Ulusaba Game Lodge

Ulusaba is Sir Richard Branson’s private game reserve in South Africa. The name Ulusaba means ‘place of little fear’, so named because the koppie, or hill, on which Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan tribal warriors with the perfect lookout point.

Ulusaba has 20 rooms and suites spread over two lodges: Rock Lodge, including the beautiful Cliff Lodge, and Safari Lodge. Ulusaba sits entirely within the Sabi Sand Reserve near Kruger National Park, surrounded by 13,500 hectares (about 33,000 acres) of open bush.

The hills of Ulusaba are spectacular as they rise above the surrounding terrain, offering a view unsurpassed anywhere else in the reserve. People visit the area for the abundant game and the variety of sightings possible – believe us, once you’ve experienced it you’ll be hooked!

Ulusaba is a family-friendly safari destination and most of our staff are Shangaan and hail from the communities that border the game reserve. Shangaans are celebrated for their dancing and singing and their rich musical heritage.

The history
Ulusaba means ‘place of little fear’. The local Shangaan tribe (from whose language the name comes) who occupied the area long ago used the hills as an outpost for the tribal chief and senior warriors.

The elevation gave them a tremendous advantage during battle and meant their enemies were unlikely to win, as surprise attacks were virtually impossible. The tribal members could therefore live in safety – hence, the place of little fear.

The first incarnation of Rock Lodge was completed in 1983, with an access road having been built in the same year. In 1994, Ulusaba was purchased by Sir Richard Branson.

Both Rock and Safari Lodges were entirely rebuilt, and have been transformed into world-class lodges. In 2008 the Treehouse Suite was built at Safari Lodge, giving guests the opportunity to get even closer to the Xikwenga Dam and watering hole, and in 2009 the Cliff Lodge Suites were completed at Rock Lodge.

Karl Langdon
Karl has been an integral part of the Ulusaba family since joining the award-winning Private Game Reserve in 2000 with his wife Llané. Prior to being appointed as Ulusaba’s General Manager in 2006, Karl held the position of Head Ranger.

Karl is responsible for the day to day management of Ulusaba, comprising of Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge, and over 100 staff. Karl and Llané were instrumental in establishing Ulusaba’s charity arm, Pride n’ Purpose.

What’s the weather like?
The landscape changes with every season, so each visit will give you a different perspective on the African Bush. In spring and summer (October to April) the temperature averages 34°C/93°F. The days are glorious, the vegetation lush and the nights pleasantly warm.

During autumn and winter (May to September) the days are moderately warm and sunny with an average temperature of 26°C/79°F, while the nights are cool and crisp.

What to pack?
When out on your game drives, the key is layering as even with the sun shining you may find that it is a little chilly. We also recommend you wear pale or neutral colours, as well as closed shoes.

In the summer months a windbreaker or light jacket is perfect for the evenings and early mornings. In winter take a jumper (sweater), fleece or warm jacket too. Trainers (sneakers) are also good on safaris or simply for walking around the camp, and it’s a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses for all seasons.

You can wear whatever you like around the lodge and dining rooms. Formal wear isn’t always practical, but of course it’s up to you. We recommend that you bring a couple of smart casual outfits for dinner, however jacket and tie are never required.

GETTING HERE

Ulusaba is approximately a 1 hour and 20 minute flight from the international airport in Johannesburg (JNB) flying by twin-engine aircraft, or 30 minutes from Nelspruit (MQP) and 20 minutes from Skukuza (SZK), via a charter air hop, which are the best airports to use if travelling from other destinations within South Africa.

We have our own private Ulusaba airstrip (ULX) and there are daily scheduled and charter flights available. Get a window seat – the view’s terrific!

You can also come by road too from Nelspruit, which will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Try and arrive by 1pm – just in time for lunch! Driving instructions can be found below.

Flying to Ulusaba?
At Ulusaba, we have a private airstrip and your Ranger and Tracker will be waiting for you with a cold glass of fizz – the perfect way to start your experience at our luxury lodge.

Federal Air flies directly to Ulusaba’s airstrip but there are also options to fly via Nelspruit or Skukuza Airports, with onward hops to Ulusaba’s airstrip.

