Cheetah Ridge Lodge

The Lodge Story

Cheetah Ridge Lodge is built along side a majestic 50-year-old fig tree – a living landmark at the heart of the lodge. Its architecture draws on the heritage of the site, blending African character with considered contemporary luxury.

Ten luxury suites overlook a secluded watering hole, where wildlife comes and goes throughout the day and night. The sense of history here is genuine. Once the original iron-stone manor house and founder lodge of Nambiti, Cheetah Ridge has evolved around its fig tree, watering hole and surrounding landscape.

Today, Cheetah Ridge is a five-star retreat where the experience extends well beyond the traditional safari. Alongside twice-daily Big Five game drives, guests can unwind at Ingulule Spa, relax beside the swimming pool, play tennis or spend time in the bird hide. Bush walks, stargazing, sundowners and private dining offer further ways to experience Nambiti.

Food and wine are central to the experience, from relaxed lunches to dinners beneath the fig tree and evenings around the fire.

Cheetah Ridge is somewhere to safari, but also somewhere to slow down, eat well, reconnect and settle into the rhythm of the bush.

Come for the wildlife. Stay for the feeling.

At a Glance

Facilities

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Where You'll Stay

Ten suites overlook a secluded watering hole, where wildlife come and go at their own pace throughout the day and night.

Signature Suite

6 individually designed contemporary air conditioned suites overlooking an active watering hole and uninterrupted views of the reserve. Each with a lounge, full bathroom, outdoor shower, deck and bean-to-cup coffee station.

Family Suites

Cheetah Ridge has two different family suites. 

The Lodge Family Suite can host up to 6, and is located on the second floor of the main lodge building. There are 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a main lounge area and a balcony overlooking the lodge grounds.

The Waterside Family Suite can host up to 6 (4 adults + 2 children), and is located alongside the active watering hole. There are 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a main lounge area and a panoramic deck.

The Farmhouse

Ideal for families and groups looking for their own space, The Farmhouse is set within its own fenced-off grounds complete with a plunge pool, private guide, boma and separate entrance, providing a secluded family-friendly environment, with access to the main Cheetah Ridge Lodge facilities on request.

The Experience

From twice-daily guided safaris to sundowners at the watering hole – Cheetah Ridge is built around moments, not itineraries.

Dining

South African cuisine built on locally sourced ingredients, served everywhere from bush settings to elegant, starlit tables. Signature experiences include boma dinners, bush breakfasts, private dining, wine pairings, sundowners, and picnics at the cascades or waterfalls.

Ingulule Spa

Restorative treatments overlooking the landscape and watering hole – thoughtful treatments, calming spaces and the sounds of the African bush combine for a wellness experience unlike any other in South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are meals included in the rate?

All meals and beverages are fully all-inclusive at Cheetah Ridge, including alcoholic beverages.

Yes, there are two Family Suites and The Farmhouse that can accommodate 4-10 guests, meaning there are options for families and groups of all types. Cheetah Ridge is welcoming to children of all ages, and is a completely fenced in lodge to allow everyone to wander and feels safe whilst on the grounds.

The property features an exclusive game hide in addition to the watering hole visible from the suites. Please contact the lodge for information about access arrangements.

Can the lodge be booked for exclusive use?

Yes, Cheetah Ridge is well suited to exclusive use for families, groups and any special occasions. Please contact the lodge at reservations@cheetahridge.com for pricing and availability.

Cheetah Ridge was the original grey-stone manor house at Nambiti and is the founder lodge of the reserve. The property carries genuine heritage – including the 50-year-old fig tree – and that history is felt throughout the lodge.

What Guests Have to Say

We have been on many a safari but this one was special. Beautiful Lodge, exquisite villas overlooking the dam where we had full view of the hippos all weekend. Fantastic game drives ... and amazing game drivers who truly knew their stuff ... Decadent and non stop delicious food and unbelievable care and attention from every single staff member ... We will return. Cheetah Ridge is magical.
Kelly ~ TripAdvisor Guest