Ulusaba Rock Lodge – Opening 1st April 2027 (Sabi)
Ulusaba Rock Lodge is perched overlooking the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Greater Kruger National Park. This is the sister lodge to Safari Lodge on the Ulusaba Private Game Reserve. Ulusaba Rock Lodge is super romantic for honeymooners.
Within Rock Lodge, you can choose to stay in Cliff Lodge, which is available as individual suites or for exclusive bookings. Perfect for those seeking extra privacy.
The Lodge also features a range of exceptional spaces to unwind and connect. From indoor and outdoor dining areas and a traditional boma. To a breezy deck, indoor bar, wine cellar, spa, and swimming pool. Every corner of Rock Lodge is designed to immerse you in the beauty and rhythm of the Sabi Sand.
Rock Lodge offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Sabi Sand. 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 and Safari Lodge will be undergoing an exciting refresh from 26th January 2026. Both are due to officially reopen on 1st April 2027. However, Ulusaba Safari Lodge will do a soft re-opening from 1st December 2026 so this is a great time to get fantastic rates!
We are still getting updated information at this time. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
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 will have nine rooms and suites: five Rock Suites, two Makwela Suites, and retain the two existing show-stopping Cliff Lodge suites. Which can also be booked together exclusively. 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 (to be confirmed later when the refurb is complete) and welcomes children of all ages. There is a sofa bed in each Suite for a child.
Rock Suites (62 – 64 m2 | 668 – 687 ft2)
Set atop the koppie with uninterrupted bush views, the five Rock Suites combine soaring vaulted ceilings with floor-to-ceiling retractable glass doors, bathing each space in soft, golden African light.
Thoughtful artisanal touches, a private infinity plunge pool, and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the wild create a sanctuary that feels both dramatic and deeply soothing.
Rock Suite with private infinity pool
Makwela Suites (75 – 76 m2 | 805 – 819 ft2)
Perched high on a dramatic koppie, the two Makwela Suites feature vaulted ceilings and sweeping views across the African bush. Designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, both suites offer expandable floor‑to‑ceiling glass doors. The option to interconnect the 2 Makwela Suites make them ideal for families or small groups.
Expect artisan crafted details, private infinity plunge pools, and free-standing bathtubs perfectly positioned for breathtaking wilderness vistas.
Makwela Suite
Ulusaba Cliff Lodge Exclusive-Use
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.
When Cliff Lodge 1 and 2 are booked on an exclusive-use basis, this becomes a fully private safari sanctuary. The suites offer a spacious living space for gathering. Complete with a dedicated game drive vehicle, guide and tracker, and the attentive care of a private host and chef, ensuring each day unfolds entirely at your pace, in rhythm with the surrounding wilderness. With its own private access road Cliff Lodge offers complete exclusivity. A hideaway designed for those seeking space, serenity, and a home entirely of their own.
Cliff Lodge 1 (106 m2 | 1,141 ft2)
Secluded and nestled on a rugged outcrop with breathtaking southern views, this exceptional private suite offers a truly exclusive retreat. It will have one large bedroom and a second smaller bedroom for 2 x children. Designed for privacy and comfort, it features a deck and pool area.
Cliff Lodge 1
Cliff Lodge 2 (63 m2 – | 678 ft2)
Perched on a rugged cliff top outcrop with sweeping southern views, Cliff Lodge 2 is a refined private suite designed for space, serenity, and privacy. A generous bedroom with a comfortable sitting area opens onto a private deck and plunge pool suspended above the bush. Providing an intimate vantage point to watch the bushveld come alive from dawn to dusk.
Cliff Lodge 2
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.
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 a 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
2027 Accommodation Rates at Ulusaba Rock & Cliff Lodge
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)
Rock Suite
Per Person Sharing
R 34,000
R 36,500
Single Room
R 51,000
R 54,750
Makwela Suite
Per Person Sharing
R 37,000
R 39,500
Single Room
R 55,500
R 59,250
Cliff Lodge 1*
Per Person Sharing
R 43,500
R 46,000
Single Room
R 65,250
R 69,000
Cliff Lodge 2*
Per Person Sharing
R 39,500
R 42,000
Single Room
R 59,250
R 63,000
Cliff Lodge exclusive use
Up to 4 x adults and 3 x children
R 200,000
R 210,000
* Cliff Lodge 1 and 2, can be booked individually four months before arrival.
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
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.
Ulusaba Fully Inclusive Rates Exclude
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 Rock Lodge Safari 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. Let us know what you would like? 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.
All offers are subject to availability. 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 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 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.
This offer was valid before the refurb but hasn’t been extended. Let us ask for your family.
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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