The Lodges at Ulusaba
Ulusaba has 20 rooms and suites spread over two lodges: Rock Lodge, including the beautiful Cliff Lodge, and Safari Lodge. Rock Lodge is perched on the top of a koppie with panoramic views over the bush below.

There are 8 rooms at Rock Lodge, including our Master Suite, Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff rooms and the two bedroom Rock Suite, some of which have private plunge pools. Just a short walk from the main house is Cliff Lodge, a private two bedroom suite.

Nearly 500 metres away is Safari Lodge which has 10 rooms, including our Safari Rooms, Elephant Rooms, River Rooms and the private Treehouse Suite and Safari Suite.

Built along the banks of a dry riverbed, Safari Lodge guests cross swing bridges between the exquisite tree house style rooms. For the ultimate experience, guests can share their time between both lodges.

Ulusaba can be hired exclusively! Whether for a milestone birthday, anniversary, company retreat or just a time to get away with friends and family, Ulusaba is the perfect setting.

You can hire either one or both lodges and you’ll have access to all the privacy, and flexibility that you desire, as well as your own game vehicles, Rangers and Trackers.

Your stay will be uniquely tailored; perhaps cocktails at sunset followed by tribal dances around a bush campfire or a safari themed child’s birthday party… Whatever your preference, the Ulusaba team will ensure an unforgettable African safari experience.

Rock Lodge
You’re on top of the world at Rock Lodge! Survey miles of game-rich bush as you stand eight hundred feet above the wilderness. Here the view is king and there are endless opportunities to spot the roaming wildlife, all set against a backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains far in the distance.

The view inside is just as spectacular and the granite rock of the koppie is a key feature of the main house’s design and each room has a different design reflecting African tribal influences and style.

There are 8 rooms at Rock Lodge, including our Master Suite, Makwela Suites, Rock Cliff rooms and the two bedroom Rock Suite, some of which have private plunge pools.

MAKWELA SUITES

Two lavish suites built on two levels with en-suite bathrooms and featuring private balconies with infinity edge plunge pools. With separate living area and study/library, each has a luxurious couch perfect if you’re bringing the kids.

Outdoor pool
Pool with a view! Take in the views while having a dip or spend your time lazing on a sun lounger. Feeling chilly? Not to worry the pool is heated in the winter months. If you fancy enjoying the sunshine, we’ll bring your lunch to the pool.

Viewing decks
Enjoy some downtime, staring out over the bush from the top of Rock Lodge. Enjoy our telescopes and search the horizon for any activity.

Gym
Work out while keeping a lookout over the unique environment below. If you’re feeling fit, we have a running machine, bike, a multifunctional weight station as well as free weights for you to get rid of any stress and tension and get back to what you’re supposed to be doing…relaxing!

Lounge
The lounge is a great place to enjoy the beauty of the views below. It’s a perfect spot to cosy up with a book, enjoy a selection of movies on the big screen or soak up the afternoon with a pre-dinner cocktail. A lovely spot for a romantic dinner on the balcony that extends over the granite rocks.

Wine tasting
Beneath the main lounge at Rock Lodge is our wine lounge showcasing the wide variety of vintages from South Africa and beyond. We can also host private dinners for six in this space.

Aroma Boma
Relax and unwind after the excitement of game drive with a spa treatment at the Aroma Boma. A whole range of treatments are available, from facials and massages through to those essential grooming rituals.

Safari Lodge
Safari Lodge fits snugly into the bush located beneath a canopy of ancient trees on the edge of a dry riverbed. You’ll love the sense of adventure as you access some of the rooms by swing bridges. Your room will provide fascinating views of the animals as they stroll past on their way to the nearby watering hole.

The rooms at Safari Lodge include a Treehouse Suite overlooking the nearby Xikwenga Dam while other rooms have their own private plunge pools. Kids over the age of 12 are welcome to stay at Safari Lodge.

SAFARI SUITE

This private suite is next to the Main Lodge and is accessed through its own entrance into a walled garden with boma fire pit. There is a separate spacious lounge that opens onto a large viewing deck with plunge pool, outdoor shower and private dining table for up to 8 guests.

