Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is Sir Richard Branson’s award-winning safari lodge located in the Western sector of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve. Guests can taste the spoils of South Africa in peace and tranquility; providing the perfect place for all age groups and for any occasion to experience a safari.
Because Ulusaba is privately owned, a ‘Private Game Reserve’; you’ll be able to enjoy over 13 500 hectares of unspoiled, game-rich bush in near solitude. Experienced trackers and game rangers will accompany you on safari game drives in open land rovers; tracking the Big Five and sharing with you their vast knowledge of the surrounding wildlife.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Accommodation
There are two main lodges at Ulusaba set 0.5km apart: Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge. As they offer two unique experiences; many guests choose to split their time between the two. Spend time at Rock Lodge and you’ll be flying with the eagles. Or take a walk on the wild side back down to earth at Safari Lodge.
In addition, Ulusaba has an exclusive-use safari option for families and friends; Cliff Lodge; with its own chef, a private vehicle for game drives, a private gym, and also a spa treatment room.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Because Rock Lodge is perched high on the summit of a koppie, you’re on top of the world! Survey miles of game-rich bush as you stand eight hundred feet above the wilderness. Here the view is king and there are endless opportunities to spot the roaming wildlife.
The view inside is just as spectacular. Each room has a different design reflecting African tribal influences and style.
Rock Lodge can accommodate a total of 20 – 25 guests and welcomes children of all ages.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge in Sabi Sand Game Reserve
There are 8 x rooms and suites at Rock Lodge; including the Master Suite, Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff rooms, and the two-bedroom Rock Suite; some of which have private plunge pools.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge Room Types
Rock Cliff Rooms
There are four adjoining Rock Cliff rooms (70m² / 750ft²); 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.
Ulusaba Rock Cliff Room – bathroom with a view
Rock Suite
A spacious two-bedroom suite with a living area (125m² / 1345ft²); the master bedroom has a full en-suite with views over the bush. The second queen-bedded bunk room has a smaller en-suite shower room. An ideal option if you’re traveling as a family as it can accommodate two children.
Master Suite
The Master Suite at Ulusaba is built on three levels with beautiful views (115m² / 1240ft²); an en-suite bathroom, and a private balcony with a private infinity plunge pool. The living area has another terrace with sun loungers looking out over the bush; so remember to bring your binoculars! This is one of Richard Branson’s favorite rooms and is ideal for honeymooners!
Sabi Sand accommodation with private plunge pool
Makwela Suites
2 x lavish suites (125m² / 1345ft²) built on two levels with en-suite bathrooms and featuring private balconies with private infinity plunge pools. The suites have a separate living area and study / library. Each has a fold-out sleeper couch which is perfect if you’re bringing the kids.
Makwela Suite at Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Ulusaba Cliff Lodge
Cliff Lodge is a short walk from the Main House at Rock Lodge. 2 x magnificent suites (Cliff Lodge 1 and 2) offer guests the ultimate safari luxury. Access to the two Cliff Lodge Suites is via a raised walkway from the Main House. Both Cliff Lodge Suites have a TV in the lounge with a selection of DVDs.
The Cliff Lodge Suites can also be booked individually within 4 months prior to guest arrival.
Ulusaba Cliff Lodge Room Types
Cliff Lodge Suite 1
A luxurious two-bedroom suite accommodating up to 3 x adults and 2 x children (330m² / 3550ft²); with one large bedroom (with two small pull-out beds) and a second smaller bedroom; that can accommodate one x adult or two x small children. Cliff Lodge 1 offers a spacious lounge with a fireplace, separate kitchen, and bar and also features a mini spa, gym, and an outdoor deck with a large private pool.
Accommodation in the luxury Ulusaba Cliff Lodge 1
Cliff Lodge Suite 2
A spacious one-bedroom suite accommodating up to 2 x adults and 2 x children on 2 small pull-out beds (120m² / 1290ft²). Cliff Lodge 2 offers a large lounge area with a fireplace and a large viewing deck with a private plunge pool.
Cliff Lodge 2 – private plunge pool in the Sabi
Exclusive-Use at Ulusaba Cliff Lodge
When you book both suites for exclusive use; your own chef and private vehicle for game drives are included; plus you will also have full use of a private gym and spa treatment room. Cliff Lodge can accommodate a maximum of 5 x adults and 4 x children when booked exclusively (460m² / 4950ft²).
