Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

South Africa 0 Safaris 0 Operators

Plan My Safari Browse Packages Find Operators

Location South Africa

About Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is a luxurious safari destination located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park in South Africa. Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba offers a combination of unparalleled wildlife experiences, ultra-luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking landscapes. The reserve covers approximately 13,500 hectares (33,000 acres) an...

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is a luxurious safari destination located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park in South Africa. Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Ulusaba offers a combination of unparalleled wildlife experiences, ultra-luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking landscapes. The reserve covers approximately 13,500 hectares (33,000 acres) and provides guests with an intimate and exclusive safari experience.

Ulusaba is renowned for its expert rangers and trackers, luxurious lodges, and personalized service, making it one of the top private game reserves in South Africa. It consists of two unique lodges:

Rock Lodge – Perched on a hill with panoramic views.
Safari Lodge – Situated along a dry riverbed, offering an immersive bush experience.

Country

South Africa

Safaris

0 packages

When to Visit

Dry Season (May – September) – Best for Wildlife Viewing Cooler temperatures

Animals congregate around water sources

Sparse vegetation makes spotting wildlife easier

Ideal for first-time safari-goers

Wet Season (October – April) – Best for Birdwatching & Scenery Lush green landscapes

Abundant birdlife with migratory species

Baby animals born during this period

Fewer tourists, providing a more private experience

Peak season

Shoulder season

Wet / off-season

Wildlife

Big Five – Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhinoceros

Cheetahs

Hippos

Crocodiles

Giraffes

Zebras

Warthogs

Wild Dogs

Various Antelope species (Kudu, Impala, Nyala, Waterbuck, etc.)

The leopard population in Sabi Sand is one of the most habituated in Africa, providing excellent sightings.

Lions, hyenas, and wild dogs are frequently seen hunting, especially in the early mornings or evenings.

Safari Packages View all

No safari records are available yet.

Health

Ulusaba is a safe and well-maintained private reserve, but here are some important health and safety tips:

Health Precautions:

Malaria: Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a malaria area. Take anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent.
Vaccinations: Ensure you have routine vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (if traveling from an endemic country).
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Safety Tips:

Stay in your vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise.
Do not feed or approach wildlife – all animals are wild and unpredictable.
Listen to your guides – they are trained to handle wildlife encounters.
Secure your belongings – baboons and monkeys are known to snatch items.

Safety

Ulusaba is a safe and well-maintained private reserve, but here are some important health and safety tips:

Health Precautions:

Malaria: Sabi Sand Game Reserve is a malaria area. Take anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent.
Vaccinations: Ensure you have routine vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever (if traveling from an endemic country).
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Safety Tips:

Stay in your vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise.
Do not feed or approach wildlife – all animals are wild and unpredictable.
Listen to your guides – they are trained to handle wildlife encounters.
Secure your belongings – baboons and monkeys are known to snatch items.

Get There

Ulusaba is easily accessible by air and road.

By Air:

Ulusaba Airstrip: Private charter flights and daily scheduled flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other locations.
Closest Major Airport: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) in Nelspruit (about 2 hours by road).

By Road:

Johannesburg to Ulusaba: Approx. 5–6 hours by car.
Hoedspruit to Ulusaba: Approx. 2–3 hours by car.
Self-drive option: Possible but not recommended due to rough roads; a private transfer is ideal.

Plan My Trip to Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What makes Ulusaba unique?

Ulusaba offers a private and luxurious safari experience with some of the best Big Five sightings, expert guides, and world-class accommodations.

2. Can children visit Ulusaba?

Yes! Ulusaba is family-friendly, offering special programs for children, including the Cub’s Club with activities tailored for young safari-goers.

3. Is Wi-Fi available at Ulusaba?

Yes, both Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge have Wi-Fi, though it may be slow due to the remote location.

4. What should I pack for my Ulusaba safari?

Neutral-colored clothing (beige, khaki, green)
Lightweight, breathable clothing for summer
Warm layers for winter mornings/evenings
Comfortable walking shoes
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Binoculars and camera for wildlife viewing
Malaria medication and insect repellent

5. Are there spa and wellness facilities at Ulusaba?

Yes! Ulusaba has a luxury spa offering massages, facials, and wellness treatments with breathtaking views of the African bush.

6. Can I see the Big Five at Ulusaba?

Yes! Ulusaba is in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, one of the best places in Africa to see all five iconic species.

7. Are night drives allowed?

Yes, night safaris with spotlights are included, allowing guests to see nocturnal animals like leopards, hyenas, and bush babies.

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is a bucket-list safari destination, offering a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and conservation. Whether you’re looking for an exclusive wildlife experience, a romantic getaway, or a family-friendly safari, Ulusaba delivers world-class service and unforgettable wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most spectacular locations.

Birds

Birdwatching enthusiasts will find Ulusaba an excellent destination, with over 300 bird species recorded in the reserve.

Common Birds to Spot:

African Fish Eagle
Martial Eagle
Lilac-breasted Roller
Southern Ground Hornbill
Saddle-billed Stork
Yellow-billed Hornbill
Burchell’s Starling
African Jacana
Grey Go-away-bird
African Scops Owl

Birding is best during the summer months (November–March) when migratory birds arrive from Europe and other parts of Africa.

Weather & Climate

Ulusaba has a semi-arid subtropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons.

Winter (May – August)
- Dry, sunny, and mild during the day (20–25°C / 68–77°F)
- Cold mornings and evenings (5–10°C / 41–50°F)
- Best time for wildlife viewing
Summer (November – March)
- Hot and humid (28–35°C / 82–95°F)
- Afternoon thunderstorms common
- Vibrant scenery with lush vegetation
Spring & Autumn (April, September-October)
- Transition seasons with moderate temperatures
- Excellent game viewing opportunities

FAQs