ULUSABA ROCK LODGE

Ulusaba Rock Lodge is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa.

Ulusaba Rock Lodge has 11 rooms and suites and offers magnificent views.

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. 

Rock Lodge is perched on a hill offering views for miles across the landscape.

It has eleven rooms, some with private plunge pools.

At Rock Lodge you’re on top of the world as you stand 800 feet above the surrounding wilderness – perfect for surveying miles of the game-rich South African bush.

Accommodation at Ulusaba Rock Lodge:

There are four adjoining Rock Cliff rooms.

All are spacious and south facing, with private balconies offering views over the landscape.

Two rooms are on split levels, with a staircase connecting the bedroom and bathroom. 

Rock Suite is a flexible two-bedroom suite with living area.

The en-suite master bedroom can be split into a twin, and the queen-bedded bunk room has its own en-suite shower room.

Ideal for families as it can accommodate two children. 

The Master Suite is a generous suite spanning three levels offers incredible views, a private plunge pool, en-suite bathroom, a living area with further terrace and sun-loungers overlooking the bush.

It’s also one of Richard Branson’s favourite rooms.  

Makwela Suite – Two lavish suites built over two levels with en-suites and private balconies with infinity edge plunge pools.

With separate living areas and a study, each has a luxurious pull-out couch – perfect if you’re bringing the kids. 

Wining and Dining at Ulusaba Rock Lodge:

At Ulusaba dining is a very important part of your stay. 

Our internationally renowned chefs have developed numerous pan-African dishes influenced by many African cultures, flavours and spices.

Our recipes are constantly refreshed and consist of seasonal, local ingredients. 

All meals and drinks are included in your rates, and with at least six opportunities per day to eat, we promise you won’t go hungry! 

Dine by firelight, candlelight or starlight.

Feast on a traditional Braai in the heart of the bush or sample the local specialties overlooking the animals wandering by below.  

All our breads and pastries are home-baked daily, and breakfasts and lunches are organised restaurant-style, but in the evenings, guests dine together at communal tables, comparing notes on the animals they spotted that day!  

Of course, if you’d like a more intimate experience, we’d be delighted to organise private dining for you.  

Wine lovers needn’t do without – we have a well-stocked wine cellar at Safari Lodge and in the lounge at Rock Lodge, and our tailored wine tastings are a must.  

Our wine experience starts with us establishing your personal tastes.

South Africa has an excellent reputation for wine worldwide and naturally we’re keen to showcase some of the best local vintages on offer.  

You’ll find wines from tiny family-owned cellars, traditional bigger names and some newer, equally impressive small producers, with wines from organic and biodynamic producers.

Health & Wellness at Ulusaba Rock Lodge:

The Aroma Boma Spa at Rock Lodge is located 800 feet above the African Savannah with truly stunning views over the bush.

Our range of relaxing treatments – from facials to massages to those essential grooming rituals – are the perfect antidote to all the excitement of being out on game drives.

We use a range of products from Africology, an eco-friendly brand whose ethical skin care products capture the rejuvenating and healing essence of Africa, helping to revitalise the skin as well as prevent damage and premature ageing.  

Africology prides itself on its roots, taking inspiration from home and using naturally active ingredients including Rooibos, Aloe, Marula and African Potato.

The entire range is suitable for vegans, is not tested on animals and is free from harmful chemicals and perfumes. 

Game Drives at Ulusaba Rock Lodge:

Anyone who’s been on safari before knows that no two game drives are ever the same. 

There are twice-daily game drives at Ulusaba, one leaving early in the morning and one leaving late afternoon, each lasting around three hours.  

You’ll traverse over 13,500 hectares of private reserve with your dedicated ranger and tracker who will tailor your game drive just for you.  

Sightings will vary depending on the season, but you should always keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5! 

Morning is generally the best time to spot wildlife, as the temperature is cool and the animals are still active, including the big cats, who’ll be returning from a night of hunting. 

There’s also something special about the bush as the late afternoon light starts to fade.

The animals stir from their daytime slumber and predators start stalking their prey. It’s common to stop for sundowners as the sun sets – it’s a magical experience!  

The big five are lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants and rhinos.

This is an old term originally referring to the five most dangerous animals to hunt, and not to the biggest or strongest animals.

Hunting is of course not permitted at Ulusaba, or in the protected Reserves and National Parks of South Africa. 

The Little Five are more difficult to spot but your ranger and tracker can help.

They’ll be looking out for rhino beetles, elephant shrews, leopard tortoises, buffalo weavers and ant lions. 

Depending on the weather there’s usually a safari walk directly after breakfast.

Your ranger and tracker will guide you, pointing out various birds and animals. 

This is a great opportunity to see smaller creatures that are often missed when you’re on the game vehicles.

We’ll also teach you some fascinating facts about the medicinal use of trees and plants along the way.