Lion Sands Game Reserve

Food Brilliant, Staff Brilliant, River Suite Brilliant. We have travelled to over 50 countries and stayed in varying degrees of Hotels and Luxury resorts, this was the best by far. First time doing a Safari experience. Won’t be the last and we will be going back to Lion Sands River Lodge. The reason we would go back, two reasons. 1. Guide (Cruz) 2. Tracker (George). In fact I call George the DECOY. You have no idea who you will get as your guide and tracker before you arrive on site. I will suggest if you are going to this utopia ask to have these two allocated to you. We rolled up Sunday 2pm went on our first safari drive at 4pm, Monday morning drive at 5.30 am. By the time we had done those two drives Cruz and George had taken us (found/tracked) the big 5. Unbelievable these two. We stayed for 4 nights over that time had 8 safari drives everyone we drove with these two we found animals. The knowledge they both have in regards not only the animals, bird life and local plants is just mind boggling. Both are genuine, friendly and really nice people. They are the reason we will return and not go to another safari location. I have no idea how much they get in the way of salary but I can tell the More family it ain’t enough. The jeep would stop, both these men would take a few leaves off a plant crush it up give it to my wife and I to smell it then explain the local traditional use of the plant. I’m serious if your going to River Lodge ask to be put with these two. They could find a flea on a Rhinoceros’s ass.

What an experience! Highlights included: Big 5 sightings plus so many other unbelievable views with our amazing guide Rector and our tracker Culture. Their deep knowledge, passion for the animals and hospitality is unparalleled. I can not say enough about how grateful we are for this dynamic duo. Accommodations - beautiful rooms, lovely views and service was too notch. Rodrick went above and beyond for our meals and we really enjoyed the gorgeous lodge for rest and relaxation between drives. Johnny from the creative lab took fantastic pictures that we cherish and our housekeepers Eugenie and Sindile made sure everything was clean, well-stocked and lovely. My husband and I can not wait to go back!

We stayed for 3 nights at Lion Sands and it was absolutely incredible. Every aspect was perfect - from the beautiful lodges, to the outstanding food (with a new menu for each meal, each day!) to the most amazing game drives. A huge shout out to our guide Lucia who’s energy and love for the bush was contagious. She provided a wealth of knowledge and is a natural. We were also in absolute awe of our tracker, Norman, who ensured we saw the big 5 and so much more! We are so grateful to Lucia and Norman - the perfect duo! Our stay at Lion Sands is something we will treasure for a lifetime.

We spent 3 nights here on a family vacation. The hospitality was beyond amazing. Gus and Noel were top notch. Cliff took care of our every need during meals. Food and drinks were delicious. Room accommodations 5 star. My mom wasn’t feeling well and the staff went out of their way. The genuine concern that had for her was touching. Mello also checked in on us multiple times. We can’t wait to come back!

Exceptional experience! The lodge, the staff, the game drives, and accommodations were all Five Star. Our guide Jason and his tracker Abraham were truly unforgettable. The trip was made more special because of them! If there is a downside, it may be the meals at dinner time. Limited selections and a menu that did not vary much. However, overall I would highly recommend this Lodge!