CHEETAH PLAINS RECOGNISED AMONG SOUTH AFRICA’S BEST RESORTS FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Continued recognition in the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards reflects three years of exceptional guest experiences in the heart of the Sabi Sand

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, October 2026 – Cheetah Plains has once again been recognised in the prestigious Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, marking the third consecutive year that the exclusive-use safari lodge has received recognition from one of the world’s leading travel awards.

Named amongst South Africa’s Best Resorts for 2026, the accolade continues an impressive three-year consecutive run for Cheetah Plains and reflects the consistency of an experience that continues to resonate with guests from around the world.

The Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards have long been recognising travellers’ favourite destinations, hotels, resorts and experiences for almost four decades and remain one of the travel publication’s most established annual awards programmes, choosing the victors based on voting and merit. The 2026 edition marked its 39th year, with hundreds of thousands of readers participating internationally, with more than 750,000 votes cast. 

“To be recognised by the Condé Nast Traveller readers for a third consecutive year is an achievement that means an enormous amount to us,” says NJ van der Merwe, Managing Director of Cheetah Plains. “Awards are always an honour, but there is something particularly meaningful about recognition that comes directly from our guests. This tells us that the experiences our team create continue to stay with our guests long after they leave, and to have that reflected consistently over three years is something we are incredibly proud of.”

Set within the renowned Sabi Sand Nature Reserve, Cheetah Plains has built its elite standing around privacy, personalisation and an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness. Three design-led, exclusive-use villas offer guests the freedom to experience a South African safari entirely on their own terms, supported by a dedicated hospitality and guiding team throughout their stay. Private game drives take place in silent electric safari vehicles, whilst bespoke culinary experiences, wellness offerings, and contemporary African art form part of a holiday designed around each guest. At its heart, however, it is the team behind Cheetah Plains, which makes it so unique and ensures guests return time and time again. From guides and trackers to chefs, butlers, housekeepers, wellness therapists and those working behind the scenes, each plays a vital role in creating this world-class experience. 

For Cheetah Plains, the latest recognition represents both a milestone and a motivation to continue to uphold the high standard of excellence in every guest experience while remaining true to what has defined the property from day one – luxury, personalization, privacy and a deep love of the bush. 

For any enquiries or bookings, reach us at reservations@cheetahplains.com or call +27 79 694 8430.

For media enquiries, please reach out to michelle@cheetahplains.com