Lions River Travel & Accommodation Guide
Your complete guide to visiting Lions River, South Africa.
3Listings
FromR1,637per night
Most popularCottage
About Lions river
Lions River offers a peaceful setting in the KwaZulu-Natal countryside, ideal for those seeking relaxation amid natural surroundings. The area features rivers and hills that support outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. Visitors can enjoy the local flora and fauna while exploring nearby sites.
Lions River is a small town in the KwaZulu-Natal province, situated along the banks of its namesake river. This region is part of the larger uMngeni area, known for its rolling hills and water sources that attract nature enthusiasts. The town serves as a gateway to the Midlands, where agricultural landscapes dominate the scenery. Key features include the river itself, which flows towards the Indian Ocean and provides opportunities for angling and picnics.
The surrounding environment includes several hiking trails that lead through indigenous forests and open grasslands. One popular route is near the Howick Falls, about 20 kilometres away, where waterfalls cascade into pools. Bird species such as the African fish eagle can be spotted in the area, making it a spot for wildlife observation. The climate is generally mild, with summer rains supporting lush vegetation and winter offering clear skies for stargazing.
History in Lions River dates back to the colonial era, with old farmsteads still visible along the roads. Early settlers established farms here in the 19th century, contributing to the local economy through dairy and crop production. Lions river accommodation provides a range of options from guesthouses to self-catering cottages, allowing travellers to experience this rural lifestyle. The town connects to larger centres like Pietermaritzburg, about 40 kilometres to the south, via well-maintained roads.
For those interested in cultural aspects, the nearby town of Howick hosts museums that cover the region's past, including events from the Anglo-Zulu War. Local markets offer fresh produce and crafts from community artisans, adding a touch of everyday life to a visit. Overall, the area combines natural elements with accessible amenities, creating a balanced destination for exploration.
Lions River is a small town in the KwaZulu-Natal province, situated along the banks of its namesake river. This region is part of the larger uMngeni area, known for its rolling hills and water sources that attract nature enthusiasts. The town serves as a gateway to the Midlands, where agricultural landscapes dominate the scenery. Key features include the river itself, which flows towards the Indian Ocean and provides opportunities for angling and picnics.
The surrounding environment includes several hiking trails that lead through indigenous forests and open grasslands. One popular route is near the Howick Falls, about 20 kilometres away, where waterfalls cascade into pools. Bird species such as the African fish eagle can be spotted in the area, making it a spot for wildlife observation. The climate is generally mild, with summer rains supporting lush vegetation and winter offering clear skies for stargazing.
History in Lions River dates back to the colonial era, with old farmsteads still visible along the roads. Early settlers established farms here in the 19th century, contributing to the local economy through dairy and crop production. Lions river accommodation provides a range of options from guesthouses to self-catering cottages, allowing travellers to experience this rural lifestyle. The town connects to larger centres like Pietermaritzburg, about 40 kilometres to the south, via well-maintained roads.
For those interested in cultural aspects, the nearby town of Howick hosts museums that cover the region's past, including events from the Anglo-Zulu War. Local markets offer fresh produce and crafts from community artisans, adding a touch of everyday life to a visit. Overall, the area combines natural elements with accessible amenities, creating a balanced destination for exploration.
Types of Accommodation in Lions River
Featured Stays in Lions River
Hilton Bush Lodge
From
R 1,635
Per night for two in February





Hilton Bush Lodge provides accommodation near the village of Hilton in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Established in 2014, it serves as a retreat for parents visiting Hilton College and St Anne’s Diocesan College. Guests can view the South African sun over distant hills from a decked verandah.
Outdoor Pool
Full Kitchen

Hilton Bush Lodge
Lodge
From
R 1,635
Per night for two in February
Outdoor Pool
Full Kitchen
Halliwell Country Inn
From
R 1,637
Per night for two in February





Halliwell Country Inn is a fully serviced boutique hotel in KwaZulu Natal Midlands. It attracts corporate, leisure, conference and wedding guests with its exceptional location, large oversized rooms, open fireplaces and patios. Built in the 1830s as a fortified homestead.
Restaurant
Desk

Halliwell Country Inn
Boutique Hotel
From
R 1,637
Per night for two in February
Restaurant
Desk
Accommodation Prices in Lions River
| Type | Listings | From | Average | Up To |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cottage | 2 | – | – | – |
| Self-catering | 1 | – | – | – |
| Lodge | 1 | R1,635 | R2,391 | R4,054 |
| Boutique Hotel | 1 | R1,637 | R1,851 | R2,130 |
Lions River Map
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