Game drives
Make memories that last a lifetime
Anyone who’s been on safari before knows that no two game drives are ever the same.
There are twice-daily game drives at Ulusaba, one leaving early in the morning and one leaving late afternoon, each lasting around three hours.
You’ll traverse over 13,500 hectares of private reserve with your dedicated ranger and tracker who will tailor your game drive just for you.
Sightings will vary depending on the season, but you should always keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5!
Morning and afternoon drives
Morning is generally the best time to spot wildlife, as the temperature is cool and the animals are still active, including the big cats, who’ll be returning from a night of hunting.
There’s also something special about the bush as the late afternoon light starts to fade. The animals stir from their daytime slumber and predators start stalking their prey. It's common to stop for sundowners as the sun sets - it's a magical experience!
The big 5 (and little 5)
The big five are lions, buffalos, leopards, elephants and rhinos. This is an old term originally referring to the five most dangerous animals to hunt, and not to the biggest or strongest animals. Hunting is of course not permitted at Ulusaba, or in the protected Reserves and National Parks of South Africa.
The Little Five are more difficult to spot but your ranger and tracker can help. They'll be looking out for rhino beetles, elephant shrews, leopard tortoises, buffalo weavers and ant lions.
Safari walks
Depending on the weather, there’s usually a safari walk directly after breakfast. Your ranger and tracker will guide you, pointing out various birds and animals.
This is a great opportunity to see smaller creatures that are often missed when you’re on the game vehicles. We’ll also teach you some fascinating facts about the medicinal use of trees and plants along the way.
Photographic equipment rental
To capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments while out on a game drive, make sure to have the best photographic equipment to hand.
We have partnered with Africa Photographic Rentals to take the hassle out of hiring any camera equipment. Visit their website to place your order, and your equipment will be ready for you on arrival at Ulusaba. (Please be aware you will be leaving our website to make this booking.)
A typical day
We thought we would give you a little taster as to what you can expect on a typical day at Ulusaba. You can do as little or as much as you like, it’s completely up to you...
5AM - Rise and shine!
The early morning game drive sets off at 5.30am, but before you depart we have teas, coffees and refreshments served on the main terrace.
5.30AM - Off we go!
Depart in an open 4 x 4 safari vehicle, stopping for refreshments in the heart of the South African bush.
9AM - Breakfast
Retreat back to the lodge for breakfast with your Ranger, giving you an opportunity to chat about what you’ve seen that morning and to compare sightings with other guests. Breakfast is served buffet style so you can help yourself, but there is also an à la carte menu so you can order hot dishes.
1.30PM - Lunch...
...is served often on one of the sundecks and tables are set up restaurant style. All dishes are made to order and there is a range of options – our Rangers favour the Kudu burger!
4PM - Afternoon Tea
Before heading off on the evening game drive we will tempt you with our afternoon tea, served on the patio.
4.30PM - Game on!
It’s time to depart for the evening game drive. Search for those elusive nocturnal animals after sundowner drinks in the bush.
8PM - Dinner is served
Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the bar while our chefs explain the evening’s menu choices. Everyone makes their selection and then the meal is served communally at the large tables at each lodge. We often serve dinner in the heart of the bush under the African skies around a blazing log fire. You can expect tribal dancers and singers for a truly authentic African experience.