The suite boasts an en-suite bathroom with a separate WC and an additional guest bathroom next to the lounge. The Safari Suite can be interconnected with the Safari Room to sleep up to 4 guests.

TAKE A DIP
Relax or cool down in the Safari Lodge pool. If relaxing is more your thing, we’ll make you a cocktail so you can soak up the sunshine.

VIEWING DECKS
The treehouse viewing deck overlooking the Xikwenga Dam is a great place to get even further into the bush to see where the hippos and elephants come to bathe.

STARGAZING
Far away from all of the light pollution you get in most cities and towns, a visit to Ulusaba is a great chance to gaze at the night sky. Our Bush Observatory may be out of action at the moment, but we still encourage you to look up at night – you won’t be disappointed!

TENNIS
If you fancy a hit of tennis, there are two tennis courts. We have balls and racquets you can borrow. The courts are floodlit so you can also play at night, but we will organise a security escort just to make sure the animals don’t gate crash your game!

GYM
Hit the gym and work up an appetite. It’s equipped with a running machine, bike, multifunctional weight station and free weights.

SPA TREATMENTS
The Aroma Boma spa treatment room is built on the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed amongst the trees and away from the main lodge area, so the only likely disturbance is perhaps the odd elephant wandering past!

Ulusaba uses a range of products from ‘Africology’. ‘Africology’ prides itself on its African roots, taking inspiration from home and using local active ingredients including Rooibos, Aloe, Marula and African Potato.

WINE ROOM
Whether you’re staying at Rock Lodge or Safari Lodge, you should definitely make some time to taste a few reds and whites in the Safari Lodge wine room. We can also organise private dinners for up to six on the deck just outside the cellar which overlooks the nearby watering hole.

Dining
At Ulusaba dining is a very important part of your stay, and our chefs work hard from morning until night to provide the freshest and tastiest meals possible. All meals and drinks are included in your rates, and with at least six opportunities per day to eat, we promise you won’t go hungry!

Our internationally renowned chefs have developed numerous pan-African dishes influenced by many African cultures, flavours and spices. Our recipes are constantly refreshed and consist of seasonal, local ingredients.

Whether dining under the African sky, in the Boma, on a deck or in the dining room, our menus and meals promise to be exciting, social and inspirational. All our breads and pastries are home baked daily and we also cater for private meals and special occasions.

Typical day
We thought we would give you a little taster as to what you can expect on a typical day at Ulusaba. You can do as little or as much as you like, it’s completely up to you.

• 5AM Rise and shine! The early morning game drive sets off at 5.30am, but before you depart we have early morning teas, coffees and refreshments served on the main terrace.
• 5.30AM Off we go! We will depart on the morning game drive in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle, stopping for refreshments in the heart of the South African bush.
• 9AM Breakfast Retreat back to the lodge for breakfast with your Ranger, giving you an opportunity to chat about what you’ve seen that morning and to compare sightings with other guests. Breakfast is served buffet style so you can help yourself, but there is also an à la carte menu so you can order hot dishes from our kitchen.
• 1.30PM Lunch is served often on one of the sundecks and tables are set up restaurant style. All dishes are made to order and there is a range of options – our Rangers favour the Kudu burger!
• 4PM Afternoon Tea Before heading off on the evening game drive we will tempt you with our afternoon tea served on the patio.
• 4.30PM Game on! It’s time to depart for the evening game drive. Search for those elusive nocturnal animals after sundowner drinks served in the bush.
• 8PM Dinner is served. Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the bar while our chefs explain the evening’s menu choices. We often serve dinner in the heart of the bush under the African skies around a blazing log fire. You can expect tribal dancers and singers for a truly authentic African experience. Rest assured that social distancing will be in effect at this time.

If all that wasn’t enough, there are snacks and treats in your room along with a fully-stocked complimentary minibar.

In the bush
Just because you’re away from the lodges doesn’t mean the culinary experience can’t travel with you.

Freshly baked goodies await before you set off on the morning game drive, and we might surprise you with a few more treats while you’re in the middle of the bush, from pancake stops to bush dinners under the stars lit by torches and a flaming log fire.

