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Ulusaba Safari Lodge

Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Safari Lodge delivers the classic Sabi safari: epic Big 5 game viewing, breathtaking suites & all the luxuries.

The brainchild of Virgin’s Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba Safari Lodge offers the quintessential luxury safari for honeymooners and families alike. Overlooking a dry river and permanent waterhole, this 11-suite lodge lies at the heart of Big 5 country, offering unforgettable game drives and walks with professional guides and trackers. It’s a classic destination for leopard sightings and the general game viewing is superb. Cultural excursions and community visits balance the wildlife experience with a fascinating human element.

Lying beneath sprawling trees, Ulusaba Safari Lodge is a place of rope bridges and tree-house suites, honeymoon hideaways and stargazing decks. The camp is well appointed too: there is a heated pool, gym and even two tennis courts. Those who want to relax between game drives can enjoy massages and beauty treatments at the spa or a bit of shopping at the gift shop.

Welcoming families with children over the age of 12, the lodge offers fully en suite chalets with air-conditioned comfort. You’ll sleep soundly in a netted four-poster and can sit back and relax on your private viewing deck. Meals are enjoyed in the company of fellow guests or at a table for two, set away from camp under a blaze of candles.

Lodge Highlights:

• Prime Big 5 location
• Game drives & guided nature walks
• Romantic & private suites
• Pool, spa, tennis courts & gym

About Ulusaba Safari Lodge

Luxury suites.

• Air-Conditioned & Fully En Suite
• Private Viewing Decks & Stunning Views
• Larger Suites with Pools Available
• Romantic Tree-House Suite

There are 11 rooms and suites at Ulusaba Safari Lodge, beginning with three adjoining Safari Rooms located close to the Main Lodge and each with a large viewing deck. The lodge also offers three tree-house style Elephant Rooms, so named for the elephants that often pass beneath them, and four larger River Rooms, also built in a tree-house style and two of which have private plunge pools.

Perfect for couples, the sophisticated Elephant and River Rooms offer a secluded and private experience as does the lodge’s accommodation masterpiece – the Tree House Suite, set over a waterhole and complete with lounge and daybed plus a private dining deck. This unique honeymoon hideaway is a 10 minute walk from camp and is reached via swing bridges and raised walkways.

All accommodation at Ulusaba Safari Lodge is fully en suite. Bathrooms feature ball and claw bathtubs and separate showers while the bedroom has a netted king-sized bed, air conditioning and a ceiling fan. A mini bar and tea and coffee station ensure you won’t want for any refreshments while you enjoy the view from your private deck.

Lodge Facilities

• Swimming Pool
• Lounge, Dining Areas & Bar
• Gym, Tennis Courts & Spa
• Stargazing Telescope
• Internet Access
• Romantic ‘Bush’ Dining

One of the more well-appointed Sabi lodges, Ulusaba Safari Lodge offers its guests plenty of entertainment between game drives. Its swimming pool and spa are popular but you can also enjoy a workout in the gym or play a couple of sets on one of the two tennis courts. As night falls, you’ll find the focus turns to the lodge’s convivial bar and lounge where stories of the day’s sightings are recalled over drinks.

Dinners are a fine affair at Ulusaba and you’ll enjoy excellent cuisine and wine pairings. Dietary requirements, private meals and special occasions also catered for.

Activities at Ulusaba Safari Lodge

• Morning & Afternoon Game Drives
• Guided Nature Walks
• Bird Watching & Stargazing
• Cultural Tours
• Helicopter Sightseeing

Ulusaba lies at the heart of the Sabi Sands, putting it in front-row seats for some of Africa’s best Big 5 game viewing. Expert guides and keen-eyed trackers take you on morning and afternoon game drives in search of the heavyweights – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. It’s also a place of hippo, giraffe, cheetah and wild dog – no wonder Ulusaba offers specialist photographic safaris too. And after a toast to the setting sun, you’ll enjoy a spot-lit night drive, searching for Africa’s seldom seen nocturnal animals.

Extra activities such as sightseeing by helicopter and tours to an elephant sanctuary are offered, and guests also have the chance to discover the human element to this landscape. Visits to local Shangaan villages can be arranged and you’ll have an opportunity to support Ulusaba’s community project.

Lodge Rates

Elephant room, river room with plunge pool, treehouse suite, safari room, safari suite.

• Your accommodation
• All meals served in a variety of locations around the lodge
• All beverages including a top quality wine list and fine champagne
• Twice daily game drives
• A daily walking safari (subject to favourable weather conditions)
• Fully equipped gymnasium
• Lounge equipped with DVDs, CDs and a small library
• Laundry service (no dry cleaning available)
• Business facilities (details available on request)
• Complimentary wireless available in all guest rooms and public areas
• An observatory, perfect for star gazing
• Informative talks on flora, fauna and conservation that can be organised on request for both adults and children
• Private dining for up to 6 guests at Safari Lodge’s wine cellar and Rock Lodge’s wine room (subject to availability)
• Local telephone calls
• The contents of your mini bar
• Flights between Johannesburg and Ulusaba’s private airstrip
• Road and air transfers between other airports and lodges
• Aroma Boma beauty treatments
• Tours to the local community
• Private game drives (subject to availability)
• Photocopying, telephone, fax, e-mail facilities and gift shop purchases
• Scenic helicopter flights
• Conservation levy

Hands-on Expertise

• We’re based in Africa
• Visit our destinations regularly
• Exceptionally knowledgeable team
• Expect unrivaled customer service

Accredited & Bonded

• SATSA – Bonded Membership (2061)
• ATTA Membership (204387)
• Fully Independent & Owner Run
• 24/7 Travel Support

Attention to detail & service provided was first class, from our very first email to the last day of our trip. Walter went above and beyond to ensure that we were notified of any changes, even up to our last day with a change to our flight time, at short notice. The safari was so much more than expected, from the rustic to the exceptional, every camp was different in it’s own way and our highlights are hard to single out just one as each camp was great.

