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Sir Richard Branson's Safari Lodge in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve
Embark on an unforgettable and luxurious African adventure at Ulusaba, Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve and lodge. Part of his Virgin Limited Edition collection of ultra-luxury retreats, its main lodge is perched on a rocky hill known as a koppie, offering panoramic vistas overlooking the surrounding 13,500 hectares of the reserve. Ulusaba, which means “place of little fear,” sees a rotating cast of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and more, with a safari lodge set on the banks of a dry riverbed offering splendid accommodations. Highlights of the lodge include:
- 20 luxurious accommodations spread across two lodges, both with spectacular views
- Inclusive dining and drinks, with six opportunities to enjoy pan-African cuisine each day
- Twice-daily game drives offer many chances for curated wildlife viewing
- Luxury amenities such as a swimming pool, tennis courts, spa treatments, and a gym
- Additional activities, including safari walks, stargazing, boma dinners, scenic excursions, and more
Best known for the high quality of its safari experiences, Ulusaba takes pride in its team of highly experienced rangers and trackers who work tirelessly to provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities to guests, ensuring an unforgettable African safari experience.
Hotel Amenities
Accommodations
Featuring 20 guestrooms and suites, Ulusaba’s accommodations are located throughout two lodges: Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge.
Atop a large hill at the preserve lies Rock Lodge, offering superb views of the surrounding Sabi Sands. Guestrooms and suites are outfitted in tribal-inspired, African decor, with private balconies attached to all and some with refreshing plunge pools. Cliff Lodge, also connected to Rock Lodge, is home to two spacious suites that are ideal for families—one featuring a private pool and relaxing outdoor space and the other with a private plunge pool on a balcony.
Set apart from Rock Lodge, Safari Lodge is nestled along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed and boasts playfully luxurious treehouse-style guestrooms crafted with and inspired by local, natural materials. Wildlife such as elephants, lions, and other iconic species pass by, providing an exhilarating
Dining
With an all-inclusive dining program, guests at Ulusaba are invited to indulge in delicious gourmet meals, snacks, and drinks in an array of locations, ranging from the privacy of their guestrooms and suites to open dining under the African sky or an entertaining dinner in the open-air boma.
Whether it’s a stop for pancakes and refreshments or a sundowner during morning or evening game drives, an evening braai, or a communal feast for dinner, the meals and beverages of Ulusaba are of the highest standards. Crafted by talented chefs with a focus on pan-African dishes, the lodge’s menu is a vibrant interpretation of seasonal dishes featuring local ingredients.
Breads and pastries are baked fresh daily, and, for wine lovers, a well-stocked cellar and wine room are available for private tastings of South African vintages.
Activities at Ulusaba
Days at Ulusaba are focused on wildlife viewing via safari walks or the lodge’s twice-daily game drives, but on-site options abound, including a swimming pool, two tennis courts, spa services, and a fully equipped gym.
Embark on exhilarating bush walks led by expert guides, allowing you to connect with nature on an intimate level, or lose yourself in the mesmerizing spectacle of the night sky during stargazing sessions at the Bush Observatory. For a slower-paced experience, indulge your senses with rejuvenating spa treatments infused with indigenous African ingredients.
For those seeking a thrill of a different kind, visit the treehouse viewing deck at the Safari Lodge, which overlooks Xikwenga Dam, allowing travelers to enjoy the sounds of nature and watch for animal visitors. Families with children aged 6 and older can delight in the Cubs program, offering an array of activities from cookie decorating and pizza-making to identifying animal tracks, ensuring an unforgettable experience for young adventurers.
Other Nearby Activities & Attractions
- Blyde River Canyon
- Three Rondavels
- Mpumalanga Lowveld Overlook
- Bourke’s Luck Potholes
- God’s Window
- Lisbon Waterfalls
- Pilgrim's Rest
- Robber’s Grave
Location
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Reserve, near Kruger National Park in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa.
Address
Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands, South AfricaThe Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a pristine wilderness sanctuary teeming with big game, including the Big Five, and is famed for its leopard sightings. With its diverse landscapes, from sweeping savannahs to lush riverine forests, and a rich diversity of wildlife, Sabi Sand guarantees awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, unrivaled safari experiences, and a unique experience of the raw, authentic African bush.
Transportation
- Airport
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport is 105 km / 65 mi away – approximately 2 hours by car
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