Tag: Conservation

How a Kwandwe Safari Changes Lives

Doing Good,Experiences,Safari,South Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

At Rhino Africa, we’re not about the run-of-the-mill safari experience. And let’s be honest, neither are you. That’s why a Kwandwe safari is right up your alley. Tucked away near Grahamstown in South Africa’sEastern Cape, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is where luxury shakes hands with the wild, and trust us, it’s quite the handshake…

Close up photo of a person's hand touching a sleeping rhino's foot

Discover the conservation success stories of Kwandwe, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Unveiled

So, where exactly is Kwandwe Private Game Reserve? Picture 22,000 hectares of wild African bush, where the Big 5 roam free and the landscapes could make even the most seasoned traveller’s jaw drop. But what truly sets Kwandwe apart is its heart and soul – the unwavering commitment to conservation and community upliftment.

Observe an elephant dust-bathing itself on a Kwandwe safari

Thousands of animals and wildlife that call the reserve home, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Going Beyond Game Drives

At Kwandwe, the safari adventures are like a perfectly mixed cocktail of thrill and purpose, with a twist of conservation and a splash of community spirit.

Community members dancing in traditional garb

Kwandwe invest in projects that improve lives and create sustainable livelihoods, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

1. Conservation Volunteering: Get Down and Dirty

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Join the conservation team and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the wilderness wild. You could be tracking elusive wildlife, helping restore native vegetation, or playing a part in anti-poaching efforts. It’s a deep dive into the nitty-gritty of nature and is perfect for those who like their safaris served with a side of real-world impact.

Children planting spekboom in Kwande Private Game Reserve

Plant spekboom – one of the top five carbon-storing vegetations on the planet, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

2. Rhino Darting: Not Your Average Wildlife Selfie

Think you’ve seen it all? Wait until you’re darting rhinos! Join Kwandwe’s team in a high-stakes game of “tag” with a purpose. It’s not just about getting up close with these armoured unicorns; it’s about playing a vital role in their survival.

You’ll be in the thick of the action, helping with tracking, monitoring, and medical care. It’s hands-on, it’s heart-pounding, and it’s as real as it gets.

Rhino notching Kwandwe safari

Participate in Kwandwe’s rhino-darting and notching programme, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

3. Community Engagement: More Than a Friendly Wave

Forget just passing through local communities with a wave and a smile. At Kwandwe, you’re diving right in. You’ll be swapping stories, sharing laughs, and lending hands in our community projects. Whether getting your hands grubby in a school garden or sharing a cup of tea with the locals, every moment is packed with purpose and soul-stirring moments.

Community experience

Get to know the locals and join activities at the Ubunye Foundation, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

The Kwandwe Safari Experience: Wild at Heart

But wait, there’s more! A Kwandwe safari is also about those classic, spine-tingling moments that make African safaris epic. From fishing and nature walks to specialised photographic and birding safaris, follow expert guides as they reveal the secrets of the bush. Lions lounging in the sun, leopards prowling in the twilight – it’s like your own live-action nature documentary.

Boat and catch and release Kwandwe safari excursion

Kwandwe offers a variety of catch-and-release fishing activities, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe Accommodation

As for accommodations, think beyond “hotel room” to “luxury bush palace”. Whether it’s a lodge or a villa, you’re in for a treat – stunning views, plush comforts, and perhaps the occasional elephant sauntering past your window. Take a look at their spectacular abodes for the most sumptuous stay during your Kwandwe safari.

  1. Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge
  2. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge
  3. Kwandwe Melton Manor
  4. Kwandwe Uplands Homestead

Ecca Lodge exterior

Ecca Lodge offers an indoor-outdoor lifestyle embracing the African wilderness, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Why You’ll Brag About Kwandwe

A Kwandwe safari is a one-of-a-kind adventure that’s as enriching as it is exhilarating. So, are you ready to join us on this wild ride? You’re not just going on a safari. Instead, you’re becoming part of Africa’s conservation story – and that’s something to write home about!

Featured Image: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Pounding the Path of Purpose with the Extra Mile Trail Run 2023

Doing Good,Kruger National Park,Rhino Africa,South Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

As I laced up my shoes, I could sense a unique energy coursing through the crowd. The electric atmosphere was not just about anticipation but a deeper, more profound connection. I’m transported back to my first race, the nervousness palpable. However, today is different. Today, I’m here for The Extra Mile Trail Run, a race that stands for so much more than merely crossing the finish line.

Some members of the Rhino Crash waiting at the starting line

Excitement budling up before the race with my fellow Rhinos, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

Eight Rhinos on a “Soleful” Mission

But I wasn’t alone on this special day. True to our Rhino Africa ethos, my team, our dedicated Rhino Crash, ventured to Huntingdon Village, adjacent to the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa’s Greater Kruger National Park. 

We hail from the bustling city of Cape Town, and though we come from a vibrant urban setting, our hearts are deeply rooted in making a positive impact. We didn’t just come here to run a race; we came to be part of a bigger movement, understand the intricacies of rural life, and unite with a community working towards change.

Eight members of the Rhino Crash waiting in anticipation at the starting line

Eight members of the Rhino Crash waiting in anticipation (with a bit of nerves) at the starting line, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

“There’s nothing quite like journeying with colleagues who share your vision. Stepping out of our comfort zones, we face the challenging heat and demanding terrain of the run.

It not only offers an immense sense of individual accomplishment but even more so as a united team, or “Crash” as we fondly call ourselves. The bonds forged during this event are unbreakable.”

– Justine Ryan, Rhino Africa Senior Travel Expert.

Justine and Terence Ryan sneaking in a selfie just before the run

Justine and Terence Ryan sneaking in a selfie just before the run, Image Credit: Justine Ryan

The Heart of the Race

The terrain was challenging yet captivating. As the temperature rose, we navigated the winding, dusty trails, side-stepping shrubs and dodging the occasional cow – the physical exertion was evident. But amidst the laboured breaths and burning muscles, there were moments of deep connection.

Runners running the Extra Mile Trail Run

People from all walks of life coming together for a shared purpose, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

Each stride brought forth poignant reflections – of the communities we were supporting, of the area’s unique beauty, people’s potential, and the pressing need for upliftment and support.

Encouraging shouts from fellow runners, spirited water breaks, and shared stories added depth to our journey, making every kilometre not just a step forward but a step deeper into what The Extra Mile is really about.

Volunteer giving a runner some water

One of many much-need water stops along the route, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

What is The Extra Mile Trail Run?

Initiated in 2018, the Extra Mile Trail Run stands as a heart-driven annual fundraising event by the More Community Trust. Designed to offer enduring assistance to rural communities while also championing the conservation of endangered species, this trail run has garnered steadfast support in a very short period of time.

Warrior Ric sets the “NEVER SAY DIE” tone for the day – and keeps it going, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

A pivotal ally in this mission is the Good Work Foundation, one of Rhino Africa’s prime Impact Partners, which has consistently propelled sustainable advancements in the local community.

Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

The Good Work Foundation uplifts and educates communities to empowering future generations, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

The Goal of The Extra Mile Trail Run is Threefold

There are three main reasons why this race takes place:

  • To raise awareness of the community’s critical needs and the need for support from local NPOs and lodges
  • To promote the importance of preserving our natural heritage and connecting the community with conservation
  • Channelling funds towards eco-friendly advancements in these underserved villages

From selling snacks to cleaning up, everyone had a part to play, Image Credit: The Extra Mile Trail Run

Fueled by the joint efforts of beneficiaries and organisers, the local populace has displayed an immense passion for elevating their circumstances. Their deep-seated commitment has manifested in wholehearted participation and diverse involvement in the Extra Mile.

Community member cheerleaders

Community members coming together cheering for the cause with unyielding exuberance, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

This year alone saw the sponsorship of over 550 community runners, while an additional 150 locals lent their expertise in roles ranging from event setup to security and post-event cleanup.

Community member volunteer

Whether running the race or volunteering, everyone makes an effort to get involved, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

A Trail Run With Heart

One of the participants, a first-time runner named Thabo, shared with me, “You know, it’s not just about the running. It’s about our community, our survival, and our environment. We run to make a difference, to show we care, and to bridge the gap between where we are now and where we want to be.”

Participants from the community approaching the finish line

A group of fellow runners bringing all the energy, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

Local resident and runner Lerato told me, “Every step I take, I think of my children and the world I want to leave for them. Running with everyone from different walks of life gives me hope. Hope for change, hope for unity, and hope for a better future.” Her words resonated deeply with me, mirroring the sentiments I also share.

