Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Mpumalanga · South Africa
Reviews
Character and identity
Ulusaba sits on a 35,000-acre concession in Sabi Sand, sharing an unfenced border with Kruger and ranking among South Africa's most reliable patches for big-cat and rhino sightings. The 21 rooms are split across three lodges: hilltop Rock Lodge (10), bushveld Safari Lodge (11), and the two-bedroom Cliff Lodge tucked within Rock. Suites at Rock Lodge are built into the koppie itself, stone walls bleeding into the architecture, with loft layouts, tribal-inspired interiors, and private plunge pools in many. Meals run family-style at a long communal table, sundowners are staged at hippo pools and bee-eater ridges, and the property belongs to Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition portfolio.
Who's it for
Best for:
Couples and families wanting a polished, photography-rich first safari without the logistical lift of more remote camps. The communal dining, strong Wi-Fi, sociable vibe, and Branson-collection cachet suit travellers who like company at dinner and want near-guaranteed sightings of the Big Five, wild dogs, and both rhino species.
Should look elsewhere:
Anyone chasing true wilderness immersion. Sabi Sand is not remote, lights from nearby communities are visible from the hilltop, and sightings are routinely shared with other vehicles. Solitude-seekers and safari veterans wanting exclusive traversing rights will feel the compromise.
Bottom line
The draw here is wildlife density paired with comfort: you will fill memory cards, eat and drink very well, and sleep in a suite carved into the rock. Book Rock Lodge for the views and telescopes, splurge on Cliff Lodge if you're travelling as a family or foursome, and aim for the April-October dry season when game viewing peaks around shrinking water sources.
Location
What this place offers
- Wi-Fi
- Bar
- Smoke-free property
- Kid-friendly
- Pool
- Outdoor pool
- Parking
- Airport shuttle
- Air conditioning
