Cheetah Experience (ZA Cheetah Conservation)
Cheetah Experience (ZA Cheetah Conservation)
Cheetah Experience (ZA Cheetah Conservation)
4.5
Tuesday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Wednesday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Thursday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Friday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Saturday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Sunday
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
About
Cheetah Experience is a registered non-profit endangered species breeding centre in Bela Bela, South Africa. Our Mission is to raise awareness of the vulnerability of South African species and other endangered species through educational experiences, as well as ethically breeding cheetahs in captivity. We are home to a number of endangered and threatened species, including cheetahs, leopards, lions, servals, caracals, African wildcats, wolves, and a Siberian tiger. Our project takes in rescued animals from the local area, so we also have various animals from time to time, including a goats and chickens. We offer visitors a once in a lifetime opportunity to come on an educational tour and learn about our animals, see them up close, take some amazing photos, and learn how you can join us in the fight to protect these precious species as well as offering volunteering experiences for those who want to get involved.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Meets animal welfare guidelines
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
284 reviews
Excellent
223
Very good
41
Average
10
Poor
6
Terrible
4
FannyBBlossom
San Jose, Costa Rica90 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
It is heaven on earth. As a paying worker volunteers, we got to do as little or as much as we liked around the animals. No experience necessary since induction was taken very serious and thorough. Constant safety supervision, direct interaction with some of the wildlife. All of the “big cats & small - cats were given as much privacy as they wanted or needed, with acres of their own enclosures. This is NOT a petting zoo! This is a dedicated, loving rehabilitation, sanctuary. The animals that can be physically interacted with, on their terms, require this care. Other animals are not physically interacted with by volunteers for the safety of all. Those that can be rehabilitated and returned to the wild are, but in safe reserves where no poachers or predators threaten them. The “village”where the lodging is was way beyond what we expected. All brand new homes for individual couples, families and volunteers. The homes are modern brick, fully equipped inside. Outside there are private court yards with fire pit. The views from each were spectacular. A common lodge with dining hall, bar, resort like swimming pool. The food was excellent & catered to all diet choices. The vegetarian meals were excellent. When there were leftovers we were given them to take back to our home. As for Riana, the founder, and every other staff person, their hospitality, individual care and attention to every guest is so genuine, helpful, kind and interactive- like nothing I have ever experienced in any of my world travels. They were “family”. They heard only once by chance, that my birthday was coming up, so they organized so many special gifts, celebrations and opportunities to be with the animals, that it was the most memorable and exceptional birthday for this 60 year old woman, it was bliss - especially for a Leo who likes presents.
A 150% experience of a lifetime. Many of the volunteers go again and again from all over the world and we intend to too now, even though it’s about a 24 hour journey from Vancouver Canada. Check out their website!
A 150% experience of a lifetime. Many of the volunteers go again and again from all over the world and we intend to too now, even though it’s about a 24 hour journey from Vancouver Canada. Check out their website!
Written 13 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you very much guys!! We truly appreciate the feedback and hope to see you soon!!
Written 20 September 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Caroline O
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Solo
Volunteering at Cheetah Experience is one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences I’ve ever done. I have been there 3 times now and it definitely won’t be my last time returning there.
The staff is truly amazing! They are very professional, commited and the animals are always a first priority and come first. You can really see the people’s passion and dedication to give all the animals the best life possible. The tours that they offer are very educational and give people from all around the world an insight into animal conservation. The animals enclosures are big with a natural environment and are cleaned on a daily basis.
As a volunteer I got to meet other people from different countries and even build new friendships. During this time I learned so much about cheetahs and all other animals at Cheetah Experience.
I have never seen a better place where they treat animals with this much respect, take care of their health and well-being.
This is definitely a „must“ if you are visiting South Africa or want to contribute as a volunteer to a good cause.
The staff is truly amazing! They are very professional, commited and the animals are always a first priority and come first. You can really see the people’s passion and dedication to give all the animals the best life possible. The tours that they offer are very educational and give people from all around the world an insight into animal conservation. The animals enclosures are big with a natural environment and are cleaned on a daily basis.
As a volunteer I got to meet other people from different countries and even build new friendships. During this time I learned so much about cheetahs and all other animals at Cheetah Experience.
I have never seen a better place where they treat animals with this much respect, take care of their health and well-being.
This is definitely a „must“ if you are visiting South Africa or want to contribute as a volunteer to a good cause.
Written 5 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Voyage43118475661
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Solo
I ve spent a 3 weeks incredible experience of volunteering at cheetah experience. The staff team is so committed and professional, the enclosures are big, the animals are very well treated and all the money goes to their conditions and happiness. I highly recommend a visit or a volunteer program as it s a rare opportunity to discover wonderful animals.