Brad Mitchell and other participant crossing the finish line hand in hand

Fellow Rhino Brad Mitchell likes to make lifelong friends along the trail, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

“Every year, I try to make a new friend from among the community runners. We chat and encourage each other along the way, and it’s fascinating to learn about their lives and what they are doing for their communities. 

I’ve been blessed to cross the finish line arm-in-arm with two fantastic characters in each of the two years I’ve run this race. I’ve learned so much from them and am so grateful to them for teaching me about their lives and reminding me of how important our industry is and the impacts it can have. 

I think the lesson it has taught me, most of all, is to live with joy and embrace even the tough uphills in the scorching sun with a smile on my face.”

– Brad Mitchell, Rhino Africa’s Head of Performance Marketing.

Coming together for a shared purpose, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

This profound connection was evident everywhere. From the determination on the runners’ faces to the community members’ enthusiastic involvement, it was a heartfelt reminder of the beauty of humanity and the wonders we can achieve when we come together.

Image Credit: The Extra Mile Trail Run

One of our Rhinos, Amanda ran her heart (and little legs) out, and we were so proud of her! Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

“I was guided, supported, and cheered by a community member named Jonas, originally taking part in the 5km run, who insisted on finishing the 10km with me. He stopped when I stopped, walked when I walked and became a beacon of motivation during my toughest moments.

While I grappled with the challenge, Jonas provided insights into the area, discussing the vegetable gardens, the water supply, and the role of the Good Work Foundation in supporting the community. It felt like I had a VIP tour amidst a gruelling run. I ran with a brother in arms, united, and we conquered the run together.”

– Dean van Rooyen, Rhino Africa HR Coordinator.

Dean and Jonas

Dean and Jonas, Image Credit: Dean van Rooyen

A Community’s Triumph

With the finish line in sight, emotions surged. This wasn’t just my journey but ours – as a collective. This race was not about individual achievements but a community’s combined dream. Mpho, another participant, captured this feeling beautifully when he said, “It’s about finishing a race together, as one community, with one heart and one vision.”

Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

There are few things as powerful as camaraderie, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

Reflections and Gratitude

The Extra Mile Trail Run has redefined what a race can be. It’s not just about personal bests or podium finishes. It’s about community, unity, and making a lasting difference. As I reflect on the event, my heart swells with pride, gratitude, and an ever-burning desire to continue positively impacting the world around me.

Myself and Justine before the extra mile race

My fellow Rhino Justine and I ready to take on the 10km Extra Mile Trail Run, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

First and foremost, I’d like to thank Rhino Africa’s Founder and CEO, David Ryan, for making this trip possible.

His decision to ensure our participation in the trail run was a testament to his genuine passion for community, conservation, and personal growth. He saw beyond the race, understanding its potential for fostering teamwork, resilience, and a deeper connection to our African roots.

Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

Sunshine and smiles all around, Image Credit: Chantal Barnard

In addition, I feel immensely grateful for my Rhino Crash teammates. Their determination, spirit, and commitment have been a constant source of inspiration. From Cape Town to Huntingdon, our journey was filled with lessons, laughter, and a lot of heart. Together, we truly went the extra mile, both literally and figuratively!

Our group of Rhino Africa runners, Image Credit: Extra Mile Trail Run

Mark Your Calendars: The Extra Mile Awaits in 2024!

To the More Community Foundation and the organisers, you continue to deliver an event that gives so much MORE in so many ways – we can’t wait to be back again next year.

And to those of you who are keen to stretch your legs and go The Extra Mile, save the date for next year. I’ll see you at the start line on 21 September 2024!

Rhino Africa’s Promenade Parade for World Rhino Day 2023

Cape Town,Rhino Africa,South Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

Rhinos – we’re obsessed with these real-life unicorns! In fact, we’ve cheekily dubbed ourselves the “Rhino Crash” here at Rhino Africa. However, as endangered African icons, they’re in need of a little human TLC. So, today, on World Rhino Day 2023, we’re spotlighting these incredible beings while supporting Wildlife ACT in its mission to save them. So, are you ready to join the parade? We sure are!

Black rhino in Namibia - celebrate World Rhino Day 2023 with us

We can’t imagine a world without our rhinos

“World Rhino Day is special for us as it’s a day dedicated to our namesake. The day ensures rhinos are kept top of mind, and awareness is being raised yearly as a result. They are thus continually protected for our future and valued as the incredibly unique species they are!” – Samantha Myburgh, Travel Expert

Championing Rhinos on World Rhino Day 2023

Let’s dish the deets on World Rhino Day 2023. This annual shindig goes down every September on the 22nd, honouring the planet’s five rhino species and rallying troops to save them from extinction. This noble cause was first cooked up by the genius minds at WWF South Africa in 2010.

Since then, the day has been a symbol of charging the cause forward, uniting rhino sanctuaries, eco-warrior NGOs, businesses with a heart, and concerned citizens to raise awareness and funding for these horned wonders.

Our World Rhino Day 2023 walk in Cape Town

Happy faces and smiles all around

“A rhino represents power, strength and endurance, many of the qualities we represent at Rhino Africa. This day is a reminder of their resilience in nature and gives us the opportunity to protect their survival, ensuring a future where rhinos continue to exist for all of us to appreciate and cherish.” – Simone Samuels, IT Lead Project Manager

Keep The Five Alive

So, let’s get down to the rhino species roll call. We’re talking about the black, white, greater one-horned, Sumatran, and Javan rhinos – the superstars of the rhino world. And our mantra for World Rhino Day 2023? It’s “KEEP THE FIVE ALIVE,” reminding us that only a handful of these beauties are left, and it’s our job to help them thrive!

Rhino Africa's World Rhino Day 2023 walk in Cape Town

Together we can make a difference

“World Rhino Day provides an opportunity for us all to celebrate the achievements and recognise the dedicated efforts of organisations worldwide, regardless of their size, in raising awareness about the vital need to safeguard our precious wildlife. This includes not only the protection of endangered species but also the proactive prevention of future entries onto the endangered species list.” – Landy Kent-Millar, Travel Expert

A Rhinopalooza on Sea Point Promenade

Now, when Rhino Africa steps up to the plate, we don’t just tiptoe; we bring the thunder! On World Rhino Day, we assembled at the bustling Sea Point Promenade in Cape Town, ready to impress.

Our Rhino Crash turned up in full force with extended families, friends, and, yes, even our four-legged pals. There were almost 80 of us championing the cause – and that’s not even counting our beloved fur babies!

Rhino Africa celebrates World Rhino Day 2023 with friends and family

Our Rhino Africa family

“World Rhino Day serves as a platform to raise awareness and educate not only our Rhino Crash but also our friends, families, and communities about the grave threats rhinos face in the wild. It’s an occasion for us to rally together, pool resources, and take action to safeguard these magnificent creatures.” – Dean Van Rooyen, HR Coordinator

Dressed to Impress – Rhino Style!

We live by a motto at Rhino Africa: “We show up like pink flamingos.” So, before we hit the streets, you know that we had to strut our stuff and make a statement. We whipped up some exclusive Rhino Africa World Rhino Day attire, and guess what? Every last dime from those shirts goes straight to Wildlife ACT to fuel their epic rhino-saving mission.

With our snazzy duds on, heads were turned, car horns hooted, people waved, and curious bystanders joined the jaunt. We were ready to get this show on the road!

Our World Rhino Day 2023 shirts

We like to dress for the occasion

“I’ve been fortunate enough to see some of the last remaining rhinos of the world in their natural habitat. I’ve seen them roaming the plains in Tanzania and munching leaves in Addo National Park. I’ve heard them drinking from a waterhole in the dead of night and listened to a crash snoring away in Kruger. On World Rhino Day, these memories flood my thoughts, and during those moments, my heartfelt wish is for the generations yet to come to share in these remarkable experiences.” – Gerhard Hefers, Travel Expert

Strutting Our Stuff in Support of Our Namesakes

Under the glorious spring sun and the fresh salty kiss of the ocean breeze, we huddled together to limber up before setting off on our World Rhino Day 2023 expedition. Among us, there were the seasoned sprinters and the leisurely strollers, all itching to get the show on the road! And with that, we were off!

As we paraded along the scenic seaside promenade, our Mother City didn’t disappoint – deciding to flaunt her dazzling beauty. The backdrop of crashing waves provided a soothing serenade to the lively chatter that filled the air. It was an impeccable day to pay homage to rhinos – our beloved real-life unicorns of the wild.

Our Rhino Africa Crash walking on the Sea Point Promenade on World Rhino Day 2023

Walking along the Sea Point Promenade

“I’ve always known that rhinos are unicorns in disguise, and I’m totally obsessed with them! That’s why, on World Rhino Day, I gladly take every step to keep their magic alive!” – Vicky Toms, Concierge Specialist

Ending on a Sweet Note

Our pals at Sotano, a popular restaurant in Mouille Point, opened their doors wide to welcome us for beverages and pastries after our procession. We gathered around, chatted about our morning escapade, and savoured delectable pastries and freshly brewed coffee. A big shout out to Sotano for their warm hospitality!

