Is Cheetah Plains the Best Luxury Safari Lodge in South Africa for Families?
Yes. Cheetah Plains in Sabi Sand Game Reserve is now welcoming children under 12 to stay for free, making luxury safari travel more accessible for families. Known for its exclusive-use villas, electric safari vehicles, and zero-emission game drives, Cheetah Plains is one of South Africa’s most innovative eco-luxury retreats. And now, it’s also one of the most family-friendly.
What Is the “Kids Stay Free” Offer at Cheetah Plains?
From September 1, 2025 to February 28, 2026, children under 12 can stay free of charge when joining parents in either the Karula or Mvula Villas (minimum stay of 2 nights, based on 4 adult guests).
This special offer is designed to help families explore the magic of safari without compromising on privacy, sustainability, or service. Booking periods and eligible stay dates include:
Booking Window: September 1 – February 28
Eligible Stays: Sept 1 – Dec 19, 2025 and Jan 11 – Feb 28, 2026
What Makes Cheetah Plains Ideal for Families?
Cheetah Plains combines high-end luxury with meaningful family experiences:
Private safari villas with inter-leading rooms, swimming pools, chefs, and dedicated staff
No shared spaces or fixed schedules — total privacy and flexibility
Junior Ranger programs with expert guides: learn to track animals, identify birds, and explore safely
Electric safari vehicles with quiet game drives tailored for children’s attention spans
Interactive dining where kids help chefs cook, taste local flavors, and explore food hands-on
Surprise activities like bush storytelling, catch-and-release fishing, and stargazing
Complimentary child-minding so parents can enjoy quiet moments or sundowners
Why Take Kids on Safari?
According to General Manager NJ van der Merwe, safari can be “one of the most enriching experiences for children — immersive, educational, and deeply memorable.” At Cheetah Plains, kids are not just accommodated—they are celebrated.
Young travelers leave with more than memories: they gain a deeper understanding of conservation, African wildlife, and the responsibility of eco-conscious travel.
About Cheetah Plains:
Opened in 2018, Cheetah Plains is home to the exclusive-use luxury villa and sustainable safari experience nestled in South Africa’s most celebrated wildlife area, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve. The eco-luxe experience includes three private villas with four guest bush suites that accommodate up to eight guests each with its own formal lounge, living and dining areas, expansive swimming pool, and outdoor deck that operates off-grid. Each villa comes with a complete hospitality team consisting of an accomplished host, butler, culinary team, and spa therapist, as well as an expert field guide and tracker dedicated to you for the duration of your stay. Families and children of all ages are welcome to experience their own personalized safari, guided bush walks, wellness offerings, fitness gym, and tailored activities for kids. Cheetah Plains sets the standard in South Africa for zero-emission game-viewing utilizing its own fleet of solar-charged Land Cruiser Electric Safari vehicles. A luxury sustainable safari that is beyond expectations.
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Media Inquiries:
Julie Leventhal
REYA Communications
