Ulusaba Rock Lodge is perched overlooking the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Greater Kruger National Park. This is sister lodge to Safari Lodge on the Ulusaba Private Game Reserve. Ulusaba Rock Lodge is super romantic for honeymooners. And with an exclusive-use section (Cliff Lodge), it is the best choice for families and friends traveling together.
The name Ulusaba means ‘place of little fear’. So named because the koppie, or hill, on which Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan tribal warriors with the perfect lookout point.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge are in the Virgin Limited Edition Collection. This is Sir Richard Branson’s collection of unique, ultra-luxury retreats located in some of the most breathtaking settings in the world.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge will be undergoing an exciting refresh from 26 January 2026. It is due to re-open on 31st March 2027.
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 lodge has eight rooms and suites (some of which have private plunge pools). Each reflecting African tribal influences and style. The view inside is just as spectacular as outside. Luxury touches include bathrobes and slippers, fully stocked mini bars and air conditioning.
Rock Lodge can accommodate a total of 20 – 25 guests and welcomes children of all ages.
Rock Cliff Rooms
There are four adjoining Rock Cliff rooms (70m² / 750ft²). All are south facing with views over the vast landscape 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.
Bathroom with a view
Rock Suite
The Rock Suite is a spacious two bedroom suite (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. There’s also a separate living area, and outdoor terraces with sun loungers. An ideal option if you’re traveling as a family as it can accommodate two children.
Master Suite
The Master Suite at Ulusaba is on three levels with beautiful views (115m² / 1240ft²). It has 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. This is one of Richard Branson’s favorite rooms and is ideal for honeymooners!
Ulusaba Rock Lodge Master Suite
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.
Both suites are usually available on an exclusive-use basis. You will have your own host, chef, housekeeper, tracker, ranger, and private vehicle for game drives. You will have your own private gym and mini Aroma Boma Spa treatment room as well. Cliff Lodge can accommodate a maximum of 4 x adults and 4 x children when booked exclusively (460m² / 4950ft²).
The Cliff Lodge Suites can also be booked individually within 4 months before guest arrival.
Cliff Lodge Suite 1
A luxurious two bedroom suite accommodating up to 2 x adults and 2 x children (330m² / 3550ft²). With one large bedroom and a second smaller bedroom for 2 x children. This suite 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.
Cliff Lodge 1 at Ulusaba
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
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 kids’ program, Cubs Club.
Ulusaba Family Safari ↓
The Ulusaba Cub’s Club – Children always love
Ulusaba tailors fantastic programs for the little ones at their Cubs 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 familiarize 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 – an educational holiday for your kids
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 Rock Lodge Wining and Dining
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. Private dining is offered for the whole family or just the two of you. Celebrating your awesome safari family adventure or honeymoon.
Wine lovers won’t go wanting with the well-stocked wine room at Rock Lodge with some of the best local wines on offer.
Activities / Things to Do at Ulusaba Rock Lodge
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. Capture those once in a lifetime moments while out on a game drive. Ulusaba has partnered with Africa Photographic Rentals to take the hassle out of hiring any camera equipment.
Hippo with birdsCheetahs chasing baby impala
A Day on Safari at Ulusaba Rock Lodge
What can you expect on a typical day at Ulusaba Safari Lodge? That is completely up to you! You can do as little or as much as you like, but this will give you an idea of what is on offer.
5 am: Rise and shine! Early morning teas, coffees, and refreshments are 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 the 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 Rock and Cliff Lodge Accommodation Rates
2025 Accommodation Rates at Ulusaba Rock & Cliff Lodge
5th January until 31st May 2025
and
1st October until 19th December 2025
1st June until 30th September 2025 and 20th December 2025 – 3rd January 2026
Rock Cliff Room
Per Person Sharing
R 16,800
R 17,400
Rock Suite (2 bedrooms)
R 23,300
R 24,400
Master Suite with plunge pool
Makwela Suite with plunge pool
R 28,700
R 29,900
Cliff Lodge 1*
R 38,000
R 39,700
Cliff Lodge 2*
R 31,000
R 32,400
Cliff Lodge exclusive use
Up to 5 x adults and 4 x children
R 157,000
R 163,200
* Cliff Lodge 1 and 2, can be booked individually four months before arrival.
