Ker & Downey® Africa has introduced a new 13-day Cheetah Conservation LuxVenture® itinerary in the latest installment in its series of conservation safaris.
Designed for those seeking a more meaningful experience, these pioneering tours place travellers in the heart of the action, inviting them to actively participate in conservation initiatives and leave a positive legacy in Africa.
“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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The adventure begins in Cape Town, where guests will stay at the historic Cape Grace hotel for three 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. 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 19 cubs in the wild.
Guests then 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 closes with a few unforgettable nights at the luxurious Chitwa Chitwa in the game-rich Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve.
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.
Lead image: Young cheetah cubs at Samara Karoo Reserve