Welcome to Isindile Sanctuary
A Lifelong Home for Rescued Big Cats & Predators
About US
Where resilience meets dignity, and wild spirits find peace
Nestled in the breathtaking Witteberg Mountains of South Africa’s Eastern Free State, Isindile Big Cat & Predator Sanctuary is a registered non-profit company dedicated to providing a safe, enriching, and lifelong home for big cats and predators who have been exploited in private homes, breeding farms, zoos, and circuses.
The name Isindile, derived from isiZulu, means “has survived” — a testament to the incredible resilience of these magnificent animals. Each resident carries a story of hardship, but here, they find peace, dignity, and a chance to embrace their wild essence once more.
It’s a common misconception that rescued big cats can simply be released back into the wild. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. While they can’t return to their natural habitat, we’ve done everything possible to bring the wild to them. Our expansive, naturalistic enclosures mimic their native environments, allowing every creature—big or small—to thrive in harmony with nature.
Our motto? Wild at Heart.
Our Values
Top-Quality Veterinary Care
We provide the highest standards of veterinary care to ensure every resident stays healthy and thriving.
Strict Ethical Code
No breeding, no trading, and no direct human interaction — ever. Our sanctuary operates with uncompromising ethics.
Natural, Peaceful Environment
Our residents live in spacious, naturalistic enclosures designed to mimic their native habitats as closely as possible.
Compassionate Care Team
Our dedicated caretakers provide daily love, respect, and attentive care to every big cat that calls Isindile home.
More Than Just a Sanctuary
Our commitment extends beyond the animals to the land itself. With natural habitats disappearing at an alarming rate, we are dedicated to restoring and preserving the entire 570-hectare property. Here, every life—human and animal—can coexist and thrive.
Where it all began
The Tigers That Changed Everything
The story of Isindile wouldn’t be complete without Amber and Or, our very first rescued tiger sisters. Rescued from Seaview Predator Park, their arrival marked the birth of our sanctuary. Their spirits remain woven into the heart of Isindile—guiding us every day.
Who We Are
Meet Our Team
None of this would be possible without the incredible team who bring Isindile to life — dedicated caretakers Thabo Semase, Teboho Mosia, and Nhlanhla Nkosi hail from the local community. Despite no prior experience, their deep connections with the cats and newfound love for nature make them an integral part of our sanctuary.
Who We Are
The Founders
Ansa and David are the heart and soul behind Isindile Sanctuary. Driven by a deep love for big cats and unwavering commitment to ethical care, they founded Isindile to provide a safe, lifelong home for rescued predators. Living on-site, they lead the sanctuary with passion, hands-on care, and a vision to create a sanctuary where every animal can thrive with dignity and peace.
Building Isindile, Brick by Brick
Creating this sanctuary has been a labor of love, entirely self-funded. From purchasing land and constructing enclosures to building staff housing and a dedicated meat storage facility, every step has been a personal investment.
Recently, we expanded to include guest and volunteer cottages, a small veterinary care room, and a full transition to solar energy, ensuring a sustainable future for our sanctuary and its residents.
Registered Non-Profit Organization (NPO 2022/455973/08)