Ulusaba Private Game Reserve Tours & Safaris

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) 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.

 

Wildlife

 

Ulusaba is part of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is famous for its diverse wildlife and excellent game viewing. Thanks to its proximity to Kruger National Park and a lack of fences between the two, animals roam freely, offering some of the best Big Five sightings in Africa.

 

Animals You Can See at Ulusaba:

 

• Big Five – Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, and Rhinoceros
• Cheetahs
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Warthogs
• Wild Dogs
• Various Antelope species (Kudu, Impala, Nyala, Waterbuck, etc.)

 

Predator Sightings:

 

• 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.

 

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.

 

Best Time To Visit

 

Ulusaba is a year-round destination, but each season offers a unique experience:

 

• 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

 

The peak safari months are from June to October, offering the best game viewing conditions.

 

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

 

How To 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.

 

Health & 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.

 

FAQs

 

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.