10 Secrets to Richard Branson’s Ulusaba Lodges in South Africa

By Krissy at Villa Secrets 2 Mar 2016

Ulusaba Rock Lodge Hill

The Ulusaba Rock Lodge Perched on a Hill

Eight hundred feet above the woodland savannah is the Ulusaba Rock Lodge. It’s a magnificent location within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve with a view of the Drakensberg Mountains. You can even spot wildlife from the lodge. The main house design features granite rock which is from the koppie. This luxury safari retreat also showcases African design and tribal influences.

Lavish Accommodations in the South African Bush

The luxurious rooms and suites at the Rock Lodge provide you with all the comfort. All are with a view of the picturesque African terrain. Each inspired by African influences with en-suite bathrooms. Choose from the Rock Cliff Room, the Rock, Master, and Makwela Suites. Another option is to book a stay at the exclusive and exquisite Cliff Lodge Suite.

Rock Lodge pool
African Wilderness Ulusaba

The Ulusaba Safari Lodge in the African Wilderness

Set in the South African woodlands alongside the dry Mabrak riverbed is the Ulusaba Safari Lodge. Situated below a canopy of trees in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, it’s a perfect wilderness retreat. During your stay you will be treated to a wildlife spectacle unlike any other. The lodge is strategically positioned near a watering hole where the animals frequent.

Outstanding Rooms and Suites at the Ulusaba Lodges

The Safari Lodge offers four types of accommodations. Including the Treehouse Suite shown above with a view of the Xikwenga Dam where the hippos and elephants bathe. The Safari, Elephant, and River Rooms are also as remarkable, all with spacious viewing decks. Some of which have private plunge pools and accesible by swing bridge. Others overlooking the bush and riverbed.

Sabi Sand Wilderness
Rock Lodge hill

African Landscape and Wildlife from the Viewing Deck

The Ulusaba lodges’ viewing decks present a vista of the vast South African landscape. Imagine the variety of flora covering the forest floor and the diversity of fauna living in the plains. Use a telescope and search the bush for wildlife activity. Safari walks with professional rangers and trackers as well as stargazing at the Bush Observatory can be arranged.

Staying in Shape at the Ulusaba Lodges

If you want to play tennis in the African savannah you can do so. There are two tennis courts at the Safari Lodge. You also would be happy to know that both lodges have gyms and getting fit won’t be a problem. There is also an outdoor pool at the Rock and Safari Lodges if you want to cool down.

tennis Ulusaba Lodges
Ulusuba Safari Lodge Vintage

Wine Selection and Dining at the UlusabaLodges

Pan-African dishes with local and fresh ingredients are on the menu. Wherever you want to have your meals, in the dining room, on the deck, in a Boma or in the comforts of your room you are assured of hearty and sumptous treat. Plus Ulusaba has a well-stocked wine cellar. Local vintages and the celebrated traditional brands are also offered.

Spa Treatments at Ulusaba in the African Savannah

The Aroma Boma at the Ulusaba Rock and Safari Lodges offers relaxing spa treatments that will soothe the mind and body. Pamper yourself and ease your tensions. Indulge and get body messages, aroma therapy and facial rituals while on vacation in the African savannah. Africology products are also used with local ingredients such as aloe, rooibos, marula and African potato.

Spa African Savannah Ulusaba
Sabi Sand Game Reserve elephants

Excursions in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Explore the African bush. Game drives are scheduled twice daily at both lodges. Excursions within Sabi Sand Game Reserve can also be part of your itinerary. You can get close to the elephants in Hazyview alongside the Sabie River or discover the Panorama Route down the Drakensberg Escarpment. Otherwise ride a helicopter for a view of the waterfalls and canyons.

Sir Richard Branson’s Ulusaba in South Africa

Ulusaba means “place of little fear.” It is a private safari game reserve owned by Sir Richard Branson with two world class luxury retreats, the Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge. Ulusaba is Branson’s commitment to making a difference advocating sustainable development and environment conservation. This is his way of sharing the beauty of South Africa and the Shangaan community’s culture.

Richard Branson’s Ulusaba

By Krissy at Villa Secrets 2 Mar 2016