Lion Sands Ivory Lodge was named South Africa’s Leading Luxury Safari Lodge 2026 by the World Travel Awards, while Lion Sands Game Reserve was named the No. 1 Safari Lodge in Africa in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2026. Its wider acclaim rests on eight highly private riverfront suites, polished service, strong leopard and Big Five access, and a design-led lodge rhythm rooted in the Sabie River.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge sits directly on the Sabie River in Lion Sands Game Reserve, a private reserve spanning Sabi Sand Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park. The perennial river draws wildlife to its banks year-round, while the lodge’s position keeps guests close to riverine woodland, private traversing and the reserve’s established Big Five and leopard country.
From the UK, access is usually via Johannesburg or Cape Town, followed by a scheduled flight, road transfer or charter depending on the reserve.
South Africa is generally one of the easiest safari countries logistically, especially for families and first-time travellers.
Ivory Lodge has eight riverfront suites designed for privacy, comfort and uninterrupted views of the Sabie River.
8 x Suites
King-sized bed, private terrace with plunge pool, outdoor shower, private lounge with fireplace, indoor bath and shower, air conditioning, in-room bar, Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping.
Fish Eagle Villa
Private riverside villa on the Ivory Lodge property for up to 8 guests, with three en-suite bedrooms, private pool, dedicated team and private safari vehicle.
+ Private plunge pools
+ Spa and wellness treatments
+ Fitness centre and yoga spaces
+ Artist Residency
+ The Larder and Wine Room
+ Private reserve access
+ Game drives
+ Guided bush walks where age and conditions allow
+ Treehouse sleep-out option
+ Helicopter flights by arrangement
+ Local community experiences
+ Dining and sundowner spaces
Best months for wildlife: May-Sep
Minimum Age: 10 years old
Lodge style: Small ultra-luxury lodge with 8 riverfront suites, private plunge pools and highly private design-led spaces.
Seasonal opening: Open year-round.
Activities for kids: Children aged 10+ are welcome in suites; Fish Eagle Villa is better suited to private family use.
Malaria health note: Moderate malaria risk, reduced from May to September.
As an independent partner of 360 Private Travel, eligible flight-inclusive holidays booked through us are financially protected by 360 Private Travel Ltd under the UK ATOL scheme, ATOL number 7514. 360 Private Travel Ltd is also IATA accredited under IATA number 91200056.
Qualifying flight-inclusive holidays are financially protected under the UK ATOL scheme, where applicable. You will receive an ATOL Certificate confirming the protection covering your individual booking.
.png)