A crash of white rhinos - World Rhino Day 2023

A rhino crash sticks together

“World Rhino Day echoes the heartbeat of our planet’s biodiversity. It’s a day when we unite to declare that extinction is not an option and that the spirit of these magnificent creatures inspires us to stand as guardians of nature’s wonders.” – Yasmina Adams, Facilities Manager

Every Day is Rhino Day

Why restrict the rhino love to just one day? We’re firm believers that every day should be World Rhino Day! That’s why we’re always on the lookout for ways to support Wildlife ACT in their fearless quest to save the rhinos. You can dive deep into their extraordinary work right here.

World Rhino Day 2023: Rhino Africa staff wearing rhino costumes

We are Rhinos!

“World Rhino Day reminds us to cherish the present and act for a future where rhinos thrive. To bring awareness to these incredible creatures and how we as humans can make a difference in their lives to protect them for future generations to come.” – Janine Gous, Travel Expert

Want to Join in on the Rhino-Saving Action?

If you want to play an important part this World Rhino Day, you can make a donation below. All donations will go to Wildlife ACT to assist them in the valuable conservation work they do.

Account: RISE AFRICA FOUNDATION NPC

Bank: FNB

Branch Code: 201409

Account Number: 62743783541

Swift Code: FIRNZAJJ

Rhino at sunset

Let’s keep them alive!

“What World Rhino Day signifies to me is that it connects people around the globe, young and old, reminding us to protect and conserve these magnificent mammals. It’s an opportunity to educate people about the challenges they face and the importance of preserving their habitat and combating poaching. It’s a privilege to be part of a company that does just that.” – Barry Langenhoven, Sales Manager

Leave Your Mark in Africa

If you’re dreaming of an epic African safari, Rhino Africa is your go-to ticket. Not only will you embark on a life-changing journey, but you’ll also become a conservation hero, contributing to protecting Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and incredible people. Reach out to our Travel Experts today, and let’s kickstart your African odyssey!

How You Can Save Endangered African Wildlife

Doing Good,Indian Ocean Islands,Rhino Africa,South Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

Calling all animal aficionados! Are you ready to unleash your inner conservation warrior? Want to channel your passion into something truly meaningful? Look no further than Wildlife ACT’s volunteer programmes – where you can help make a real difference in the fight to protect endangered African wildlife.

A group of African wild dogs captured by a hidden camera

The African wild dog is one of the world’s most endangered mammals

Leave Your Legacy in Africa

Join us, the Rhino Africa squad, in doing good and becoming part of a legacy committed to safeguarding endangered African wildlife and their natural habitats. And if you really want to get your hands messy, roll up your sleeves and explore the incredible volunteer opportunities offered by Wildlife ACT.

Trust us, it’s a chance to get down and dirty in the best possible way, all while making a real difference for the animals we all hold dear. Let’s do this!

WildlifeACT is a hands-on organisation

Wildlife ACT is not afraid of getting their hands dirty to save our endangered species, Image Credit: WildlifeACT

Volunteer With Endangered Species

Do you enjoy the wilder side of life? Then look no further because the Volunteer With Endangered Species programme is perfect for you! From tracking rhinos and tallying wild dogs, this programme is the ultimate chance for you to make a real impact on the lives of endangered African wildlife. 

In the most biodiverse wildlands of South Africa, you’ll work alongside top-notch conservationists, monitoring, recording data, and safeguarding the precious existence of creatures including cheetah, elephant, lion, vulture, leopard, and of course, the majestic African wild dog.

Conservationists tending to a tranquilized lioness

Collaborate with conservationists to monitor and safeguard precious wildlife, Image Credit: Chantelle Melzer

Volunteer With Leopards

Calling all brave-hearted souls and big cat lovers! Wildlife ACT has been paw-picked by the prestigious Panthera to conduct leopard population surveys within the untamed terrain of Zululand, South Africa. But the Volunteer With Leopards project is not just any old survey, feline fanatic friends – it’s the BIGGEST of its kind on the planet! 

Get ready to participate in heart-pumping, short-term surveys using the latest and greatest remote camera trapping techniques. By collaborating with a bunch of provincial park pals, your discoveries can help steer management decisions and skyrocket leopard conservation efforts to new heights!

Thandi and her son Maribye in Sabi Sand Game Reserve

Assist conservation efforts by conducting surveys of the leopard population, Image Credit: Nigel Ridge

Marine Conservation Volunteering

Looking to plunge into the turquoise waters of Seychelles while leaving a positive impact on Mother Nature? Get hooked on Wildlife ACT’s Marine Conservation Volunteering project on North Island! Be part of a team of enthusiastic conservationists and researchers and help safeguard threatened species, revive ecosystems, and keep the marine life of this breathtaking private paradise thriving.

Seychelles pristine beach

Experience land and marine conservation life on the exclusive North Island in the Seychelles

But wait, this isn’t your ordinary seaside vacay – as an eco-warrior, you’ll be fully submerged in the realm of island conservation and ecology, working side by side with super smart scientists to observe and rejuvenate the distinctive habitats and marine wildlife of North Island.

Whether you’re diving deep for data collection or getting your hands sandy in the field, every day is a fresh escapade and an opportunity to make a tangible change in the world. So, pack your fins and join the force for a marine revolution!

Turtle in the Indian Ocean

Dive deep into the sphere of island conservation and environmental science

Southern Drakensberg Conservation Project

To all you vulture enthusiasts out there, get ready to soar with inspiration! Our precious winged scavengers are in danger, and we won’t let them go extinct on our watch! The Maloti-Drakensberg Park in KwaZulu-Natal is one of the last refuges for the bearded vulture and Cape vulture.

Two young Cape vultures

Young Cape vultures perched on the Drakensberg clifftops

By volunteering, you’ll become a vulture conservation warrior and help establish vulture-safe zones throughout the region. You’ll get hands-on experience managing feeding sites and nests, conducting surveys, and even hiding out in ground-based hides to keep a watchful eye on these majestic creatures.

So, if you’re ready to spread your wings and make a real difference, join the Southern Drakensberg Conservation Project. It’s time to soar to new heights and save endangered African wildlife!

Vulture being gently studied by conservation specialists

The vulture is a keystone species providing several fundamental ecosystem services, Image Credit: Wildlife ACT

Leopard and Whale Survey

Get ready to embark on an adventure of epic proportions! Wildlife ACT has partnered with the incredible WILDOCEANS WhaleTime Project, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife to bring you the Leopard and Whale Survey project.

Leopard in the wild

Take part in the largest camera-trap-based leopard census in the world

This initiative merges the world’s biggest camera-trap-based leopard census with a study of the northward migration of humpback whales off the coast of Southern Africa. And guess what? You can be a part of it!

By joining forces, you’ll not only safeguard our favourite spotted cats but help fill a scientific census void in the humpback whale populations along the KwaZulu-Natal coastline. With looming threats such as shipping, oil and gas exploration, climate change, and more, it’s vital that we take action to protect the world’s largest mammals.

Humpback whale breaching

It’s important that humpback whale populations be monitored consistently

Join us on the Conservation Frontlines

Are you prepared to unleash your inner eco-warrior and embark on a journey that will change your life? Well, have no fear because Wildlife ACT will be your number-one ally on the conservation frontlines. 

But hey, if you’re not quite feeling like a modern-day Tarzan or Jane just yet, don’t sweat it! Just by travelling and booking with us, you’re already a part of a movement to help protect and uplift Africa’s wildlife, landscapes and communities. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s go save the world, one African adventure at a time!

King Charles’ Philanthropic Endeavours in Africa

Doing Good,Kenya,Safari,South Africa
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By Michelle Welvering on

Hear ye, hear ye! As we approach the coronation of King Charles III, let us take a moment to celebrate his unwavering love for our beloved continent of Africa. From the stunning landscapes of the Serengeti and the bustling streets of Cape Town, His Majesty has explored Africa with fascination, purpose and an unbridled sense of adventure.

King Charles III has a special relationship with East Africa and other parts of our continent

A truly soulful safari in East Africa 

The King of Many Crowns

In his sojourns to lands like Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Botswana, and South Africa, King Charles has demonstrated a profound appreciation for the magic of Africa. He has danced with tribal chiefs, tasted local delicacies, and even mastered traditional West African instruments. Oh yes, His Majesty is no stranger to our magnificent continent. 

