Customize one of our recommended trips or design your own from scratch
The hill on which Ulusaba Private Game Reserve's lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan warriors with the perfect lookout point. 'The place of little fear' was therefore the perfect name for this famed stretch of bushveld. Today, the Safari Lodge offers a different kind of adventure. Located on the edge of a dry river and under a canopy of ancient trees, you'll take rope swing bridges between rooms and watch thirsty animals skirt by your deck on their way to the nearby waterhole. Alternatively, retreat to the treehouse to get lost in birdsong.
From $860 person/night
Sabi Sands, South & West Sabi Sands, Kruger, South Africa
The location of Ulusaba's suites was chosen to ensure epic wildlife sightings. Some are on an elephant migratory route, others overlook the oft-visited waterhole, and the treehouse suite enjoys the best views of the hippo-filled dam.
While the game drives are spectacular, don't skip Ulusaba's unique activities like wine tasting with Mpo (a guest favourite) or stargazing at the bush observatory.
Due to its unfenced location, no children under 12 are allowed, but for older kids, the guides are entertaining and full of fun facts.
The open-sided dining area is the location for every evening's specially prepared feast, of which the in-house chef will tell you after you enjoyed drinks on the balcony or tastings in the Wine Room overlooking the waterhole. The Bush Observatory has a big telescope for delving into the night sky after dessert. The Aroma Boma spa sits on the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed amongst the trees and away from the main lodge area. The pool is there to cool off after an action-packed game drive.
The lodge offers 10 luxury suites. The three Elephant Rooms are located on the migratory route of the local elephants, promising some excellent sightings. The four River Rooms are more spacious and secluded, tucked between jackalberry trees, providing an utterly romantic experiences. The Treehouse Suite is accessed by raised walkways, a 10-minute walk from the main lodge and offers the ultimate scenic seclusion. The Safari Room is close to the main lodge and boasts great views over the riverbed and waterhole - it can be connected to the lovely Safari Suite with its own private fire pit!
Twice daily game drives bring you right up close to the animals' favourite gathering places to watch them in their natural habitat before stopping in the bush for coffee or drinks. Guided bush walks will give you a special appreciation for the smaller, often overlooked, flora and fauna. A moon-lit dinner is the ideal way to meet the nighttime sounds of the bush. Spa treatments offer the ultimate relaxation.
Show all wildlife