More Family Collection’s Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is closed until further notice pending the outcome of a 48-hour full fire damage assessment currently underway with Custodian and CEO Robert More on site.
A detailed statement, including the closure timeline, will be released when the assessment is complete.
It follows a fire last night (Thursday, December 5) that affected the main areas of the lodge located in the Lion Sands Game Reserve within the greater Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
“We are relieved to report that all guests and staff are safe after immediate evacuation following our emergency protocols,” said More.
He explained that the fire, triggered by unusual wind conditions and an electrical storm, severely damaged the lodge's kitchen, dining room, bar and office. However, all guest rooms, spa, gym and reception areas remain unaffected.
“Thanks to our teams' fire training and swift response, along with immediate assistance from emergency services and neighbouring properties, the fire was quickly contained,” said More.
The More Family Collection’s neighbouring Lion Sands River Lodge continues to operate normally.
"We are incredibly grateful for the immediate response and support from the Bushbuckridge Fire Department and our neighbouring lodges during this incident,” said More.
"Our priority now is to complete a thorough assessment and begin the restoration process to ensure we can welcome guests back to the exceptional standard they expect from Lion Sands Ivory Lodge."
The lodge's reservations team is making alternative arrangements for affected guests.