Hands plucking at the strings of a Kora, King Charles III is interested in African music instruments

The kora is a stringed instrument used extensively in West Africa

King Charles Sets Sights on South Africa

For decades, King Charles hath his eyes set upon the breathtaking land of South Africa! In a display of his unbreakable bond with the country, Buckingham Palace didst welcome South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa with open arms in November 2022, marking the commencement of the King’s first state visit since becoming British monarch.

King Charles III and Camilla meeting South Africa's president Ramaphosa in London

King Charles III greets President Ramaphosa, Image Credit: Leon Neal, Pool Photo via AP

The storied relationship between these two great nations is nothing short of legendary, and King Charles’s reverence for South Africa is no secret. And we don’t blame him! As our cherished homeland, South Africa’s rich culture, breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and strong sense of togetherness are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

King Charles has visited Africa on numerous occasions, from his most recent trip in 2018, wherein he turned his attention towards education, youth development, and conservation, to his 1997 pilgrimage alongside Prince Harry. And in 2013, when he paid his respects at the funeral of our beloved former president, Nelson Mandela.

King Charles III met Nelson Mandela in 1997

Nelson Mandela had a long standing relationship with the Royal Family, Image Credit: South African Tourism

Verily, King Charles’s love for South Africa is matched only by his fondness for its people, and his and Camilla’s visit in 2011 is a testament to this. During their visit, Charles and Camilla graced &Beyond’s Phinda Private Game Reserve – a stunning nature haven and a true beacon of eco-tourism. 

The royal couple’s presence was part of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) initiative, which showcased conservation projects in KwaZulu-Natal. They championed the cause of wildlife preservation, highlighting the pressing need to protect these magnificent creatures from harm’s way. 

People observing wildlife on a nature walk

Phinda Private Game Reserve runs a number of ground-breaking conservation projects, Image Credit: &Beyond

In addition to shedding light on noble causes, King Charles and his team visited the Mduku community. There, they were delighted to witness the astounding success of the Mduku Clinic, which serves the needs of three communities neighbouring Phinda Private Game Reserve.

His Majesty commended the community projects for their unwavering commitment to improving people’s lives and applauded them for not only making a meaningful difference in people’s lives but also for being an inspiration to people around the world.

A doctor at Mduku Clinic, one of the organisations that King Charles III supports in South Africa

The Mduku Clinic provides a 24-hour emergency service to the rural communities near Phinda, Image Credit: &Beyond

A Kenyan Adventure Fit for a King

Thy Royal Highness hath also ventured numerous times to Kenya, impelled by his fervour for wildlife preservation and sustainable tourism. Kenya dost possess a splendid array of iconic fauna, including the illustrious Big 5 and the annual Great Wildebeest Migration.

The Great Wildebeest Migration in East Africa, one place King Charles III and Camilla like to visit

Wildebeest crossing the Mara River during the annual Great Migration

On one particularly memorable excursion in 1971, the then-Prince and his sister, the esteemed Princess Anne, embarked upon an indelible safari in the Maasai Mara National Reserve. Amidst the breathtaking landscapes, Charles and Anne gazed upon a regal lion from the comfort of their Jeep.

Lions rule Kenya’s animal kingdom

But let it not be said that Charles was present solely for his own amusement – nay, he took an active role in collaborating with gamekeepers and local communities to champion the cause of wildlife conservation and the fight against the heinous act of animal poaching.

This noble undertaking is no surprise, considering his late father, Prince Philip, who co-founded the WWF, and his son, Prince William (now the Prince of Wales), who are both deeply committed to the cause of global conservation. It’s clear that the pursuit of protecting our planet’s wildlife runs deep in the veins of this royal family.

WildlifeACT fights to protect our endangered species

Wildlife ACT fights to protect our endangered species like rhinos, Image Credit: Wildlife ACT 

King Charles’ Tanzanian Tour of Duty

Behold the wondrous land of Tanzania, graced by none other than royalty itself in their quest to foster sustainable tourism and safeguard its splendid wildlife. Herein lies a treasure trove of Africa’s most renowned attractions, from the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater to the towering peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. 

An elephant with Kilimanjaro in the back, King Charles III adores East Africa

The looming mass of Mount Kilimanjaro commands respect

In 2011, Charles and his beloved wife ventured forth to Tanzania to celebrate the jubilant 50th anniversary of the country’s independence in a grand display of solidarity and camaraderie. The stately couple rallied behind the noble cause of promoting sustainable agriculture and extending a helping hand to the local farmers.

In fact, recently, King Charles has pledged nearly £2 million to aid African farmers and support crucial environmental causes through the Prince of Wales’s Charitable Fund. This remarkable act of generosity will make a significant impact in the lives of many and serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of philanthropy to drive positive change.

The royal couple also graced the Maasai people with their presence, partaking in the vibrant rhythm of their traditional dance and paying homage to the cultural heritage of these ancient people. Through their visit, they not only reinforced the importance of sustainable practices but also emphasised the crucial need to preserve the rich cultural heritage of the country, a legacy to be cherished by generations to come.

Massai people performing a traditional dance - something that King Charles III was also interested in during his stay

The Maasai people are an indigenous ethnic group found in Kenya and northern Tanzania, Image Credit: &Beyond

Zimbabwe & Zambia: Dependence to Development

In 1980, King Charles visited Zimbabwe during their momentous independence celebrations, representing the Queen with grace and honour. And in 1984, he returned to the country once more, this time as the director of the esteemed Commonwealth Development Corporation (C.D.C), after his visit to Zambia.

Established in 1948 with a noble vision to uplift the dependent territories of the Commonwealth, the C.D.C. has been at the forefront of spurring accelerated development throughout Africa. With a steadfast focus on the vital arena of economic development, spanning sectors such as agriculture, forestry, electricity, water supply, transport, housing, and more, the C.D.C. has been a beacon of hope for much-needed rural communities.

Even though his visit was brief in both countries (you know, pressing royal duties and all), there is no doubt he got a glimpse of the mighty and massive Victoria Falls. We mean, it’s hard to miss as this Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site straddles both Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Helicopter experience over Victoria Falls

Helicopter experience over Victoria Falls, Image Credit: Flight of the Angels

Botswana, the Land of Inspiration

Embarking on the final stretch of his incredible 1984 tour through Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, King Charles arrived in Botswana with a heart full of hope and a deep desire to inspire change. With a steadfast commitment to bettering the lives of those in need, His Majesty took the time to inspect the remarkable projects funded by the esteemed C.D.C.

After his royal duties, some downtime was well-deserved, so guided by his passion for nature and his love of exploration, King Charles made headlines when he piloted a twin-engine aircraft and flew to Chobe Game Lodge, the only permanent safari lodge in the elephant-rich Chobe National Park.

King Charles III flew to Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana himself

A bird’s eye view of the Chobe National Park

Fast forward a few decades later, and King Charles’s sons, Princes William and Harry, continue his legacy by visiting Botswana on behalf of Tusk Trust, a charity renowned for its highly efficient approach to funding wildlife conservation programmes.

Elephants drinking water - experience Africa like King Charles III

Botswana, the land of gentle giants

Embark on Your Royal African Adventure

And so, as we celebrate the coronation of King Charles III and his unwavering love for Africa, let us take inspiration from his bold sense of adventure and his deep appreciation for the unique beauty and diversity of our beloved continent. We invite you to follow in his footsteps and experience the magic of Africa first-hand.

Long live King Charles III, the King of Many Crowns and a true friend to the people and wildlife of Africa!

23 Reasons Why Botswana is Africa’s Best Kept Secret

Botswana,Destinations
7 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

There’s no place like Botswana. The wildlife and landscapes might be the big drawcards, but it’s the smaller aspects that also win over the visitors to this remarkable country. Well, not all of them are so physically small, but they all add up to an experience that is truly remarkable. We’re talking about…

Boat cruise at sunset in Botswana – Okavango Delta

1. Chobe River Sunset Cruises

One of Africa’s bucket list experiences, a sunset cruise here involves world-class game-viewing from the boat while elephants, buffalo, lion and warthogs visit the river for an evening drink. And the kaleidoscopic sunsets are damn spectacular too.

2. Water Lilies

These elegant flowers are held above the water at the tip of a green stalk and can be found all over the Okavango Delta. The white day lilies with a yellow centre are most common. If you’re out in the evening you might also see the slightly different, pinker night lilies.

3. The Birdlife

Botswana is a bird paradise, home to birds from small, brightly-coloured kingfishers, parrots and bee eaters to the large and powerful hawks, kori bustards, and eagles. Owl bet you’ve never seen birds like this!

Flock of birds Kings Pool, Botswana

4. The People

Down-to-earth, warm and welcoming, the people of Botswana are one of the secret ingredients for their successful tourism industry.

