Ulusaba Private Game Reserve

From the moment you arrive you’ll be wowed by the experience at Sir Richard Branson’s Private Game Reserve, located deep in the bush just 70 minutes’ private flight from Johannesburg. Choose from a handful of luxury lodges, all with stunning views out onto the reserve. Safari walks, moonlit dinners, tours in the local villages and relaxing in the spa are all part and parcel of your stay.

 

Set in Sabi Sands Reserve, the game-spotting here is outstanding, with chances to see the Big Five safari animals amongst a host of other South African species. Indeed the lodges themselves are great places to view wildlife, with viewing decks placed thoughtfully near popular watering holes. Committed to conservation, Ulusaba arranges two game drives per day, along with safari walks. 

 

Accommodation here is ultra-luxe - the perfect place to retire to after a long day on safari! Rock Lodge (recommended for those travelling with under-12s), perched on a hill with uninterrupted views over the bush, is home to eight spacious rooms and the lovely Cliff Lodge, a private two-room suite; Safari Lodge’s 11 treehouse-style rooms are reached by rope-swing bridges set along a dry riverbed. 

 

If you’re travelling as a family, this is a fantastic choice. Children staying at Ulusaba’s luxurious ‘Rock Lodge’ are known as ‘cubs’ and are welcomed with a tailored treasure hunt to help familiarise them with their surrounds, plus a backpack filled with fun and educational safari goodies. With just eight rooms at Rock Lodge, the lodge’s intimate nature activities are tailored to suit your child’s age and interests. They could play traditional South African kids games or take the ‘mini Ranger’s course’ to learn all about the African safari experience. As well as getting out on game drives (suitable for children six years old and over) to see the abundant wildlife, we also recommend visiting local communities so your family can learn about local culture.