Ulusaba Safari Lodge
Nearly 500 meters away is Safari Lodge; which is built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed beneath a canopy of ancient trees. Guests will love the sense of adventure as you access some of the rooms by swing bridges; between exquisite tree house rooms; while elephants, bushbuck, lions, and other local wildlife pass on their way to the nearby watering hole.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge swing bridge between accommodation
The rooms at Safari Lodge include a Treehouse Suite overlooking the nearby Xikwenga Dam; while other rooms have their own private plunge pools. Safari Lodge can accommodate up to 20 x guests in 10 x rooms and suites.
Kids over the age of 12 are welcome to stay at Safari Lodge.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Room Types
Safari Room
The entry-level room category at Ulusaba Safari Lodge (40m² / 430ft²); three adjoining Safari Rooms offer large viewing decks and en-suite bathrooms with great views. They are close to the Main Lodge.
One of these Safari Rooms can be interconnected with the Safari Suite to create a two-bedroom suite.
Safari Room at Ulusaba Safari Lodge
Elephant Rooms
3 x spacious Elephant Rooms (70m² / 750ft²) have en-suite bathrooms and large viewing decks offering stunning views over the bush. Elephants regularly use a migratory route that passes by these rooms which allow for excellent up-close and personal game viewing! These rooms are ideal for friends traveling together or families with teens wishing to be close to their parents.
Elephant Room set up as a twin for children
River Rooms
Built tree house style and very private, there are 4 x River Rooms (100m² / 1075ft²). Two of these rooms offer private plunge pools. All are very spacious with snuggling seating areas and striking views of the river bed or bush. Ideal for those celebrating or enjoying a romantic escape as these rooms are secluded and tucked between Jackalberry trees. Three of the River Rooms are accessible by a swing bridge and are a short walk from the Main Lodge.
Ulusaba River Room for romantic safaris in the Sabi Sand
Treehouse Suite
A spacious and very unique suite featuring a private deck with views over Xikwenga Dam (160m² / 1720ft²); where hippos and elephants come to bathe. There is also a large viewing deck adjacent to the room perfect for breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. The Treehouse Suite offers ultimate seclusion and is ideal for honeymooners. The location of the suite makes it the perfect choice for avid photographers and birders. The Treehouse Suite is an approximately 10-minute walk; from the main lodge and is accessible by swing bridges and raised walkways.
Ulusaba Tree House Suite
Safari Suite
This private suite (185m² / 2010ft²) is next to the Main Lodge and is accessed through its own entrance; into a walled garden with a boma fire pit. There is a separate spacious lounge that opens onto a large viewing deck; with a private plunge pool, outdoor shower, and private dining table for up to 8 x guests. The suite boasts an en-suite bathroom with a separate WC and an additional guest bathroom next to the lounge.
The Safari Suite can be interconnected with a Safari Room to sleep up to 4 x guests.
Ulusaba Safari Suite
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve – Sabi Sand Family Safari
Children of all ages are in great hands at Ulusaba and are very welcome to stay at Rock Lodge. Children of 6 years and older can go on game drives with their parents or a guardian but are unable to participate in safari walks. Infants are very welcome to join the special kid’s program called Cub’s Club.
Ulusaba Family Safari
The Ulusaba Cub’s Club – Children always love
Ulusaba tailors fantastic programs for the little ones at their Cub’s Club. Like keeping them out of trouble for a start! Each infant is entertained with treasure hunts, games, books, DVDs, and lots more.
Some examples of the fun activities your children will participate in: A welcome treasure hunt to help Cubs familiarise themselves with their surroundings A mini Ranger’s course, finding out about the African bush, how to track and identify animal footprints, and much more Safari walks around the Lodge to spot birds, insects, lizards, and many other creatures Mini Masterchef pizza and cookie-making classes Arts and Crafts with colored sand art and an afternoon of rock painting Traditional South African kids’ games Supervised pool activities
Children on safari – educational holiday for your little ones
Babysitting is also available free of charge. Special food and beverages or simple snacks and light meals, such as sandwiches, can be prepared.
