From Johannesburg: Cheetah Tour

If you’re looking to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals without venturing into the vast wilderness, the De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary offers an engaging and educational day trip from Johannesburg. This tour promises more than just animal sightings — it combines conservation education, open safari drives, and the chance to get up close with the world’s fastest mammals. With a friendly guide and a well-organized itinerary, it’s a solid choice for animal lovers, families, or anyone eager to learn about South Africa’s efforts to protect endangered species.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on education and authentic encounters. You’ll get close to cheetahs, wild dogs, servals, and vultures, all while supporting local conservation initiatives — especially if you choose to adopt a cheetah during your visit. The experience feels genuine and personal, and the guided safaris help deepen your understanding of these fascinating animals.

One consideration? The cheetah run is only available on certain mornings and days, which might mean you miss this if your schedule doesn’t align. But even without this, the overall experience offers plenty of value. It’s best suited for travelers who want a meaningful, interactive wildlife experience without the expense or commitment of a full safari lodge visit.

Contents show

Key Points

Close encounters with cheetahs and wild dogs provide unforgettable wildlife moments.
Guided open vehicle safaris deliver professional insights and authentic animal sightings.
The focus on conservation through education and opportunities like cheetah adoption adds meaning to your visit.
Convenient pickup and drop-off make the day seamless from Johannesburg or Pretoria.
Entry fees and transport included ensure no hidden costs, offering good value for the price.
Designed for animal lovers and families looking for an educational, memorable trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Cheetah Tour Experience

Looking for more options in Johannesburg? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Seamless Pickup and Transportation

From the moment you book your ticket, the ease of transport is a highlight. The tour includes pickup from Johannesburg or Pretoria hotels, which means you won’t have to worry about navigating to the sanctuary yourself. The transport is comfortable, air-conditioned, and shared with other travelers, fostering a friendly atmosphere. This convenience allows you to relax and focus on the sights rather than logistics.

The Location: De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary

Nestled in the Magaliesberg mountains, near Hartebeestpoortdam, the sanctuary is a well-established facility dedicated to captive breeding and conservation of cheetahs and other species. The setting is scenic, with the mountains providing a beautiful backdrop to your wildlife encounters. It’s important to note that the sanctuary is not a traditional game reserve, but it offers a focused look at species that are often threatened in the wild.

What You’ll See and Do

The core of this tour is the open vehicle safari, where knowledgeable guides take you around the reserve. You’ll get to see multiple animals up close, including cheetahs, wild dogs, servals, and vultures. Guides are well-trained and passionate—one reviewer praised their reliability and expertise, making the experience both educational and engaging.

One of the tour’s highlights is observing the cheetah run, a spectacle that demonstrates the incredible speed of these animals. This run is pre-booked separately and runs only on specific mornings, so if you’re keen on witnessing it, plan accordingly. Even without the run, the safari offers plenty of chances to observe animals in a natural-like environment, which is more meaningful than a static zoo visit.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning and Supporting Conservation

The sanctuary places a strong emphasis on educating visitors about the plight of cheetahs and other endangered species. Our reviewer Annica mentioned how she appreciated the chance to adopt a cheetah during her visit, which supports ongoing conservation efforts. This option turns a simple sightseeing trip into a chance to make a tangible difference.

There's plenty more to explore in Johannesburg

Additional Animal Encounters

Apart from cheetahs, you’ll learn about the serval, vultures, and wild dogs — animals that often don’t get as much attention but are equally fascinating. The wild dogs, in particular, are a rare sight; hearing their wild howls or seeing them run alongside your vehicle is a memorable experience.

Duration and Value

The entire tour lasts roughly a day, with pickups and drop-offs included. The cost of $187 per person covers entry fees and transportation, making it a reasonable investment for the quality of the experience. Given that you’re getting guided safaris, close animal encounters, and the chance to support conservation, it offers good value.

Guides You Can Trust

According to reviews, the guides are a major strength of this tour. One reviewer, Annica, highlighted Jason, who was described as “great and reliable.” Knowing that your guide is knowledgeable and passionate makes a significant difference in how much you get out of the experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is ideal for animal enthusiasts, families seeking an educational outing, or travelers interested in conservation. It’s perfect if you want to see iconic species close-up without committing to a multi-day safari. The tour also suits those who appreciate guided experiences with credible, professional guides.

While it’s focused on specific animals and conservation, it doesn’t include the full wilderness experience of larger reserves. Still, for an accessible, educational wildlife adventure close to Johannesburg, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The From Johannesburg: Cheetah Tour offers a compelling blend of wildlife viewing, conservation education, and convenient logistics. It delivers authentic encounters with some of Africa’s most remarkable animals, guided by knowledgeable professionals who enhance your understanding. The inclusion of transport and entry fees simplifies planning, making it a straightforward way to connect with nature.

This tour excels for those who want more than just a photo opportunity — it’s an experience that fosters appreciation for wildlife conservation. The chance to support cheetah adoption during the visit adds a meaningful touch, turning sightseeing into a small act of preservation.

If you’re keen on seeing cheetahs in action, learning about endangered species, and enjoying a hassle-free day trip from Johannesburg, this tour provides solid value and genuine moments. It’s best for those who want an authentic, educational experience that combines adventure and conservation in one package.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transport from Johannesburg or Pretoria hotels is included, making the day more relaxing and stress-free.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at $187 per person, which covers entry fees and transport.

Can I see the cheetah run during the tour?
The cheetah run requires pre-booking and is only available on certain mornings and days, so check your schedule if this is a priority.

What animals will I see besides cheetahs?
You can expect to see wild dogs, servals, vultures, and other animals at the sanctuary.

Are drinks provided during the tour?
Yes, drinks are included in the vehicle during the safari.

How long is the tour?
It typically lasts for a full day, including pickup and drop-off.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, it is generally suitable for families interested in wildlife and conservation.

What’s the benefit of adopting a cheetah during the tour?
Adoption supports the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and allows you to contribute to the well-being of the animals.

How professional are the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Jason as reliable and very knowledgeable, enhancing the overall experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor safaris, sunglasses, and sunscreen are recommended; the tour provides drinks, but bring your own if desired.

This guided exploration of De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary is a fantastic way to connect with South Africa’s wildlife, learn about conservation, and enjoy a hassle-free day of adventure. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast, it offers a meaningful glimpse into the animal kingdom just outside Johannesburg.