They provide us the most taylored and customized honeymoon possible! everything was much better than we expected. We loved the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere and everyone made us feeling so incredibly special and gave us a unique insight. Over our game drives we managed to see all the big five plus some!!

I was already last year in South Africa and Zambia organized by Safari Online. It was a absolutely gorgeous trip. Everything was perfect. This was the reason I booked this year in May and June an new trip to South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. I got everything I expected. It was a dream again. I know I´m coming back.

Though we live in Australia, Safari online made planning for our family holiday so easy. Walter understood our requirements and nothing was too much trouble. The holiday was everything we wanted it to be and so much more. Every camp was ideally suited for our family and we loved each day, every early morning and evening game drive. Thank you to Walter for his attention to detail and his friendly, professional and caring manner. It was a trip of a lifetime and one that we will talk about forever.

Our extended family (16 travellers, including 8 children under ten years of age!) went on a wonderful safari adventure curated and organised by Walter Kohrs of Safari Online. It could not have been any better than we experienced. From our time in Cape Town, to visiting Victoria Falls, all the way through Zimbabwe and finally wrapping up at the amazing Chobe Safari Lodge, all the locations chosen by Walter were amazing.

His attention to detail, willingness to fine-tune and excellent responsiveness (over a period of several months!) could not have been better. He took time to visit us personally upon our arrival in South Africa, with lovely gift-packs and shared a wealth of advice, recommendations and tips. I cannot recommend Safari Online (and Walter Kohrs in particular) any higher. Absolutely amazing.

The communications and service from Walter was excellent, and we were continuously fully informed. The information package and book received on arrival were excellent. We felt that we had been allocated carefully selected lodges at each camp and every detail met or exceeded our expectations. The safari tour was wonderful, and a particular feature was the variety offered at each location which combined perfectly

We have booked at the Elephant Plains Lodge. We stayed there for a few nights and went on safaris. The lodge, the guide, the food and all the animals we have seen were fantastic. Really an outstanding experience. We can recommend Elephant Plains to everybody. Maybe you will not be as lucky as we were, becaucse we have seen the Big 5! But however you will not forget your stay at Elephant Plains.

The care by Walter was great from planning to leaving Johannesburg. The accommodations were perfectly chosen. If after a few days you thought it could not be better, you were told otherwise. It was an increase every day, with the 3 days safari in the Kruger, including overnight in tree house, the grand finale. I would book a trip anytime again at Safari Online.

Our experience with Safari Online was excellent. After becoming very frustrated trying to search for a safari destination on our own, we turned to Karina for help and she was a lifesaver. She responded to our requests promptly and gave us several options with links to each option; we ultimately chose Lukimbi. She then coordinated our flights to and from the property, arranged the drivers necessary to get us from the airport to the lodge and back again, and sent the appropriate paperwork to each of us to verify each step of the process. We had an amazing safari adventure at the lodge–the experience of a lifetime–and are so grateful for her help. We literally couldn’t have done it without her!

In June/July 2016 we undertook a trip to Southern Africa to fulfill a lifelong intention. We stayed at six camps, safari style, and had a great time. All of our expectations were met or even exceeded. For example, we never expected to see honey badgers or sitatunga, given the secretive nature of those species, but we did! All travel arrangements and connections worked smoothly, which is astonishing since we had several dozen transfers and meeting points; all of the connecting personnel were prompt, professional, and welcoming.

CAPE TOWN OFFICE:  T: + 27 (0)21 556 2412   |   M: + 27 (0)83 378 3575

8 Bellingham Road, Tableview, 7441, Cape Town, South Africa

Safari Online CC 2003/089335/23

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• Ulusaba: Richard Branson’s Luxury Lodges in South Africa
• NATURE | OUTDOORS
• Animal Encounters

By Daniella Schoeman

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When Richard Branson puts his name on something, everyone knows that it will be exceptional. That is exactly what can be said of his two private luxury game lodges, Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Ulusaba Safari Lodge. Ulusaba is located within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve which is a private concession bordering the western side of the Kruger National Park. These various private concessions have lowered the borders between them and the Kruger National Park making up what is known as the Greater Kruger Area. As a result, the game density in this region is great.

Ulusaba means “place of little fear”. That is because the ‘koppie’ (cliff) that Rock Lodge is built on gave the ancient local Shangaan warriors a much-needed lookout point. This cliff is the highest point in an otherwise flat terrain so the views are magnificent. Guests can choose between views for miles at Rock Lodge or close encounters with wildlife at Safari Lodge. Safari Lodge is located a few minutes away at the base of the cliff along a lush but dry riverbed. Both properties have their own unique features and staying at both is definitely recommended.

Rock Lodge has some of the best views in the whole region, likely in the whole Kruger National park. The uniquely built lodge is perched on the summit of the cliff resulting in panoramic views. Each and every suite, room and the common room has binoculars available for guests to use. There are numerous sightings to be had all day long such as rhino sleeping nearby or hyenas in the watering hole below the viewing deck.

Rock Lodge has a number of different luxury suites that all offer complete privacy for guests to enjoy the surroundings. There are eight room types made up by the Master Suite, the Makwela Suites (named after a female leopard that had her cubs under the decks), the Rock Cliff Rooms, and the two-bedroom Rock Suite (perfect for families). Each room has a private balcony for game viewing and some even have infinity edge plunge pools.

"The African Bush - just the thought of it conjures up some fascinating images of breath-taking wilderness, sunrise safaris and a retreat far away from the city. Here your imagination becomes reality. I hope someday we’ll be able to share this with you. - Sir Richard Branson "

Rock Lodge has a myriad of luxury facilities available to their guests. The outdoor pool may have the highest elevation and offers gorgeous views for guests who want to swim or sip cocktails while lounging in the sun. Best of all, the pool is heated during the winter months so can be enjoyed year round. There a numerous indoor and outdoor viewing decks spread all across the lodge and guests can even make use of the telescopes. For guests who want to get some exercise, there is a full gym with a view, of course.