On arrival, each cub will receive a backpack filled with fun and educational safari goodies. Cubs have their very own amenities in the room; just like their folks do, and in every Cub’s room; there will be a personal welcome letter and a special introduction to their stay.
In some rooms, children can be accommodated on single or foldout beds. In these cases where adults are paying double or triple rates; extra children will be accommodated at the rates detailed below. Occasionally due to restrictions on the number of guests and vehicles allowed in the Sabi Sand Reserve; we may not be able to accommodate extra children in rooms; please contact us for details, availability, and rates for your requirements.
This is the perfect African Family Safari lodge.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Good Food and Wine
Wining and Dining on Safari
Ulusaba’s internationally renowned chefs have developed numerous pan-African dishes influenced by many African cultures, flavors, and spices. Recipes are constantly refreshed and consist of seasonal, local ingredients. Whether dining under the African sky, in the Boma, on a deck, or in the dining room; menus and meals promise to be exciting, and inspirational.
A bush braai (BBQ) is being prepared with entertainment arriving
Private Meals and Special Occasions
Of course, if you’d like a more intimate experience; we’d be delighted to organize private dining for you; either on a secluded deck or at a location of your choice. Be sure to win some brownie points by organizing this before arrival; we’ll make sure we ramp up the romance. Celebrating a birthday or special occasion at Ulusaba is the best and private dining is available for groups; small or large; in mindblowing locations.
Safari Lodge Wine Cellar and Rock Lodge Wine Room
Wine lovers won’t go thirsty with the well-stocked wine cellar at Safari Lodge and wine room at Rock Lodge. South Africa has an excellent reputation for wine worldwide and naturally; Ulusaba is keen to showcase some of the best local vintages on offer.
Activities / Things to Do at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
From safari walks and twice-daily game drives to relaxing spa treatments, and cocktails by the pool; there is no shortage of things to do during the day. Work out in the gym or even play a game of tennis on one of the two courts.
If you want to spend some time soaking up the environment and wildlife, scoot away for the day for one of our scenic tours; by road or even by helicopter!
A photographic safari is incredible in this Sabi Sand area; so to really capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments whilst out on a game drive; make sure to have the best photographic equipment to hand. Ulusaba has partnered with Africa Photographic Rentals; in order to take the hassle out of hiring any camera equipment.
Zebras
Hippo and birds
Saddle-billed Storks
Ulusaba waterhole with lots of elephants
Lion looking cute!
Cheetahs chasing baby impala
A Day on Safari at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
A typical day on safari
We thought we would give you a little taster; of what you can expect on a typical day at Ulusaba. You can do as little or as much as you like, it’s completely up to you!
5 am: Rise and shine! Early morning teas, coffees, and refreshments are served on the main terrace.
5.30 am: Off we go! We will depart on the morning game drive in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle; stopping for refreshments in the heart of the South African bush.
9 am: Breakfast time! Retreat back to the lodge for breakfast with your Ranger.
10 am: It wouldn’t be a holiday if you didn’t have a bit of R&R! We recommend any of our spa treatments in the Aroma Boma spa (available at an additional charge). For those seeking more adventure you can get up close and personal with the animals; during our walking safari (don’t worry an armed Ranger and Tracker will be with you at all times!)
1.30 pm: It’s lunchtime! Lunch is often served on one of the sundecks.
4 pm: Before heading off on the evening game drive, afternoon tea is served on the patio.
4.30 pm: Game on! It’s time to depart for the evening game drive. Search for those elusive nocturnal animals after sundowner drinks served in the bush. Next, it’s onto our Bush observatory where our Ranger will give you the chance for some stargazing.
8 pm: Dinner is either at the lodge or in the heart of the bush; under the African skies around a blazing log fire. Enjoy the tribal dancers and singers, for a truly authentic African experience.