During the evening game drives your Ranger and Tracker will pick a spot for some refreshing sundowners to get you in the mood for dinner.

Wines
Wine lovers won’t go thirsty with our well-stocked wine cellar at Safari Lodge and lounge at Rock Lodge and our tailored wine tastings are a must. The Ulusaba wine experience starts with us establishing your own personal tastes.

If you prefer hearty reds we won’t delay your enjoyment by showcasing our best rosés, and likewise if you can’t wait to sip a refreshing glass of chilled white we won’t hold you back.

South Africa has an excellent reputation for wine worldwide and naturally we’re keen to showcase some of the best local vintages on offer. The wines speak for themselves, and we want you to feel at home, so we don’t have a lengthy wine list full of ‘winespeak’.

About our selection: You’ll find wines from tiny family owned cellars that put so much passion into their craft because they want people to love their wine as much as they do.

The traditional bigger names are also present along with some newer, equally impressive small producers, with wines from organic and biodynamic producers.

There’s something to suit everybody: a dry rosé for lunchtime, a beefy Cabernet Sauvignon with your game dish as well as South Africa’s very own Pinotage and local specialty Chenin Blanc. You’ll also find exquisitely oaked and unoaked Chardonnays and delicate Pinot Noirs for lighter dishes.

Weddings at Ulusaba
We love weddings at Ulusaba, and what could be more spectacular or evocative than a ceremony in the African Bush! Getting married on safari at Ulusaba is the kind of wedding your guests will be talking about for years to come.

THE CEREMONY
Say ‘I do’ in the heart of the South African bush, on the edge of the dam where the hippos come to play or from the deck at Rock Lodge – the possibilities are endless and it’s totally up to you. You may decide to wait until you arrive at Ulusaba to choose your preferred location, but here are just some of our favourites:

The Lower Deck at Rock Lodge: Our most popular location with a view to die for! You can time it just right so you can exchange vows with the setting sun as your backdrop

The Mabrak Dry Riverbed at Safari Lodge: A picture postcard setting surrounded by African jackalberry trees

The Beach: A beach? In the middle of the African bush? Well yes… At the far side of Xikwenga Dam near Safari Lodge is an area we call ‘the beach’. We love this spot because it’s very exclusive – perfect for smaller weddings

Xikwenga Dam: Another great spot at the dam is on the side banks; no one else can see you except maybe the hippos

The Grassland Spot: A clearing tucked away in the bush close to Marula, our bush dinner site, and ideal for larger numbers

Rock Lodge Lounge: An all-round winner! Large windows make for stunning views without losing the cosy atmosphere of this intimate space

Safari Lodge Wine Cellar Deck: Safari Lodge has its own wine cellar stocked with a full selection of outstanding South Africa

THE RECEPTION
There are almost as many choices of location for your reception as there are for your ceremony. The location will also be dependent on the size of your group.

For smaller, more intimate groups
Dine under the stars at our Stargazing Observatory in the heart of the bush – suitable for a maximum of six.
Join us on the Treehouse Suite deck with great views over Xikwenga Dam where the hippos come to play.

For any sized group
Dinner in the bush – a more informal setting lit by flame torches with the authentic sounds of wild Africa to set the mood. (can also be more formal)
Dinners in Rock Lodge or Safari Lodge main lounges – an opportunity for those who like to get dressed up, but if you plan to be a bit more relaxed that’s fine too!

THE FORMALITIES
It is easy to get married in South Africa as a non-resident. There are, however a few things that you need to know to further assist you with your planning. We will be able to help you with every stage of this process.

Family Fun at Ulusaba
We love children at Ulusaba and our team are experts at keeping your little ‘cubs’ entertained while you enjoy some rest and relaxation during your family vacation in the Sabi Sand.

On arrival, all Cubs will receive a surprise pack which contains lots of goodies to help keep them entertained and to educate them about the African Bush.

Kids aged six years and older staying at Safari Lodge will be able invited to join our Cub’s Club and since we know every Cub is different and likes different activities, we do not operate a set programme but instead we offer a fun and educational range of activities tailored to each of our younger guests or groups.

Children of all ages can stay at Rock Lodge – including Cliff Lodge – which is ideal for families while Safari Lodge welcomes children over the age of six.
Our Cubs aged six and older can also join the daily Game drives.

