Featuring 3 exclusive-use, designer villa's with 2 lounges, dining areas, outdoor boma, wine cellar & swimming pool, as well as, a private game viewing vehicle & designated field guide and tracker for the duration of your stay.
Named after two of Sabi Sand’s legendary leopards, and a dominant lion coalition the three villas are named “Mvula”, “Karula” and “Mapogo” respectively.
Offering guests unrivaled game viewing opportunities, combined with the ultimate in innovative architectural design, the lodge promises exceptional safari luxuries, amenities and services.
Each villa is comprised of 4 luxurious private suites. These king-bed (and twin optimal) fitted suites feature a private deck, dressing room and lounge, double rain shower and bath overlooking the splendid African bushveld together with a mini bar and coffee station, as well as desk.
The vision for the interiors of the villas is to seamlessly blend in with the natural surroundings, enhancing the safari experience of the guests. A calm and distilled palette with natural materials were carefully chosen to create a minimalist interior inspired by African elements and bringing the outside in.
FOUR PRIVATE SUITES PER VILLA
Each private suite (4 per exclusive-use villa) features:
King-bedded bedroom.
Private mini bar & coffee station.
Lounge.
Private deck with day-bed.
Dressing room.
Double rain shower.
Bath overlooking the bushveld.
Accommodates a maximum of 2 guests per suite.
Especially for families with young children, 2 of the suites interlink so parents are close by, but not in the same bedroom.
‘Karula’ is a tribute to the most majestic of female leopards that ever roamed the northern quadrant of the Sabi Sands Reserve. Set along a drainage line that Karula would have favoured in her prime, the natural bush setting reflects her key qualities: tenacity and nurturing. Her hunting prowess saw her flourish, growing into a devoted mother. She secured her bloodline by rearing ten cubs in her lifetime - no mean feat in the African wilderness. She would lavish attention on them, patiently teaching the critical skills they would need to thrive in the bush, selflessly protecting them.
When the time came for each of her cubs to establish their own territories, Karula would prepare them, enabling each to embrace their individual destiny as a solitary, territorial wild leopard of the Sabi Sand. One day, instinctively, with an uncompromising flick of her tail she would get up and simply vanish into the bush, leaving them to their own devices. Each time we knew that she may never see them again. Indeed, we hoped not, as a territorial clash could prove fatal to either party.
Windows of impressive, full-length stature frame the natural bush setting without while allowing the sounds of nature to flow seamlessly within. ‘Karula’ Villa comprises a shared space: a private sanctuary surrounded by nature housing the formal lounge, living room, expansive deck, lap pool, wine gallery and dining area. Find repose in one of four adjacent Private Suites (two of which are interleading). Your delectable meals are made to order and these, like the rejuvenating wellness treatments, can be taken in your suite for those seeking to enjoy ultimate privacy.
Your spacious, designer Private Suite enjoys uninterrupted views and deep connection with the natural bushveld surrounds. Soak in the tranquility on the patio with its expansive daybed or opt for the sanctuary of the lounge. The suite is equipped with a separate WC, dressing room and full bathroom, replete with double rain shower, plus a deluxe freestanding bath set against floor to ceiling doors, opening directly on to its pristine bushveld setting. This, complemented by uplifting Africology amenities invites an immersive, invigorating bathing ritual.
The deck is a wonderful space to enjoy an al fresco meal. On balmier nights opt for the inviting
temperature controlled wine gallery. On chillier nights, you cannot beat a hearty meal around the magnificent dinner table. Afterward, relax in either the formal lounge or the living room. The latter is replete with state of the art audiovisual equipment as well as cable television and board games.
Tales of Karula’s bravery, dedication as a mother and prowess as a huntress have sparked the imagination of many a storyteller. Your private boma alongside the dining area is the perfect setting to explore these legendary stories. At the fireside, you are warmed by impressions of the memorable force of nature that is ‘Karula’.
Set on the bend of a drainage line culminating in a productive waterhole, ‘Mapogo’ occupies a unique vantage point on the Cheetah Plains Private Reserve. The raw masculinity of the structure and its inherent appointments embody the power and purpose that characterised the Mapogo brotherhood: a coalition of lions that reigned supreme in this area for years. Together, they exacted dominion in a fierce, uncompromising way. They displayed an unwavering mutual loyalty and their affection for one another was at once powerful and wonderful to behold.
Windows of impressive, full-length stature frame the natural bush setting without while allowing the sounds of nature to flow seamlessly within. Mapogo comprises a shared space: a private sanctuary surrounded by nature housing the formal lounge, living room, expansive deck, lap pool, wine gallery and dining area. Find repose in one of four adjacent Private Suites (two of which are interleading).
