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Branson’s signature spa retreat
Health and Wellness at Ulusaba
Bush therapies at Ulusaba Private Game Reserve.
© Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Did you know?
The word Ulusaba means: 'place of little fear' in Shangaan.
Ulusaba Spa is a very special health and wellness oasis. Firstly, it forms part of the Ulusaba Private Game Reserve - a luxurious hideout that is the brainchild of entrepreneurial wunderkind, Richard Branson. Enjoy a massage on a deck overlooking the bush or work up a sweat as you look out for game in the fitness area. Ulusaba Spa consists of an ‘Aroma Boma' that is built on the banks of the Mabrak River in a tranquil space designed around privacy and pampering.
The spa at Ulusaba makes use of the Africology range of products - which utilise rose, jasmine lavender, rosemary and eucalyptus in the various treatments. There are a number of facial rituals on offer depending on your needs. The body treatments are said to draw on the knowledge of the African ancestors in terms of restoring the body and healing the mind. The Inkomfi treatment is a heady exfoliation treatment, the Africology Rooibos and Lavender Clay wrap helps to eliminate toxins and the Intuitive Herbal Oil Massage will ease away any blockages and help to combat angst you didn't even know you had.
Health and wellness at Ulusaba is serious business, and the Intonga Asastachi deep tissue signature treatment is an absolute must if you want to win the war against stress and tension stored in the body. The treatment combines hand massage and the use of wooden sticks to bless the body and eradicate negativity. This treatment was inspired by rituals used by traditional African healers to re-channel energy flow.
Additional treatments include the African potato manicure, the African Goddess Facial and hot stone therapy treatments. There are also numerous 'fixes' aimed at the menfolk, there's the Lion Tamer (skin replenishing treatment) and the Dominant Male Body Treatment (a wrap aimed at eliminating toxins). So, there really is something for everybody at this magnificent African spa.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
How to get here
Ulusaba is an hour and 20 minute flight (approximately) from OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. Alternatively, it is just 30 minutes from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA). Ulusaba has its own private airstrip and there are daily scheduled and charter flights available. Driving to the Sabi Sand Reserve from Johannesburg or Pretoria will take approximately 4 to 5 hours.
Around the area
Go on a helicopter flip to view the area, visit the famous Motlatse (Blyde River) Canyon, spend a few hours at the Cheetah Project in the vicinity or take the tame to go on a community tour.
Tours to do
Drive along the Panorama Route for some of the country's most spectacular views including God's Window look-out point.
Get around
All game drives will be organised by the lodge. However, if you would like to explore the surrounding areas - it's a good idea to have your own vehicle.
What will it cost
Prices vary depending on your needs, please check the website for costings.
Length of stay
Two nights, minimum.
What to pack
Sunscreen, a sun-hat, good walking shoes, a great book and your binoculars.
Where to stay
Ulusaba consists of Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge. Combined, these lodges have 21 rooms and suites.
What to eat
Ulusaba is known for its incredible cuisine and exquisite wine list. If you have any special requests at all – speak to the resident chef.
Best buys
Africology treatment products