Cheetah Plains

Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa

Overview

Ground-breaking ecological design meets luxurious modernity in a South African safari experience like no other. Admire the sparkling wildlife in their natural habitat from the comfort of your sun lounger on the boma in the perfect bush retreat.

Key Features

  • Positioned on the edge of the Sabi Sands Game Reserve with seamless access to the greater Kruger ecosystem, Cheetah Plains delivers some of South Africa’s most consistent and extraordinary Big Five encounters, with each villa overlooking a private watering hole frequented by wildlife.
  • Every villa is supported by a dedicated hospitality team - including a host, field guide, tracker, spa therapist and private culinary team - creating a deeply personalized safari experience designed entirely around each guest from arrival to departure.
  • Twice-daily game drives take place in near-silent electric Land Cruisers, while the experience beyond the vehicle is equally considered, from relaxed bush brunches under open skies to evenings exploring a carefully curated gallery of South African wines.
  • Fully off-grid and solar powered, Cheetah Plains pairs cutting-edge sustainability with meaningful community investment, operating zero-emission safari vehicles, implementing grey-water recycling systems, and supporting local families through the construction of an early-years crèche.

Design

Rather than the conventional safari design, Cheetah Plains boasts an elegant modern interior. Cool and calming creamy-whites and charcoal designs, with added touches of metallic flashes, reveal urban sophistication in the natural landscape. The warming and natural colour scheme is energised by the featured artworks in every room. Full of flair and character, the art pieces by names like Loyiso Mkize and Gail Catlin enhance the feeling of living in sheer luxury. The contemporary architecture and stunning interior highlight the innovative beauty of the property.

Cuisine

Each villa has a private hospitality team including host, spa therapist, culinary entourage, expert field guide and tracker. Cheetah Plains is elevated by the dining experience. Not only does the personal culinary team tailor to your individual preferences, the on-hand sommelier provides exclusive pairings of the finest South African wines. The curated wine gallery mirrors Cheetah Plains’ owner Japie van Niekerk’s beloved estates and varietals. Al fresco dining is redefined by the resort’s incredible Brunch in the Bush experience. After your game drive coffee, refuel with fresh, locally sourced South African dishes.

Sustainability

Committed to sustainable practises, Cheetah Plains is powered by only harnessing the African sun, with all luxury guest accommodation being off-grid and reliant on renewable energy. In addition, the grey-water recycling system leaves water consumption as frugal as possible and game drives are carried out in electric safari vehicles for zero-emission wildlife viewing.

Cheetah Plains is devoted to community upliftment through the construction and finishing of Lezagwa Utah Creche building which cares for children under the age of five.

Why we love it

A surreal experience of modern opulence, without the environmental expense. Cheetah Plains is an innovative eco-luxury resort truly worthy of note. One of the highlights, the twice-daily safari trips, is bolstered by the state-of-the-art electric jeeps. Toyota Land Cruisers with Tesla-powered batteries for a sleek and almost-silent drive. It is no wonder the Cheetahs are remarkably calm around the vehicles.

Neighboring the Kruger National Park, spotting the enigmatic Big Five is nearly a guarantee. Villas overlook watering holes for elephants and buffalos, allowing you to experience the tranquility of the natural world with fresh eyes.

Looking for more South Africa Inspiration?


We have a vast range of experiences and accommodation options available.

Learn more about our luxury vacations and unique adventures in
South Africa or call our expert team on

+1 800 659 0217