Lions Valley Lodge
Nambiti Memorial Gate, Ladysmith 3370 South Africa
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About
#4 of 14 lodges in Ladysmith
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Travellers' Choice
An exclusive, Malaria-free Big Five Private game lodge situated on the Nambiti Private Game Reserve near Ladysmith, Kwa-Zulu Natal. It is geared for utimate relaxation and indulgence of wild life and natural surroundings of the bushveld. Visitors are accommodated in exlusive suites offering maximum privacy. There are a wealth of interesting activities for visitors to participate in. Lions Valley Lodge is situated near to historic battlefields and trips can be arranged. Bush braais and fishing in the dams can be arranged. Guests who want to unwind can laze around at the pool deck which overlooks the waterhole. Succumb to a massage by one of our trained therapists. Lions Valley Lodge offers a unique setting for corporate or team-building breakaways and conferences whilst being surrounded by the spectular sights and sounds of the African Bushveld.
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Property amenities
Free public parking nearby
Free internet
Pool
Bar / lounge
Fishing
Patio
Conference facilities
Spa
Secured parking
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Infinity pool
Pool with view
Outdoor pool
Shallow end in pool
Breakfast buffet
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Poolside bar
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Foot massage
Full body massage
Hand massage
Head massage
Massage
Neck massage
Gift shop
Mosquito net
Outdoor furniture
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
Sun umbrellas
First aid kit
Umbrella
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Ironing service
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Room features
Bathrobes
Air conditioning
Desk
Fireplace
Housekeeping
Minibar
Extra long beds
Walk-in shower
Private balcony
Safe
Seating area
Sofa
Telephone
Wardrobe / wardrobe
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Wake-up service / alarm clock
Refrigerator
Electric kettle
Sofa bed
Electric blanket
Bath / shower
Hair dryer
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Room types
Landmark view
Bridal suite
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Family rooms
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Hidden Gem
Luxury
Languages Spoken
English, Afrikaans, Zulu
Location
Nambiti Memorial Gate, Ladysmith 3370 South Africa
Getting there
Car HireSee all Ladysmith car hire
401Reviews4Q+A100Room tips
Reviews
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+1
Amazing experience-the rooms were so beautiful,spacious and had stunning views. The food was proper 5 star dining. The staff were extremely friendly. Our Ranger Bianca kept us well informed and entertained..we will definitely be back.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 6 days ago
Thank you for review. We are so happy to hear that you had an amazing time, loved your suite and enjoyed your meals while at Lions Valley Lodge. We hope to see back soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We spent an amazing 3 nights in the Livingstone Suite at Lions Valley Lodge. From our arrival to our departure we were looked after superbly. The service at the bar and in the restaurant was 100%. Bianca our ranger was 110%, we saw so many animals. I missed an early morning drive but on the afternoon drive we saw 4 male lions (my no 1 ask). The suite and it's verandah were huge and we saw impala and kudu just strolling by. I would highly recommend a visit to Lions Valley and I would love to return one day.
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Thank you for taking the time to write a review and for your recommendation. We are delighted to know that you had an amazing time while you were here at Lions Valley Lodge. I am so pleased you got to see your number 1 ask, the lions, during your stay. We too hope you will return some day.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Our spacious rooms were fantastic and had everything we needed including superb views from the deck. Food was excellent and the bar was well stocked and very relaxed and right next to the swimming pool and waterhole viewing area. Our game guide was very informative on the “little creatures “ who are often as interesting as the headline Big 5.