Single occupancy rates are available upon request.
Ulusaba can accommodate extra adults and children in some of the rooms on fold-out or roll-away 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. Therefore, there may be times when extra guests are unable to be accommodated in the rooms.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge (& Cliff) 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 Rock Lodge’s wine room (subject to availability)
Local telephone calls
Taxes and levies
Ulusaba 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
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 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; please contact our Reservations team for current rates.
Ulusaba Rock Lodge Safari Events and Incentives – birthdays, conference 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, 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.
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.
Free nights at Ulusaba offer
Stay 4 nights and only pay for 3 at Ulusaba Rock Lodge.
Valid from 5th January – 31st May 2025 and 1st October – 19th December 2025.
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 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 Ulusaba Rock Lodge at no extra charge.
Valid from 5th January – 31st May 2025 and 1st October – 19th December 2025.
The kids go free offer can be combined with the free night offer (when available).
Safari and Winelands Package
Combine a safari at Ulusaba with a stay at Mont Rochelle in Franschhoek. The Safari and Winelands package includes a complimentary 30 minute massage on your safari at Ulusaba. And an upgrade to a half board basis at Mont Rochelle. This includes a choice of a 3 course lunch, picnic basket, or a 3 course dinner 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 5th January until 19th December 2025.
Celebrate the Festive Season
Celebrate Christmas and New Year at Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Private Game Reserve in South Africa!
Rates are per room based on double occupancy for a three night stay, except for the exclusive use of Safari Suite and Cliff Lodge. Cliff Lodge is based on up to 5 adults and 4 children. Safari Suite is based on 4 adults sharing
Celebrate the Festive Season Rates and further information ↓
Celebrate the Festive Season Rates
Between 20th December 2025 – 4th January 2026
Per room for 3 nights
Extra night
Rock Cliff Room
R 99,600
R 33,200
Rock Suite
R 139,200
R 46,400
Master Suite with plunge pool
Makwela Suite with plunge pool
R 171,000
R 57,000
Cliff Lodge Exclusive use
R 466,200
R 155,400
What’s Included?
Three nights’ accommodation in one of our luxurious rooms or suites at one of our beautiful lodges.
All meals in a variety of locations.
All beverages, including a top quality wine list and fine champagne.
On Christmas Eve:
Chefs prepare a feast fit for royalty with festive African entertainment!
On Christmas Day:
A delicious Christmas lunch will be the order of the day. The spirit of Christmas takes on an African twist!
New Year’s Eve under a blanket of stars:
After a thrilling game drive, feast on traditional dishes prepared over an open fire.
New Year’s Day:
Feast on a late morning champagne brunch, or early birds can indulge in a continental breakfast.
Ulusaba Honeymoon Package (or Romantic Safari)
A safari at Ulusaba can give you the space you and your partner need to ignite (or re-ignite!) the magic. Whether you’re on honeymoon or just fancy a romantic break. 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 turn down 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.
2025 Ulusaba Rock Lodge Romance Package Price
5th January until 31st May 2025
and
1st October until 19th December 2025
1st June until 30th September 2025
PER COUPLE for 3 Nights
Rock Cliff Room
R 101,080
R 104,680
Rock Suite & Master Suite with plunge pool
R 138,280
R 144,280
Makwela Suite with plunge pool
R 168,880
R 176,080
Cliff Lodge 2
R 182,080
R 190,480
Cliff Lodge 1
R 222,280
R 231,880
Cliff Lodge Exclusive (2 bedrooms)
R 453,280
R 471,280
Book your Sabi honeymoon at Ulusaba Rock Lodge 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
**A private meal for two under the stars at the 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?
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andBeyond Tengile River Lodge offers luxury all inclusive accommodation in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Kruger National Park in South Africa – perfect for honeymoons and even weddings
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