Missing travel and currently home schooling?
Check out Wander the World, our new virtual series for kids, taking the young and the young at heart around the world learning about different cultures and traditions in an engaging and interactive way. Be sure to join the Ulusaba team for a special Sofa Safari around the game reserve.

Family Accommodation
Kids can be accommodated in some rooms on fold-out or rollaway beds. In some cases charges and restrictions may apply.

At Rock Lodge the best rooms for children are Cliff Lodge 1, which has a separate room just off the lounge with two twin beds, and Rock Suite, whose two-bedroom configuration is ideal for families. Rollaway beds can also be accommodated in our two Makwela Suites as well as in Cliff Lodge 2.

Activities
With our teams able to tailor a range of activities for our younger guests, here are just some examples of what your ‘cubs’ may get up to during their stay at Ulusaba:

• A welcome treasure hunt to help Cubs familiarise themselves with their surroundings
• A mini Ranger’s course, finding out about the African bush, how to track and identify animal footprints and much more
• Safari walks around the Lodge to spot birds, insects, lizards and many other creatures
• Mini masterchef pizza and cookie making classes
• Arts and Crafts with coloured sand art and an afternoon of rock painting
• Traditional South African kids’ games
• Supervised pool activities

BACHELOR AND BACHELORETTE PARTIES
Ulusaba is not just a great place for a wedding – it’s also an amazing setting for your bachelor or bachelorette party – otherwise known as stag and hen parties. Our only piece of advice? Don’t plan these parties the night before the wedding! In addition to parties in the evening, we’ve also organised some daytime activities.

FOR THE BOYS
A trip to the Xikwenga Dam for a spot of fishing – the rule is: if you catch it you have to eat it. We’ll have a braai ready just for this purpose. Afterwards our Rangers will organise ‘bush Olympics’ with prizes for the star performers…

FOR THE GIRLS

An indulgent spa morning, get all the girls get together around the Safari Lodge pool after breakfast for some serious pampering.

Our two Aroma Boma spa therapists will be on hand for heavenly manicures and pedicures while you enjoy a spot of swimming, sunbathing and the odd sip (or two!) of champagne (additional charges will apply for this activity which is only available when both lodges are hired exclusively)

Romance
For those of you who’ve tied the knot elsewhere or just looking to win some extra brownie points we offer a romantic escape that will never be forgotten. Who says romance is dead? At Ulusaba we see it every day, and not just from our human guests.

The elephants who roam the Sabi Sand Reserve are often spotted cuddling each other, and when something the size of an elephant gets amorous, you’re advised to keep your distance!

A stay at Ulusaba can you give you the space you and your partner need to ignite (or re-ignite!) the magic, and we’ve got some great suggestions and ideas for an intimate and private escape in the African bush.

Whether you’re on honeymoon or just fancy a romantic break, there are only 21 rooms and suites at Ulusaba split over two lodges, so finding some time alone won’t be a problem.

LOVERS’ PICNIC
Your Ranger will whisk you away to a secluded location for a romantic picnic lunch – often at Constitution Rock. Trust us, the views are fabulous, and the champagne somehow tastes even better!

Observatory Private Dinner
We prepare a private meal for two under the stars at our Bush Observatory. Your Ranger will be able to tell you all about the stars visible in the southern hemisphere, and even tell you some more about your own star sign – is your love for your partner written in the stars?!

ROMANTIC BATH TIME EXPERIENCE

We prepare your room with a special romantic turndown service and supply you with a selection of bath oils for a romantic evening in – there’s room in the bath for two and of course the champagne will be on ice…

Game Drives
Anyone who’s been on safari before knows that no two game drives are ever the same! There are two daily game drives at Ulusaba, one leaving early in the morning and one leaving late afternoon, each lasting around three hours.

Times will vary depending on the season, but you should always keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5! You’ll traverse over 13,500 hectares of private reserve with your dedicated Ranger and Tracker who will tailor your game drive just for you!