Timings are based on stays during the Summer. Winter times are up to 30 minutes later than the time shown above.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Lodge Accommodation Rates
2023 Accommodation Rates at Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
7th January until 30th June 2023 and 1st September until 21st December 2023
1st July until 31st August 2023
Rock Cliff Room
Per Person Sharing
R 13,800
R 14,400
Rock Suite (2 bedrooms)
R 19,200
R 20,100
Master Suite with plunge pool
R 19,200
R 20,100
Makwela Suite with plunge pool
R 23,600
R 24,700
Cliff Lodge 1*
R 31,300
R 32,800
Cliff Lodge 2*
R 25,500
R 26,800
Cliff Lodge exclusive use
Up to 5 x adults and 4 x children
R 129,600
R 135,200
* Cliff Lodge 1 and 2, can be booked individually four months prior to arrival.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge 2023 Rates
Ulusaba Safari Lodge
7th January until 30th June 2023 and 1st September until 21st December 2023
1st July until 31st August 2023
Safari Room*
Per Person Sharing
R 13,800
R 14,400
Elephant Room
R 13,800
R 14,400
River Room
R 16,700
R 17,500
River Room with plunge pool
R 19,200
R 20,100
Treehouse Suite
R 23,600
R 24,700
Safari Suite*
R 25,500
R 26,800
Safari Suite exclusive use
Up to 4 x adults
R 94,600
R 98,400
*The Safari Room and Suite are normally reserved for exclusive use; therefore, can only be booked individually four months prior to arrival.
Single occupancy rates are available upon request.
Ulusaba can accommodate extra adults and children in some of the rooms on fold-out or rollaway beds. In most cases, there will be an additional charge per person, per night. There are restrictions on the number of guests and vehicles allowed in the Sabi Sand Reserve, so there may be times when extra guests are unable to be accommodated in the rooms.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Lodge Accommodation Rates Include / Exclude
Fully Inclusive Rates Include / Exclude
Fully Inclusive Rates Include
A luxurious room or suite in one of our beautiful lodges All meals are served in a variety of locations around the lodges All beverages including a top-quality wine list and fine champagne The contents of your minibar Twice daily game drives A daily walking safari (weather dependent) Fully equipped gym at each lodge Lounges at each lodge are 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 stargazing Informative talks on flora, fauna, and conservation can be organized on request for both adults and children Private dining for up to 6 x guests at Safari Lodge’s wine cellar and Rock Lodge’s wine room (subject to availability) Local telephone calls Taxes and levies
Fully Inclusive Rates Exclude
Flights between Johannesburg and Ulusaba’s private airstrip Road and air transfers between other airports and lodges Aroma Boma spa treatments (ask for rates) Wedding and honeymoon packages – refer to separate rate sheet Scenic helicopter flights over the bush to view spectacular sights such as God’s Window and the Blyde River Canyon; the world’s 3rd deepest canyon Tours to the local community Private game drives (subject to availability) Photocopying, telephone, fax, and e-mail facilities Gift shop purchases A Guest Conservation Contribution will be added to the rates for your stay at Ulusaba. The fee is also applied to all lodges in the reserve and goes directly to the Sabi Sand Conservation Trust. The Trust will assist in the funding of the anti-poaching and conservation efforts; to secure the long-term survival of endangered and compromised animal species. The contribution amount is subject to change; please contact our Reservations team for current rates.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Exclusive Use
Safari Events and Incentives - birthdays, conference and multi-generational travel
Whether for a milestone birthday, anniversary, company retreat, or just a time to get away with friends and family, Ulusaba is the perfect setting. You can hire either one or both lodges and you’ll have access to all the privacy, and flexibility that you desire, as well as your own game vehicles, Rangers, and Trackers. Your stay will be uniquely tailored; perhaps cocktails at sunset followed by tribal dances around a bush campfire or a safari-themed child’s birthday party… Whatever your preference, the team will ensure an unforgettable African safari experience.
When you hire one or both lodges at Ulusaba exclusively you can decide! In addition to the thrill of the twice-daily game drives, there are safari walking tours, photographic tours, and volunteer programs. There is also a gym and swimming pool per lodge, two tennis courts, plenty of viewing decks to take in the magnificent views, and spa treatments for those who like to indulge.
In addition, you may wish to explore the surrounding areas by enjoying recommended cultural, wildlife, and scenic tours. When darkness falls you can take a trip to our observatory in the middle of the Bush – we’ll teach you about the star constellations visible in the southern hemisphere – or enjoy our wine cellar stocked full of local and international vintages with wine tasting or a braai (South African barbecue) under the stars with local entertainment.
