Ashia Sanctuary for Cheetahs

About Ashia Sanctuary for Cheetahs

Just outside Paarl, in the scenic Cape Winelands of the Western Cape Province, is the Cheetah Experience Ashia. This is a world-class cheetah sanctuary as well as a working farm that is conveniently situated less than an hour outside Cape Town.

‘Ashia' is an African word that means ‘life and hope', and this is an apt name for a sanctuary that not only provides a place of safety for these exquisite wild cats, but also implements conservation and environmental education programmes. Ashia is situated at the foot of the Drakenstein Mountains, which makes for an idyllic backdrop.

The sanctuary was originally founded to prevent the already-dwindling cheetah population from further decline. Today, its goal remains to support other conservation initiatives that are both sustainable and ethical. Programmes that are committed to reintroducing cheetahs to their wild habitat are particularly important to Ashia.

Volunteer programmes, working holidays, and internships or research opportunities offer others the opportunity to play their part in conservation. Similarly, the working farm invites small groups to learn more about this intriguing predator and its threats, and to delve into what is being done or planned by committed conservationists. The primary focus is to assist this vulnerable cat to avoid extinction.

Visitors to Ashia will have the chance to observe the animals, be part of weekly cheetah runs, enjoy a private cheetah run, or walk with the animals. They can also volunteer to help for a day, take tours of the farm, or participate in animal enrichment tasks. Or, simply enjoy the untouched beauty and eco-diversity of the farm as you walk through it and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

The café at Ashia is the perfect place for visitors to unwind, have a snack, and enjoy the beautiful vistas of the Drakenstein Mountains. There are also high-end gifts and memorabilia available at the Boutique Shop.