Here are some hints and tips for making the most of your time in the bush on game drive. Your game drive will leave you with some vivid memories, so make sure you don’t forget the following:

• A good camera, although take care when using a flash – some of the animals aren’t particularly keen. Just ask your Ranger and Tracker for guidance – they’re on good terms with all our neighbours.
• Binoculars. We have a pair on each game vehicle to share, but if you’ve got your own you should certainly bring them.
• Always bring sunglasses, and in the winter months a sweater or fleece, especially in the evenings. We provide blankets and hotwater bottles in winter if it’s cold, and there are also ponchos if it is raining.
• It’s best to wear pale and neutral colours when on game drives so not to attract the animals’ attention any more than strictly necessary!
• Please do not bring your mobile phone with you on game drives – we have radios in the cars to contact Ulusaba or the Sabi Sand authorities in case of an emergency

Morning vs. Afternoon
Morning drives: You might not be a morning person but it’s certainly worth getting out of bed for this. Your morning starts with freshly baked goodies and tea and coffee to help get started.

Your Ranger and Tracker will meet you and your morning adventure begins. As sun light dawns over the Sabi Sand you’ll be treated to the beauty of the majestic African bush.

This is generally the best time to spot the wildlife, as the temperature is cool and the animals are still very active, including the big cats, which will be returning from a night of hunting. We don’t want to give too much away, so just remember to set your alarm.

Afternoon drives: There’s something special about the bush as the late afternoon light starts to fade. The animals start to stir from their day time slumber and predatory animals will start stalking their prey. It’s common to stop for sundowners as the sun sets – it’s a magical experience!

The Big 5 and The Little 5
The Big Five are lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants and rhinos – is an old term originally referring to the five most dangerous animals to hunt, and not to the biggest or strongest animals as commonly thought. Hunting is of course not permitted at Ulusaba, or in the protected Reserves and National Parks of South Africa!

The Little Five are more difficult to spot but your Ranger and Tracker can help. They’ll be looking out for rhino beetles, elephant shrews, leopard tortoises, buffalo weavers and ant lions.

Safari Walks
Depending on the weather there is usually a safari walk directly after breakfast if you fancy it. Your Ranger and Tracker will guide you and will point out various birds and animals – this is a great opportunity to see smaller creatures that are often missed when you’re on the game vehicles. We’ll also teach you some fascinating facts about the medicinal use of trees and plants along the way.

Conservation
Conserving and protecting the natural environment is high on our agenda! We have the ultimate respect for the bush and our team of Rangers and Trackers are committed to operating with minimal impact.

We’re committed to protecting the environment around us and we focus on a number of initiatives to protect our beautiful South African bush for future generations. Initiatives include:

• Waste and water disposal programmes
• Bush clearing, alien plant control and ecological burning
• Road maintenance
• Avoiding unnecessary off-road driving to protect endangered plant species
• Monitoring the health of wildlife
• Assisting in identification of the endangered white rhino
• Preventing erosion
• Assisting with inoculation against harmful diseases
• Helping protect animals from poachers

A Guest Conservation Contribution of R138 per person, per night will be added to the rates for your stay at Ulusaba (this also applies to all lodges in the reserve and includes 15% VAT).

This charge goes directly to the Sabi Sand Conservation Trust and will assist in the funding of our anti-poaching and conservation efforts to secure the long term survival of endangered and compromised animal species.

Sustainability
Sustainability is high on our agenda at Ulusaba. We’re committed to working with suppliers who believe in fair trade, and source partners locally where possible. In the Aroma Boma spa our therapists use the Africology brand, which is made from natural products such as Marula Oil, African Potato, and Rooibos.

And it’s not just limited to the spa. Our highly skilled chefs in the kitchen source their fish from sustainable varieties as per the World Wildlife Foundation standards. We pride ourselves on recycling, and here’s a taste of our green-friendly initiatives:

• Roughly 50% of waste generated at Ulusaba is recycled
• We provide drinking water in reusable bottles in guest rooms
• We do not provide disposable toiletry items in guest bathrooms. All bottles are refilled with Africology products, a locally based supplier with a commitment to sustainability.
• Elephant dung is turned into paper used for menus and guest welcome letters

Photographic Equipment Rental
To really capture those once in a lifetime moments whilst out on a game drive, make sure to have the best photographic equipment to hand.