If there’s no escaping work, Ulusaba has all the necessary facilities for meetings and group sessions including wireless internet in a variety of setups – all with no extra charge. Its secure and remote location lends itself perfectly to high-profile gatherings and team-building exercises.
Exclusive Use Rates at each lodge at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Ulusaba Rock Lodge
7th January until 30th June 2023 and 1st September until 21st December 2023
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Accommodation Specials:
Free nights at Ulusaba offer
Stay 4 nights and only pay for 3 at Ulusaba from 7th January – 31st May 2023 and from 1st November – 21st December 2023.
Terms and Conditions: Stays can be split between Safari Lodge and Rock Lodge; the last night of your stay will be complimentary. A minimum stay of four consecutive nights is applicable with further free nights being cumulative This offer can be combined with the Best of South Africa offer (when booking a minimum of 5 nights); the Family offer, and the Winelands and Wildlife offer (below)
Ulusaba Family Safari Offer
Up to one child (11 and younger) traveling with one or more adults can stay at Rock Lodge at no extra charge. Valid 7th January – 31st May 2023 and from 1st November – 21st December 2023
The kids go free offer can be combined with the free night offer (when available).
Special Packages combining the Cape Winelands and Sabi safari at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Winelands and Wildlife
Combine a safari at Ulusaba with a stay at Mont Rochelle in Franschhoek. Our Safari and Winelands package includes a complimentary 30-minute massage on your safari and an upgrade to a half-board basis at Mont Rochelle. Half board at Mont Rochelle includes a choice of a 3-course lunch, picnic basket, or a 3-course dinner; daily in any of Mont Rochelle’s restaurants.
OR: for the ultimate safari, combine Ulusaba with Mahali Mzuri in the Masai Mara including a complimentary 30-minute massage on your safari.
The Winelands and Wildlife Package is valid from 9th January – 21st December 2023
All offers are subject to availability. Please check with us about your dates as specials are sometimes extended outside of these dates. We will be able to match any other quote and offer you the best service.
Sabi Honeymoon Package (or Romantic Safari)
A safari at Ulusaba; whether you’re on honeymoon or just fancy a romantic break; can give you the space you and your partner need to ignite (or re-ignite!) the magic. We’ve got some great suggestions and ideas for an intimate and private escape in the African bush. From a romantic bath where we prepare your room with a special romantic turndown service; to a romantic evening in your room with a selection of bath oils. There’s room in the bath for two and of course, the champagne will be on ice. Also, there is romantic dining and a spa treatment.
The 3-night Sabi Honeymoon Package Costs
Ulusaba Safari and Rock Lodge Romance Package Price PER COUPLE for 3 Nights in South African Rands
7th January until 30th June 2023 and 1st September until 21st December 2023
1st July until 31st August 2023
Safari Room, Elephant & Rock Cliff Room
87,000
90,600
River Room
104,400
109,200
River Room with plunge pool, Rock Suite & Master Suite with plunge pool
119,400
124,800
Treehouse Suite & Makwela Suite with plunge pool
145,800
152,400
Safari Suite & Cliff Lodge 2
157,200
165,000
Safari Suite exclusive use (2 bedrooms)
291,000
299,400
Cliff Lodge 1
192,000
201,000
Cliff Lodge Exclusive (2 bedrooms)
393,000
490,200
Book your South African honeymoon at Ulusaba and all the following are included:
All inclusions as per normal rates PLUS 3 nights’ accommodation for two guests sharing A fruit basket and champagne in the room on arrival The Aroma Boma Devotional Journey spa treatment for two (60 minutes) – light a candle together as a symbol of your union and you both receive a full body massage 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 upgrade if space is available A gift on departure
Lovers’ Picnic
*Your Ranger will whisk you away to a secluded location for a romantic picnic lunch; often at Constitution Rock. Trust us, the views are fabulous, and the champagne somehow tastes even better!
Observatory Private Dinner
**We prepare a private meal for two under the stars at our Bush Observatory. Your Ranger will be able to tell you all about the stars visible in the southern hemisphere, and even tell you some more about your own star sign – is your love for your partner written in the stars?!
