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Lion Sands Ivory Lodge: Remote Luxury Safari Sanctuary

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, December 8th 2025 at 20:45 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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Lion Sands Ivory Lodge: An African Safari Sanctuary for the Discerning Traveler

Travel + Leisure’s recent feature on the Lion Sands Ivory Lodge offers a lush portrait of an off‑the‑grid haven that fuses luxury with conservation in one of the world’s most captivating safari destinations. Nestled in a remote corner of the African wilderness, the lodge is the latest addition to the prestigious Lion Sands portfolio, renowned for crafting intimate, high‑end safari experiences that celebrate local culture, wildlife, and sustainability.

Setting the Scene

The Ivory Lodge sits on a sprawling estate of approximately 4,000 hectares, surrounded by a mosaic of savannah, miombo woodland, and a pristine freshwater lake that attracts a kaleidoscope of birdlife. The lodge’s location is deliberately remote—about a three‑hour drive from the nearest town—ensuring guests are enveloped in the raw beauty of the landscape from the moment they arrive. Travel + Leisure notes that this isolation is a deliberate design choice that allows guests to escape the everyday and truly immerse themselves in the African safari experience.

Design and Architecture

The lodge’s architecture is a harmonious blend of traditional African motifs and contemporary elegance. Each of the 18 suites is built from locally sourced timber and stone, with high‑ceiling rooms that open onto spacious verandas overlooking the wilderness. The designers, in collaboration with the indigenous community, integrated traditional weaving patterns into the décor, providing a tactile sense of place.

A key highlight is the lodge’s emphasis on sustainability. Solar panels power most of the site’s electricity needs, while a sophisticated grey‑water recycling system supplies the pools and irrigation. The lodge’s commitment to conservation extends beyond environmental practices: a portion of the land has been set aside for wildlife conservation, and the lodge partners with local conservation NGOs to support anti‑poaching efforts.

Accommodation

Guests at the Ivory Lodge enjoy a suite of accommodation options that cater to the luxury seeker. The flagship “Eldoret Suite” boasts an expansive bedroom, a private plunge pool, and a sun‑lit terrace that offers uninterrupted views of the savannah. Smaller “Safari Suites” feature a cozy loft area, a living room with a stone fireplace, and a balcony that provides a front‑row seat to the night sky.

All rooms include state‑of‑the‑art amenities: high‑speed Wi‑Fi, a smart TV with local programming, and in‑suite fitness equipment. The lodge’s commitment to guest comfort is paired with an emphasis on “slow luxury” – encouraging guests to disconnect from digital distractions and engage fully with their surroundings.

Wildlife and Activities

The heart of the experience at Ivory Lodge lies in its wildlife encounters. The lodge offers twice‑daily game drives conducted by highly experienced guides who emphasize the nuances of African ecosystems. Guests can spot the iconic “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as a host of smaller mammals, reptiles, and avian species. The proximity to a freshwater lake means that water‑drinking animals such as hippos and Nile crocodiles become common sights, especially during early morning and late afternoon drives.

In addition to drives, the lodge organizes guided walking safaris that allow guests to experience the veld on foot. These intimate walks often culminate in a “bush dinner” beneath the stars, where the lodge’s chef prepares a menu that showcases locally foraged ingredients. For the adventurous, the lodge also offers hot‑air balloon rides over the savannah, providing a unique aerial perspective of the wildlife below.

Dining

Food at Ivory Lodge is a celebration of regional flavors. The on‑site restaurant, “Savannah Kitchen,” offers a menu that balances African staples with contemporary culinary techniques. Dishes such as marinated kudu steak, smoked trout from the lake, and a signature “moringa” smoothie are staples. The kitchen’s commitment to sustainability is evident: every ingredient is sourced locally or sustainably harvested, and the restaurant’s waste management follows strict composting protocols.

Beyond the main restaurant, the lodge provides a 24‑hour “butler service” that can prepare a private picnic or a personalized tasting menu in the guests’ suite. Nightly, a “fire‑pit lounge” invites guests to enjoy a glass of local wine or a handcrafted cocktail while listening to the chorus of nocturnal wildlife.

Wellness and Extras

Recognizing the importance of holistic well‑being, Ivory Lodge offers a spa that uses natural, locally sourced products. Treatments include massages, facials, and a “savanna steam” ritual that incorporates eucalyptus and mint essential oils. The spa’s treatment rooms overlook the lake, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation.

For those who wish to stay active, a fully equipped fitness center and a yoga pavilion are available. The lodge also offers a “Wellness Package” that includes guided meditation sessions, a personalized fitness plan, and nutrition counseling.

Guest Experience

Travel + Leisure’s feature emphasizes that the Ivory Lodge’s true appeal lies in its meticulous attention to detail and the personal touch that the staff brings to every interaction. From the moment guests are greeted by the lodge’s manager to the final farewell, each service is tailored to ensure an unforgettable experience.

The lodge’s partnership with local communities is woven into the guest experience. Many of the guides are from nearby villages, and their storytelling provides guests with a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural heritage. Additionally, the lodge supports local schools and health initiatives, ensuring that tourism benefits the surrounding population.

Practical Information

• Best Time to Visit: The lodge’s optimal safari season is from June to October, coinciding with the dry season when wildlife congregates around water sources. However, the lodge’s remote location means that all seasons offer unique advantages—summer for lush landscapes, and winter for stargazing.
• Travel Tips: A private transfer from the nearest major airport is recommended. The lodge encourages guests to bring binoculars, a camera, and comfortable walking shoes. Light, breathable clothing is essential for daytime drives, while a light jacket is advised for early morning or late afternoon outings.
• Pricing: Rates vary seasonally, with a typical all‑inclusive stay ranging from $1,800 to $2,500 per night. Packages include accommodation, meals, game drives, and selected activities. The lodge also offers “weekend escape” deals for those with limited time.

Final Thoughts

Lion Sands Ivory Lodge stands as a testament to what contemporary safari luxury can achieve when it intertwines thoughtful design, wildlife conservation, and genuine cultural engagement. The Travel + Leisure feature paints a vivid picture of a place where every detail—from the handcrafted décor to the curated wildlife encounters—serves a single purpose: to create an authentic, transformative experience in the heart of Africa. For travelers seeking an escape that balances indulgence with integrity, Ivory Lodge offers a compelling choice that feels both exclusive and deeply rooted in the land’s soul.