Each spacious, designer suite enjoys uninterrupted views of the bush, a patio with an expansive daybed, lounge, separate WC, dressing room and full bathroom, replete with double rain shower, plus a deluxe freestanding bath set against floor-to-ceiling doors opening directly on to pristine bushveld. This, complemented by uplifting Africology amenities, invites an immersive, invigorating bathing ritual.
Delectable meals reflecting the fresh, local style of cuisine are made to order that, like your rejuvenating wellness treatments, can be enjoyed in your Private Suite.
Enjoy a refreshing dip in the lap pool before retiring to a day bed drenched in the warm rays of the African sun. Gaze upon the waterhole below, a wellspring of life for many animals including a pod of lively hippo, from beneath the dappled shade of the weathered steel patio – a designer interpretation of the African arboreal icon, the umbrella acacia.
The deck is a wonderful space to enjoy an al fresco meal. On balmier nights opt for the inviting temperature-controlled wine gallery. On chillier nights, you cannot beat a hearty meal around the magnificent dinner table. Afterward, relax in either the formal lounge or the living room. The latter is replete with state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment as well as cable television and board games.
Tales of the Mapogo’s bravery, uncompromising ferocity and brotherly affection for one another have sparked the imagination of many a storyteller. Your private boma alongside the dining area is the perfect setting to explore these legendary stories. At the fireside, you are warmed by impressions of the memorable force of nature that is ‘Mapogo’.
‘Mvula’ is dedicated to the once dominant majestic male leopard whose home range was (central to) the Cheetah Plains Private Reserve. Set in a grove of cathedral Tamboti trees, the aura of this residence exudes the force that was Mvula. Known for his hunting prowess and regal stature, Mvula’s matchless potency and adaptive nature saw him siring many cubs, securing his noble bloodline. In this distinctive, setting that is Cheetah Plains, his revered spirit lives on.
Windows of impressive, full-length stature frame the natural bush setting without while allowing the sounds of nature to flow seamlessly within. ‘Mvula’ is a private sanctuary, characterised by its forested location. Organic accents reflect the authenticity and raw power of its spotted feline namesake. Explore the formal lounge, living room, expansive deck, lap pool, wine gallery and dining room. Find repose in one of four adjacent Plains Suites (two of which are interleading). Delectable meals are made to order by your private chef and these, just like your rejuvenating wellness treatments, can be taken in your Private Suite should you desire.
Your expansive, designer Private Suite enjoys uninterrupted views and deep connection with the natural bushveld surrounds. Replete with a patio with an expansive daybed, lounge, separate WC, dressing room and full bathroom replete with double rain shower plus a deluxe freestanding bath set against floor to ceiling doors that open directly on to its pristine bushveld setting. This, complemented by uplifting Africology amenities invites an immersive, invigorating bathing ritual.
Your spacious, designer Private Suite enjoys uninterrupted views and deep connection with the natural bushveld surrounds. Soak in the tranquility on the patio with its expansive daybed or opt for the sanctuary of the lounge. The suite is equipped with a separate WC, dressing room and full bathroom, replete with double rain shower, plus a deluxe freestanding bath set against floor-to-ceiling doors, opening directly on to its pristine bushveld setting. This, complemented by uplifting Africology amenities invites an immersive, invigorating bathing ritual
The deck is a wonderful space to enjoy an al fresco meal. On balmier nights opt for the inviting temperature-controlled wine gallery. On chillier nights, you cannot beat a hearty meal around the magnificent dinner table. Tales of Mvula’s hunting prowess and fierce protection of his Cheetah Plains home range have sparked the imagination of many a storyteller. Your private boma is the perfect setting to explore these legendary stories. At the fireside, you are warmed by impressions of the memorable force of nature that is ‘Mvula.
Accept Credit Cards, Air conditioner, Baby Sitting, Bar, Battery Charging Facilities, Eco Friendly, Internet Access (Complimentary), Mobile Connectivity, Pool, Secure Parking, Spa, TV Room, Vegetarian
Air Conditioning, Balcony / Deck, Bath Towels, Bath, Bed Linen, Complimentary Wi-Fi, Dressing Gowns, Electrical Outlets, Fan, Fireplace, Fridge, Heated Towel Rails, Heater, Internet Access (Complimentary), Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Lounge Area, Mini Bar (Complimentary), Mini Bar, Mosquito Nets, Mosquito Netting, Private Lounge / Sitting Area, Pure Cotton Linen, Safe, Shower, Tea / Coffee, Verandah, Wheelchair Friendly
24-hour Security, Baby Sitting, Credit Card Facilities, Disability, Laundry Service (Available), Laundry Service (Complimentary), Meal on Request, Room service 24 hours
Big 5, Bird Watching, Fine Dining, Fishing, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Garden Tours, Gourmet Picnic, Massages, Night Drives, Safaris, Walks (Guided)
Art Galleries, Big 5, Bird Watching, Child Friendly Activities, Cultural Tours, Game Drives, Game Viewing, Game Walks, Garden Tours, General Sightseeing, Helicopter Scenic Flights, Safaris, Scenic Flights, Walks (Guided), Wine Tasting
The best time of day to explore the bush is early morning and late afternoon. Our twice-daily game drives are taken in our prototype Land Cruiser Electric safari vehicles, a game-changing innovation pioneered by Japie van Niekerk, owner of Cheetah Plains. This bold advance toward zero-emission game drives is what drives our sustainability safari experience at Cheetah Plains. An onboard bird book, binoculars and a professional level Nikon D850 camera fitted with a 200-500mm telephoto lens plus memory card are provided for guests' enjoyment. The almost silent, smooth gait of our zero-emission Land Cruiser Electric vehicles deliver the highest quality wildlife sightings. Their unobtrusive nature facilitates the most silent approach by vehicle, resulting in an unparalleled safari experience.
