Ulusaba Private Game Reserve, Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa

Ulusaba Private Game Reserve is Sir Richard Branson’s personal safari retreat in the heart of the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. He is, however, magnanimous enough to share his two lodges with paying guests. You can stay in luxury safari accommodation and great comfort at Rock Lodge, on the summit of a koppie (rocky hill), or at Safari Lodge, along the banks of the dry Mabrak riverbed.

The rocky hills in this game-rich territory have a long history of having been used as strategic defences against attack, which is why the reserve kept the local name Ulusaba, meaning ‘Place of little fear’. Even though these hills are not nearly as tall as the Drakensberg Mountain range far in the distance, their vantage points give spectacular panoramic views over miles of African bush and roaming wildlife.

The high, vaulted thatched roofs and mahogany-stained wooden floors leading onto wide decks invite a leisurely pace. But Ulusaba offers far too many activities to remain long in the deep lounge chairs or the copper bathtub.

Game drives and bush walks in the Sabi Sand reserve take precedence over most other activities, but anybody who fancies a spot of tennis by floodlight is in luck. Dedicated fitness enthusiasts continue their daily routine in the gym-with-a-view or the rim-flow pool.

Children are kept entertained too, with the Rock Lodge Cub’s Club taking charge of them. A backpack of goodies helps keep them busy, and kids love the educational safaris with a ranger who shows them how to track animals and survive in the bush.