We have partnered with Africa Photographic Rentals in order to take the hassle out of hiring any camera equipment. Visit their website to place your order and your equipment will be ready for you on arrival at Ulusaba.

MEET OUR RANGERS AND TRACKERS

Nothing gets past our experienced Rangers and Trackers on the twice daily game drives (well, mostly!). Traversing over 13,500 hectares in open Land Rovers, they will share their vast knowledge of the surrounding wildlife as they track the Big 5 and much more.

Things to do at Ulusaba
From safari walks, relaxing spa treatment and cocktails by the pool, there is no shortage of things to do during the day. And while these activities may currently look a little different because of additional safety measures rest assured we won’t be compromising on our incredible Ulusaba experiences.

The Safari Lodge Spa
Immerse yourself in the Safari Lodge Spa. Our Aroma Boma spa treatment room at Safari Lodge is built on the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed amongst the trees and away from the main lodge area, so the only likely disturbance is perhaps the odd elephant wandering past.

We have implemented a robust set of safety measures at the spa for your peace of mind so all that’s left for you to do is choose your treatment and relax.

Excursions
If you want to spend some time soaking up the environment and wildlife, scoot away for the day for one of our scenic tours.

Canyons, Cultures and Contrasts – Panorama Discoverer
A day out on the famed ‘Panorama Route’ along the Drakensberg Escarpment: this tour features visits to the Victorian Town of Pilgrims Rest, the infamous Robber’s Grave, Blyde River Canyon, The Three Rondavels, God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Lisbon Waterfalls.

You’ll get up close and personal with some of the region’s natural beauty, and we’ll tell you about the history of the area’s hardy pioneers.

Lunch is enjoyed at Harries Original Pancake Restaurant in Graskop, where sweet, freshly prepared, pancakes and fresh salads and other country fare are served. This is a full day excursion.

Cascades and Canyons Spectacular
Take an exhilarating helicopter flight that swoops over deep and mysterious gorges and through lush valleys bursting with vegetation and colour. Linger above cascading waterfalls for some brilliant photo opportunities.

The flight will continue to God’s Window, which offers awesome panoramic views of the bushveld below. Then it’s on to the fascinating and dramatic rock formations of the 1 000-metre-deep, 30-kilometrelong Blyde River Canyon, (the third deepest and greenest Canyon in the World).

You will have a bird’s eye view of the curious Three Rondavels! We will then land at a site with magnificent views of the Mpumalanga Lowveld, while you tuck into a delicious picnic.

Volunteering
While our local community visits play an incredibly important part of the role we play at Ulusaba, keeping the community members, our guests and our team safe is our number one priority.

With this in mind, we are currently not offering any local community visits but we hope to resume these as soon as it is safe to do so and will do our very best to keep you updated on this.

Travel is always richer when you get the opportunity to find out about the daily lives of people who live in the area you’re visiting. If you’re in the mood for an authentic Shangaan experience, we organise community tours to the local villages.

The Community Tours and Excursions are organised by Pride ‘n Purpose, Ulusaba’s charitable arm. The basic philosophy behind its work is the principle of empowering people to help themselves while promoting sustainable development.

All of Pride’n Purposes’s expenses are funded by Ulusaba and Virgin Unite, the group’s entrepreneurial foundation, so 100% of donations can be put into the much needed projects to improve living conditions for the local population. All money raised through those tours goes to the local communities.

Pride ‘n Purpose
You can now incorporate a volunteering experience into your stay. Our team will create bespoke itineraries to participate in hands-on projects within the local communities, based around your own skills and interests.

Not only will this create an opportunity to experience the local culture it’ll provide a way in which you can perhaps give a little something back to others.

Day in the Life
The Day in a Life village tour looks into some of the charitable projects and schemes Ulusaba is actively involved with. We tailor this tour’s itinerary according to your interests.

It’s Child’s Play
‘The It’s Child’s Play’ tour has more hands on activities. You will have the opportunity to share your skills and teach children anything from new songs to the school numbers and alphabet.

Rooms: 20

Price: from 1.383 EUR per night

Source: www.virginlimitededition.com