Written 30 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IamJen-NYC
New York City, NY3 contributions
Sept 2019
Every year, I dedicate some of my time to volunteer in the wildlife and environmental conservation space and in 2019 I had the pleasure of being able to volunteer at Cheetah Experience, Bloemfontein. Initially I was excited to experience and learn more about cheetah’s and contribute even a small amount to the conservation efforts, but within the 2 weeks I was there, my experience became so much more. The information I was able to learn from all the staff and other volunteers was one of the best experiences of all my volunteer efforts. The animals are treated with respect and their wellbeing is the number one priority there. Everyday since leaving, I have just wanted to go back.
Written 8 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ChuckyF1
Derby, UK35 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
I cannot say enough about this amazing place we were fortunate to spend time on a working holiday here! Everything about the place captures your heart, body and sould. We stayed here as a couple during Sept 2024.
You stay in an amazing, clean chalet in the Volunteer Village where there is a pool (currently being improved), restaurant (serves lunch only) and a bar with a pool table. You take care of yourselves food wise and can join the local shopping tour to get your essentials during your stay, apart from lunch which is provided and is delicious!
Meeting all the animals (too many to mention), learning so much and meeting Riana was one of my dreams to make Cheetah Experience everything it is today. I can't thank you enough. Your love for the animals resonates and inspires others.
From the dedicated, knowledgeable, caring team at the park to all the staff in the Village, you are all awesome and one week was not enough!
Thank you to (to name but a few); Jason, Tanya, Savannah, Miempie, Jenny (it was the wind in my eye!! :-)), Rian, Ibrahim, Wulvie, Gerbie, Pierre and especially Riana - for making this the most special place.
We will be back
Helen and Simon xxx
You stay in an amazing, clean chalet in the Volunteer Village where there is a pool (currently being improved), restaurant (serves lunch only) and a bar with a pool table. You take care of yourselves food wise and can join the local shopping tour to get your essentials during your stay, apart from lunch which is provided and is delicious!
Meeting all the animals (too many to mention), learning so much and meeting Riana was one of my dreams to make Cheetah Experience everything it is today. I can't thank you enough. Your love for the animals resonates and inspires others.
From the dedicated, knowledgeable, caring team at the park to all the staff in the Village, you are all awesome and one week was not enough!
Thank you to (to name but a few); Jason, Tanya, Savannah, Miempie, Jenny (it was the wind in my eye!! :-)), Rian, Ibrahim, Wulvie, Gerbie, Pierre and especially Riana - for making this the most special place.
We will be back
Helen and Simon xxx
Written 25 September 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StefanieVerdonck
6 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
Cheetah Experience is a place driven by love for the animals. As a visitor you can take an educational tour, meeting the animals and learning fun facts about them. But what I would totally recommend, is to volunteer. You can really make a difference, being involved in the daily caretaking of all the wild animals. If you fall in love, which you will, you can adopt your favorite animal. This way, you will support Cheetah Experience for a whole year to provide the best care.
Written 6 April 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sue H
Chicago, Illinois, United States32 contributions
Sept 2022
The rooms were clean. The shower had good water pressure. This place is great for families as there are many water slides and activities for the kids. The spa portion has great massages and a more private pool. If you are looking for a fun water park, this is it. If you are looking for an adult oriented spa vacation, choose one of the other Forever resorts.
Written 10 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pieter v
Sydney, Australia22 contributions
Mar 2016 • Couples
Even though it was awesome to be able to pet a cheetah, and see quite a variety of other cats, I'm not sure how much conservation is involved here. Got the impression that the focus is more on foreign volunteers who want a "Cheetah Experience", rather than the actual protection and best-interest of the cats themselves.
An example is the Bengal tiger, that was a gift to the owner. There was also a white lion who was clearly distressed by something in the next camp.
Some of the cats are bred with and then sold, while none are planned to be reintroduced back into the wild.
Much more like a zoo than a conservation park. Disappointing.
An example is the Bengal tiger, that was a gift to the owner. There was also a white lion who was clearly distressed by something in the next camp.
Some of the cats are bred with and then sold, while none are planned to be reintroduced back into the wild.
Much more like a zoo than a conservation park. Disappointing.
Written 21 March 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dolph C. V
5 contributions
Jun 2014 • Family
Spent 10 days volunteering and took away the most enchanting memories I've ever had.
The permanent staff is well versed in handling, caring, and protecting both the animals and you. It's a breeding center for endangered African cats with the ultimate mission is to establish a large reserve for them.
As a visitor, they let you safely get close and pet certain animals like the servals or caracals which were extremely tame; educating you about the lives and plight of every species you visit.
As a volunteer much of what you do is hands-on. My favorite task was feeding the yearling cheetahs which were rambunctious at times but mostly playful and affectionate. Staff had good rules about never forcing the cats to do anything; only encouraging them to listen. Enrichment included playing, walking, laying with them, personal feeding, and other activities.
