From Sunrise to Sunset: A Photographic Journey at Lion Sands Narina Lodge

Each day spent at Lion Sands Narina Lodge is a unique adventure. It is difficult to describe to someone who has not yet experienced it. As a photographer, I found inspiration in the sights and sounds of Narina Lodge and my stay there was simply too incredible not to share.

Dawn

Every morning at Narina Lodge is heralded by a stunning sunrise, gently bringing the warmth of the day as the sun climbs into the sky. A quick cup of coffee or tea, and perhaps a rusk or biscuit, readies guests for a game drive, with each drive better than the last.

Animals seem almost eager to show themselves, with the morning game drives in particular being filled with an assortment of sightings. A lone waterbuck quenches his thirst at a nearby watering hole, not far from a resting rhino. A pair of ground hornbills are perched in a large dried knobthorn tree, a gargantuan male elephant delicately selects branches to feed on. We even manage to catch a glimpse of a pack of elusive African wild dogs on the hunt.

Over several mornings, numerous big cats grace us with their presence. An elegant female leopard keeping an eye on the comings-and-goings of her territory whilst balancing effortlessly on the branch of a marula tree. A handsome male lion, watching us with a grumpy stare as we rudely interrupt his early-morning nap. And one of the most amazing sightings I’ve ever experienced: a female leopard with her young cub, feasting on an impala in a tall marula tree. An impala that, unfortunately, would soon be dropped by the inexperienced youngster, right into the jaws of spotted hyenas lurking below.

Returning to the lodge each morning is a delight. As the menu hosts a variety of delectable options for breakfast, including some scrumptious baked goods such as croissants, scones and flapjacks. Breakfasts are enjoyed in the dining area, with a stunning view of the Sabie River that runs alongside the lodge.

Afternoon

Afternoons can be spent lazing in your comfortable, air-conditioned suite or perhaps enjoying a refreshing dip in your private plunge pool. Alternatively, a small fitness centre is available, for those who want to work off that extra helping that just looked too delicious to decline. Narina Lodge also offers spa treatments, allowing you to watch the river and wildlife below whilst relieving all your tension.

Lunch is yet another feast, served on the open deck. At Narina Lodge, all your dietary requirements are taken seriously, and the menu has options for anyone and everyone. Just watch out, or a sneaky vervet monkey might steal a bite right off your plate! Wildlife still puts on a show at lunch and you might spot buffalo cooling off in the water, or even a herd of elephants coming for a quick splash.

Dusk

The late afternoon brings with it the promise of another fantastic game drive. A statuesque male kudu watches us while a red-billed oxpecker tries to pick ticks off his ear; a pride of lions with cubs are feasting on a kill; and we even watch as a small dung beetle struggles to roll a ball uphill, which is surprisingly entertaining. Another leopard makes an appearance, this time a large male who has clearly been in a recent fight with a rival. We follow him into the shrubbery, until finally he comes to a stop to have a quick grooming session with the sunset casting a beautiful glow over him in the background.

Dinner might just make you feel like you should have saved more space earlier in the day. As each evening has mouth-watering new options. One of my favourites was the fall-off-the-bone, perfectly prepared lamb shank. After a long day, the comfortable bed calls, offering you a restful evening before your next eventful day at Narina Lodge.