Arriving at Rock Lodge — A View That Stops You in Your Tracks
Driving up to Ulusaba Rock Lodge is an experience all on its own. The road winds steeply up the hill, climbing higher and higher until suddenly the lodge appears — perched on the rocks like it belongs to the sky.
From up there you can see the vast plains stretching endlessly below. Even on this cloudy day, the landscape was breathtaking. The colours of the changing season painted everything in warm tones — dusty greens, soft browns, and golden leaves rustling in the bush.
Along the drive you pass animals, birds, and little moments of life unfolding everywhere. It reminds you quickly that this is not just a beautiful place… it is a living one.
When I arrived at the lodge, the staff welcomed me with the kind of warmth that Ulusaba is so well known for. There is something incredibly special about the people here — so kind, so attentive, and genuinely joyful in what they do.
A little bittersweet note about this day: shortly after Jade and Philip’s elopement, the Rock Lodge would close for a full year for refurbishment. It will be so exciting to see what they create when it reopens — a fresh chapter for an already magical place.
Quiet Moments Before the Ceremony
Up in their suite, Jade and Philip were getting ready together in the most relaxed and beautiful way.
They shared lunch first — soaking in the views from their suite while the clouds drifted slowly across the sky. The lodge is something quite special: carved patterns in the walls, beautiful wood textures, rich fabrics and furniture that feel both luxurious and deeply connected to the surrounding bush.
Jade looked absolutely stunning in her dress, with the most beautiful cape flowing behind her — perfectly suited for the wild elegance of the African bush.
When she stepped out onto the deck to meet Philip for the first time, the moment unfolded so gently. The plains stretched endlessly below them, the air soft and quiet.
And when they saw each other… it was just magic.
A Ceremony in the Wild
From the lodge we climbed into the game vehicle and headed down into the bush.
Our destination was a dry riverbed where Ant, from Coral Events, had created the most beautiful ceremony space. Pampas grass and white vases perfectly blending with the soft colours of the riverbed and surrounding bush.
Nearby was a small dam where hippos were honking softly in the background, while crocodiles lay along the banks warming themselves in the afternoon light. It felt surreal.
As we approached, the lodge staff began singing. The women of Ulusaba have the most incredible harmonies, and their voices carried across the open bush in the most welcoming way. It was one of those goosebump moments.
Then Jade and Philip exchanged their vows and rings — quiet, heartfelt, and surrounded by the sounds of Africa. Jade has the most beautiful, contagious smile. The kind that makes everyone around her smile instantly. It filled the space with joy.
Champagne, Cake… and a Wild Safari Surprise
After the ceremony they popped champagne and cut their cake, sharing a few bites together while sitting quietly and soaking in the moment.
And then… the bush decided to remind us where we were. Suddenly there was movement everywhere.
A pack of wild dogs came running straight through the area we were in — they were hunting. It was electrifying to witness. Moments later an impala came racing toward the dam, trying to escape the chase. In a desperate move it leapt straight into the water. For a split second we all thought it had escaped. But then a crocodile surfaced and pulled the poor buck under. None of us could believe what we had just witnessed.
Nature in the bush is raw and real — breathtaking and brutal all at once. A moment none of us will ever forget.
Portraits in the Bush
After the excitement settled, we spent some time wandering through the bush for portraits. Jade and Philip were such a beautiful couple to photograph. Relaxed, joyful, completely present with each other. The kind of couple who simply fit together.
We continued our drive through the reserve, spotting animals along the way as the afternoon slowly moved toward evening. The clouds covered the sky so we didn’t see a sunset that day, but honestly it didn’t matter. The experience itself was more than enough.
Dinner For Two
When we returned to the lodge, Ant had set the most beautiful dinner table. The colours, the textures, the soft candlelight — everything was just perfect. Thoughtful details everywhere.
After such a full day of adventure and emotion, it was the most beautiful way to end their elopement.
Why Ulusaba Is Such a Special Place to Elope
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve truly is something special. The guides and trackers are exceptional, the wildlife encounters unforgettable, and the staff offer a level of care and warmth that makes you feel instantly at home.
For couples dreaming of an elopement that is deeply intimate, wildly beautiful, and completely unique… a private game lodge experience like this is absolutely worth considering.
Jade and Philip’s day was a perfect reminder of that. A love story unfolding in the wild.
Vendors:
Lodge: Ulusaba Private Game Lodge | Event Planning & Décor: Coral Events | Hair & Make-Up: Tamaryn Pretorius
Something to read if you’re considering eloping:
6 Savvy Suggestions To Consider When Eloping To South Africa
Some more Safari Inspo:
Muriël and Diederick’s African Bush Wedding in Monwana, Hoedspruit