Accommodation

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge – A luxury safari lodge within a private concession in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park. This exclusive lodge offers luxurious suites with private plunge pools, overlooking the Sabi River.

Welcome Reception

Upon arrival at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, guests will be greeted with cool towels and refreshing beverages before a private transfer to Lion Sands Ivory Lodge (approximately 2-hour drive). At the lodge, a welcome reception with South African wines, fresh fruit, and local snacks will be prepared in the lodge’s open-air lounge.

Evening Activity

Guests will embark on their first Sunset Game Drive. As the sun sets over the savannah, expert guides and trackers will take the group on a thrilling safari, searching for Africa’s “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and other wildlife.

Dinner

Boma Dinner – A traditional African barbecue under the stars, set around a roaring fire in the lodge’s boma (outdoor dining area). Guests will enjoy a feast of grilled meats, including game such as kudu and impala, paired with South African wines, while being entertained by local Zulu dancers and drummers.

Morning Activity

Start the day early with a Morning Game Drive, where the group will witness the park’s wildlife in action at dawn. This is the best time to spot predators as they hunt and animals gather at watering holes. Guests will be provided with a light breakfast and coffee in the bush during the safari.

Lunch

Back at the lodge, a hearty lunch will be served, featuring South African specialties such as bobotie (a spiced meat dish) and fresh salads made from local ingredients.

Afternoon Activity

After a short rest, guests will take part in a Guided Bush Walk. Accompanied by armed rangers, the group will explore the African bush on foot, learning about animal tracks, flora, and the smaller creatures that are often missed during game drives. This is an immersive experience that allows participants to connect with the environment on a deeper level.

Evening Sundowners

Before dinner, the group will enjoy a Sundowner – a classic African safari tradition. Guests will sip gin and tonics or South African wines while watching the sunset over the savannah.

Dinner

Fine Dining at the Lodge – A multi-course dinner showcasing gourmet South African cuisine with an international twist. Guests will dine on dishes such as grilled ostrich, Cape Malay curry, and decadent desserts, all served in the lodge’s elegant dining room overlooking the river.

Morning Activity

Another Early Morning Game Drive with the chance to spot wildlife in different parts of the reserve, followed by breakfast at the lodge.

Cultural and Conservation Experience

After breakfast, guests will visit a nearby Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. They will learn about the ongoing conservation efforts to protect endangered species like rhinos and wild dogs. This experience includes close-up encounters with animals being cared for at the center, as well as a presentation on anti-poaching initiatives.

Lunch

Lunch will be served at the lodge with an assortment of fresh, local dishes including grilled seafood, traditional boerewors sausages, and vegetarian options.

Afternoon Activity

Community Engagement Experience – Guests will visit a nearby local village where they will meet community members and learn about life in rural South Africa. The group will participate in activities such as planting trees, visiting local schools, or attending a traditional music performance, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s culture and challenges.

Evening Game Drive

After returning to the lodge, guests will set off for an evening game drive to spot nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, and owls.

Dinner

Riverbank Private Dinner – A candlelit dinner served on the banks of the Sabi River, featuring grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and South African wines. The peaceful sounds of the river and the distant calls of wildlife will create an unforgettable dining experience.

Morning Activity

Guests will set out on a special Big Cat Tracking Safari with expert guides, focusing on finding elusive predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Using tracking skills and knowledge of the animals’ habits, the guides will provide an up-close experience with these majestic creatures.

Lunch

Back at the lodge, a relaxed lunch will be served, featuring South African specialties like peri-peri chicken and freshly baked bread.

Afternoon Free Time or Optional Activity

After lunch, guests can relax by the lodge’s infinity pool or indulge in a Private Spa Treatment, such as a traditional African massage using local oils and herbs. Alternatively, guests can opt for a Hot Air Balloon Ride over the nearby savannah for a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife and landscape.

Evening Sundowners and Dinner

The day ends with sundowners and a Bush Dinner – a rustic, yet luxurious outdoor meal prepared over an open fire. Guests will dine under the stars, surrounded by lanterns and the sounds of the wild, enjoying dishes like grilled prawns, springbok steak, and South African malva pudding.

Morning Activity

The group will set off for their final Game Drive, taking in the morning light and the last chance to spot wildlife in the reserve. The drive will end with a Bush Breakfast, where guests will enjoy a full breakfast set up in the middle of the savannah, surrounded by nature.

Afternoon Free Time

After returning to the lodge, guests will have some free time to relax or take part in optional activities such as a Photography Safari Workshop, where a professional photographer will guide them on capturing the best wildlife shots.

Farewell Dinner

The final dinner will be a luxurious affair at the lodge’s restaurant, featuring gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and paired with premium South African wines. A special farewell toast will be made to the group’s safari adventure.

Morning Activity

Guests will enjoy a final breakfast at the lodge, followed by a short nature walk around the property.

Departure

Private transfers will take the group back to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for their return flights or onward travel.