Lion Sands River Lodge travel tips and stories. Vacations ideas, cruises, spa and resorts

The experience starts early at Lion Sands River Lodge. The first game drive of the day powers off at 5:30 a.m. Rangers and guests regularly spot the ”big five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo. They stop en route for coffee, then return to the lodge for a robust breakfast at 9:00 a.m., after which the morning activities might include bush walks, lunch and child out time in the spa or on the River Deck, perhaps the evening game drive at 4 p.m., followed by drinks and dinner. The resort is devoted to its environment; it has its own ecologist, responsible for ensuring the wilderness is left undamaged by visitors.

Eighteen thatched bedrooms have their own deck and indoor and outdoor shower, and are connected to each other by wooden walkways. There are also two swimming pools, a bird hide, and indoor and outdoor bars and dining areas. Plucky guests can spend a night in one of two tree houses that lie fifteen minutes form the main lodge. Photo by: jennyandnehal

Jackalberry Treehouse overlooks the dry bed of the Msutu River, and Chalkley Treehouse look out over open plain, offering breathtaking sunset views of the bushveld. Tree dwellers do not have to rough in: These rooms under the stars, have proper mattresses, linen, and mosquito nets. For those who wish, the kitchen will pack a picnic dinner.

Location: Kruger National Park, South Africa. Photo by: Drive South Africa