Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary

Environment & Location: The property offers a unique wildlife experience with proximity to lions, tigers, leopards, zebras, and antelopes. The views of the surrounding plains, hills, and animals are consistently praised.

We spent 3 wonderful hours at LionsRock. After a bumpy 13km drive on a dirt road, the drive from the gate to reception was filled with a variety of wildlife and birds. We received a very friendly greeting at reception and after an introductory video we started the tour. Our guide whose nickname is Excellence did a great job of pointing out the different animals and birds and providing insights into their characteristics and habits. He clearly has some deep knowledge about a variety of species. We then toured the different habitats. He knew facts about each animal including history, issues and goals. We were able to get out of the truck a few times and get closer to the animals outside the fence. Many were shy but some curious or comfortable with the gawking humans. One even strolled along beside us for at least 100 meters. Excellence clearly enriched our experience. After the tour we had a delicious lunch overlooking the property. Next time I hope we can do other activities for a more intimate experience.

We were part of a large party and arrived around 9:35pm. Our 52 seat coach was sent on a run around by staff, we drove around the grounds for 35mins and the bus was nearly grounded. On arrival at reception we struggled to carry our cases up the very steep wooded staircase which need some TLC. More stress was added by being given the wrong room, this was quickly addressed and given keys to a small block of three rooms, two of which were ours. It was now gone past 22:00hrs and just glad to crash. Unfortunately we found our rooms to be of a very poor standard, the cleanliness was questionable and both rooms differed in equipment, i;e kettle in one and a fridge in the other? The middle room of three we observed to be treated as a store room for the rest of the hotel. i:e spare mattresses and many other items stacked high. The hotel had WIFI however we found this to be slow when it worked. In the morning we were met with a fabulous view of the surrounding plains and hills. The scenery was outstanding! Then we noticed the many animals including the Lions and a Tiger. Breakfast was served early for us 'Thanks' and unfortunately we had to leave. We would have loved to stay longer and sample more of the Lionsrock lodge, however this would only been possible in different rooms. I have included a picture of our block. Please make sure you are not staying in this block and request a different part of the lodge. (Sorry but I can't remember the name of the block) Its a shame as the hotel, the view and the animals appeared to be fantastic and we were just given the 'Wrong Room' To the manager; Please do not give your guests these rooms until they have been upgraded in keeping with your other rooms.