A Few Days in the Wild: Lion Sands River Lodge Safari Reflections

Lion Sands River Lodge from above - Credit: Lion Sands

There’s something unmistakably powerful about returning to a place like Lion Sands River Lodge—where the ancient trees lean in close, the Sabie River whispers just beyond view, and the rhythm of life is dictated by nature itself. Nestled in the heart of the world-renowned Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, this lodge remains one of my favorite destinations in the wild, not just for its luxury and setting, but for its deep connection to the wilderness that surrounds it.

I recently had the privilege of spending three unforgettable days here—on safari, sharing moments with incredible wildlife, and also contributing in another way: training some of the exceptional guides who call this place home. It was a visit filled with meaning, wonder, and moments that will stay with me for a long time.

Nottens Male Leopard at Lion Sands Sabi Sand

Safari Highlights: Lions, Leopards, and the Language of the Wild

Every safari is different, and that’s the magic of it. You never know what the bush will reveal, and on this trip, it was generous.

We encountered the Styx Pride, a legendary lion pride in the Sabi Sand, complete with four-month-old cubs tumbling through the golden grass in the early morning light. Their presence brought a sense of legacy and continuity to the landscape—watching them interact, play, and learn under the watchful eyes of their mothers was an absolute privilege. Close by, the Gijima male coalition, the dominant males in this area, made their presence known. These are lions that command respect with every step, embodying raw strength and quiet dominance.

Leopard sightings are always special, and on this trip, we were fortunate enough to spend time with two iconic individuals. The Nottens male, elusive and powerful, moved through the thickets with purpose—offering up a perfect photographic moment as he paused in dappled light, locking eyes with us through the lens. Not long after, we came across the Tengile female, equally captivating. Her grace and stillness offered a quiet contrast to the chaos of the hyenas we’d seen earlier, all on high alert and following the scent of something we never quite uncovered.

In between, the bush provided everything from towering giraffes and dazzle after dazzle of zebra, to impala scattered across open clearings—reminders of the abundance and diversity this land holds adn creating ample photographic opportunities to make sure your portfolio is complete when leaving Lion Sands.

Styx Pride Cub

Nottens Male Leopard at Lion Sands Sabi Sand

More Than a Safari: Sharing and Learning

While the wildlife was remarkable, another highlight of my time at Lion Sands was working with the guiding team. It’s always an honor to step into a mentoring role, to share insights gathered over years of field experience, and to learn from those who bring this reserve to life each day.

Guiding is more than knowledge; it’s storytelling, intuition, sensitivity, and connection. These are values that the team at River Lodge embodies so naturally. Spending time with them—discussing tracking, photography, and the subtleties of guest experience—reminded me once again why this place stands out. There’s a culture of excellence here, but more importantly, a passion for nature and a true commitment to creating meaningful experiences for guests.

The River Lodge Experience

River Lodge itself is a sanctuary. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with views stretching out to the Sabie River, where elephants often wander past and birdsong fills the air. The lodge's communal areas—open, warm, and thoughtfully designed—invite you to slow down, to sit with a coffee as the sun rises or unwind by the fire as night falls.

There’s something special about the way the staff make you feel here. It’s not just hospitality; it’s heartfelt connection. From the warm welcomes to the fireside conversations, the team creates an atmosphere that feels both luxurious and deeply personal.

Evenings were spent under the stars at the boma, stories shared over incredible meals, the sound of the river in the distance. There’s an authenticity here that’s hard to put into words—it’s something you feel. A sense of place, of being exactly where you’re meant to be.

Lion Sands River Lodge Entrance - Credit: Lion Sands

Why This Place Stays With You

What makes a safari truly memorable isn’t just the sightings or the sunsets (though they were spectacular). It’s the stillness, the moments between, the feeling of being immersed in something ancient and untamed. Lion Sands River Lodge offers that in spades.

For anyone seeking an experience that goes beyond the ordinary—a chance to connect with the wild, to witness life unfolding in its rawest form, and to be surrounded by people who care deeply about the land—they’ll find it here.

As I packed my bags to leave, I felt that familiar ache of not wanting to go. But I left grateful—grateful for the sightings, the people, the opportunity to give back, and for the reminder that in this fast-paced world, there’s still a place where time slows and the wild heart of Africa beats strong.

Until next time, Lion Sands.

Join me on Safari and lets visit amazing destinations across Africa and capture the memorable moments that go with it - for more info contact us: francois@francoisfouriesafaris.com

Superior Luxury Room Lion Sands River Lodge - Credit: Lion Sands