Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre Tour from Johannesburg or Pretoria
A journey into Africa's most dedicated cheetah sanctuary, set in the scenic foothills of the Magaliesberg Mountains.
The Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre tour invites visitors into one of South Africa's most respected wildlife conservation sanctuaries, where endangered species are protected through rigorous breeding programs and community outreach. Located near Hartebeestpoort Dam, the centre offers a rare window into responsible, education-driven wildlife tourism.
Founded in 1971, the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre has spent more than five decades pioneering cheetah conservation in South Africa. Its work spans successful breeding initiatives, partnerships with global research organizations, and programs that teach local communities how to coexist with wildlife.
Visitors travel through the sanctuary aboard an open vehicle, guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the behavior, ecology, and conservation status of each species encountered. The experience balances genuine learning with the undeniable excitement of observing Africa's fastest land animal in action.
The centre is also home to African wild dogs, brown hyenas, servals, and vultures, each representing a broader commitment to protecting biodiversity across the region. The Magaliesberg biosphere setting adds a compelling natural backdrop to every stage of the visit.
Tour Highlights
Observe cheetahs during feeding sessions and witness their remarkable speed without direct interaction, prioritizing animal welfare throughout.
Explore the sanctuary on an open-vehicle guided game drive, allowing close observation of multiple species in their managed habitat.
Support a sanctuary with over 50 years of cheetah conservation history, contributing directly to breeding programs that bolster wild populations.
Capture photographs of cheetahs, African wild dogs, vultures, and other wildlife while your guide provides species-specific commentary.
Gain insight into conservation science through guides who explain research partnerships and community education initiatives active at the centre.
Experience the tour against the breathtaking backdrop of the Magaliesberg biosphere, one of South Africa's most scenic natural reserves.
The tour is family-friendly and accessible to all ages, making it suitable for school groups, families, and solo travelers alike.
Itinerary
Your driver collects you from your Johannesburg or Pretoria accommodation in the morning. The journey to the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre near Hartebeestpoort Dam takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes each way.
Upon arrival at the centre on the R513 near Brits, your guide introduces you to the sanctuary's history and conservation mission. You receive an orientation covering the ethical observation principles followed throughout the visit.
Observe cheetahs during a scheduled feeding session, learning about their behavior, physiology, and the challenges they face in the wild. Witness their exceptional speed demonstrated in the iconic cheetah run, reaching bursts of up to 112 km/h.
Board an open vehicle for a guided tour of the sanctuary, encountering African wild dogs, brown hyenas, servals, vultures, and other resident animals. Your guide provides detailed commentary on each species and the centre's role in their conservation.
After concluding the sanctuary visit, your driver returns you to your Johannesburg or Pretoria hotel, completing a full-day excursion of approximately 5 hours inclusive of travel time.
What's Included and Excluded
Included
- Return hotel transfers from Johannesburg or Pretoria
- Open-vehicle guided game drive at the sanctuary
- Expert guide commentary throughout the tour
- Cheetah observation and feeding session
- Entry to the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Centre
Not Included
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Food, beverages, and personal snacks
- Any items of a personal nature
Important Information
Book Your Cheetah Centre Experience
Secure your place on this wildlife conservation tour and contribute directly to the protection of endangered species in South Africa. Availability is limited, so early booking is advised.
Book Now
