Ulusaba Safari Lodge is Sir Richard Branson’s award winning lodge 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 to experience a safari.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge lies along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed beneath a canopy of ancient trees. Elephants, bushbuck, lions, and other local wildlife pass by on their way to the nearby watering hole. Here, the wilderness feels wonderfully close. A true front-row seat to life in the Sabi Sand.
Safari Lodge also offers inviting communal spaces, including an indoor dining room, outdoor deck, indoor bar, wine cellar, boma, spa, gym, and swimming pool. Bringing comfort, connection, and the rhythm of the wild together in one unforgettable setting.
Because Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is privately owned, 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.
There are two main lodges at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, 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.
Ulusaba Rock and Safari Lodge will be undergoing an exciting refresh from 26th January 2026. Both are due to reopen on 1st April 2027. Ulusaba Safari Lodge will do a soft re-opening from 1st December 2026 so this is a great time to get fantastic rates!
Ulusaba Safari Lodge features eight Elephant Suites and The Hide, three elevated suites overlooking the hippo-filled dam and ideal for families or friends. All suites have a generously stocked complimentary minibar, hair dryer, bathrobes & slippers, bathroom amenities, insect repellent & mosquito nets. The suites have air conditioning & heating, a safety deposit box, plug adapters and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Kids over the age of 12 are welcome to stay at Safari Lodge. Ulusaba Safari Lodge sleeps up to 22 people a night.
Elephant Suites (55 m² / 592 ft2)
Positioned along a dry riverbed and active wildlife corridor, the 8 x Elephant Suites offer an intimate connection to the surrounding Savannah. Where nature unfolds just beyond your door. Inspired by Tsonga heritage, the design blends vibrant textures with refined artisanal detailing to create an elevated yet soulful retreat that feels effortlessly connected to the wild. Expansive floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto a private deck with plunge pool. While a freestanding bathtub with panoramic views and a private outdoor shower invite moments of quiet indulgence in complete harmony with nature.
Elephant Suite Interior with outdoor plunge pool
The Hide Suites (50 m² / 538 ft2)
Elevated above the hippo-filled dam, The Hide’s three exclusive tree house-style suites provide serene lake views and the chance for intimate wildlife encounters. Each floor-to-ceiling glass suite opens onto private decks with plunge pools and outdoor lounges. Blending spacious interiors (also with a freestanding bathtub with panoramic views and a private outdoor shower) with the sights and sounds of the wilderness. Interiors marry organic textures, artisanal detailing, and cultural vibrancy. The ideal safari accommodation for privacy and relaxation.
The Hide Suite
A separate shared main living area includes a spacious lounge, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, and an expansive deck with a boma firepit. Creating the perfect communal haven for families or small groups seeking privacy with a sense of togetherness.
The communal area at The Hide
The Hide Exclusive-Use Suites
The above three Hide Suites can be sold as an exclusive-use unit for families or small groups of 6 guests.
Elephants at The Hide Suite
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Good Food and Wine
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. Menus and meals promise to be exciting, and inspirational. Whether dining under the African sky, in the Boma, on a deck, or in the dining room.
A bush braai (BBQ) 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. Private dining is available for groups, small or large. In mind blowing locations.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Wine Cellar
Wine lovers won’t go thirsty with the well stocked wine cellar at Safari 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 Safari Lodge
There is no shortage of things to do during the day. From safari walks and twice daily game drives to relaxing spa treatments, and cocktails by the pool. 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. To capture those once in a lifetime moments while out on a game drive. To make sure to have the best photographic equipment to hand, Ulusaba has partnered with Africa Photographic Rentals to take the hassle out of hiring any camera equipment.
Zebras
Saddle-billed Storks
Ulusaba waterhole with lots of elephants
Lion looking cute!
A Day on Safari at Ulusaba Safari Lodge
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 for early morning teas, coffees, and refreshments on the main terrace.
