Virgin Limited Edition has unveiled plans for a complete redesign of its Ulusaba game reserve in South Africa’s Sabi Sand. The project will transform both lodges into a 20-bedroom retreat with enhanced suites and wellness facilities. The lodges closed in January 2026 and are set to reopen in April 2027.
Virgin Limited Edition, part of the Virgin Hotels Collection, is re-imagining Ulusaba, one of its original properties launched 25 years ago. Located in South Africa’s Sabi Sand, the reserve features Rock Lodge and Safari Lodge, both of which closed at the end of January 2026 for reconstruction. Bookings are now open for the revamped Ulusaba, scheduled to reopen on April 1, 2027.
The redesign will create a 20-bedroom retreat with spacious all-suite accommodations, each including private plunge pools. Interior design is by Luxury Frontiers, a Johannesburg- and Memphis-based firm that won the Architectural Digest 2025 Great Design Hotel award. The concept draws inspiration from the landscape, incorporating sustainable and immersive elements with naturalistic decor. Tsonga-inspired detailing reflects Ulusaba’s connection to local communities through its not-for-profit arm, Pride n’ Purpose.
Wellness facilities, developed in partnership with South African spa brand Africology, will include multiple treatment rooms, cold plunge pools, Himalayan salt saunas, hydrotherapy pools, rasul mud experiences, a reflexology walkway, and a yoga deck with wilderness views. A new pickleball court will join the existing tennis courts.
Rock Lodge, perched atop a granite koppie, will offer nine accommodations: five Rock Suites, two interconnecting Makwela Suites, and two Cliff Lodge suites. It welcomes children under 12 with a Cubs Club program featuring bush skills, animal tracking, and kid-specific spa treatments. Safari Lodge, along a dry riverbed, will have 11 options, including eight Elephant Suites and a new elevated enclave called The Hide with three suites and shared living areas for groups. It caters to guests aged 12 and older.
The exterior redesign of Rock Lodge is led by local architects Orbic, enhancing privacy and views. Sustainability is key, with lodges operating on up to 60% renewable energy using existing solar panels. Pride n’ Purpose staff will volunteer in communities during the closure.
Joe Margison, CEO of Virgin Hotels Collection, said: “Ulusaba is incredibly special to Virgin Limited Edition and its many loyal guests. This re-design is about carefully evolving what has made Ulusaba so loved over the past 25 years, while also future proofing the lodges for generations of guests to come. From private plunge pools in every suite, to thoughtful architectural touches that respond to the environment and reflect the local community, this is a truly exciting moment for Ulusaba.”
Rates start from $2,200 or £1,640 per person per night, including all meals, drinks, and twice-daily game drives.
