When Richard Branson puts his name on something, everyone knows that it will be exceptional. That is exactly what can be said of his two private luxury game lodges, Ulusaba Rock Lodge and Ulusaba Safari Lodge. Ulusaba is located within the Sabi Sands Game Reserve which is a private concession bordering the western side of the Kruger National Park. These various private concessions have lowered the borders between them and the Kruger National Park making up what is known as the Greater Kruger Area. As a result, the game density in this region is great.

Ulusaba means “place of little fear”. That is because the ‘koppie’ (cliff) that Rock Lodge is built on gave the ancient local Shangaan warriors a much-needed lookout point. This cliff is the highest point in an otherwise flat terrain so the views are magnificent. Guests can choose between views for miles at Rock Lodge or close encounters with wildlife at Safari Lodge. Safari Lodge is located a few minutes away at the base of the cliff along a lush but dry riverbed. Both properties have their own unique features and staying at both is definitely recommended.

Rock Lodge has some of the best views in the whole region, likely in the whole Kruger National park. The uniquely built lodge is perched on the summit of the cliff resulting in panoramic views. Each and every suite, room and the common room has binoculars available for guests to use. There are numerous sightings to be had all day long such as rhino sleeping nearby or hyenas in the watering hole below the viewing deck.

Rock Lodge has a number of different luxury suites that all offer complete privacy for guests to enjoy the surroundings. There are eight room types made up by the Master Suite, the Makwela Suites (named after a female leopard that had her cubs under the decks), the Rock Cliff Rooms, and the two-bedroom Rock Suite (perfect for families). Each room has a private balcony for game viewing and some even have infinity edge plunge pools.

Rock Lodge has a myriad of luxury facilities available to their guests. The outdoor pool may have the highest elevation and offers gorgeous views for guests who want to swim or sip cocktails while lounging in the sun. Best of all, the pool is heated during the winter months so can be enjoyed year round. There a numerous indoor and outdoor viewing decks spread all across the lodge and guests can even make use of the telescopes. For guests who want to get some exercise, there is a full gym with a view, of course.

The lounge offers huge windows for game viewing as well as plush couching for relaxing with a good book. This is where guests gather before and after game drives and to have communal dinners. Special romantic dinners and wine tastings can be arranged for couples in the private Wine Lounge as well. Finally, the Aroma Boma is where wellness magic happens. The spa at Rock Lodge is the perfect place for guests to relax and unwind as they get pampered by the skilled therapists in a stunning setting.

Safari Lodge is just as spectacular but in a different way. Built along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed, this luxury lodge truly has a safari feel to it. Some of the rooms are even built in a ‘treehouse’ style, which leaves guests feeling immersed in the African bush. Situated in this area, guests can expect to see plenty of wildlife strolling by at all times of the day as they head to the nearby watering hole.

The entire lodge is protected beneath a lush canopy of ancient trees that provide shade as well as beautiful scenery. There is a sense of adventure while exploring Safari Lodge and some rooms can only be accessed via swing bridges. Each and every room or suite has lovely views out over the riverbed or the nearby dam.

There are ten room types consisting of the Treehouse Suite (overlooking Xikwenga Dam), Safari Room, the Elephant Rooms, the River Rooms and a Safari Suite (great for families). All rooms have balconies and some even have their own private plunge pools.

Safari Lodge has just as many wonderful facilities to ensure a luxurious stay. The large outdoor pool is surrounded by nature and heated in winter as well. There is a treehouse viewing deck that can be accessed by swing bridges for a great view over the dam.

Hippos and elephants frequently bathe here, so it is an excellent game viewing spot. The fully-equipped gym has large windows for so guests can marvel at the wildlife while working out. This lodge also has an Aroma Boma for various therapies in the special treatment room in the heart of the African bush. Schedule an opulent evening of wine tastings while in the Wine Cellar, which can also be booked for private dinner parties.

What truly makes both Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge special are all the added extras. The staff is all friendly and efficient. Guests are assigned a ranger and tracker team along with other guests who are there to guide them throughout their stay. These rangers and trackers are extremely knowledgeable, always eager to answer questions and do their very best to ensure that guests see as much wildlife as possible.

It is very to spot the Big 5, little 5 and everything in-between within the first few days. Included in the accommodation package are all meals, all drinks and two game drives per day (morning and afternoon with stops in the wild for coffee and sundowners).

Breakfast and dinner are usually communal affairs with your guides and other guests. Ulusaba has truly added some unique experiences to make it extra special for their guests. Such as a tennis court in the bush and excursions to local communities and schools as part of their Pride and Purpose outreach program. Best of all is the stargazing experience in their Bush Observatory.