Luxury tent
Hoedspruit
8.7/10

Southern Sands Eco Lodge

Southern Sands Ecolodge offers tented accommodation within the Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve, located on the banks of the mighty Olifants River. Set apart to offer privacy, these well appointed tents each have an en suite bathroom with an outdoor shower, a fire pit and a fully equipped outdoor kitchenette. They also each have a furnished deck area overlooking the river. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool. For our smaller guests there is a dedicated splash pool. On advance request, the lodge can provide meal options, subject to availability. The reserve is home to a range of plains game, including giraffe, wildebeest, zebra and a number of antelope species. Guests at Southern Sands Ecolodge can enjoy organized tours into the Kruger National Park and the celebrated Panoramic route as well as guided game drives on the 1000 hectare Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve in an open game drive vehicle. Running, walking and cycling is possible on the reserve. Hoedspruit is 35 km from Southern Sands Ecolodge, and the nearest airport is Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, 43 km away. Nestled on the banks of the Olifants River within the peaceful Ndlovumzi Nature Reserve, Southern Sands Ecolodge offers an authentic bush experience that blends comfort, nature, and family-friendly freedom. Each tent is privately positioned to ensure peace and space for every guest. The well-appointed tents feature an en-suite bathroom with an outdoor shower, a furnished deck overlooking the river, a fire pit, and a fully equipped outdoor kitchenette, perfect for relaxed evenings under the stars. Southern Sands Ecolodge is primarily self-catering, featuring private braai areas, outdoor kitchens, and a shared kitchen in the communal area. For guests who prefer not to cook, we’re happy to prepare meals on request — from traditional South African braais to vegetarian-friendly options (advance notice required). The fenced-in lodge area makes it a safe and open space for children to play, explore, and connect with nature while parents unwind. Guests can enjoy the swimming pool and a smaller splash pool for little ones. The Ndlovumzi Reserve is home to giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, and several species of antelope. Guests can explore on self-drives, guided walks, runs, or cycling routes within the 1000-hectare reserve. On request, we also arrange guided tours and full-day excursions to the Kruger National Park or along the scenic Panorama Route. Free Wi-Fi is available in the communal area for those who wish to stay connected, while the tents themselves invite you to switch off and enjoy the tranquillity of the bush.

Top location: Highly rated by recent guests (8.8)
Free private parking available on-site

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Kids

Children of any age are welcome.

Dogs

Pets are not allowed.

Address

54 ndlovumzi, 1380 Hoedspruit, South Africa, Hoedspruit, South Africa

Facilities

2 swimming pools Free WiFi Free parking Family rooms Airport shuttle Non-smoking rooms

Gallery

a bedroom with two beds in a tent at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a bedroom with a bed with white curtains and orange pillows at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a room in a tent with a window at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

two chairs and an umbrella next to a swimming pool at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a building under a starry sky at night at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a red tea kettle on top of a grill at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a building with a pool at night with lights at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a glass of wine sitting on a table with a fireplace at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

a small monkey drinking water from a pool of water at Southern Sands Eco Lodge in Hoedspruit

More photos on Booking

Reviews

Vanessa 8/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Our stay was relaxing and peaceful, our hosts were incredibly lovely, and we will definitely be visiting again.

Pros: We had such a wonderful stay. The property was incredibly relaxing and peaceful, exactly what we needed to switch off from busy city life. The quiet surroundings made it easy to truly unwind, and we especially loved spotting different wildlife while driving in and out of the property. It was a refreshing and memorable escape.

Cons: The entry way to the property was a little difficult for a small vehicle, however, that was due to the recent floods and I’m sure it will be sorted when we go back!

Tswelopele 8/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Pros: The location . The Olifants river and the sounds of flowing river. The swimming pool was clean

Cons: They must invest in cast pots and microwave.

Poroza 10/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

I love the fact that there is no network, so it is a perfect place to unwind and rest

Pros: I loved the river view and the sound of it at night

Cons: I wish there was something I didn't like. Everything was up to my standard

Matshwene 10/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Exceptional

Pros: Terry was so helpful. Tent was clean n the bed was extremely comfortable

Cons: We had the challenge with water since the tank was empty n it took time to be full again

Ettiene 9/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Pros: surroundings were great. Nice and peaceful. There's a good braai area , would work perfectly if you book both tents for a family weekend. Everyone can share the outdoor area together. Very comfortable and scenic. Everything you'd need. The hosts are awesome, great people very friendly.

Cons: Outdoor showers are great , but would be better if it was closed off a little better on the side facing other tents. This feel like a privacy issue to the ladies. The bathroom side of the tents are not see-through but at night the lights make you see what's going on inside this area, meaning you can see someone and their shapes inside from any angle. This makes you feel a little uncomfortable.

Mahlalela 10/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

It was my birthday weekend I loved every minute of it the sound of the river while sleeping 🥰🥰

Pros: It was my birthday and they went an extra mile to make sure our tent looked the part ❤️❤️❤️ I Loved that very much

Irene 8/10

Netherlands 🇳🇱

Pros: Nice location, nice view, and comfortable tent. Real Back to the bush experience with very few other guests. Very friendly owners who really want you to feel at home and are very helpful.

Cons: Wifi reception very bad. Also no cellphone reception.

Alan 10/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Secluded spot of romance

Pros: Great setting on the Olifants. It is a perfect space for romance and connection. Braai facilities at each unit and around pool. Private and quiet.

Elna 8/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Pros: The view and the sound of the river flowing was magical. It's a very tranquil area, and you can rest and rejuvenate! We felt safe, and the tent was comfortable, especially with the bathroom inside.

Cons: The long-distance drive on the dirt road to the venue. Limited Internet connection. The outside kitchen assesories need an update.

Grove 10/10

South Africa 🇿🇦

Perfect stay in the bushveld. Will recommend it.

Pros: Absolutely love this place. Love the peaceful atmosfeer in the reserve and the outside shower was fantastic. The host was also very friendly and went out of their way to help us