For the ultimate in a connected, immersive experience embark on a guided interpretive bush walk on the plains that gave birth to its namesake, Cheetah Plains. There is no more tangible way than this to surround yourself with nature; senses are sharpened and a profound appreciation of one's place within the ecosystem is deeply felt.
Terms & conditions apply
Sporting beautiful views out over our neat rolling lawns and Tamboti grove beyond, our climate-controlled gym is fitted with the most modern equipment for your training pleasure.
The restorative quality of your safari is enhanced by personal pampering. We invite you to enjoy a selection of touch therapies or beauty treatments, all included in your stay. Africology is our chosen wellness amenity brand. The healing properties of select African botanicals within our Africology treatments offer an immersive, invigorating wellness experience. Consult your in-room menu which offers an array of uplifting treatments including manicures, pedicures and facials. Alternatively, tailor your personal wellness journey with the help of your highly qualified in-house therapist. Enjoy your pampering in the privacy of your Private Suite, allowing the restorative experience to completely envelope you.
Our bespoke children's safari program, Cheetah Plains' Cub Club, for children under 12 years old is wildly popular with our younger guests. Educational, engaging and fun, each child receives a backpack stuffed with exciting activities to enjoy on safari, with our compliments. Our relatable field guides and trackers are eager to share their bush lore with young, inquisitive minds. Bush bumbles (game drives of age appropriate duration), interpretive walks in our garden or simply chatting with our team about their way of life in the bushveld help your child to forge a deep connection with Africa's wilderness. Awakening them to nature's splendour is our privilege.
We welcome you to visit the nearby village of Utah where many of our staff live with their families. Experience the many ways in which Cheetah Plains is a powerful catalyst for transformation in this area. Meet the people on your guided visit and observe local traditions of our local Shangaan culture. Come away with a deeper understanding of South Africa as a nation and those who live out the Cheetah Plains dream on a day to day basis.
Embracing and supporting the local collectible design category in South Africa, Shari's offer the finest quality sourced and curated selection of fine gifts, jewellery, lodge wear, apparel, accessories and art produced by contemporary design makers and artists.
Customised items can be shipped to a preferred destination, or hand delivered to Johannesburg or Cape Town before departure.
In January 2024, Cheetah Plains, South Africa’s leading carbon-negative luxury lodge in the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve in partnership with Goodman Gallery, will debut a private gallery space, and a new collection of nearly 100 highly collectible works curated for the three exclusive villas. Redefining the ultimate notion of a sustainable luxury safari, Cheetah Plains once again is reimagining the guest experience with an art program that celebrates Africa’s rich cultural heritage and allows one to experience the creative talents of such notable and emerging artists. The Cheetah Plains Gallery and Art Collection will be the most contemporary display of African art housed in the bush and available for purchase with white glove delivery service. Leading the curation and installation is Goodman Gallery, an international contemporary art gallery with locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town, London, and New York.
Cheetah Plains has created a one-of-a-kind shopping experience with access to top-quality ethical diamonds, as well as their very own Cheetah Plains Signature Diamond Collection.
Starting with champagne service, guests of Cheetah Plains will have a one-on-one consultation with South African gemologist and jewelry maker, Kate Shearer, a qualified New York GIA gemologist and jewelry designer. The Cheetah Plains Diamonds are part of a special collection of uniquely cut and GIA-certified loose stones, which are designed into custom pieces for international delivery. Guests are provided with CAD renderings of their one-of-a-kind piece with a 3-6 week delivery, with a percentage of proceeds of the diamond sales donated to the local Lezagwa Utah Community Crèche.
Each villa boasts a custom-designed wine gallery comprising a purely South African wine selection. Only wines, whiskeys and spirits of the most discerning quality are stocked in your private, temperature-controlled wine gallery. Hosted by our knowledgeable lodge Sommelier, we offer guests the opportunity to enjoy private wine, whiskey or gin tastings and pairings in the comfort of your villa wine cellar, outside in our indigenous gardens, at the formal dining room bar counter or out in the bushveld.