The lounge offers huge windows for game viewing as well as plush couching for relaxing with a good book. This is where guests gather before and after game drives and to have communal dinners. Special romantic dinners and wine tastings can be arranged for couples in the private Wine Lounge as well. Finally, the Aroma Boma is where wellness magic happens. The spa at Rock Lodge is the perfect place for guests to relax and unwind as they get pampered by the skilled therapists in a stunning setting.

Safari Lodge is just as spectacular but in a different way. Built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed, this luxury lodge truly has a safari feel to it. Some of the rooms are even built in a ‘treehouse’ style, which leaves guests feeling immersed in the African bush. Situated in this area, guests can expect to see plenty of wildlife strolling by at all times of the day as they head to the nearby watering hole.

The entire lodge is protected beneath a lush canopy of ancient trees that provide shade as well as beautiful scenery. There is a sense of adventure while exploring Safari Lodge and some rooms can only be accessed via swing bridges. Each and every room or suite has lovely views out over the riverbed or the nearby dam.

There are ten room types consisting of the Treehouse Suite (overlooking Xikwenga Dam), Safari Room, the Elephant Rooms, the River Rooms and a Safari Suite (great for families). All rooms have balconies and some even have their own private plunge pools.

Safari Lodge has just as many wonderful facilities to ensure a luxurious stay. The large outdoor pool is surrounded by nature and heated in winter as well. There is a treehouse viewing deck that can be accessed by swing bridges for a great view over the dam.

Hippos and elephants frequently bathe here, so it is an excellent game viewing spot. The fully-equipped gym has large windows for so guests can marvel at the wildlife while working out. This lodge also has an Aroma Boma for various therapies in the special treatment room in the heart of the African bush. Schedule an opulent evening of wine tastings while in the Wine Cellar, which can also be booked for private dinner parties.

What truly makes both Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge special are all the added extras. The staff is all friendly and efficient. Guests are assigned a ranger and tracker team along with other guests who are there to guide them throughout their stay. These rangers and trackers are extremely knowledgeable, always eager to answer questions and do their very best to ensure that guests see as much wildlife as possible.

It is very to spot the Big 5, little 5 and everything in-between within the first few days. Included in the accommodation package are all meals, all drinks and two game drives per day (morning and afternoon with stops in the wild for coffee and sundowners).

Breakfast and dinner are usually communal affairs with your guides and other guests. Ulusaba has truly added some unique experiences to make it extra special for their guests. Such as a tennis court in the bush and excursions to local communities and schools as part of their Pride and Purpose outreach program. Best of all is the stargazing experience in their Bush Observatory.

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Daniella Schoeman

Daniella Schoeman is a part-time wanderer and professional travel writer based in sunny South Africa. Her articles have been published in various international digital and print publications such as Rare Luxury Living Magazine and Arrivedo.com She specializes in writing content about luxury and wellness travel experiences in both Africa and Europe. You can follow along with her travel and wellness journey on Instagram or at Our Soulful Travels.

• African Safari
• Exotic Vacations
• Luxury Hotel Review
• Luxury Resort
• Richard Branson

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Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Safari activities.

• Amenities and facilities

Ulusaba is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa.

The name means “Place Of Little Fear”, referring to the granite koppie (hill) which provided ancient Shangaan warriors with the perfect lookout point. Today, that vantage point belongs to guests at Ulusaba Rock Lodge. With the Drakensberg Mountains far in the distance, you’ll have a spectacular view over miles of game-rich African wilderness.

The lodge features 8 rooms: the Master Suite, Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff rooms, and the Rock Suite. The four adjoining Rock Cliff rooms all face south, with private balconies offering views over the vast landscape. Two of these rooms are built on split levels, with a spiral staircase connecting the bedroom and bathroom. The Master Suite, meanwhile, is built on three levels with beautiful views from the private balcony and infinity plunge pool.

The view is the main attraction here, and the Ulusaba Rock Lodge delivers with various viewing decks.

Beneath the main lounge is a wine lounge showcasing a wide variety of vintages from South Africa and abroad. This space may also be used for private dinners for up to six guests.

Children of all ages welcome.

Amenities & Facilities

Related safari lodges, andbeyond tengile, arathusa safari lodge, sabi sabi bush lodge, cheetah plains, chitwa chitwa game lodge, dulini leadwood lodge, elephant plains game lodge, idube game lodge, inyati game lodge, jaci’s sabi house, andbeyond kirkman’s kamp, leopard hills, lion sands ivory lodge, lion sands river lodge, londolozi founders camp, londolozi pioneer camp & private villas, londolozi private granite suites, londolozi tree camp, londolozi varty camp, malamala camp, malamala rattray's camp, malamala sable camp, dulini moya lodge, nkorho bush lodge, nottens bush camp, dulini river lodge, sabi sabi earth lodge, sabi sabi little bush camp, sabi sabi selati camp, savanna lodge, silvan safari, simbambili game lodge, singita boulders lodge, singita castleton, singita ebony lodge & villa, ulusaba cliff lodge, ulusaba safari lodge, umkumbe bush lodge, umkumbe safari lodge riverside, discover adventure at the sabi sand game reserve.

Speak to our on-the-ground team to find out more about the Sabi Sand Game Reserve’s wide range of safari lodges and tour options.

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3-day Fly-in Safari all-incl. Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Big 5 off-road game viewing, 5-star luxury, most famous lodges in the sabi sands game reserve ** free domestic return flights from johannesburg or tambo (jnb) to skukuza (szk) for a limited period, welcome to 5-star luxury at ulusaba private game reserve.

Discover the Heart of the African Wilderness. Luxury and style in the most famous game reserve in the Sabi Sands.

Rock Lodge offers elevated views and a variety of luxurious accommodations with some featuring private plunge pools, ideal for families and honeymooners who prefer spectacular views and a higher vantage point. Safari Lodge, on the other hand, provides a more immersive bush experience with its unique treehouse-style rooms and closer interaction with the wildlife, appealing to those seeking a more intimate connection with nature.

