Lion Sands Tinga Lodge has nine private suites, making it a very personal experience. Tinga exudes the atmosphere of a classic safari lodge.
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.
Luxury Suites
With just 9 luxurious suites, each located in an utterly private spot overlooking the river, you are treated to the ultimate African luxury experience. Each of Tinga’s suites has a bathroom with in-door and outdoor shower, separate lounge area with minibar, private plunge pool and deck, 24 hour air-conditioning and a range of luxury amenities.
Game Drives
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. The field guides are able to navigate through dense bush, following the tracks of animals. With a limited number of vehicles on each property, guests are able to spend extended periods of time watching wildlife in its natural habitat.
The Sabi Sand Reserve is home to the highest concentration of wildlife on the sub-continent! Two 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, ensuring guests have the ultimate safari experience!
Limited guests are allowed on the safari vehicle, allowing each guest to get a “window seat” ensuring they have a front row ticket to the wild African bush. Each game drive is conducted by a trained guide who is knowledgeable about the surrounding area and knows exactly where to find Africa’s wildest animals.
Walks
Walks take place after breakfast is served, before the sun is too high in the sky. The walk usually lasts about one and a half hours, or two hours, depending on the age and fitness level of the guests. In summer, when the temperature raises faster, walks are incorporated within the morning game drive, just before breakfast.
Bush walks are an amazing way to experience nature and truly appreciate the beauty of the South African bushland. The guides are trained to show guests the best route and the best chances of discovering unique and beautiful wildlife. Bush walks are also a great way to explore and enjoy a true adventure atmosphere, as well as learn about wildlife and plant life up close. Bush walks are brilliant for keen bird watchers who want to spot rare and exciting birds. Guests are advised to wear comfortable clothing and shoes (hiking shoes or sneakers preferred), as well as wear sunscreen and a hat. Cameras and binoculars are also a must.
Wildlife
Sabi Sands and the Kruger National Park overlap, creating one of the densest concentrations of game in Southern Africa. Lion Sands is fortunate enough to be situated in the heart of both of these reserves, in a prime wildlife viewing location, thus ensuring guests have a truly fascinating African safari.
Wildlife found in the reserve include the renowned Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, buffalo) as well as a variety of other animals including zebra, antelope (and various other buck), cheetah, hippo, jackal, hyena, warthog and baboon. A plethora of birds and reptiles are also found within the bushland.
Lion Sands are proud to practice ethical and responsible conservation, in order to protect and preserve the beautiful bush for future generations.