5. Bush Flights

Lodges in Botswana are remote and far apart from each other. The answer: bush planes that not only get you to your destination quickly but add an exciting experience to your day.

6. Wild Dogs

Botswana is a wild dog hotspot as it is home to around 30% of the remaining population of this fascinating social canine, one of the world’s most effective hunters.

Wild dogs at Kings Pool in Botswana

7. Its Fascinating History

Botswana is one of the only African countries to never be colonised. It did however attract international attention when Seretse Khama, heir to a local kingdom, married a British woman, Ruth Williams, while studying at Oxford. This story was recently turned into a film called A United Kingdom starring David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike.

8. Mokoros

Silently gliding through ancient waterways made by hippos and elephants while birds and dragonflies dance around you is one of Africa’s most enchanting experiences.

9. Meerkat Experience

Watch a mob of wild yet habituated meerkats wake up in the Makgadikgadi Pans, emerge from their burrows, wrestle with each other and start hunting. You’re even able to get up close and walk with them or sit with them while they climb on you to use you as a sentry lookout post.

10. Singing

“We love to sing because it’s like a form of bonding for us,” I was told more than once in Botswana. And that was clear when the lodge staff sang too, often putting on lively and moving performances. The power of their voices often brought a few tears to the eyes in the crowd.

Dancing at sunset – Okavango Delta, Botswana

11. Walking Safaris

Go on and get walking amongst the elephants and predators in Botswana’s wilderness. Due to the amount of wetlands, there are not many camps that offer walking safaris, but the ones that do create an amazing experience. If there’s one way to get the heart racing, this is it.

12. The Zebra Migration

Botswana’s zebra migration is the second largest land-based migration in Africa and is made up of between 25,000 and 30,000 zebra. Their epic journey begins in the southern Okavango and heads through the Nxai Pan National Park, ending up at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park in search of mineral-rich grasses, fresh water sources, and safe breeding grounds.

Herd of zebra standing in Moremi Game Reserve, Botswana

13. Kalahari Bushmen Experience

Step back in time with the Kalahari Bushmen who share their ancient hunting and food-gathering knowledge of the desert as well as their fascinating trance dance.

14. Glamping

Ah the best of both worlds, luxury and adventure. Sounds like a perfect holiday and Botswana does glamping better than most. It offers the joys of camping without the fuss.

15. The Big Cat Populations

Botswana is one of the finest places in Africa for big cats, with cheetah commonly seen in the Kalahari Game Reserve, as well as the infamous black-maned lion. The Linyanti Wildlife Reserve, bordering the Delta, is one of the best places in the world to see leopard.

Leopard in a tree, Botswana

16. Boat Trips

The Okavango Delta is the biggest inland delta in the world and the water acts as its roads. Cruising on its waters, with wildlife on its banks, is one of the most stirring and quintessential Botswana experiences and is what distinguishes it as unique compared to other African safaris.

17. Elephants

They don’t call Botswana the elephant capital of the world for nothing. Home to more than 150,000 elephants, Botswana has more elephants than any other country.

Elephants covered in mud in Machaba Camp, Botswana

18. Selinda Canoe Trail

This is a 5-day canoeing trip down the Selinda Spillway. You’ll paddle past hippos and elephants and spend your nights around a campfire while camping on the river banks. It doesn’t get much better than that.

19. Kalahari Stars

One of the world’s largest deserts has some of its brightest night skies. Sit round a fire, with a drink in hand and get lost in its glittering panorama of end-to-end stars.

20. Savute Marsh

The marsh is home to the mysterious Savuti channel, which flowed in Livingstone’s time, but went dry in 1880, and remained dry for about 70 years. It then flooded again in 1957. And did so on and off for the next few decades. It has now been dry for the past 18 years. The resulting marsh is green and thick with herds of wildlife and reminiscent of East Africa.

Sitting in the moonlight along the Okavango Delta in Botswana

21. Helicopter Safaris at Belmond Eagle Island Lodge

Lying in Botswana’s lush Okavango Delta, Belmond Eagle Island Lodge is surrounded by a staggering variety of animal, plant, fish and birdlife. And you can see it all on the helicopter safaris that provide a bird’s-eye view of this unique landscape.

22. Elephant Interaction at Abu Camp

Meeting Abu Camp’s resident elephant herd gives you a unique opportunity to interact and learn from these incredible creatures and is described as Africa’s premier elephant interaction experience.

23. Hot Air Ballooning in the Delta

This is one of the most enjoyable and unique ways to enjoy the wonders of the Okavango. Wilderness Safaris offers this experience at a number of their camps in the Delta.

The Secret to the Joy of a Mokoro Ride Explained

Botswana,Destinations,Safari
14 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

Our mokoro launch is as smooth as a marble kitchen counter. Without a sound we glide off into the waters of the Okavango Delta, following paths initially formed by hippos and elephants long before. We move at a serenely slow pace while dragonflies skim the calm surface and malachite kingfishers perch on the reeds around us. We sit low on the floor of the mokoro, propped against molded plastic seats while our guide, John, stands in the back and propels us, his two passengers, forward with a long pole.

Mokoro ride down the Okavango Delta in Botswana

Mokoros are sometimes called the gondolas of Africa, and the comparison seems fitting as they are equally romantic. A mokoro is a traditional dug-out canoe, carved from a sausage, sycamore fig, or jackalberry tree. These days, however, Botswana’s government has called for the use of fiberglass models to help conserve trees. It’s the traditional method for getting around in the shallow wetlands of the Okavango, used by fishermen to fish and travel between islands.

Buck crossing river plains in Botswana

John doesn’t talk much. He’s been living in the Delta all his life and it seems like he knows the best part of a mokoro trip is the tranquillity due to the lack of a motor. He pushes us stoically along as the sun starts to near the horizon and the light takes on that magical quality photographers adore. We’re in a group and I see the blissful smiles on my friends’ faces as we pass them, as if they’re being whisked off to the next buffet. All I hear is the occasional splash of an oar or chirrup of a bird and I close my eyes in revery.

Mokoros at the edge of the water, Botswana

Blossoming water lily in Chobe River, Botswana

What’s the secret?

“What is it about gliding on water that is so enjoyable?” I ask John. He just smiles and shrugs, as if to say; it just is. I’ve been thinking about it for a while now. Well, ever since we arrived in Botswana, the home of water-based safaris. For a landlocked country boasting the massive Kalahari Desert, the amount of water here is staggering. The Okavango Delta is flooded each year from the rains that fall in the Angolan Highlands and flow down into Botswana before emptying into the flat wetlands of the Delta. We’ve been whisked through the riverways of the Delta between lodges, gone tiger fishing and now the mokoro ride. And it’s all been glorious.

Reflection of mokoro and trees behind at Machaba Camp, Botswana

The thought reminds me of a short New York Times documentary about a retired doctor called Slomo who spends every day of his life rollerblading on the San Diego beachfront. Slomo realised there is something about lateral acceleration that, “makes many of us feel good.” He studied this further and discovered there is a neurological explanation for the joy that gliding brings.

“Acceleration stimulates a set of receptors which are in the inner ear that connects us with the centre of the earth by gravity,” Slomo says. “A piece of calcium sits on a membrane so that any change in the relative change of gravity will make this stone roll and therefore there will be some indication that the body is moving relative to the centre of the earth. When we have a continuous feeling of acceleration, and if you keep it constant, you can use it for meditation because it puts you in a zone.” Think of surfing, skateboarding, riding a bicycle and… cruising on a river. Now, mix that joy of a boat cruise with the thrill of epic, back-to-back wildlife sightings and you begin to understand the magic of Botswana.

Testament to Botswana’s allure is the fireside conversations we have with the other guests every night. Vicki, from Toronto, for example, was on her first trip to Africa. A retired teacher, she lit up like one of the little girls she used to teach when talking about her first lion sighting. With eyes glimmering like the fire beside us, she couldn’t stop smiling. The next day she was due to go on her first mokoro ride. I couldn’t wait to see her and hear her about her experience.

Outline of a bird in the sky of Botswana

Stuart Parker, from Desert and Delta Safaris, explains, “There’s not a lot of safari destinations that offer anything similar. Most areas are focused on game walking and game drives but Botswana offers much more than that. What’s hard to understand about Botswana is how much the experience also involves the experience between destinations. To have a proper Bots experience, you need to visit two or three properties so you can understand how it all fits together. That’s why it’s an experiential safari. It’s not only about seeing wildlife. It’s about seeing how the wildlife fits into the environment, at different times of year, in this complex system.”

