Sabi Sands, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Mala Mala, Mala Mala Collection, Leopard, Big Five, Tengile Mala Mala
andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Sabi Sands, Tengile, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Game Drive
Sabi Sands, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Mala Mala, Mala Mala Collection, Leopard, Big Five, Tengile Mala Mala
Sabi Sands, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Mala Mala, Mala Mala Collection, Leopard, Big Five, Tengile Mala Mala
Sabi Sands, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Mala Mala, Mala Mala Collection, Leopard, Big Five, Tengile Mala Mala

A Tranquil Luxury Safari Lodge in the Sabi Sands

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, South Africa

Meaning “tranquil” in the local language, Tengile River Lodge truly lives up to its name. Set on a secluded bend of the Sand River within the wildlife-rich Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, this exclusive lodge is a standout on any luxury South Africa safari. From the riverside setting and elegant architecture to the warm hospitality and refined dining, every detail is carefully considered.

The lodge features just nine spacious suites, each designed with privacy and comfort in mind. Contemporary interiors are complemented by curated decorative elements that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Large ensuite bathrooms, generous living spaces and expansive views of the surrounding bush create a calm and indulgent atmosphere throughout.

Between game drives, guests can enjoy a massage at the spa, work out in the well-equipped fitness centre, relax beside the swimming pools or browse the Safari Shop. The pace here is unhurried, making Tengile an ideal choice for travellers seeking a quieter, more intimate safari experience.

Highlights and Activities at Tengile

ROOMS: 9 luxury suites

BEST FOR:  Honeymooner • Couples

ACTIVITIES:

  • Big Five game drives
  • Night drives
  • Guided walking safaris
  • Bird watching
  • Spa & Wellness Centre
  • Fitness Centre
  • Community Trips
Sabi Sands, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge, Mala Mala, Mala Mala Collection, Leopard, Big Five, Tengile Mala Mala, Elephant

Why We Love Tengile River Lodge

Tengile River Lodge is particularly celebrated for its exceptional leopard sightings, one of the hallmarks of the Sabi Sand. Excellent guiding, limited vehicle numbers and off-road driving within the reserve create intimate and rewarding wildlife encounters. The lodge also offers meaningful opportunities to visit nearby communities, adding cultural depth to the safari experience.

Let's Plan Your Trip!

 FAQs About Tengile River Lodge

Where is Tengile River Lodge located?

Tengile River Lodge is located within the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, along a quiet bend of the Sand River. The reserve shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to move freely across the Greater Kruger ecosystem.

What wildlife sightings can I expect at Tengile River Lodge?

Tengile is renowned for exceptional Big Five sightings, particularly leopards, for which the Sabi Sand is world famous. Limited vehicle numbers, off-road driving and expert guiding allow for close, respectful sightings of predators, elephants, buffalo and abundant plains game throughout the year.

Is Tengile River Lodge suitable for honeymooners?

Yes. Tengile River Lodge is especially well suited to honeymooners and couples seeking privacy and tranquillity. With just nine suites, a secluded riverside setting and a strong focus on wellness and personalised service, it offers a calm and romantic safari experience.

Is andBeyond Tengile River Lodge the same as Tengile River Lodge?

Yes, andBeyond Tengile River Lodge is now known simply as Tengile River Lodge, following a change in management. The lodge is now part of the Tengile Mala Mala Collection, located within the Mala Mala Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger region of South Africa.

While the name and management have changed, the lodge itself remains in the same prime riverfront location, known for its contemporary design, spacious suites, and strong Big Five game viewing. Guests can still expect a high level of guiding and access to one of the most established private reserves bordering the Kruger National Park.

Ready to start planning Your Safari?

Reach out and let’s start talking. We’ll listen and begin to tailor an experiential, private, luxury vacation based on exactly how you want to experience Africa. From adventure to relaxation—and everything in between—let us handle every detail of your unforgettable journey.

INQUIRE NOW

Explore More South Africa Safaris

South Africa offers exceptional Big Five safaris and diverse landscapes year-round. Explore our suggested itineraries below, or let us tailor one for you.

