Leopard Sands Kruger Park, Autograph Collection
Autograph Collection Welcomes Leopard Sands Kruger Park, Celebrating the Wildlife, Heritage and Stories of the Lowveld
Leopard Sands Kruger Park joins Autograph Collection, marking the brand's first safari lodge in South Africa. Inspired by the XiTsonga phrase garingani wa garingani ("let me tell you a story"), the lodge draws on the traditions, craftsmanship and cultural heritage of neighbouring Tsonga communities, offering a distinctive perspective on Kruger National Park and the surrounding region.
Perched on the banks of the Sabie River just outside Kruger National Park near Paul Kruger Gate, Leopard Sands Kruger Park, Autograph Collection overlooks a stretch of water frequented by elephant, buffalo, hippo, crocodile and abundant birdlife, with uninterrupted views extending into the park beyond.
Riverfront Retreat
Leopard Sands features 18 standalone suites designed to immerse guests in the sights and sounds of the African bush, each with a private plunge pool, indoor and outdoor showers, and a freestanding bathtub.
Designed by Varoom Interiors and Delta Designs, the interiors layer natural stone, timber and woven textures with handcrafted furnishings, locally crafted artworks and design elements that reflect the people, places and stories of the Kruger region. A collection of leopard photographs captured by Safraaz Suliman, one of the founding directors, features throughout, paying tribute to the animal that inspired Leopard Sands' name.
The lodge also features a river-facing lounge and viewing deck, an infinity pool overlooking the bush, a fitness centre and a curated boutique. At the heart of the lodge is the Library Corner, featuring books on Kruger National Park's wildlife, history and people alongside a leather-bound journal where guests can record reflections from their own safari journeys.
Flavours of the Lowveld
Dining at Leopard Sands celebrates the flavours and food traditions of South Africa's Lowveld. At the lodge's signature restaurant, Ndlopfu, guests can enjoy regional dishes including oxtail potjie served with tihove, a traditional Tsonga accompaniment, alongside cocktails and mocktails inspired by local ingredients, including marula fruit harvested on the property.
The lodge also offers interactive Boma evenings where guests gather around the fire for traditional braais accompanied by local music, dance and storytelling.
Days of Discovery
Twice-daily game drives into Kruger National Park remain central to the experience, with expert guides bringing the region's wildlife, flora and folklore to life. Guests can also personalise their stay with a range of optional experiences, from scenic flights over the Blyde River Canyon and guided tours of the Panorama Route to visits to wildlife rehabilitation centres and rounds at Skukuza Golf Club. Back at the lodge, guests can unwind with private in-room spa treatments, while weekly silent outdoor cinema screenings offer a memorable way to end the day beneath the stars.
Rooted in Community
Leopard Sands operates on land leased from the neighbouring Belfast Trust community. Approximately 95% of employees come from the local community, and, wherever possible, the lodge procures goods and services from local businesses, suppliers and producers, helping create opportunities across the wider hospitality value chain.
Getting There
Leopard Sands is located near Skukuza Airport, approximately a one-hour flight or five-hour drive from Johannesburg.
Leopard Sands Kruger Park, Autograph Collection, participates in Marriott Bonvoy®, the award-winning travel programme from Marriott International, allowing members to earn and redeem points for their stay and across the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. For more information and reservation inquiries, visit Marriott.com.