The Chobe Extravaganza

A few days later and we’re back on the water, this time on the Chobe River for one of their famous sunset cruises. Botswana is the elephant capital of the world, home to one-third of Africa’s elephants, and Chobe is home to one-third of that. In the dry season, thousands of elephants descend on the river to drink, swim and cool down.

We climb aboard our skimmer boat and our captain, Vivien, tells us, “We’re never sure what we’ll see but we’ll slowly make our way up river and see what we can find.” Sounds good to us. Gin and tonics are poured and we settle in to enjoy the passing landscape, wildlife and other boats. We see kingfishers, fish eagles, carmine bee-eaters, vultures, a buffalo cooling itself in the shady waters, elephants drinking, herds of impala, and baboons playing in the trees. As the afternoon starts to cool, more and more elephants start to appear on the river’s banks.

Light blue kingfisher taking flight in Botswana

Green-eyed crocodile swimming through water in Botswana

Our drinks are flowing, too, and we bask in the glow of this amazing journey through Botswana. Not for the first time this trip, the wildlife becomes a side attraction and we are simply happy to watch things pass us by, admire the setting sun, take a photo or two and enjoy the moment. As the horizon turns from orange to tangerine to pink, we attempt to have a moment of silence to savour the splendour but we’re too happy to sit still.

Buck standing in tall grass in Botswana

Hippo covered in plants swimming through water near Machaba Camp, Botswana

These waters have been a source of much of our joy and it’s fitting that we spend our last evening on them before we go to the desert. The sun has gone now, slipping over the horizon like a leaf floating past our boat. Soon, we’ll enjoy a dinner under the stars accompanied by a festive marimba band, but for now, we sit back and watch the colours change, wishing already that it won’t be too long before we return to Botswana’s waters and incredible charms.

Solo sunset Mokoro ride in Botswana

Beautiful sunset along the Okavango Delta in Botswana

On a Bushwalk With Elephants in One of Africa’s Last True Wildernesses

Botswana,Destinations
9 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

The elephants are surrounding us. Every step we take, every new direction we choose, seems to take us further into their territory and closer to another elephant. It’s like we’re walking into a Wild West town and the elephants are trying to intimidate us. If it wasn’t for Tau, our experienced guide, it would all be a little frightening.

Taking photos while on a bush walk in Botswana

Tau calmly leads the way through the sparse bush with just a thin reed stick in his hand (the thinking is guns create a dangerous overconfidence) and occasionally stops to explain the flora and fauna around us. Half an hour after sunrise and the light is soft and the air cool. The wildlife seem to all be waking up together. Baboons shriek loudly in the marula trees like unruly children, barking warnings to their rivals. Little bee-eaters flit around us landing on nearby branches as if eavesdropping on Tau’s talk.

Safari guide – bush walk, Botswana

We’re in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta, one of the remotest and wildest places in the world, on a small three-km-wide island called Buffalo Island. It’s only the third day of my two-week jaunt through Botswana. As we walk deeper into the wilderness more elephants appear around every corner, quietly chomping on grass and staring at us. They all seem to be moving closer, like nosy neighbours trying to get a better look.

Young elephant drinking water – views along a bush walk in Botswana

Lone elephants walking along the grass – Bush walk in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

“We have to steer clear of them because they are young bulls and can be quite aggressive,” Tau warns with a smile. “Other than elephants, we often see buffalo and lion here. It’s… ” Tau stops talking abruptly as if his sentence has run flat into a wall. His eyes light up at something behind us, he turns and walks on, urging us to follow him. I look back and see two elephants standing at an acacia behind us, recently arrived. The sun is rising just behind them, forming halos above their heads.

Tau leads our group of six to a large termite mound where we stop for a moment and look around carefully. This is not the kind of place to be complacent. If anything were to happen now it would be a long way back to civilisation. The closest lodge, the stunning Camp Okavango, is a 25-minute boat ride through the wetlands of the Delta and roads are non-existent. For a long time, it was completely inaccessible due to the tsetse fly and the sleeping sickness it carried. Even then, the wetlands made it near impassable. Today, the tsetse fly is gone but it‘s still one of Africa’s last true wildernesses, a remote Eden like no other.

Boat trip and reflection of the sky – Okavango Delta, Botswana

A fluke of nature

Botswana’s landscapes are notoriously inaccessible: the Kalahari Desert covers more than 70 percent of the country and the Okavango Delta – one of the world’s biggest wetlands – makes up another big portion of it. In fact, when Botswana gained independence in 1966 the country had just 12 km of tarred road – and it’s bigger than Spain! For those who have never been, it can be almost impossible to grasp just how vast and wild Botswana is.

Botswana’s landscape would have been unrecognisable from what it is today if not for one cataclysmic event: an earthquake 50,000 years ago. This shifted the land between Botswana and Namibia slightly, interrupting the flow of the Okavango River. For two million years, the Okavango River flowed through Botswana and drained into the massive Makgadikgadi Lake. The earthquake diverted the river’s course and sent it spilling out into the desert, forming the greatest natural oasis on earth: the Okavango Delta. This also cut off the water to the Makgadikgadi Lake thus drying it out over centuries to form the Makgadikgadi Pans today – Botswana’s other great wilderness.

“The Okavango Delta is a fluke of nature,” Paul Steyn, a National Geographic contributor writes, “an awkward geological twist of fate. The inundated area of the Okavango Delta fluctuates between 6,000 to 8,000 square kilometres every year, swelling to up to 15,000 during the flood. The swamps and floodplains have kept human development at bay, and the wildlife remains as wild as it was 10,000 years ago. More than 150,000 islands now dot the Delta, varying in size from several metres to larger than a big city.”

“Many of the islands in the Delta began as termite mounds,” Tau says, stabbing a mound with his thin walking stick when the sound of a nearby elephant interrupts him. The sound is alarmingly close. The loud crunching and breaking branches is coming from the other side of a large bush we are standing next to.

Tau pauses for a second and shoots his assistant guide, Stagga, a look urging him to find out about the noise, and continues on. “Birds would perch on the termite mounds and their droppings had seeds in them that would sprout trees. People like to complain about termites because they destroy houses and furniture but the Okavango Delta wouldn’t exist without them.”

Elephant grazing in Botswana

Snap snap snapStagga is back, clicking his fingers loudly and pointing away from us. The urgency and look in his eyes mean one thing. Move!

We scurry off with a nervous giggle and walk away from the noise, retreating towards some bushes. As we breathe a collective sigh of relief, an elephant emerges out of the bushes we’re headed for. Tau sees it and stops. Now it’s his chance to smile nervously. He diverts us yet again.

Baby elephant wandering among the herd – Okavango Delta, Botswana

The elephant capital of the world

Listen to the sound of Botswana’s wilderness

A good illustration of Botswana’s pristine nature and thriving wildlife is that it’s the world’s elephant capital. “Botswana has about a third of Africa’s elephant population,” Tau explains, “And the neighbouring Chobe National Park holds about a third of that.”

The Chobe National Park borders the Okavango Delta to the northeast and leads onto the Chobe River. “In the dry season, Chobe has about sixty to seventy thousand elephants on a 50 km stretch of river,” Tau says. “It’s remarkable, you can see thousands of elephants in one afternoon interacting around your boat, swimming across the river with their trunks acting as snorkels.

Young elephant hiding among the herd at Kings Pool, Botswana

“The reason for the large number of elephants is that Chobe acts as a sanctuary for them as Botswana is surrounded by countries where hunting and poaching have occurred in the past. Elephants are very smart and remember which places are safe. They’re almost like the refugees of the natural world because they’re not moving into areas they should be moving.” The Chobe riverfront was once only a part of a series of ancient elephant migration routes but civil war in Angola and the Namibian War of Independence saw elephants falling victim to poaching. Despite the unrest having eased, Botswana still acts as their haven.

Botswana’s staunch conservation policies have seen their wildlife thrive over the past century. It may have all started 50,00 years ago with a “fluke of nature”, but that shaking of the earth has been followed up by rock solid environmental policies ensuring that this unbelievable wilderness remains pristine and untouched for generations to come.

Beer eater sitting on a branch in the Okavango Delta Region of Botswana

We eventually find a safe route out of the encircling elephants and a respite from the primal pressure. Our heartbeats slow and we are soon breathing normally again. Tau continues his guided walk. We see signs of elephant and buffalo in the bush and watch two female kudus appear nearby and linger for a moment. We marvel at the tell-tale green of a Meyer’s parrot that flashes above us in a tree, and then it’s time for us to leave. We make our retreat, zig-zagging past the elephants, back to the boats, and onto the next adventure in the wild heart of Africa.