Royal Malewane Lodge. Royal Portfolio. Greater Kruger. Kruger National Park. Big Five

14-DAY CAPE TOWN & BIG FIVE HONEYMOON

Fancy a honeymoon in the most romantic locations around Southern Africa? We’ve got just the itinerary planned for you! Our Southern Africa Honeymoon itinerary will take you from Cape Town to the Greater Kruger, onwards to Zimbabwe and finally finishing in whimsical Mozambique. Expect nothing but the best for this once in a lifetime trip.

From $12,600
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White Lion, Ngala Tented Camp, Kruger

White Lions of Ngala: A Luxury South Africa Safari

Discover South Africa through a journey that blends coastal beauty with extraordinary wildlife experiences. Begin in Cape Town, a city of mountains, beaches, and vibrant culture. Continue to the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve for world class Big Five viewing, then venture into Kruger National Park to see the mystical white lions of Ngala Private Game Reserve. This itinerary brings together the very best of South Africa in one unforgettable adventure.

From $11,500
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Best of South Africa, Phinda, andBeyond, &Beyond, South Africa Safari

The Best of South Africa

This all-inclusive South Africa itinerary is the perfect choice for your first time in Africa. We’ll take you on a whirlwind 10-days exploring Cape Town and the Cape Winelands, followed by an adventurous safari in the bush of South Africa.

From $10,400
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What Ubuntu Travelers Are Saying

 
 
 
  
ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 55.0120 reviews
 
5.0Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5
 
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 Adrianna Kennelly 
 
29 October 2026
 
 
 Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had the absolute best time on our trip all thanks to Ubuntu's attention to detail, and thoughtfulness that went into helping us plan our dream honeymoon in South Africa. We appreciated at the start of the process how we didn't feel pressured into anything, Smruti really listened to our vision for the trip and recommended the best options, while also bringing in perspective that we wouldn't have thought of. While we were in South Africa, we were connected 24/7 to Ubunto employees who were there to answer any question, help make last minute reservations, etc. Just an overall wonderful group of people to work with!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Christin Blake 
 
24 October 2026
 
 
 Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Our experience with Ubuntu was absolutely incredible from start to finish! They planned the most amazing honeymoon for us, taking us to Cape Town, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, and Benguerra Island in Mozambique. Every destination was unique and special, and the entire itinerary was perfectly curated to give us the best of everything—from beautiful scenery and incredible food to unforgettable safari experiences and a relaxing island escape.

Our time in Timbavati and Sabi Sand was truly once in a lifetime, with unbelievable wildlife encounters and memories we will cherish forever. Ending our honeymoon on Benguerra Island was the perfect way to unwind and enjoy the most beautiful beaches. Every stop exceeded our expectations, and the combination of destinations made for the most incredible trip.

Ubuntu made the entire planning process seamless, with thoughtful attention to detail and an itinerary that felt perfectly tailored to us. We were able to relax and enjoy every moment knowing everything was taken care of. We couldn’t have imagined a more perfect honeymoon and are so grateful to Ubuntu for helping us create memories that will last a lifetime. We would recommend them to anyone planning a special trip, especially a honeymoon. Truly the trip of a lifetime!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Natalie Beauparlant 
 
18 October 2026
 
 
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We had the most wonderful honeymoon thanks to the team at Ubuntu! From planning with Leah to logistics with Jenna to our team on the ground in Kenya and Tanzania - everyone was spectacular and beyond knowledgeable. We would certainly use Ubuntu for our next safari again! The team is truly wonderful and we didn't have to worry about a thing. If you are looking to go on a safari you should definitely use Ubuntu!!!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Gay King 
 
1 October 2026
 
 
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I had some problems with airline cancellations and some other pre-Safari things I had to get out of the way such as vaccinations, a visa and an electronic travel authorization.Ubuntu was very helpful with any problem I encountered and helped me get it solved. They stayed in touch every step of the way, including when I was actually on my Safari. I was never alone, although I was traveling solo. I felt very safe and secure over there. Thank you.Ubuntu!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Brianna Gleason 
 
