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Lion Sands Private Game Reserve - South Africa Wildlife Destination
Starting from
$500PP
Overview
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve is a prestigious safari destination located in the southern part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, sharing an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park. The reserve is uniquely positioned along the perennial Sabie River, which acts as a lifeline for wildlife and creates diverse riverine habitats rich in biodiversity. Lion Sands is known for combining exceptional Big Five wildlife viewing with luxury lodges, conservation leadership, and innovative experiences such as elevated treehouse sleep-outs. Its landscapes range from open savanna and woodland to dense riverine forests, offering consistently rewarding safari encounters throughout the year.
Pros & Cons
- Outstanding Big Five sightings
- Excellent leopard and lion viewing
- Permanent water from the Sabie River
- Luxury lodges with strong conservation focus
- Unfenced access to Kruger National Park
- Premium pricing
- No self-drive safaris
- Safari activities limited to guided experiences
Map in South Africa
Want to Visit Lion Sands Private Game Reserve?
Want to Visit Lion Sands Private Game Reserve?
Wildlife & Animals
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve supports exceptionally high wildlife densities due to its prime location along the Sabie River and its integration within the greater Kruger ecosystem. All members of the Big Five are present, including large elephant herds, dominant lion prides, elusive leopards, and both black and white rhinoceroses. Buffalo are commonly seen along riverbanks, while giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species occupy open grasslands and woodland areas. The reserve’s well-developed road network and expert guiding allow for close observation of wildlife behavior in diverse habitats.
Wildlife Highlights
Lion Sands is particularly renowned for its leopard sightings, with several well-known individuals regularly encountered along the Sabie River. Lion prides are frequently observed hunting and resting in open areas, while elephant movements along the river create dramatic viewing opportunities. The combination of riverine ecosystems and open savanna enhances predator-prey interactions and photographic potential.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The best time for wildlife viewing at Lion Sands is during the dry winter months from May to October, when animals congregate near the Sabie River and remaining water sources. Reduced vegetation improves visibility, and cooler temperatures increase daytime predator activity.
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Birds
Lion Sands Private Game Reserve is an excellent birding destination, particularly due to its riverine habitats along the Sabie River. The reserve supports a wide variety of raptors, water-associated species, and savanna birds, making birdwatching a rewarding addition to traditional game drives.
Best Time for Birding
The best time for birdwatching at Lion Sands is from November to March, when migratory birds arrive and breeding activity peaks following summer rainfall.
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Best Time to Visit – Lion Sands Private Game Reserve
The best time for wildlife viewing at Lion Sands is during the dry winter months from May to October, when animals congregate near the Sabie River and remaining water sources. Reduced vegetation improves visibility, and cooler temperatures increase daytime predator activity.
May to October (Dry Season)
- High wildlife concentration near rivers
- Excellent predator sightings
- Comfortable safari conditions
- Cool early morning game drives
- Dusty conditions
November to March (Wet Season)
- Lush scenery
- Peak birding season
- Fewer visitors
- Hot and humid afternoons
- Denser vegetation reduces visibility
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Activities
Explore popular activities available in and around Lion Sands Private Game Reserve.
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