Disembarking from a river cruise along the Delta, Botswana

Welcome to the Jungle: How Botswana Became Africa’s Success Story

Botswana,Destinations
13 comments
By Matthew Sterne on

The 12-seater plane lifts off above Moremi Game Reserve’s dusty airstrip and floats up into the air above the Okavango Delta. Below us we see no roads, houses or any sign of man – just patchworks of green and blue reaching out into the hazy midday horizon. There are verdant islands, small forests, pools linked by thin canals, and the odd elephant seeking shade under an acacia. Ancient animal tracks criss-cross the earth like roads on a map. Scattered clouds make shadow patterns on the land similar to the rosettes of a leopard. It’s the same scene eagles must have looked down upon for millennia. Ten minutes later we land on another dusty airstrip on an island deep in the Okavango Delta.

Aerial view of a mokoro ride down the Okavango Delta in Botswana

Botswana is the safari purist’s paradise. It’s home to one third of Africa’s elephants and the second largest mammal migration in the world consisting of over 300,000 zebras. What’s even more impressive is that almost 40% of its land is dedicated to national parks, reserves and wildlife management areas, which is one of the highest rates in the world. It’s more authentic, more wild, and more remote than any other region in Africa. Back when European powers were scrambling for minerals and strategic locations, Botswana went ignored – it was landlocked, offered few riches and was impenetrable due to the Kalahari Desert and wetlands of the Okavango Delta.

We climb off the plane, have the first few sips of a cold St. Louis beer under a shaded boma and are whisked away on a different sort of 12-seater vehicle, a boat, to our next lodge. The boat speeds through the waterways, drifting like a stunt car in a Hollywood movie weaving between the walls of reeds lining the river. We sit back, close our eyes and lift our arms above our heads to catch the breeze. As I have my last sip of beer, Xugana Island Lodge comes into view. Surrounded by lush vegetation, towering ilala palm trees and a large body of water, Xugana looks like a tropical Bali resort. The only difference is that Xugana is in the middle of landlocked Botswana, a country that is 70% desert.

Airplane on the runway

Friendly airport introductions – Botswana

We’re welcomed with virgin cocktails and recline on the deck listening to the blissful sounds of this remote part of the world, marvelling at its mere existence. There are no roads in this part of the country and everything around us has had to be flown in and comply with strict environmentally-friendly regulations. Botswana, in fact, is one of the staunchest supporters of environmental policies in the world, which is a blessing considering it’s home to some of its most impressive wildlife.

River cruise at sunset – Okavango Delta, Botswana

Why is Botswana so environmentally focused?

A few days later, I met James Wilson, Marketing Manager at Chobe Game Lodge, on the lodge’s deck overlooking the elephant-rich Chobe River. Chobe Game Lodge is a leader in environmentally-friendly practices and Wilson explained why: “It comes down to solid government and democracy. The thing about Botswana, if you go back in history, is that it’s an amazing country in Africa. It’s never been colonised. There’s never been conflict or war or any serious turmoil. So, when democracy was established in 1966, the government was very strict about the letter of the law. It was one of the poorest countries at the time [third in the world], and then diamonds were discovered in the late 60s, which brought in a huge amount of revenue. There was stability and good revenue and low population, as well. And, there was also this vast area of wilderness.

“All these ingredients came together and that’s when conservation and tourism started working very closely together. It’s almost like tourism development was based on conservation. Tourism was a way of protecting these vast areas. The government realised it needed to minimise the development and it had to be eco-friendly. Concessions had to be managed carefully and I think that model has been very successful. And will hopefully remain that way,” Wilson said.

“Diamonds are not forever. In less than 20 years they’re looking at a serious depletion, they’ll need to look at developing new areas, and that is where tourism is going to play a huge role.”

Happy guests on a safari drive in Botswana

What steps are they taking now?

Today, immense care is taken at all lodges in Botswana to leave the smallest eco-footprint possible. All new builds – there are few because the government restricts developments – must be impermanent structures and easily broken down and taken away. The government is also very strict about the building materials that are used. Grey water is especially critical in the Delta and lodges need to be extremely careful how they dispose of it. Most properties have to have their own greywater management system. All rubbish has to be kept in a cage to stay away from the clutches of baboons and honey badgers and then removed from the ecosystem entirely, either by boat or truck. They push for full solar systems to avoid generators and use less fuel. The message is loud and clear: Botswana treasures its wild places, maybe more so than any other African country.

Herd of elephants drinking in Botswana

Chobe Game Lodge, one of Botswana’s iconic lodges, is leading the way. Wilson explains, “We are very serious about our environmental practices here. Four of our nine game vehicles are electric. Five of the skimmer boats we use for sunset cruises have solar panels on the roof and are autonomous vehicles, which are the first of their kind in Africa. We have a biogas plant where we create gas from food waste. We make our own bricks out of crushed glass and have our own carpentry team that fixes old furniture. Crushed cans and plastic bottles go back to the supplier. Only 5% of our waste ends up at the dump. Even our deck that we’re sitting on, we used about 2 million plastic bottles to build this. And we’re hoping to invest in solar shortly.”

Chobe Game Lodge is near the town of Kasane in northern Botswana so they have easier access than most Botswana lodges to the outside world. In the Delta, it is even more challenging to follow protocol, but each lodge is committed to the vision that Botswana Tourism holds dear.

Suite at Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana

To be able to continue to conserve Botswana’s wild places, higher-than-normal park fees have been imposed to ensure Botswana Wildlife can manage the parks properly. For a sustainable future, a low-impact high-end tourism model is Botswana’s focus, as it has been right from the beginning. So when you visit Botswana you’ll find a pristine wilderness with few visitors, the kind of place you might think of when wistfully dreaming of the perfect safari.

Cruise along the Chobe River in Botswana

Sunset game drive Okavango Delta, Botswana

Sunset game drive, Vumbura Plains, Okavango Delta in Botswana

Night sky in Botswana

Back at Xugana Island Lodge we enjoyed a lunch of fish, assorted salads and cheeses, climbed back onto the boats and continued towards our lodge for the night. Camp Okavango was 45 minutes away with nothing but untouched wilderness and abundant wildlife in between. We saw pied kingfishers dive bomb the reeds and small crocodiles hanging onto the reeds like businessmen hanging onto their umbrellas in a gale. We cruised past them as we basked in the sun and the joyful knowledge that a pure wilderness like this still exists, and promises to exist for a long time to come.

White Lions: The Myth and Majesty

Kruger National Park,South Africa
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By Ash Hooper on

No, no, we’re not attempting to lure you with false facts or stories of lions who’ve just had their hair bleached. White lions do, in fact, exist, and are truly magnificent anomalies. That said, they are also under threat and have been for decades. It even led to their 12-year technical extinction in the wild. Conservationists and game reserves are involved in an ongoing battle to ensure white lions have a safe, and rightful place in nature. Read on to see why:

A white lion yawns
Photo credit: Tambako

So, they’re albinos, right?

First things first: white lions are not albinos. They are also not a different species of lion. Their condition is known as  ‘leucism,’ a rarity where a recessive mutation in the gene causes the lion’s coat to vary from near-white to blonde, rather than the common tawny.

A young white lion
A young white lion

Some albino lions, in contrast, lack pigment completely, while leucistic lions show black features on the tip of their nose, black patches behind their ears, and have the look of ‘eye-liner’ around their blue/gold eyes.

A majestic young white lion
Photo credit: Tambako

Okay… so does the parent carry down the ‘white lion’ gene?

A cub is born white only if both of its parents carry the recessive ‘white’ gene. As a result, there are instances where there will be a mix of classic tawny lion cubs and white lion cubs born in the same litter. Think of it as a similar situation to humans with blue eyes; it is, quite simply, all in the genes.

A mother with her white lion cubs
Photo credit: Gerald Friedrich

Scientifically, the white lion is a result of a genetic rarity but in a cultural narrative, they mean much more.

The king of all kings

In the Timbavati region of South Africa, where the white lion was first spotted, the Sepedi and Tsonga communities consider them to be “the most sacred animal on the African continent”. Although a sighting was first recorded in 1938, African oral records tell a completely different story.

African high priests, known as isanusi, have told many tales dating some 400 years to a time when Queen Numbi reigned. The white lion was then, and still is, thought of as divine, sent from above.

The Timbavati is the sanctuary of the white lion
The white lions of the Timbavati

What went wrong?

When white lions were first spotted by Europeans, their rarity created a stir that decades of hunting and capture ensued. The white lion gene pool was eventually completely wiped out in the wild due to forced removals and trophy hunting. White lions were put in zoos and specially bred in captivity.

