Each of the three exclusive-use villas was initially named by Cheetah Plains guide Andrew Khosa, who sought to honour the revered felines of the Sabi Sand — a private wilderness concession within the Greater Kruger, a collection of private reserves bordering Kruger National Park. The final names were ultimately decided by Japie, the owner. ‘Mapogo’ was a highly respected coalition of lions whose presence near the lodge, over a period of four years, earned the greatest respect from this passionate wildlife team.
It’s not often that the Perfect Hideaways’ architectural style of choice for an eco-safari is as clean-lined as this, but Cape Town-based architectural firm ARRCC envisaged a luxurious, forward-thinking lodge that was to reflect ‘an audacious new Afro-minimalism’, while setting the bar high as the first carbon-negative lodge in the Sabi Sand. They succeeded.
‘Our lifestyles are modern; nature is raw and primal. It is in that honest contrast that a beautiful tension exists,’ explains lead architect Stefan Antoni. ‘The architecture at Cheetah Plains exists to enhance the experience of the outdoors.’
At first glance, it’s the cantilevered pool pavilion crafted in a sculptural raw-steel and inspired by the canopy of the indigenous Tamboti tree – that makes an impact. Effectively shading the pool area without interrupting the view, it’s a signature design that softens the overall effect of off-shutter concrete and rough stone walls throughout the immaculate villa interiors.
To complement the striking architectural design, equally impressive custom-designed furnishings and a bespoke collection of art, sculpture and ceramics complete the Mapogo experience. Historically significant work by leading artists or rising talent from the African continent and its diaspora was hung by South Africa’s Goodman Gallery across the walls all three villas, providing a culturally rich experience for a visitor.
Global interest in African art also lead to the launch of a satellite gallery at the lodge in 2024, in addition to existing galleries in Johannesburg, London and New York, adding a significant cultural layer to the luxury game lodge experience. ‘Our space recognises the important role that art plays in bringing into our consciousness the immense effect we have on many social and environmental issues and how these are connected,’ says gallery owner and director Liza Essers.
Upon special request, we can arrange a bespoke diamond experience, while our exclusive Signature Collection is available in the boutique on-site. Travel writer, Richard Holmes, puts his finger on it: ‘In a world ever more focused on experiential indulgence, it is access – not excess – that offers the true definition of considered luxury. And at a handful of forward-thinking wilderness destinations, the opportunity to delve into a wild world of fine art has become the latest pathway to creating a more nuanced experience in the world of luxury safaris.
Yet there is no doubt that it’s the ‘people magic’ is so memorable here because Mapogo’s guests get to know their dedicated team from word go. Each villa has its own host, butler, culinary team, spa therapist, field guide and tracker who curate your entire safari experience, ensuring there’s no crossover, especially with other guests at the gym, hairdresser, art gallery or boutique. Equally, every meal is set in a different location every day, accompanied by the sommelier’s choice of wine, all from the owner’s superb collection. An in-depth, individually tailored private tasting is a must for discerning connoisseurs and collectors here, with access to some of South Africa’s rarest vintages and lesser-known vineyards in Mapogo’s cellar.
Equally, the wildlife experience is sustained with storytelling for all ages, with the wisdom of an experienced guide and tracker team who not only share fascinating insights at Big Five sightings but also identify the diversity of little creatures and birdlife that collectively makes up the ecosystem of this wilderness area.
First carbon-neutral lodge in the Sabi Sand
From the very beginning, a commitment to sustainability throughout the lodge has been a game-changer. Two of the most tangible investments for guests, include the energy efficient solar plant and the introduction of super-quiet electric game vehicles for zero-emission game viewing. Together with their recycling initiatives, these efforts translate to a reduction of 640 tons of carbon emissions a year, equivalent to the impact of planting over 20 000 trees.
Not surprisingly, Cheetah Plains is an award-winning safari destination. It was recently recognised as one of the ‘Top 10 Hotels in Africa’ in the 2025 Fodor’s Travel Awards and listed in Fodor’s prestigious ‘100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World’ for 2025.
Reviewed by Michelle Snaddon