Ulusaba Game Reserve is only a 1.5 hour  drive from Skukuza Airport (SZK).  Many guests choose to fly into the private airstrip at Ulusaba. Particularly in the Rock Lodge, Ulusaba is positioned on a hilltop (or 'koppie'), providing panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld. This elevated position allows guests to survey the wilderness from a unique vantage point, making wildlife spotting and landscape appreciation a truly special experience.

Safari game drives, bush walk adventures and exceptional game viewing.  For relaxation visit the spa. Positioned in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjacent to the world famous Kruger National Park. Animals can traverse between the two regions so guests can enjoy the best wildlife sightings while enjoying the privileges that come with a private reserve, such as off-road game viewing.

Location and getting here

Firstly, we'll handle everything including your lodging, flights and transfers! Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is only a 1.5 hour drive from Skukuza Airport (SZK). There are daily flights from Johannesburg (JNB) and Cape Town (CPT) to SZK. At a slightly higher budget one can also land directly at the lodge airstrip in the reserve.  Either via a commercial flight operated by Federal Air, or by chartering a private aircraft. Please get in touch if you have any questions regarding the finer details.

Our 5-star service

1 ‍ Place your enquiry. Be sure to include number of travelers, dates and whether you require flights and/or transfers

2 ‍ Our resident expert will liaise with you directly to coordinate all the details of your trip.

3 ‍ You'll receive a provisional booking via email. Complete payment and you're ready to travel!

3-Day Ulusaba Fly-In Package All-Inclusive At either Rock Lodge or Safari Lodge ** with free domestic flights * travel insurance can be arranged

Meet pascal, our resident expert, he'll help you book your trip and can answer any questions you have regarding a safari at ulusaba private game reserve. he's available on whatsapp for fastest response..

Reviews from TripAdvisor

Intimate 5-star luxury at ulusaba in the sabi sands game reserve.

• Hotel Review / Hotel Room Video / Richard Branson / safari / South Africa / travel / Virgin Atlantic

Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Game Lodge, Sabi Sands, South Africa: An incredible safari experience

by Gary Bembridge · March 18, 2012

This is how the lodge is described on their site : “Ulusaba, meaning ‘place of little fear’, can be found amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve in South Africa. At Ulusaba Safari Lodge in South Africa you will discover the soul of Africa, where the forces of nature bring together a wilderness of beauty. It is just a 1 hour and 20 minutes flight from Johannesburg. We have our own private airstrip, and there are daily scheduled and charter flights available”. When staying at Ulusaba, you are able to go on game drives twice a day with your allocated Game Ranger and Tracker team in open-top Land Rovers. The rangers all keep in touch, and you see a huge range off game, and very close up. The first drive is before breakfast (which means getting up at about 4.30am) and then one before dinner. These are the best times to see game. There are also other opportunities to see game, like walking ones during the day. There are often surprises and treats on the drives, like stopping for some coffee and breakfast treats, and in the evening you can be taken to a big open air event with entertainment and drinks.  The food and drink is all included, and tasty. Dinner is eaten at a long grand table. To illustrate the type of flight, which has to be in a small plane that can land on the dusty landing strip, and what you can experience getting there, here is a video I made of the flights and views as you fly in and then the lodge. Below that is a video of the STUNNING room.

This was our amazing 2 level room:

• For photos of the place and the animals we saw, visit my flickr set by clicking here
• Listen to a podcast I made about the Sabi Sands Game Reserve
• Read a review and article on Ulusaba on the the VTravelled blog: click here

More photos I took of Ulusaba:

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Gary Bembridge

I grew up in Zimbabwe, but I have been based in London since 1987. My travel life spans more than three decades and that includes more than 95 cruises. In 2005, I launched Tips for Travellers to make it easy and fun for people to discover, plan and enjoy incredible cruise vacations. And the rest, as they say, is history. I have the largest cruise vlogger channel currently on YouTube, with more than 3 million video views per month.

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Ulusaba Rock Lodge

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Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is the private safari home of the world-famous Sir Richard Branson and his collection of magnificent lodges. Ulusaba Rock Lodge overlooks the game-rich bush of the prestigious Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve; known for its phenomenal game viewing opportunities which include the sought after Big 5 and the big cats.

• Whereabouts: Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve, South Africa
• Experiences: Big 5 game drives, bush walks, Panorama Route, helicopter flights, elephant interaction, local village tour, tennis, spa treatments, stargazing, bush dining, African sunsets
• Related Lodges:  Ulusaba Safari Lodge | Ulusaba Cliff Lodge

You should know

Child policy.

Children of all ages are accommodated at Ulusaba Rock Lodge. Children aged from 0 - 11 years can stay at Ulusaba for free if traveling between 2 January and 21 December 2018. This special offer is only applicable to children sharing in a room with their parents.  

Children must be accompanied by their parents at all times.

Children under the age of 6 years are not permitted on game drives and children younger than 12 years are not permitted on bush walks.

A children's programme is available as well as child minding services.

Decked out with state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, guests have access to a lodge of the highest quality. Get back from an exciting drive out in the reserve and enjoy being pampered at one of the reserve's fabulous health spas, or enjoy a round of tennis on the tennis court.

From atop its perch in the park, Rock lodge boasts eight unique rooms, designed in the colors of various African tribes. The lodge prides itself on its personalized service, and top-notch facilities.

The eight rooms at Rock Lodge include the Master Suite, Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff rooms and the two-bedroom Rock Suite, some of which have private plunge pools.

Four adjoining Rock Cliff Rooms , all south facing with views over the vast landscape each from their own private balcony. Rooms are spacious and offer en-suite bathrooms with spectacular views. Two of these rooms are built on split levels with a spiral staircase connecting the bedroom and bathroom.

The Rock Suite is a spacious two bedroom suite with living area, the master bedroom can be split into a twin and has a full en-suite with views over the bush, and the second queen bedded room has a smaller en-suite shower room. An ideal option if you’re traveling as a family as we can accommodate two children.

