Ulusaba Rock Lodge
Rock Lodge is one of two Virgin Limited Edition lodges within Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, in the western sector of the Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga, on the edge of Kruger National Park. It is built into a granite koppie with views over miles of bush, with roughly 13,500 hectares of traversing rights. Sir Richard Branson acquired the reserve in 1999. Note that Rock Lodge, Safari Lodge and Cliff Lodge are separate offerings within Ulusaba, and this page covers Rock Lodge only.
Important to note for planning: Rock Lodge closed at the end of January 2026 for a full redesign. Reopening has been reported as 1 April 2027 by the Virgin Limited Edition press release, though the official Ulusaba page has separately stated 5 January 2027 for sister lodge Safari Lodge, with both lodges fully open by April 2027 — confirm the current reopening date before quoting any stay.
On reopening, Rock Lodge is planned to have nine all-suite units: five new Rock Suites, two interleading Makwela Suites and two Cliff Lodge suites, each with a private plunge pool, floor-to-ceiling glass and a deck, designed by Luxury Frontiers with Tsonga-inspired detailing. The game viewing programme is twice-daily Big Five drives of about three hours, plus a daily guided walking safari (12 and over). Rock Lodge is positioned as the family lodge of the two, welcoming all ages, with an Africology-partnered wellness centre, tennis, a pickleball court and a private observatory among the facilities. Guests arrive via the private Ulusaba airstrip with road transfers.
Frequently asked questions.
Where is Ulusaba Rock Lodge located?
Ulusaba Rock Lodge is in the western sector of the Sabi Sand, Mpumalanga, Greater Kruger, South Africa, built into a granite koppie on the edge of Kruger National Park.
What type of property is Ulusaba Rock Lodge?
A five-star, all-suite Virgin Limited Edition safari lodge, positioned as the family-friendly lodge of the two Ulusaba properties. It is currently closed for a full redesign, with reopening reported for 2027 — confirm current status before booking.
How many rooms does Ulusaba Rock Lodge have?
On reopening, nine suites are planned: five Rock Suites, two interleading Makwela Suites and two Cliff Lodge suites, each with a private plunge pool. Confirm the final configuration directly.
What is the children's policy?
All ages are welcome, with infants 0–5 free when sharing and a Cubs Club for under-12s; walking safaris are limited to 12 and over. Confirm current policy on reopening.
What activities are available?
Twice-daily Big Five game drives, a daily guided walking safari (12+), tennis, pickleball, a private observatory, helicopter and road excursions, and community village visits.
What facilities are available?
An Africology-partnered wellness centre with sauna, cold plunge and hydrotherapy pools, a yoga deck, a gym, an infinity pool, dining areas, a boma, a bar and a wine cellar.
What's the power and Wi-Fi situation?
Up to 60% renewable energy is supplied via solar; Wi-Fi has been reported as included by an older source. Confirm current details on reopening.
What should I know about reservations?
Rates on request. The lodge closed at the end of January 2026 for a full redesign; reopening has been reported as 1 April 2027 by the press release, though the official page cites 5 January 2027 for sister lodge Safari Lodge — confirm the current reopening date before quoting any stay.
How do I book Ulusaba Rock Lodge?
Africa Compass Collection can arrange your booking at Ulusaba Rock Lodge — whether you're a travel agent or planning directly. Use the "Request a quote" button on this page for a personalised, costed itinerary.