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: There is plenty of space to find some peace and quiet.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 1 week ago
Ronny0 thank you for your review. It is always great to hear that guests have enjoyed their stay with us. I agree with you, learning about the "little creatures" and the flora is almost more interesting than facts about the bigger animals. We look forward to being able to welcome you back to Lions Valley Lodge.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We had an amazing 3 night stay at Lions Valley lodge! We stayed at Nambiti as part of a big family reunion trip in various stops through South Africa and Lions Valley was one of our favourite parts of the trip. The lodge is beautiful. The pool deck and bar and Boma area are modern yet fit in with the surroundings and the individual lodges are amazing! The room really was spectacular with the two showers, baths and huge, comfortable bed. We also were quite lucky and saw a few animals passing by from our private deck. All the staff were fab but our ranger Bianca was top class. We enjoyed all 6/6 game drives offered and managed to see 4/5 big 5 with plenty of other animals as well. We had some amazing encounters with Elephants, Rhinos, Hippos, Giraffes and we got so lucky with three separate Lion encounters all up very close. The food we had over the 4 days was 10/10. Every meal whether it was breakfast, lunch or dinner was very good. We certainly never went hungry. We couldn’t have enjoyed our time any more. We’ll hopefully be back one day!…
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Room Tip: To get the most out of your time arrive for 1pm on check in to do afternoon drive. Savannah lodge...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 2 weeks ago
Thank you Katie for your lovely review. It’s great to know that we added to your big family reunion and that you enjoyed all that Lions Valley has to offer. You will have to come back to see the one Big 5 that you did not manage to see. It’s been so hot lately, I’m sure the swimming pool was put to good use. Take care and travel back safely to Scotland.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Had a wonderful experience at Lions Valley Lodge. The staff were exceptional as well as the food. What a bonus, heading out for breakfast /lunch which over looks the dam with their main residence poking heads out of the water - Hippos 🦛 What a sighting to look at while enjoying 5 star cuisine. The game was abundant and had the privilege of seeing four of the big five. Would highly recommend Lions Valley Lodge to anyone looking to spend time at a private game lodge. Thank you to all who took our experience above and beyond. Always grateful Mads Until next time :)
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Stay open minded and always dress comfortably.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Thank you Mads for your review, we are really thrilled that your experience at Lions Valley Lodge was above and beyond. It was a pleasure to host you, and we look forward to your return visit. The hippos will be wallowing in anticipation!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Amazing Private Lodge. 5 stars!!!! Where one could see all 5 of the big 5 on your visit. On arrival, one is welcomed by staff with a hot towel and welcome drink, and when returning from your daily game drive morning and afternoon. All the staff at the Lodge are very professional and friendly. One feels welcome throughout your stay. The setting is out of this world, open space reception and infinity pool overlooking a lake where 3 Hippo have taken up residence. Rooms are very spacious with 2 individual baths. 2 individual indoor and outdoor showers. Beds are very comfortable with fresh crisp linen that await you after a day out. For me the best touch was the lions valley logo, embroidered on the top centre of the linen. Turn down service with a chocolate on your pillow every night. "sweet dreams". Breakfast lunch and dinner at the restaurant overlooking the valley is superb the quality and presentation of food is 5 star. Having 2 treatments in the Spa was outstanding making us feel relaxed and up for another early morning game drive. Twice a day you go on a game drive. The Ranger is extremely knowledgeable and takes time to show you round the reserve in search for the most game possible to see. We were very lucky to see 4 of the big 5 and a few Hippo of course........ Thank you very much to all..........Tony D UK …
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Date of stay: November 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
