Overview
The 5,000 hectare Lion Sands is the only private game reserve rooted in both the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and Kruger National Park, with a history of community and conservation dating back over 70 years.
On the Kruger side of the reserve, Tinga is a sophisticated lodge with nine sumptuous thatched suites looking out over the Sabie River from their private plunge pools and outdoor showers. The two-bedroom Hi’Nkweni Villa comes with its own butler, field guide, and open safari vehicle for a more exclusive bush experience.
Reach the main via raised wooden walkways to find a swimming pool, spa sala, bar and dining areas where you can look forward to fabulous lantern-lit dinners.
Facts
At a glance
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Nine suites with plunge pools
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Two bedroom villa
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Dining area, bar and wine cellar
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Spa sala
Experiences
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![River Lodge Vehicle tracking Lion]()
Game drives
The 5,000-hectare private reserve is home to among the highest, most diverse concentration of wildlife in the southern hemisphere. You will see all of Africa’s iconic species – lion leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, hippo, and zebra – along with a supporting cast of no less intriguing 137 mammal species and over 450 varieties of bird.
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![River Lodge Walking safari]()
Bush walks
For those who wish to experience the bush, not just observe it, there is no better experience. This is also a wonderful, sensory way to encounter the smaller creatures, often missed on safari vehicles, and to discover more about the reserve’s plants.
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![River Lodge Kids on safari]()
Family safaris
Tailor-made activities give children (5 to 11 years) a little extra freedom to explore and just be kids with activities to keep young ones occupied with the wonders of the natural world, as well as with sports and crafts, during their stays.
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![Tinga Lodge14]()
A night in a treehouse
Lion Sands has three fabulous luxury treehouses where romantics, adventurers and solitude seekers can discover the magic of a night out in the wilderness in complete luxury. Arrive at sunset to a picnic dinner, spend the dusk hours watching animals wander past below and fall asleep counting shooting stars.
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![Lion sands special interest jabez pre school26 preview]()
Giving back
Take a community tour, the proceeds of which go to the More Community Trust's development projects here, or roll up your sleeves to help out through Get Your Hands Dirty initiatives. These centre on education, infrastructure, health and environment, and you can choose the area best suited to your skills and interest.
Community & Culture
Lion Sands is part of the MORE Family Collection which helps funds the More Community Trust. This corporate social investment organisation focuses on development projects across southern Africa that empower communities to contribute their own resources, efforts and skills. This includes supporting number of schools, providing access to clean water access and shelters.
Local employment is a key focus and helps to create thriving communities in the regions where we are located. It is important to us that the working environment is positive, and that staff can develop and achieve their aspirations with us.
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
