Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Branson's African Retreat

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is Sir Richard Branson's personal safari property in the western sector of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve. Part of the Virgin Limited Edition portfolio alongside Necker Island and The Lodge in Verbier, Ulusaba combines the exclusivity and personality of a private estate with world-class Big 5 game viewing in one of Africa's most celebrated wildlife areas.

The Sabi Sands shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to move freely across an enormous wilderness area. Leopard sightings here are among the best on the continent, and the reserve's private traversing rights mean game drives are uncrowded and unhurried.

Two Lodges, Two Experiences

Ulusaba offers two distinct lodges on a single property, each with its own character:

Rock Lodge is built into the summit of a koppie — a rocky granite hill that rises above the surrounding bushveld. The eight rooms, including the iconic cliff-top Master Suite, offer dramatic panoramic views across the reserve. The infinity pool sits on the edge of the cliff, and the overall feel is bold, contemporary, and utterly unique. The Master Suite is one of the most photographed safari rooms in Africa.

Safari Lodge is nestled in the bush along the banks of a dry riverbed. With ten rooms — a mix of Treehouse and Bush suites — the atmosphere is more traditional, intimate, and connected to the surrounding landscape. Treehouse rooms are elevated among the canopy, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the bush below.

Either lodge can be booked for exclusive use, making Ulusaba a popular choice for private events, incentive groups, and celebrations.

Getting There by Charter

Ulusaba has its own private airstrip, making it one of the most accessible lodges in the Sabi Sands by private charter. The flight from Johannesburg is approximately one hour. On landing, a lodge game vehicle meets you on the apron for a short transfer drive — often with wildlife sightings before you even reach your room.

For guests arriving internationally at OR Tambo, our Menzies VIP escort can meet you at the gantry and walk you through to your connecting charter, making the transition seamless.

Why Ulusaba

Ulusaba offers something that very few safari properties can — the combination of an iconic location in the Sabi Sands, the personality and flair of the Virgin brand, and the option to take over an entire lodge for your group. The wildlife is outstanding, the accommodation is distinctive, and the sense of occasion is unmistakable.

Combine a stay at Ulusaba with other Sabi Sands properties or connect to the broader Greater Kruger circuit with short charter hops to Thornybush, Timbavati, or Kruger National Park. Explore our safari packages or request a quote.