Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Game ReserveBig Five

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

South Africa 135 km² (52 mi²) Est. 1994

About Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is Sir Richard Branson's luxury safari retreat in the Sabi Sand Wildtuin, offering Big Five game viewing with Virgin Limited Edition's signature flair. The reserve features two spectacular lodges — Rock Lodge, perched atop a koppie with panoramic views across the bushveld, and Safari Lodge, nestled in the riverbed canopy alongside a dry riverbed. Ulusaba traverses 13,500 hectares of prime Sabi Sand territory unfenced with Kruger National Park, delivering exceptional leopard, lion, and elephant encounters. The reserve's unique appeal lies in its blend of world-class safari with Branson's adventurous spirit — guests can enjoy treehouse-style suites, a wine cellar carved into rock, and exclusive-use options for the entire lodge. Ulusaba means "place of little fear" in Shangaan, reflecting the confidence of wildlife in this well-protected habitat.

0

Safari Tours

3.8

Avg Rating

5/5

Big Five

32

Years Protected

Highlights

  • Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition safari experience
  • Two unique lodges — hilltop Rock Lodge and riverside Safari Lodge
  • Exceptional leopard and Big Five viewing in Sabi Sand
  • Exclusive-use buyout options for private groups
  • Unique rock-carved wine cellar and treehouse suites

Considerations

  • Very expensive — premium Virgin Limited Edition pricing
  • Celebrity association can attract a less safari-focused crowd
  • Malaria area requiring prophylaxis
  • Books out well in advance during peak season

Wildlife

Big Five Status

🦁

Lion

common

🐆

Leopard

common

🐘

Elephant

common

🦬

Buffalo

common

🦏

Rhino

common

Notable Species

Lion

Common

Leopard

Common

Elephant

Common

Cape Buffalo

Common

White Rhino

Common

Giraffe

Common

Impala

Common

Hyena

Common

Common Occasional Rare

Best Time to Visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Peak Season Good Time Less Ideal

Climate Overview

Getting There

Ulusaba is accessed via scheduled charter flights from Johannesburg to the Ulusaba airstrip, or via Skukuza Airport with road transfer. Federal Air operates daily flights. By road approximately 500 km (5.5 hours) from Johannesburg.

Nearest Airport

Ulusaba Airstrip

Nearest City

Hazyview

Drive Time

5.5 hours