Stay

UlusabaSabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

If you were worth a reported US$4.8 billion, with a string of luxurious private digs scattered across almost every exotic pocket of the globe, where would you park your well-heeled hide for a South African sojourn? You wouldn’t bed down on the savannah camping with the riffraff, that’s for sure. No sir, if you were high-flying charisma-connoisseur Richard Branson you’d find the highest point on the highest hill to lord it over your own private kingdom. Welcome to Ulusaba Safari Lodge, Sir Richard’s private game reserve where the travel-preneur takes a break from counting his coin in absolute unmitigated luxury. A stay here is enviable by anyone’s standards but the Rock Lodge, with its sweeping views and opulent surrounds, is the pinnacle of decadence.

Each unique suite melds traditional African art with the finest in modern luxury, ranging from private plunge pools to hot tubs and feasts from a personal chef. The staff aches to satisfy, so relish a massage on the outdoor deck and smooth out the bumps from the road. Or, if your idea of bliss involves downward dogs, just ask for a yoga instructor and they’ll fly one in. Stop by the well-stocked cellar flowing with South African wine and finish your evening at the bush observatory under a canopy of stars.

get there

Ulusaba is approximately one hour and 20 minutes by aeroplane from the international airport in Johannesburg. The hotel offers daily scheduled and charter flights, or a half-hour flight from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA). Otherwise it’s a two-hour drive from KMIA.

  • Private pools for some suites
  • Ensuite bathrooms
  • Gym
  • Spa
  • Tennis courts

Rooms start at about US$475 per night, but the most luxurious suites will set you back a whole lot more.

Ready to go?

Tags: luxury, safari, south africa, wellness, yoga

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