I established a special bond with Gabriel; a yearling cheetah. He was the most affectionate cat I have ever met; preferring to lay on you while purring, grooming, and nibbling. Near the end of my tour, was able to befriend one of the resident adult ambassador cheetahs named Bibi, who allowed me to say goodbye with a purring rub to her chest while sitting in front of me. Was told that was special as she did not like men.
This is a very special place, as are the people that run it. They are always improving their facilities and deserve funding for their projects.
I'll never forget my experience there and hope to come back some day and see how Gabe and the other animals are doing.
Gavin
The permanent staff is well versed in handling, caring, and protecting both the animals and you. It's a breeding center for endangered African cats with the ultimate mission is to establish a large reserve for them.
As a visitor, they let you safely get close and pet certain animals like the servals or caracals which were extremely tame; educating you about the lives and plight of every species you visit.
As a volunteer much of what you do is hands-on. My favorite task was feeding the yearling cheetahs which were rambunctious at times but mostly playful and affectionate. Staff had good rules about never forcing the cats to do anything; only encouraging them to listen. Enrichment included playing, walking, laying with them, personal feeding, and other activities.
I established a special bond with Gabriel; a yearling cheetah. He was the most affectionate cat I have ever met; preferring to lay on you while purring, grooming, and nibbling. Near the end of my tour, was able to befriend one of the resident adult ambassador cheetahs named Bibi, who allowed me to say goodbye with a purring rub to her chest while sitting in front of me. Was told that was special as she did not like men.
This is a very special place, as are the people that run it. They are always improving their facilities and deserve funding for their projects.
I'll never forget my experience there and hope to come back some day and see how Gabe and the other animals are doing.
Gavin
Written 26 June 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your support and encouraging message.
Written 29 June 2014
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Helen B
birmingham uk25 contributions
if you are lucky enough to get a few hours to yourself whilst in blomfontein its a must to visit the cheater experience. Here you can hold baby tigers and cheaters and baby loins, you go into the pens with them and the quides are full of interesting knowledege. We took lots of videos and pictures as you can do this at ease. You can see huge loins in an open area and we was lucky to see a trainer playing with full size loins and rolling on the floor with them. This is a rescue and santuary place which is a must.
Written 24 October 2010
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Connie V
Laguna Niguel, California
Hi, what would you like to know about this attraction? We were at a place near Cape Town in 2003. There weren't many tourists there then and we actually got to pet the cheetahs. We have pictures of us with the cheetahs and their care givers. It is a wonderful memory.
Is that allowed now under any conditions? We are planning another trip to South Africa and Botswana and want to go back to this place and see the beautiful animals even if we can't touch them. It's a wonderful, thrilling memory.
Written 7 November 2019
Hi they do walk around tours around the Cheetah Experience, you get to see all the beautiful animals there. If you go there as a volunteer you will get a closer contact with the animals. If you google their website you will get more information about it. Hope this helps 😀
Written 8 November 2019
Do they have regular (domestic) cats walking around/outside of the enclosure? Going to sound silly but I love big cats, have a phobia of house cats & am booked here for 2 weeks. Any response much appreciated
Written 17 July 2018
CheetahExperience
Bela Bela, South Africa
Hi there,
We do have 2 normal domestic cats at the Volunteer House but none at the farm. If you are booked here for volunteering then if you could just please tell Riekie at the email address you have been emailing that you would not like to be in a room where the cats are and we can organise that for you.
Kind regards,
Sarah Emmett
Written 17 July 2018
Yes we are. The gates open at 09:30 on Sunday's. The 1st tour stards at 10:00 and then again at 11:00, !2:00, 14:00 and 15:00.
Hope we see you soon.
Written 17 July 2018
Omar E
Casablanca, Morocco
Hi, I am planning to conduct an internship at Cheetah Experience this summer and I was wondering what an average day of work was like at Cheetah Experience. When do you wake up ? What do you do ? How much of the day do you spend working ? Which activities are more frequent than others ? Basically what an average day is like at Cheetah Experience.
Thanks in advance !
Omar.
Written 20 January 2018
Hi Amor. Go to Cheetah Experience website. There is a section on volunteering. You can also reade what volunteers say about there experiences.
Regards.
Francois.
Written 22 January 2018
If I want to stay for a month, do they have hotels in the area or dormitories? I would like to volunteer.
Written 7 October 2015
KingCheetah
Bloemfontein, South Africa
We do have accommodation. Can I ask you to send your request to our email address and we will forward you all the information.
Have a lovely weekend.
Written 10 October 2015
What are your opening & closing times and how easy is it to find you?
How much is it to visit?
Written 6 October 2015
KingCheetah
Bloemfontein, South Africa
We have tours 11,12 14 and 15h00 daily. You will find a map on our website - Cheetah Experience. It is very easy to find us.
Written 13 October 2015
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