The Master Suite is built on three levels with beautiful views, an en-suite bathroom, and private balcony with infinity plunge pool. The living area has another terrace with sun loungers looking out over the bush, so bring your binoculars! This is one of Richard Branson’s favorite rooms and ideal for honeymooners.

Two lavish Makwela Suites are built on two levels with en-suite bathrooms and feature private balconies with infinity edge plunge pools. With separate living area and study/library, each has a luxurious couch perfect if you’re bringing the kids.

The lodge facilities include a lounge area, wine lounge for private dinners, spa, outdoor rock pool, a viewing deck with telescopes; a gymnasium with running machine, bike, a multifunctional weight station as well as free weights.

Guests to Rock Lodge embark twice daily on exciting safari game drives, under the faithful guidance of a team of experienced bush guides, all eager to answer questions.

For the more adventurous, a close up encounter with the diverse bush of the area is available on a guided bush walk. Other optional activities include the scenic Panorama Route, helicopter flights over the bush, and an authentic Shangaan experience with a visit to the local villages surrounding the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

The Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve is a private game reserve situated on the Western border of the Kruger National Park. It spans 65,000 hectares and is renowned for providing some of the best game viewing in Africa. The reserve shares a 50km long unfenced border with the Kruger, ensuring that animals can roam freely between the two reserves. The Sabi Sand Game Reserve comprises a number of private game reserves, each providing an exclusive and luxurious experience in the heart of the bush. Unlike the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand is not open to the general public. Staying in one of the lodges here means you are sharing this pristine wilderness with only a few other guests.

The reserve has a dense concentration of wildlife, including over 330 plant species, 45 fish species, 30 amphibian species, 110 reptile species, 500 bird species and 145 mammal species! It is home to the Big 5 and is probably the best place in the world to get up close and personal with the elusive leopard.

Ulusaba Rock Lodge is ideal for solo explorers, couples and families looking for a luxurious Big 5 safari experience.  

Price includes

• Accommodation, all meals, beverages including top quality wine and fine champagne, twice daily game drives and walking safaris, informative talks, and laundry service

Rate Excludes

Road or air transfers, gratuities, conservation levies, additional activities and all other items of a personal nature.

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What our guests say about Pascal

March 29, 2024

Pascal was amazing throughout the…

Pascal was amazing throughout the process of booking! He took time to understand our travel requirements and wishes and pulled it all together to create an amazing itinerary!

March 25, 2024

These will be mine second time going to…

These will be mine second time going to Africa, the first time I booked everything with safari.com and pascal helped. He was amazing everything went perfect. Now going back to Botswana and pascal did everything again very fast and perfect. I had the best time and everything was super vip, and can’t wait to be back.October can’t come soon enough.

March 24, 2024

Wonderful communication and friendly…

Wonderful communication and friendly people

Apr 22, 2024

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service!

Thank you Heleen Coetzee for your excellent service. We have booked through her at Kruger park numerous times. She is very helpful and quick to assist.

Apr 21, 2024

Fantastic travel agent for African safari family trip!

Wow! Shann was and is fantastic! She figured out a way to make our entire trip work. We are going on a 2 week trip to South Africa and Botswana. She really helped tie it all together as a wonderful, cohesive trip. She is super nice and super smart and very knowledgeable. She is also flexible and thoughtful, etc., etc. When the chips were down (and we literally were considering pulling the plug on the whole trip), she found a way to make the entire itinerary work and got us excited about our wonderful adventure! Highly recommend!

Apr 20, 2024

safari booking

We were looking for a Safari. Anja from Safari.com supported us to book accommodation and flights, she was very polite, super fast and very supportive. We can recommend her and Safari.com, it was great to book there.

The customer service was top-notch!

I was really impressed with the level of service I received from Heleen Coetzee. I had a great experience with the customer service team at this company. They were very responsive and helpful, and they were able to resolve my issue quickly. I would definitely recommend this company to others.

Excellent news information and service…

Excellent news information and service from Sara. She made it a smooth experience booking a safari.

Apr 17, 2024

Great experience!

Leigh-Ann was very helpful, responsive and knowledgeable about our safari options. Handled our safari booking, transfers and even hotel in Cape Town for us! We’re excited for our trip - Thank you :)

Apr 16, 2024

Sara is really friendly and helpful. She has planned everything according to our wishes and made all our wishes feasible.

Apr 12, 2024

Anja is very attentive and patient.

Apr 11, 2024

Shann is a great professional

Shann immediately demonstrated pleasant professionalism, competence, experience and patience. She advised and accompanied me in organizing the trip. She listened to all my needs and the suggestions were very fruitful for me. he was very kind and always available even during the holidays. thank you Shann

African Travel Curators

ULUSABA SIR RICHARD BRANSON’S SAFARI LODGE

Sabi sand game reserve, rates available on request.

• pp/per night sharing (Min 3 nights / Book within 21 days)
• Malaria Area
• Camp Unfenced
• Spa Treatments
• Childminders
• Air Conditioner
• Luxury accommodation in the Elephant Room
• Complimentary Wi-Fi at lodge and in the rooms
• All meals served in a variety of locations around the lodge
• Informative talks on flora, fauna and conservation (available on request for both adults and children)
• All drinks and snacks from the mini bar in your room (restocked daily)
• Road transfers from our private airstrip to the lodges
• All local taxes
• Twice daily game drives and a daily walking safari (weather dependent)
• A fully equipped gym
• Use of tennis courts (racquets and balls supplied)
• Use of an observatory, perfect for star gazing
• Laundry service (no dry cleaning available)

Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Safari Lodge is located beneath a canopy of ancient trees on the edge of a dry riverbed in the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. The rooms include a Treehouse Suite overlooking a nearby Dam while other rooms have their own private plunge pools. All of the rooms afford magnificent views of the spectacularly scenic surrounding landscape and of the animals as they stroll past on their way to the nearby watering hole. Lodge facilities include swimming pools, gymnasiums, a wine cellar, spas with panoramic views, a Bush Observatory perfect for stargazing and tennis courts. Guests can enjoy safari walks, moonlit bush dinners and of course, the twice daily game drives.

