Cheetah Ridge Lodge in KwaZulu Natal is set within the Big 5 Nambiti Private Game Reserve, boasting 9300 hectares of protected wildlife territory. Ten luxurious suites overlook a private waterhole, making for great game viewing without even having to leave the lodge. The property also features a second watering-hole and exclusive game hide as well as a large garden and pool surrounded by sun recliners and an outdoor lounge area. Cheetah Ridge Lodge is an elegant indulgence into the bushveld, with each suite featuring private open decks with expansive views. Natural materials are meticulously combined to create eco-chic interiors with luxurious finishes. Cheetah Ridge offers spectacular cuisine with a taste of local flavour and culinary excellence.
The malaria-free Cheetah Ridge Lodge provides 2 game drives daily with passionate rangers showcasing their knowledge and remarkable skill in providing close-up Big 5 wildlife sightings and photographic opportunities. Join your ranger for a guided bushwalk and observe a range of bird species within the reserves various ecosystems. Besides seeing cheetah, giraffe, impala, hippo, hyena, and kudu, guests can also head out to the Drakensberg for hikes, golf, quad-biking, and horse riding.
Gallery
Wildlife
- Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo).
- Nambiti is home to over 40 other mammal species of game including cheetah, giraffe, hippo, hyena, impala, zebra and kudu and an abundance of antelope species.
- Approximately 200 bird species have been recording in the reserve.
Game Drives
- Game drives are taken in open 4×4 safari vehicles and are accompanied by a ranger, who will share a wealth of knowledge about the animals with you.
- The game drives are 2.5 – 3 hours long and take place twice a day in the morning and afternoon.
- Morning game drives are complimented by a coffee stop and a sundowner downer stop in the evening a remote location.
Activities & Facilities
- Game drives
- Stargazing
- Birdwatching
- Swimming Pool
- Restaurant
- Tennis court
- Spa
- Viewing terrace
- Bar & lounge
Highlights
- A one-of-a-kind safari sanctuary in the bushveld, rich with history.
- Stunning dinning experiences overlooking the grounds.
- 9 Luxury suites, 1 Inkosi Suite and 1 two-bedroom family suite.
- Each suite offers uninterrupted views across a watering hole.
- An exclusive-use Farmhouse is ideal for families and groups.
- Exciting Big-5 game drives in open 4×4’s.
Location
KwaZulu Natal lies on South Africa’s warm east coast.
Getting There
- The closest commercial airport is Durban (DUR).
- Flight time from Cape Town to Durban: 2 hours
- Flight time from Johannesburg to Durban: 70 minutes
- Nambiti Plains is a 3 hour drive from Durban.
Child Policy
- Children of all ages are welcome at Cheetah Ridge.
- Children 0 – 3 years stay free of charge.
- Children 4 – 11 pay 50% of the adult rate.
- Family suites sleep up to 6 guests.
Special offers
- Text
Inclusions & Exclusions
- Included: 2 x Game drives per day, all meals, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages.
- Excluded: Premium branded drinks, conservation levies, airport transfers, and anything of personal nature.
Rates
- The updated rates are displayed for each room category below.
- Rates are charged per person, per night.
- Single supplement of 50% applicable.
- Rates displayed are valid until 20 January 2026.
Seasons
- High season: 15 March – 22 April & 15 December – 20 January
- Low season: 21 January – 14 March & 23 April – 14 December

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Luxury Suite
Chic en-suite units each overlook a private watering hole for all-day game viewing. Units are luxuriously equipped with a bathtub, shower, double vanity, cozy fireplace, Read moreair conditioning, ceiling fan, tea and coffee station, and refrigerator. Read Less
| Peak Season | $ 859per suite, per night |
|---|---|
| High Season | $ 737per suite, per night |
Family Suite
A private lounge joins this 2-bedroomed suite specially designed for families. Each en-suite bedroom has a shower or bathtub and the unit is fully equipped with Read moreair-conditioning, a coffee station, and Wi-Fi. Read Less
| Peak Season | $ 213per per person, per night |
|---|---|
| High Season | $ 193per person, per night |
| Low Season | $ 177per person, per night |
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