Cheetah Plains, an eco-luxury safari retreat in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, is aiming to reimagine the safari experience for families. Recognized for its exclusive-use villas and zero-emission safaris, the lodge is now inviting parents to share the experience with their children through a new complimentary “Kids’ Stay Free” offer.
Through February 2026, children under 12 will stay free of charge when joining their parents in either the Karula or Mvula Villas, offering families a rare opportunity to experience the wilderness together without compromising on privacy or comfort.
Children at Cheetah Plains are not only welcome; they are celebrated as special guests. Expert field guides will lead engaging Junior Ranger programs, where young explorers can track footprints, identify bird calls and discover the “secrets of the bush” through hands-on adventures. Game drives in solar-powered Land Cruiser Electric Safari Vehicles are tailored to the guests, so drives can be shorter and more playful if needed.
Beyond the drives, kids can enjoy stargazing, bush-themed storytelling, wildlife photography workshops and even catch-and-release fishing at a local dam. Children will also learn about the importance of eco-friendly initiatives and environmental conservation.
At Cheetah Plains, there are no shared spaces and no schedules. Instead, each villa is complete with its own swimming pool, inter-leading suites and a full, dedicated staff. Villas are designed with multi-generational travel in mind, offering suites for parents, adjoining rooms for kids, and private lounges and pools to gather.
In addition to “the predictable kids’ menu,” chefs can create playful, wholesome dishes tailored to young palates (think mini-biltong platters, fruit-forward mocktails, or wood-fired pizzas). All meals are customizable, catering to allergies, picky eaters or adventurous gourmets keen to sample South African flavors. Children are also welcome in the kitchen, where they can bake alongside the team and create part of their own meals, while learning about local traditions and dishes.
Good to know: With each villa’s exclusive-use vehicles and dedicated staff, every element of a family’s stay is flexible: wake-up calls can be later, meals earlier, drives shorter or longer, etc.
Note: Blackout dates run from December 19, 2025, to January 11, 2026.
