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Cheetah Plains
South Africa – Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Cheetah Plains
About the Private Lodge
Cheetah Plains defines an ultra-luxurious, private and sustainable safari in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife destination, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Each of the three Plains Houses (Karula, Mapogo and Mvula) accommodates 8 guests and promises a wholly private safari experience you will never forget. Cheetah Plains has moved far beyond its humble beginnings as a safari lodge and undergone a complete transformation. Today, it stands as a beacon of eco-luxury safari and an expression of South Africa’s rich heritage. Owner Japie van Niekerk has finally brought his vision for the estate to life. Each house features a lounge, dining area, expansive sun deck and swimming pool, a wine gallery and a kitchen for private chefs.
Kids & Teens
Cheetah Plains warmly welcomes families and offers tailored experiences for children and teenagers. Young guests discover Africa’s wildlife through playful, child-friendly safaris, with experienced rangers sharing their knowledge along the way. Activities such as identifying animal tracks or crafting with natural materials nurture curiosity and creativity. The villas also offer child-friendly amenities and ample space for families to relax and spend time together. Through Cheetah Plains' Cub, each child receives a backpack filled with engaging activities.
Experiences & Activities
Twice-daily game drives are led by some of the finest safari guides and trackers, using prototype Land Cruiser Electric Safari vehicles — a pioneering innovation developed by Japie van Niekerk, owner of Cheetah Plains. This bold step towards emission-free game drives forms the foundation of the sustainable safari experience at Cheetah Plains. For a more immersive encounter, join a guided bush walk. Guests with a cultural interest can visit the nearby village of Utah, where many members of staff live with their families. Enjoy a selection of massages and beauty treatments, all included in your stay. The air-conditioned gym is equipped with the latest machines for an exceptional workout experience.
Photos of the Private Lodge
Best time to travel
Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa is best visited from May to October. During this dry season, temperatures are pleasant and wildlife viewing is excellent, as the vegetation is sparse and water sources are limited. This makes safaris especially rewarding, as animals gather around waterholes and are easier to track. These months are also ideal for night drives, offering the chance to encounter the nocturnal wildlife that would otherwise reMayn hidden.
From Germany, the flight to Johannesburg takes around 10 hours. After that, a domestic flight to Skukuza or Nelspruit is followed by a private transfer to Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Sabi Sand Game Reserve, bordering the renowned Kruger National Park, is known for its exclusive safari lodges, dramatic landscapes and exceptional wildlife viewing. This celebrated region offers families a distinctive blend of immersive nature experiences and luxurious comfort.
Game drives in open safari vehicles make it possible to experience the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards and rhino – at thrillingly close range. Leopard sightings are especially impressive, and Sabi Sand is rightly famous for them. For those wishing to delve deeper into the wild, guided bush walks are a wonderful way to gain fascinating insight into the region’s remarkable flora and fauna. The luxurious lodges are ideal for families and, alongside first-class accommodation, offer amenities such as pools and wellness experiences for moments of relaxation after adventure-filled days.