23 September 2026
 
 
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From the very first zoom call with Leah to the detailed itinerary that Jenna put together to the boots on the ground communication from Jacinta, Mandie, Nyameka and the whole team we had the most incredible first safari experience in Kenya thanks to Ubuntu. They put us up in the most iconic tents with staff that went above and beyond to make sure we had a memorable experience. Our plane transfers from lodge to lodge were seamless and very easy to navigate. We had the absolute best safari vacation and we owe that to Ubuntu!
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Kelly Mordecai 
 
18 September 2026
 
 
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We worked with Ubuntu to plan our honeymoon, and throughout the entire process, we experienced such wonderful customer service. With so many things pulling us in different directions between wedding planning, our personal lives, and work, there were definitely times when our responses and decisions took longer than expected. No matter how long an email sat in our inbox, though, the Ubuntu team was always quick to respond. They patiently answered all of our questions, no matter how silly, and consistently provided helpful specifics, whether that was a direct link or step-by-step instructions.

We really appreciated that the team focused on giving us the information we needed to make informed decisions without ever making the process feel like a sales pitch. They were respectful and realistic when it came to conversations about our budget while still making sure they were creating the best experience possible for us.

Once we arrived in Africa, the experience continued to be top-notch. The accommodations were beautiful, and every staff member we interacted with was professional, welcoming, and went above and beyond to make our trip memorable. Having all of our airport transfers and domestic travel taken care of was such a relief and exactly what we needed after the chaos of wedding planning.

We would recommend working with Ubuntu to anyone we know who is planning a trip to Africa. They made the entire experience seamless, stress-free, and incredibly memorable. We are so grateful for the role they played in making our honeymoon so special.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google Google 
 
 
 
 
 
 Christopher Tower 
 
18 September 2026
 
 
 Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We just arrived home from a 31 day epic adventure in Africa.  We covered SA (Cape Town and surrounds), Singita at Sabi Sands, Vumbura Plains in the Okavango Delta, Joburg, Vic Falls Zimbabwe, Tanzania (Nomad at Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti and Tarangire National Parks), Rwanda (Kigali and Singita at Volcanoes National Park).  Ubuntu did an absolutely amazing job in arranging the trip.  They were with us every step of the way.  Excellent team and service!  CDT
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Carol Loftus 
 
16 September 2026
 
 
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Could not ask for a better safari firm.  No stone is left unturned and you always feel like you can get answers, day or night!  This is my second time using Ubuntu and I highly recommend them.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Kyle Song 
 
13 September 2026
 
 
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Absolute 1st class travel planning.  We had the most amazing and memorable trip, and as a person who likes to travel plan myself, this trip had so many moving parts there's no way I could have tackled it. I'd give Ubuntu an 11/10 rating if I could.  They made our travel seamless, relaxed, and delivered the most incredible experience.  100% we will use them again.
  
 
 
 
 
 
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 Lindsey Colner 
 
12 September 2026
 
 
 Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had the BEST experience with Ubuntu planning our South Africa trip! From the beginning, they were so easy to work with and were amazing at communicating with us both before and during the trip.

They put together the perfect itinerary for us with safari at two different lodges, time on Benguerra Island, and we even decided to add Franschhoek a couple of months before we left. They made everything so easy and somehow managed to make the entire trip feel completely seamless.

One of the biggest things that stood out was how responsive they were when we had our international flight canceled. I literally just had to send them a WhatsApp message with our new flight information, and they immediately took care of rearranging everything for us. We never had to stress about figuring out transfers or logistics ourselves.

They even had porters meet us at every airport, so we barely had to think about our luggage or where we were supposed to go. We truly felt taken care of every step of the way.

It was honestly the trip of a lifetime, and we couldn’t have asked for a better experience. We are already talking about when we can go back and will 100% be using Ubuntu again to plan our next trip. Highly, highly recommend them!