A white lion approaches at Sanbona
A male white lion in the wild, photo credit: Tania de Kock

It wasn’t just entertainment that kept these creatures in captivity, it was ignorance, too. Conservationists influential at the time thought that white lions were genetically inferior to other lions. It was also thought that their white appearance somehow impacted their safety and survival in the wild.

However, there is no scientific evidence to prove this. White lions are just as strong, and hunt just as well, as their tawny siblings. It has even been suggested that their white hair actually helps them when hunting. It seems that their unusual colour confuses their prey.

So, where are the white lions now?

While listed as “vulnerable”, there are no official laws that protect white lions from the effects of the canned lion hunting industry. Because of this, the fight for their survival continues.

The white lion has been successfully introduced into certain areas of the wild. In South Africa, they roam free in the southern parts of the Kruger National Park and in the Timbavati region, their ancestral homelands.

A white lioness at Umlani Bushcamp
A white lioness at Umlani Bushcamp

If you are eager to visit the Timbavati Game Reserve and encounter these majestic creatures in their natural habitat then feel free to one of our consultants.

A Closer Look At Phinda Private Game Reserve

Doing Good,KwaZulu-Natal,Safari,Traveller's tales
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By Tamlin Wightman on

Rhino Africa Tracking Africa’s Rhinos

Our intrepid Rhino Africa leader, David Ryan, and member of the marketing team, Ryan Rapaport, recently visited &Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa for one incredible experience! It was the trip of a lifetime as our team accompanied Wildlife ACT Fund on a conservation project to experience tracking rhinos. Like something out of Mission Impossible, our boys flew in helicopters, darting animals from the air and collaring endangered species on the ground.

Take a look at the video Ryan filmed:

They tracked (via 4×4 and helicopter, with experienced trackers from the reserve) and collared rhino and elephant as part of a conservation effort to better monitor these species in the region, as well as to gain more data about them.

It was an incredible and moving experience for both, not something you get to experience on safari every day…

Phinda Private Game Reserve is quite something, with 23 000 hectares in the wilderness of KwaZulu-Natal and home to Africa’s Big 5, the endangered black rhino, 415 bird species and seven distinct habitats. As well as luxury accommodation…

What’s in store for you at Phinda:

Where To Stay in Phinda

Relax at Forest Lodge with its floor to ceiling glass walls and dry sand forest surroundings. Take in the view from up high of the Ubombo mountain range at Mountain Lodge or enjoy the seclusion of Rock Lodge’s hidden valley. Take a dip in your plunge pool while antelope graze nearby at Vlei Lodge and if you’re looking for the ultimate exclusive getaway, enjoy a private safari experience at Zuka Lodge or The Homestead.

With its proximity to the coast you can even enjoy a scuba diving experience while staying at Phinda – this place has it all!

Contact one of our travel experts for more information and to include Phinda in your tailor-made African itinerary.

The Life & Times of Lawrence Anthony, Elephant Whisperer

General
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By Tamlin Wightman on

Lawrence Anthony was the elephant whisperer, the Indiana Jones of Conservation, a wildlife guru. He made an impact as an international conservationist, environmentalist, explorer at large and bestselling author. Last week, he died of a heart attack age 61. He will forever be remembered as a true pioneer of wildlife conservation.

Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and raised in Zimbabwe, Zambia and Malawi, Lawrence Anthony was the owner of the 2 000-hectare Thula Thula Game Reserve in Zululand in KwaZulu Natal. He and his wife, Françoise, both lived there for many years with their family.

Read more about our experience of Thula Thula and the magical owners Lawrence and Françoise in our blog, Talking to the Elephant Whisperer.

Lawrence Anthony
Larger-than-life conservationist, Lawrence Anthony

Conservation Successes

Lawrence was involved with conservation projects with remote African tribes on their traditional land, which he believed was necessary to the future of African conservation. He created two game reserves in South Africa – the Royal Zulu Biosphere in Zululand, which is expanding to join the world-famous Umfolozi Hluhluwe Reserve, and Mayibuye Game Reserve in Kwa Ximba.

As the founder of South African environmental group, the Earth Organisation, Lawrence persuaded the Lord’s Resistance rebel army in Southern Sudan – leaders of which are wanted for war crimes by the international criminal court – to raise awareness of the environment and protect endangered species, including the Northern White Rhinoceros. Only four of these rhinos are believed to remain in the wild. Read more about Lawrence’s courageous work on The Guardian website.

Watch the CNN video about Lawrence:

Lawrence The Writer

  • The Elephant Whisperer

Lawrence worked closely with African elephants and adopted a wild and traumatised elephant herd to live at Thula Thula. He developed a unique relationship with this wild herd, which you can read more about in his book, The Elephant Whisperer.

An excerpt from our previous blog on Lawrence:

While feasting on chicken with chilli chocolate sauce and a sensational impala pie, Lawrence chatted to me about his latest book The Elephant Whisperer. Lawrence was asked to accept a herd of ‘rogue’ elephants on to the reserve at Thula Thula – his commonsense told him to refuse. But he was the herd’s last chance of survival – notorious escape artists, they would all be killed if Lawrence wouldn’t take them. He agreed, but before arrangements for the move could be completed the animals broke out again and the matriarch and her baby were shot. The remaining elephants were traumatised and very angry. As soon as they arrived at Thula Thula they started planning their escape… into the waiting guns. As Lawrence battled to create a bond with the elephants and save them from execution, he came to realise that the fascinating creatures had a lot to teach him about love, loyalty and freedom. This is stirring stuff folks.

Books by Lawrence Anthony

  • Babylon’s Ark

Lawrence is the man who saved the Baghdad Zoo during the Iraq War. Once the biggest zoo in the Middle East, Baghdad Zoo was badly hit by the war – it was bombed, animals were looted for food and caged animals starved to death. Lawrence set off on a private rescue initiative, using mercenaries and zoo keepers to protect the zoo, along with the US Army soldiers, Iraqi civilians and other volunteers he recruited. Eventually he brought the zoo back to life and it was reopened.

Read more in Lawrence’s book Babylon’s Ark: The Incredible Wartime Rescue of the Baghdad Zoo.

Thula Thula Game Reserve

Awards and recognitions

  • The Global Nature Fund, Living Lakes Best Conservation Practice Award, for “A remarkable contribution to nature conservation and environmental protection.”
  • He received the Earth Day medal at the UN for his work and was decorated with the US Army 3rd Infantry Division regimental medal for his bravery. for his rescue of the Baghdad Zoo
  • The Earth Trustee Award
  • The Rotary International Paul Harris Fellowship for outstanding contribution to the ideals of Rotary.
  • The IAS Freedom Medal
  • The Umhlatuzi Mayoral Award for Outstanding Community Service
  • International membership, the Explorers Club of New York
  • At a presentation in Washington, DC in 2009, international journalist Tom Clynes named Lawrence among his six most impressive and influential people in a lifetime of reporting, a list that included names such as Sir Edmund Hillary.
Thula Thula Game Reserve
Thula Thula Game Reserve

In the words of Lawrence Anthony

  • “I have never understood the saying ‘To think outside the box.’ Why would anyone sit inside of a box and then think outside of it. Rather just get out of the box.”
  • “There is more to life than just yourself, your own family, and your own kind.”
  • “I don’t think I have a mission in life. I just want to hold together the values that are important to us as human beings. The name of the game is to survive, and we can’t survive without the plant and animal kingdoms.”
  • “Our inability to think beyond our own species, or to be able to co-habit with other life forms in what is patently a massive collaborative quest for survival, is surely a malady that pervades the human soul.”
  • “The green movement has become tainted with extremism and intemperance resulting in lack of credibility. It needs new direction, new priorities and new leadership.”
  • “Workable solutions for Earth are urgently needed. Saving seals and tigers, or fighting yet another oil pipeline through a wilderness area, while laudable, is merely shuffling the deck chairs on the Titanic.”
  • “Man’s cultural and traditional links to nature that used to be passed down, generation to generation, have become lost in a sea of ‘civilization’, bureaucracy and technology.”
  • “Thankfully the Earth has an incredible capacity to sustain life, so perhaps something can still be done about it.”

Gala dinner details

Lawrence died before the gala dinner he had planned to hold in March this year to raise international awareness of rhino-poaching. At the event he was also going to launch his new book, The Last Rhinos. The event will, however, go ahead on 29 March at the ICC in Durban. Details are:

  • Date: 29 March 2012
  • Venue: ICC Durban
  • Time: 6pm for 6:30pm
  • Cost: R600 per person; R6000 per table of 10
  • Bookings & info: events@sportsfaneventing.com or 082 378 2264

Lawrence will be missed but he leaves behind an elephant-sized legacy which will continue through the work he started and the lives he touched. Hamba kahle, Lawrence Anthony, Elephant Whisperer.

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