Accommodation

1 Safari Room

3 Elephant Rooms

4 River Rooms

1 Safari Suite

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Sabi-sands.com

Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Lodge style Exclusivity with a view

Stunning views with a luxury room

Of all lodges located in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Ulusaba Rock Lodge is probably one of the lodges offering the most amazing views over the South African bushveld. Ulusaba Rock Lodge is situated on a hilltop offering uninterrupted panorama views. With just ten rooms in total, you can be sure to enjoy an intimate experience. This luxurious safari lodge is distinctly African in style: traditional art and furnishings blend seamlessly with modern conveniences, ensuring maximum comfort. The main lodge is under thatch and boasts extensive viewing decks where guests can appreciate the vistas. Soak in the natural rock pool, in between game drives and bush walks, or enjoy a relaxing treatment in the luxurious spa.

The rooms are spacious and offer everything you need: air-conditioning for hot African afternoons, a big bathroom and a wellstocked minibar. All rooms are individually decorated and inspired on both modern and traditional African art. The 'Master Suite' and two 'Makwela Suites' have their own private plunge pools. Wildlife roams freely in the Sabi Sands so you may get lucky and watch the 'Big Five' from the privacy of your own room.

As you may expect from a stay at Ulusaba, the food experience is truly excellent. The staff is always at your service, you don’t need to worry about anything. Ulusaba Rock Lodge will provide you with that once-in-a-lifetime and unforgettable Africa safari experience.

Activities at Ulusaba Rock Lodge

Early morning game drives in an open 4x4 vehicle are organised every day. Knowledgeable rangers with a ton of experience and a genuine passion for South African flora and fauna will guide you during your safari adventure. The rangers will be in contact with each other to track wild animals. Besides morning safaris, also afternoon safaris and guided bushwalks are on offer. Enjoy South Africa's beautiful nature and discover the wildlife of the area. The rangers will help you to snap the perfect photograph as a reminder of your unforgettable stay at Ulusaba Rock Lodge. When not on exploration in the bush, you can relax a little at the swimming pool or in the spa. More active travellers can make use of the tennis court of gym, now that's what we call a special place to work out. You are also invited to visit the wine cellar or gaze at the stars in the bush observatory.

Ulusaba Rock Lodge special offer

Book your Sabi Sands safari adventure at Ulusaba Rock Lodge for three nights and stay an extra night for free! This special offer is valid for stays between 7 January and 31 May 2024, and between 1 November and 19 December 2024.

Tripadvisor comments Ulusaba Rock Lodge

The lodge setup is beautiful, we had a Makwela suite which was amazing. Great food (I mean REALLY great), great facilities. Daily setup is perfect, 2 drives, lovely breakfast with your ranger, lunch and tea then back out. Surprize pancakes on 1 day, brilliant traditional brae on another. Its all just amazing. I would recommend it in a heart beat. Carl C from Southaampton, UK

Rock Lodge is a truly incredible place, sat looking over the Sabi Sands reserve. Every morning we woke up to the most amazing sunrises, and with the view we got from our room watching the elephants and other big game as well, it's the best place to be. Christian Horn from London, UK

Where are you flying from?

• London Heathrow
• Manchester International
• Inverness Airport
• Cardiff Airport
• Norwich Airport
• Humberside Airport
• London City Apt
• Belfast International
• Leeds Bradford Airport
• Bristol Airport
• Teesside Airport

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 22nd October 2023.

Please remember when searching for your holiday to add an additional night, as we operate an overnight service on our outbound flight.

i.e. For a 7 night holiday please search for 8 nights.

Our new direct Virgin Atlantic service commences 30th October 2023.

We will operate from London Heathrow four times a week on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 4 direct flights, will operate until the 19th May 2024.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 28th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

Flights include a short touchdown in Barbados.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Our seasonal service will recommence on the 29th October 2024, with flights operating on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 3 direct flights, will operate until the 11th May 2024. Flights will commence from 23 May 2024 - 24th October 2024 on Thursdays and include a short touchdown.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 29th October 2024.

Daily direct flights from London Gatwick to New York with our partner airline, Delta, operates between 10th April and 26th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service with direct flights, will operate on Wednesdays and Sundays until the 30th March 2024.

Our direct service will operate on Tuesdays and Thursdays from the 2nd April 2024.

1 room / 2 adults

Please enter all child ages

There must be 1 adult per child under two years of age travelling, please adjust your passenger number

To book online please select a maximum of 9 passengers, to book 10 adults or more please call 0344 557 3978

Please note: Drivers must be over the age of 21 to hire a car unless otherwise specified. Drivers between 21 and 24 years of age may be subject to additional costs.

• Holiday Search

Ulusaba Safari Lodge

Kruger and surrounds, South Africa

Virgin rating

Owned by our own Sir Richard Branson, this is one of the most luxurious and exclusive game lodges in the world. It is located amid the breathtaking landscapes of Sabi Sands and combines exceptional service with a superb safari experience - what could be better? If you like to keep yourself close to the ground and the passing wildlife, you'll enjoy Safari Lodge - with treehouse inspired rooms and suites, all with private decks. Your day starts early with a cup of tea and then it's out to the 4WDs in search of the reserve's exciting creatures. Then it's back to the lodge for a delicious hearty breakfast and a chance to enjoy the impressive leisure facilities. You'll also enjoy an evening safari to spot some different bush creatures, before enjoying a first-class dinner accompanied by excellent wines and occasionally by tribal dancers and singers.

• Evening Entertainment
• Fitness Centre/Gym
• Internet Access
• Near National Park

Where is it

Hotel information.

