and insects in the surrounding bushveld. 

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