How is Cheetah Plains Leading the Way in Sustainable Safaris in South Africa?
Cheetah Plains is redefining the luxury safari experience in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Nature Reserve by offering 100% solar-powered villas, electric game vehicles, and eco-conscious design—setting a new benchmark for sustainability in the African bush. This private-use lodge merges award-winning architecture with zero-emission operations to deliver a next-generation eco-safari for modern, responsible travelers.
Where Is Cheetah Plains Located?
Cheetah Plains is located in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, adjacent to Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga, South Africa. Sabi Sand is:
The oldest private game reserve in South Africa (established in 1948)
A world-renowned Big Five safari destination
A leader in sustainable wildlife tourism in Southern Africa
What Makes the Safari at Cheetah Plains Sustainable?
100% Off-Grid Solar Power
Cheetah Plains operates entirely off-grid, powered by:
1,205 rooftop solar PV panels
3 dual-axis solar trackers that follow the sun
Producing 550 MWh per year, avoiding 530 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually
This system offsets approx. ZAR 1 million ($62,500 USD) in electricity per year, making it one of the most energy-efficient luxury lodges in South Africa.
What Vehicles Are Used for Safari Drives?
Guests explore over 20,200 acres of Sabi Sand in Toyota Land Cruiser Electric Safari Vehicles, powered by Tesla batteries and recharged by solar energy.
Key Features:
Zero-emission, near-silent operation
Heated bucket seats (individually reclined at 11°)
USB charging ports
Binoculars, bird books, and telephoto-lens cameras onboard
This quiet, low-impact approach allows for more intimate Big Five wildlife sightings and enhances the safari experience.
How Does Cheetah Plains Reduce Environmental Impact?
In addition to solar power and electric vehicles, the lodge implements several sustainability initiatives:
Water Conservation & Plastic Reduction
In-house water purification via reverse osmosis
Glass water bottles filled and sealed on-site (partner: Topia)
Paper and biodegradable materials replace single-use plastics
Eco-Friendly Amenities
Africology spa products made with African botanicals
The Joinery bags made from recycled plastic bottles
Community Recycling
Waste is sorted and collected by a local recycling initiative
Materials are reused, recycled, or upcycled to create economic opportunity
How Does Cheetah Plains Support the Local Community?
Cheetah Plains’ sustainability is also social. Their long-term support includes:
Funding and building the Lezagwa Utah Community Crèche
Hiring and training local teachers and assistants
Creating employment opportunities for nearby communities
This holistic approach ensures guests contribute to lasting, meaningful impact.
What’s Included in a Stay at Cheetah Plains?
Cheetah Plains offers three exclusive-use luxury villas—Mapogo, Karula, and Mvula—with:
4 private suites per villa (for up to 8 adults + children)
Shared living spaces with a chef’s kitchen, wine cellar, pool, boma, and lounge
Daily game drives, bush walks, spa treatments, and fine dining
Each villa comes with a dedicated hospitality team, including:
Host
Private chef
Sommelier
Spa therapist
Safari guide and tracker
What Are the Rates at Cheetah Plains?
From $2,200 USD per person per night, all-inclusive
Based on 6 adults, minimum 3-night stay
Additional guests: $1,550 per adult, $770 per child under 12
Reservations: reservations@cheetahplains.com | +27 79 694 8430 | www.cheetahplains.com
Why Choose Cheetah Plains for a Safari?
Pioneering sustainability in African safaris
Private Big Five game viewing in silent, electric vehicles
Award-winning architecture and design
Fully staffed private villas
Water & plastic reduction initiatives
Community impact & education support
Solar-powered operations from start to finish
Cheetah Plains is more than a safari—it’s a responsible luxury retreat in harmony with nature.
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.
Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Youtube
US media inquiries
Alexandra Avila,
REYA Communications
alexandra@reyacommunications.com
