Lion Sands Tinga Lodge, the thatched cathedral-like entrance leads through to the colonial comfort of the lounge, which opens onto the massive wooden deck overlooking the Sabie River. Built around an enormous Jackalberry tree which is reputed to be over 200 years old, the deck affords magnificent views of the Sabie River, and regular sightings of the resident wildlife, including members of the Big Five. The staff are often called mind readers, sometimes saints and quite frequently invited to go back home with the guests (an invitation which they politely decline). They make it possible for guests to surrender, with every need taken care of and the guests’ comfort their first priority.
The main lodge has a comfortable lounge which opens onto a spacious deck running down to the riverside, a central eternity pool, a spa sala where guests can indulge in a range of relaxing treatments and an open air boma where guests are treated to superb cuisine next to a roaring fire.
Life at Lion Sands Tinga Lodge has a timeless quality, where you can get lost in a moment, and take the time to really explore this piece of Africa on the banks of the Sabie River. If you want to escape from real life, Tinga is where you need to go. Lion Sands Tinga Lodge is subtle, sophisticated and serene – it’s an escape that everyone should enjoy at least once in their lifetime.
With just nine luxurious suites, each located in an utterly private spot overlooking the river, you are treated to the ultimate African luxury experience. In each Suite you’ll find a king-sized bed, (with mosquito netting), air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, private lounge, and sumptuous bath and shower. The Tinga experience is a personal and private one for those looking for a true African escape. You’ll also find both indoor and outdoor showers, separate lounge area with minibar, private plunge pool and deck, and a range of luxury amenities.
Excitement rides high in discovering an intensely wild adventure every day. Rise before dawn to set off through the early morning mist in search of game, or watch the sun set over a dusty horizon as the nocturnal world emerges. You’ll find the highest concentration of wildlife on the sub-continent!
Rise at sunrise to head into the wild with your Field Guide and Tracker and discover a world usually only reserved for your screen during ‘Animal Planet’. You’ll find yourself in an environment that is as old as time, where the rhythm of nature is the only Governor. 2 safaris take place each day – in the morning and late afternoon (moving into the early evening). This is when the wildlife is most active, and the temperature more moderate.
As Lion Sands is a private game reserve within the Sabi Sand Reserve, and in a private concession within the Kruger National Park, safaris are not confined to main roads. Our Field Guides are able to navigate through dense bush, following the tracks of animals. With a limited number of vehicles on each property, and strict criteria governing sightings, guests are able to spend extended periods of time watching wildlife in its natural habitat.
Walks generally take place after breakfast and last approximately 1½ to 2 hours, depending on the fitness level of guests. In summer, due to the heat, walks may be incorporated into the morning game drive before heading back to the lodge for breakfast.
The bush takes on a completely different perspective when you are on foot. Each of your senses will be on full alert as you feel the grass and stones beneath your feet; touch the leathery leaves of trees you walk beneath; smell the musky scent of wild animals in the vicinity; taste the sweet grass of the veld; and hear the crack of a branch indicating you are not alone.
There is no such thing as a “typical” walk at Lion Sands. Every guest will have unique interests, and our guides are adept at playing to those interests – be they mammals, birds, flora, insects or geology. Field Guide and Ranger duos like nothing better than getting on foot, and sharing their passion for the bush with like-minded visitors.
