Ulusaba Safari Lodge
Safari Lodge is the adults-oriented sister of Rock Lodge within Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, owned by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition in the western Sabi Sand. It sits at the base of the koppie beside a dry riverbed under ancient trees, overlooking a wildlife corridor and the hippo-filled Xikwenga Dam, with roughly 13,500 hectares of traversing rights. The lodge has about 25 years of history and, together with Rock Lodge, closed at the end of January 2026 for a complete redesign.
Reopening dates conflict across sources: the press release and trade reports say April 2027, while the official Ulusaba page states Safari Lodge reopens on 5 January 2027 — confirm the current date before quoting. On reopening, the lodge is planned to have 11 suites: eight Elephant Suites and The Hide, a three-suite private enclave with its own living area, deck and boma, suited to exclusive-use groups. Elephant Suites will have floor-to-ceiling glass, vaulted ceilings, a private deck with plunge pool, a freestanding bath and an outdoor shower.
Game viewing is twice-daily Big Five drives of about three hours in open Land Rovers, with a daily guided walking safari limited to ages 12 and over. Safari Lodge accepts no children under 12, with families directed to Rock Lodge, though game drives are reportedly open to all ages. Dining rotates through a dining room, outdoor deck, bar, wine cellar and boma, with private dining available for The Hide guests; the Africology-partnered wellness centre includes double therapy rooms, a sauna and hydrotherapy pool. Access is by the private Ulusaba airstrip with road transfer; operations run on up to 60% solar power.
Frequently asked questions.
Where is Ulusaba Safari Lodge located?
Ulusaba Safari Lodge sits at the base of a granite koppie in the western Sabi Sand, Greater Kruger, South Africa, overlooking a wildlife corridor and the hippo-filled Xikwenga Dam.
What type of property is Ulusaba Safari Lodge?
A five-star, all-suite, adults-oriented Virgin Limited Edition safari lodge, currently closed for a full redesign with reopening reported for 2027 — confirm current status before booking.
How many rooms does Ulusaba Safari Lodge have?
On reopening, 11 suites are planned: eight Elephant Suites plus The Hide, a three-suite private enclave with its own living area, deck and boma. Confirm the final configuration directly.
What is the children's policy?
No children under 12 are accepted at Safari Lodge; families are directed to sister lodge Rock Lodge. Walking safaris are limited to 12 and over.
What activities are available?
Twice-daily Big Five game drives of about three hours in open Land Rovers, a daily guided walking safari, tennis, pickleball, a private observatory and community visits.
What facilities are available?
A dining room, outdoor deck, bar, wine cellar, boma, private dining for The Hide guests, and an Africology-partnered wellness centre with sauna and hydrotherapy pool.
What's the power and Wi-Fi situation?
Up to 60% renewable energy is supplied via solar; an older source reports Wi-Fi in the lounge only. 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 is reported as April 2027 by the press release or 5 January 2027 by the official page — confirm the current date before quoting any stay.
How do I book Ulusaba Safari Lodge?
Africa Compass Collection can arrange your booking at Ulusaba Safari Lodge — whether you're a travel agent or planning directly. Use the "Request a quote" button on this page for a personalised, costed itinerary.