Ulusaba has 20 rooms and suites spread over 2 exquisite lodges. Safari Lodge has a fantastic bush location built along the banks of a dry river bed and offers a selection of Elephant Rooms, a  Safari Room, River Rooms, a Treehouse Suite and the new Safari Suite. All with private entrances and terraces providing incredible views of passing animals on their way to the nearby waterhole, air conditioning, ceiling fan, minibar (restocked daily), a sitting area and en-suite bathroom with separate bath and shower. 

The Safari Room is located close to the main building and has a large viewing deck, sleeping maximum 2 adults.

All Inclusive of: all food and beverages - including top quality wine list, premium branded spirits and French Champagne. Twice daily-game drives, daily walking safari (subject to favourable weather conditions), local entertainment, laundry service and transfers from Ulusaba air strip.

Elephant Rooms are 'treehouse style' built high above the bush and mostly accessed by swing bridges, sleeping maximum 2 adults. As the name suggests they are great for elephant viewing with their location being on a elephant migratory route!

River Rooms have the same facilities as an Elephant Room and 2 of the River Rooms have infinity plunge pools, sleeping maximum 2 adults. River Rooms are very secluded making them the perfect romantic bush getaway.

The Treehouse Suite is a stunning, unique suite featuring a private deck with magnificent views over Xikwenga Dam where hippos and elephants come to bathe. Perfect for honeymooners, sleeping maximum 2 adults. The suite is a 10-minute walk from the main lodge and is accessible by swing bridges and raised walkways.

Safari Suite - this private suite is next to the Main Lodge and is accessed through its own entrance into a walled garden with boma fire pit. There is a separate spacious lounge that opens onto a large viewing deck with jacuzzi plunge pool, outdoor shower and private dining table for maximum 8 adults. The suite boasts an en-suite bathroom with a separate toilet and an additional guest bathroom next to the lounge. The Safari Suite can be interconnected with the Safari Room to sleep maximum 4 adults.

Romance/Honeymoon package

Enhance your stay by adding a Romance/Honeymoon package to your room or suite and recieve the following benefits:

• A fruit basket and champagne in the room on arrival
• The Aroma Boma Devotional Journey spa treatment for two (60 minutes)
• Lovers’ Picnic private lunch on a day of your choosing
• Romantic bath time experience on an evening of your choosing
• Private dinner on the last evening complete with own personal butler
• Complimentary space-available upgrade
• Gift on departure

Available offers

• Free Nights: Stay for 4 nights, pay for 3 (stay for 8 pay for 6) for stays completed between 1 Mar–31 May '24 and 1 Nov–19 Dec '24. Any applicable offers have been calculated into the prices shown. Offers may not be combinable. Blackout dates apply. Terms and conditions apply. 

Local entertainment. Daily game-drives. Late morning walking safaris. Outdoor swimming pool. Viewing deck. Aroma Boma spa*. Gym and 2 tennis courts. Video, music and book libraries. Wine cellar. Observatory in the bush for star gazing. Complimentary WiFi access. Gift shop.

Minimum Stay

5 nights between 22 Dec-1 Jan.

Additional Information

* Denotes local charge.

Please note:  Children over 12 years are welcome to stay at Safari Lodge.

TripAdvisor traveller rating

Rating summary

Traveller rating

• Excellent (552)
• Very good (11)
• Average (4)
• Terrible (1)

Feb 26, 2024 Tourist27502838457

Feb 14, 2024 TimWSheffieldUK Sheffield, United Kingdom

Feb 13, 2024 Mabaker13 Cardiff, United Kingdom

Feb 8, 2024 johnU3066GS London, United Kingdom

Feb 4, 2024 NatalieM133 Eversley, United Kingdom

Exclusive: First look inside the 2,010ft² Safari Suite at Richard Branson's African hideaway

“Would you mind passing the salt?” It’s not every day you’re trading tableware with Sir Richard Branson over a small family lunch at his own safari lodge, but by now I was almost getting used to it. I’d spent the last few days trailing the effervescent, scruffy-haired mogul, along with his wife Joan, son Sam and various orbiting members of his team, around Johannesburg for the centenary celebration of Nelson Mandela’s birthday, where Barack Obama had delivered a rousing speech on the future of world politics. 

After a busy week, I was here at Ulusaba in the Sabi Sands reserve that borders the Kruger National Park, to inspect its newly renovated Safari Suite. I had brought my father along for company, Branson had decided to drop in on a whim, and now we were all gathered for lunch on a veranda breaking freshly-baked bread, feasting on a never-ending succession of pan-African dishes, and tearing through wine from Ulusaba’s extensive cellar.   

My father, a man prone to flirting with controversial topics after about glass three, and to whom I’d given a strict briefing beforehand (don’t talk about politics, and don’t say Mandela was a terrorist) was talking to Branson about politics, and whether or not Mandela had been a terrorist.

“In the early days, yes, he was, by definition, a terrorist,” Branson concedes of his late friend, who had been a frequent guest here, and off they go about the intricacies of war, as I glare from my seat opposite until the conversation finds its way back to Ulusaba.

Dubbed fondly as his “Necker in the bush”, Branson acquired the land in 1994. “The first time Joan and I visited, it was a shack on a rock,” he says. “We were greeted by two leopards mating – they go at it for three days, quite the challenge – and we stayed in a tiny little makeshift treehouse, wobbling high above the plain. I knew I’d discovered another little slice of paradise.”

It’s hardly little, of course. More than two decades later and after several renovations, Ulusuba today covers 33,000 acres of bush and hosts two camps with 20 rooms among them, interconnected by way of meandering rope bridges.

The first is Rock Lodge, perched high atop a craggy outcrop, which Branson has a slight preference for. “You can see the enemy coming”, he says, and a flash of mischief crosses his face, not unlike that of the verdant monkey hovering in a tree above him, eyeing up his croissant. The second, his wife’s favourite, is Safari Lodge, huddled underneath on the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed, the new star of the show being its 2,010 sq ft Safari Suite, recently converted from three separate lodgings. 