5.30 am: Depart on the morning game drive in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle. This is when the wildlife are starting to venture out and we can look for the remnants of the night’s hunts. Stop for refreshments in the heart of the South African bush.
9 am: Arrive back at the lodge for breakfast with your Ranger.
10 am: Time for a bit of R&R on your safari holiday! We recommend any of the spa treatments in the Aroma Boma spa (available at an additional charge). For those seeking more adventure, a walking safari won’t disappoint. You can get up close and personal with the animals. Don’t worry, an armed Ranger and Tracker will be with you at all times!
1.30 pm: Lunchtime, which is often on one of the sundecks. Followed by a bit more R&R.
4 pm: Afternoon tea is on the patio.
4.30 pm: It’s time to depart for the afternoon game drive. Search for those elusive nocturnal animals after sundowner drinks 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 Safari Lodge Rates
Please note: Ulusaba Safari Lodge is closed for refurbishment until 31st March 2027 but will have a soft re-opening from 1st December 2026.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Rates during soft re-opening
1st – 19th December 2026 and 5th January – 31st March 2027
20th December 2026 – 4th January 2027 (min 3 nights)
Elephant Suites
Per Person Sharing
R32,000
R35,000
Single Room
R48,000
R52,500
The Hide Suites
Per Person Sharing
R38,000
R41,000
Single Room
R57,000
R61,500
The Hide (3 suites) Exclusive Use
Unit rate
R260,000
R280,000
Safari Lodge Soft Re-Opening Special, for stays 1st December 2026 – 31st March 2027 inclusive: When booking a minimum of 3 consecutive nights, receive a further 25% discount accommodation rate.
2027 Ulusaba Safari Lodge Rates
1st April – 31st May and
1st October until 19th December
1st June until 30th September and 20th December 2027 – 4th January 2028 (min 3 nights)
Elephant Suites
Per Person Sharing
R34,000
R36,500
Single Room
R51,000
R54,750
The Hide Suites
Per Person Sharing
R40,000
R42,500
Single Room
R60,000
R63,750
The Hide (3 suites) Exclusive Use
Unit rate
R270,000
R300,000
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Fully Inclusive Rates Include
Accommodation in a luxurious suite, each offering a private plunge pool.
All meals are served in a variety of locations around the lodge.
All beverages, including a top quality wine list and fine champagne.
The contents of your minibar, replenished once daily.
Twice daily game drives
A daily walking safari (weather dependent).
Return transfers from Ulusaba airstrip.
Fully equipped gym at lodge.
Laundry service (no dry cleaning available).
Business facilities (details available on request).
Complimentary WIFI throughout camp.
Informative talks on flora, fauna, and conservation.
Private dining for up to 6 x guests at Safari Lodge’s wine cellar (subject to availability).
Local telephone calls.
Taxes and levies.
Flights between Johannesburg and Ulusaba’s private airstrip.
Road and air transfers between other airports and lodges.
Spa treatments (ask for rates).
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 vehicle availability).
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 assists 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.
Ulusaba Safari Lodge Events and Incentives – birthdays, conferences, and multi-generational travel
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.
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, and 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 Ulusaba’s observatory in the middle of the Bush. They’ll teach you about the star constellations visible in the southern hemisphere. Or enjoy the 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.
Offers are subject to availability. Please check with us about your dates as specials do change. We will be able to match any other quote and offer you the best service.
Free nights at Ulusaba offer
Stay 4 nights and only pay for 3 at Ulusaba Safari Lodge.
Valid 1st April – 31st May and 1st October until 19th December 2027.
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.
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is Richard Branson’s safari lodge located in the western Sabi Sand Game Reserve, for an incredible Greater Kruger National Park safari. Lots of offers and packages including family and honeymoon.
South Africa Holiday Safari Specials – Discounted rates for the ultimate South African safari at Kirkman’s Kamp in the Sabi Sand (Greater Kruger National Park).
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