Ashia Cheetah Experience

Such a letdown. Google says it opens at 0900 on Sat, but this is a reservation-only tour and walk-ins aren't accepted.

Ashia was a highlight of our trip to SA, and a must if you're in Cape Town or Franschhoek and interested in cheetahs. I spent ages researching conservation places because I wanted an ethical one, and Ashia exceeded what I expected. The staff clearly care deeply for the animals. Tours are only offered 3 days a week, with a maximum of 10 visitors, so the cats aren't overwhelmed; they also avoid getting cheetahs being prepared for release used to people. There's no touching, leash walks, or other practices I consider unethical. My husband and I had booked a volunteering day, but the weather didn't cooperate, and the staff kindly arranged a tour and cheetah run instead. We visited off season, were the only guests, and got a special private tour. We learned loads about cheetahs and their behavior, and the staff's passion for the cause really showed. I'll sign up for a volunteering day when I'm back in SA.

The tour and the run were amazing, and seeing how well the animals are treated made it worth the visit. Emily was lovely, explained everything clearly, and was very patient.

We were lucky enough to see every cheetah, and they all came out to greet us. We were the first visitors since lockdown. Kate, our guide, was great, full of interesting facts and clearly passionate about the animals in her care.