Thank you Tony D UK, for your valuable review of your stay at Lions Valley Lodge. We are so pleased that you enjoyed your time with us and that you were able to appreciate all that Lions Valley has to offer. We hope you will come back soon!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We was shocked at our experience and recent stay at lions lodge after reading the reviews we decided to book lions valley. We found the staff extremely unprofessional and unhelpful constant remarks behind and in front of us. On the night before our last day after our stormy freezing game drive we came back to a lodge with no fire the lodges are open which we understand but no fires lit nor in the lodges at what is suppose to be a luxury lodge was horrific. The next morning on the game drive we were offered wet blankets shocking not even a hot water bottle the game drive was pointless as we did not see much we felt that there was no proactiveness in communicating with the other game drivers to see where the action was knowledge was very poor. We had been at another lodge on the site and that was amazing the game driver was very knowledgeable and was very proactive In showing us lots thank you to umzolozolo lodge they were 5 stars. When we came to lions valley the staff were more interested in if they were better and were very unprofessional in their approach with the catty comments. Food choices was none at lunchtime and when we sent back some food under cooked and not to our palete no alternative was offered they couldn’t care less. Breakfast was poor too we expected to be able to have a cold buffet too this had to be ordered and ticked with small portions even asking would we like a small pastry. The whole thing seemed like they were on a real tight budget we paid over £400 British pounds per night very very poor we did not always get our drinks on the game drive partly due to weather but they could’ve given it to us when we got back to the lodge it just all seemed like cost cutting measures which we felt a premier inn travel lodge would be more generous. Racial comments were made by a staff member on their views about Asian community this was very disturbing and unprofessional yet again. We have stayed and travelled in many many places around the world and this has been by far the worse place we stayed. No offer of luggage to be taken to car on our last day the lodge had only 4 guests they new what time we were leaving no offer was made we couldn’t wait to leave and left early after an early breakfast. The other couple asked for a fire in their lodge the evening before as the place was freezing they were told by a staff member they had no wood for fire in the next 20 mins that staff member was dragging arm load of wood fire to the fire in the dining area. The list goes on very very disappointing shocking as only a handful of guests were staying here this should’ve been better service. …
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 4 weeks ago
I appreciate that guest reviews are very subjective, but of the guest comments that were written by guests who stayed at the lodge at the same time as you, there is a massive contradiction between your review and the others received. In fact, I received the following email addressed to me by guests that were on the same game drives with the same guide as you. "Subject: LVL || REFERENCE 1004069 || 26 - 29 OCTOBER || FEEDBACK Dear Lions Valley Lodge Owners Hope you are keeping well. I recently had the privilege of staying at your Lions Valley Lodge in Nambiti Game Reserve, and it was an unforgettable experience. The luxurious accommodations together with the exceptional service, made my stay truly memorable and I can’t wait to return to LVL. Zee went above and beyond from the moment I had enquired up until we had left, and she waved goodbye. She has ensured our comfort and satisfaction throughout our whole stay. Zee, thank you the wonderful person that you are. I had tears in my eyes when I waved goodbye because I have never met people so passionate and kind. Admire and Siya are so enthusiastic, welcoming, and warm. They kept us entertained from the minute we had arrived. Delivering a service with a smile! From carrying cocktails to the pool and water to the gym, serving our meals, sharing our dreams with each other, laughing non-stop, realizing that we know the same people, supporting the Boks, enjoying Springboks, and giving hugs upon saying goodbye. Admire, next time we visit, you need to be in that training routine and Siya, get your camara and dream big! Bianca can be described in one word – Passionate! Always smiling and ready with a joke. She has so much knowledge and we really enjoyed our safari trips. On every trip we had learnt something new. We were privileged to see everything we wanted too except for the leopard. Bianca, next time we are staying until we see the Ingwe! Your biggest asset at LVL is the friendly, kind, humble and knowledgeable employees. The most amazing part is that they had not put up a front but that they truly are passionate, caring, and loving people. Lions Valley Lodge is highly recommended! You will see us again and soon!" I'm sorry the weather was not great for some of the time you were at the lodge and I understand this can put a damper on things. However, I’m sure you appreciate that we have no control over the weather. Unfortunately, when it is cold and wet, the animals also tend to take cover, but I am pleased to know that during your stay you did see 4 of the Big 5, as well as an abundance of plains game. Our guides do communicate by radio with other guides when out on game drives. Sometimes specific animals are just too far away for the guide to get to them during the allotted game drive period. Your claim that there were no fires lit in the lodge is incorrect. I was at the lodge for two nights and there were fires burning in both the bar area and the dining room. I agree that the fire in your suite should have been lit and I discussed this