I’m one of the very first to stay here, much to the mock-horror of Sam, who’d put in the request but been beaten to it, and Branson himself, who has stayed at Ulusaba four times already this year, but has still not sampled its latest upgrade. “It’s always booked when we try to get it,” he grumbles.

The suite, still harbouring that satisfying scent of fresh paint, accommodates two guests in a standalone residence with views across the fragrant bush that unfolds for miles behind it. A walled, lantern-strewn, tree-dotted garden with a boma fire pit leads to the front door, and a spacious pinewood deck wraps around the back of the property. Inside, South African designer Franci du Toit has blended modern, minimalist interiors finished in cream, gold and ochre; with a rustic African charm in the shape of well-placed artefacts, dark wood furniture and a thatched dome roof.

If you’re a party of four, the Safari Suite can be interconnected with the matching Safari Room that neighbours it, also newly renovated and with its own en-suite bathroom - this set-up affording you a private guide and game drive vehicle for the duration of your stay.

There’s certainly more space within the compound of the Safari Suite than a couple (or two) could ever need to sleep, work, lounge and party – not that you’d want to spend much time inside. The vast proportion of my stay was enjoyed out on the viewing deck, hovering in the warm waters of the triangular hot tub plunge pool and watching various members of the reserve’s wildlife saunter nonchalantly past.

The suite’s positioning on the outskirts of Ulusaba lends it a sense of seclusion, but elsewhere on the property there’s plenty to keep you busy. Criss-cross the swaying bridges and you’ll also find a gym, two solar-heated outdoor pools, two spas, several bars and communal dining areas, and a gift shop brimming with delightful oddities.

Also worth a poke around is that wine cellar - a quaint, spiral-staircase beehive-shaped hovel that stocks hundreds of mostly South African wines; and an isolated stargazing observatory hidden out in the bush, where private dinners can be served, weather permitting, under a canopy of boastful constellations.

While you won’t find any of Virgin’s garish red branding here at Ulusaba, there are plenty of little touches that reflect the company - and Branson himself. Unusually for a safari lodge, for example, it’s home to two floodlit tennis courts. “I try to play every morning, preferably with someone better than me,” he tells me.

Then of course, the reason you came - the safari drives. Our personalised itinerary is printed on smart paper but peppered with perky, distinctly Virgin-esque comments. “Wakey wakey!” - it reads on our first morning, as we drag ourselves from our slumber at 5.30am. “It’s horrifically early,” Branson remarks, “but guests always miss the best action when they sleep in.”

Ulusaba’s name derives from the ancient Shangaan warriors who once occupied it, and means “place of little fear”, a nod to its elevated position over the surrounding landscape. “We’ve have leopards who’ve felt safe enough to give birth right by the lodge,” my host is proud to report.

Wildlife is indeed abundant on these well-protected grounds, and sightings of the otherwise rare, elusive leopard are thus plentiful. From our own front door, we’re frequently within sneezing distance of glossy impala and doe-eyed steenboks as they pick their way across pathways, and we ticked off the Big Five on our first drive.

The only creature we miss is Branson’s favourite, the African wild dog, otherwise more whimsically known as the painted wolf. “Normally we have one or two packs on our property,” he says somewhat forlornly. “There are only a few packs left in the whole of Africa and they’re just the most exciting animal to follow. But their numbers are coming back.”

I was visiting during the southern hemisphere’s mid-winter, when the early morning drives are at their chilliest - but blankets, hot water bottles, and slightly silly-looking ponchos kept us warm. Equally, there’s nothing quite like being mere feet away from the thrashing tail and cantankerous snarl of a lion who’s woken up on the wrong side of the bed to kept one alert at dawn.

The days are warm and dry. The food and wine supplies endless (“I appear to have become fat,” my father declares upon our departure), and the staff here - at a ratio of six to every couple - delight in surprises. We were never informed where our next meal would be served, but our guide bristled with barely concealed excitement in the lead-up to every big reveal; a lavish breakfast one day served in the bush on a white tablecloth under the shade of an ancient, twisted tree; a braai dinner encircled by Roman candles to the tune of a hissing log fire on another. 

For Branson, it’s clearly a special place. It’s where he was when his daughter Holly’s then-fiancé Freddie called to request her hand in marriage, and where Sam later wed his wife Isabella. It’s also home to a local community he’s been supporting with his Pride ’n Purpose foundation since 2003 - Branson earns nearly £400,000 for every public speech he gives, with all the proceeds going back into charitable pursuits like this one.

“We try to build a circle around every property we have and make sure that within that, the community are well looked after,” he says. “We have a clinic near here that’s prevented thousands of people dying from HIV, Aids and malaria, as well as 13 schools and six orphanages.”

By now we’re nearing the end of our final lunch, and a guest ambles over from her table across the room. She’s spotted him and wants a photo. It’s at least the 18th time this has happened over the last week, and I’m watching closely for signs of irritation. Not a flicker: he gladly obliges. 

Love him or loathe him, you can’t wave off Branson’s seemingly limitless enthusiasm, and all-round willingness to please - not that he doesn’t bask the glory it brings. I glance over moments before he departs and he’s eagerly telling my father the story of the time he swapped seats with a Virgin Atlantic passenger in economy who had broken her leg, so she could fly Upper Class.

“That’s lovely, Richard,” my father tells him. “But come on, it was great publicity.” 

“Ooh yeah, you bet!” Branson replies, delving into his phone to find the news coverage as his long-suffering PA steers him off to Ulusaba’s private airstrip, and I steer my dad back to that exquisite wine list.

The essentials

Virgin Limited Edition ( virginlimitededition.com/en/ulusaba ) offers rooms at Ulusaba from 10,100 ZAR (£545) per person per night. Nightly rates at Ulusaba’s Safari Suite start from 18,250 ZAR (£986) per person per night. Rates include game drives, all meals and high-quality wines and champagne. The Safari Suite and Safari Room can be booked together for R68,800 (£3,717) per night. 

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