The cheetah is the fastest land animal in the world: it is one of Africa’s most extraordinary cats and plays an important role in the ecosystem. Getting up close to a cheetah is something very unique and only a few travellers have this opportunity. Until now...

Committed to responsible travel, Ker & Downey® Africa’s thirteen-day Cheetah Conservation LuxVenture® is the latest in its series of conservation safaris. Designed for those seeking a more meaningful experience, these pioneering tours place travellers in the thick of it, inviting them to actively participate in conservation initiatives and leave a positive legacy in Africa.

Endangered species


“Highly endangered cheetah populations are decreasing due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict and the illegal exotic pet trade,” says Sarah Morris, General Manager, Private Clients. “South Africa is the only country in the world with a significantly increasing population of wild cheetahs. This itinerary aims to bring awareness to the incredible work being done to support this endangered species, while directly supporting the sanctuaries and conservation initiatives included in the trip.”

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Conservation safari


The adventure begins in Cape Town, where travellers will stay at the historic Cape Grace hotel for 3 nights. In between exploring the iconic Mother City and Cape Winelands, they will visit the world-class Ashia Cheetah Center in Paarl. Here, guests will learn about the sanctuary’s mission to reintroduce cheetahs to reserves and national parks in southern Africa, as well as witness the world’s fastest land mammal in full flight as part of their daily exercise schedule.

The conservation safari continues at Samara Karoo Reserve in the Great Karoo – an award-winning reserve and, undoubtedly, the highlight of this eye-opening conservation itinerary. During their stay, guests will have the unique opportunity to track wild cheetah on foot, and hear the story of the world famous Sibella – one of the most celebrated cats in conservation history and the first cheetah to be reintroduced to the Great Karoo in 130 years. Her story is a truly triumphant one and since her release in 2004, Sibella went on to raise an astonishing nineteen cubs in the wild.

Ker Downey Africa Karoo-lodge-samara-game-reserve

Cheetah Center


Next up, guests will fly to Johannesburg where they will spend an afternoon at the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Center – a non-profit conservation and research organisation committed to the conservation and survival of the species. The safari adventure then comes to a close with a few unforgettable nights at the luxurious Chitwa Chitwa in the game-rich Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.

Ker Downey Africa Chitwa

This highly acclaimed eco-lodge boasts some of the best opportunities to meet Africa’s Big 5, as well as other animals like the elusive wild dog and, of course, cheetah.

Pricing for this one-of-a-kind 13-day Cheetah Conservation Safari in South Africa starts from $6,632 per person sharing and is available year-round. To find out more the Cheetah Conservation LuxVenture®, click here.

Responsible Travel


Responsible travel is of utmost importance to Ker & Downey® Africa. Each trip booked with Ker & Downey® Africa includes a $100 or more donation to one of its Legacy Partners, as well as an $8 donation to fund the planting of one tree in sub-Saharan Africa.

About Ker & Downey® Africa


Ker & Downey® Africa is an award-winning luxury travel company, made up of a community of explorers, mindful travellers, and adventurous souls who are driven by a shared passion for the continent they call home – Africa. Its team curates highly personalised trips throughout the African continent from their home base in Cape Town, USA, UK, and Tanzania. Responsible travel is of utmost importance to Ker & Downey® Africa.

To find out more, visit ker-downeyafrica.com.

November 2022
By Team GWG