with the staff, and they were lit the following evening. Incidentally there were 10 guests in-house on your first 2 nights and 14 on your last night and not 4 as you suggest. Your comment about the staff making racist comments is offensive, and I do not for one minute believe this to be true as this is a dismissible offence. We are in the hospitality industry and all our guests are very important to us as is obvious from 99 percent of the reviews we receive. I was informed that you chose not to join the staff and other guests in the conference room on the Saturday to watch the Rugby World Cup final. This is a pity as I know a great exciting time was had by all and the shots that we call, “Springboks” were flowing. “No offer of luggage to be taken to the car..” is false. I saw you with your suitcases and I informed you that you should leave your bags as your guide would come and fetch your luggage once you got to the main lodge. You declined that this should happen. I am sorry that you were so disappointed with your stay at Lions Valley, however I think criticism should be constructive and not based on untruths!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Of 7 countries of safaris and dozens of game drives I’ve been on, this is the best experience I’ve had. The lodge villas are gorgeous. Couldn’t expect anything more comfortable, clean, etc. Every staff member provided the absolute top service. Our safari guide Tayne is the best guide I’ve ever had. He shaped our entire experience and we are so grateful we were in his care. Lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, anything you could dream of seeing—- he found it. Super knowledgeable and truly a gift. Can’t wait to come back!
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 22 Oct 2023
Thank you for your review. We are delighted that you so enjoyed your stay at Lions Valley Lodge and that your positive interaction with the staff and your excellent game drives added to a great Safari experience. We look forward to welcoming you back.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
We booked Lions Valley Lodge to celebrate a special milestone for our business. Being a once off weekend together, there was a lot of pressure to have everything perfect and all 20 guests happy. Lions Valley Lodge really came to the party and went beyond our expectations. The accommodation and food was 5 star and the game drives and walking safaris were very special. They went out of their way to meet all of our requests and last minute changes and really welcomed us warmly and attended to all our needs. Everybody loved every aspect of the weekend. Thank you Adri, Nadia, Zee, Admire, Reinhart, Tayne and Stefan for making we had the best celebration weekend.
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 27 Sept 2023
It was a pleasure to be able to contribute to your 20 year celebration being such a success. We are delighted to know that the accommodation and food met all your needs and expectations and that you found your game drives and walks special. Thank you for choosing Lions Valley Lodge as the place to celebrate your achievements. We wish you all well.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
From booking, right through visiting and to us departing, Lions Valley Lodge was an amazing experience. The accomodation is even better than the pictures, the food was beautiful (and there was ssooo much of it), the staff were so lovely, our ranger Bianca was super friendly, knowledgeable and fun and most importantly the animals were breathtaking. The early morning and afternoon game drives that allowed for a few hours relaxing in between was the perfect way to spend a few days. I can’t wait for a return visit
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: It’s a long, but easy drive from Johannesburg. Might be faster to drive in from Durban
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from Fiona Lines, Owner at Lions Valley Lodge
Responded 16 Aug 2023
Thank you for your great review, we are so pleased to hear that you had an amazing experience. We too look forward to welcoming you back someday.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
US$470 - US$534 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
South AfricaKwaZulu-NatalLadysmith
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
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Frequently Asked Questions about Lions Valley Lodge
Which popular attractions are close to Lions Valley Lodge?
Nearby attractions include Nambiti Big 5 Private Game Reserve (6.1 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Lions Valley Lodge?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include a pool, a lounge, and a spa.
Which room amenities are available at Lions Valley Lodge?
Top room amenities include a minibar, air conditioning, and a refrigerator.
What food & drink options are available at Lions Valley Lodge?
Guests can enjoy a lounge, a poolside bar, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Lions Valley Lodge?
Yes, free public parking nearby and secured parking are available to guests.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Lions Valley Lodge?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Lions Valley Lodge?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, Afrikaans, and Zulu.