A safari with a difference - excellent game viewing with a greater focus on wildlife behaviour, identification and conservation issues with a unique opportunity to participate in a rhino or elephant conservation project

South Africa is not only home to a wide array of game but is also a leading light in wildlife conservation and rehabilitation. Nowhere is this more true than Kruger National Park, one of Africa's most prolific and well-run parks. Our trip is predominantly based in and around Kruger with most nights in our secluded lodge. We enjoy game walks and drives with the focus on animals, birds, plants, trees and reptiles. Identifying them and tracking them, this trip is designed to get you as involved as possible in all aspects of wildlife. A hands-on project to capture and identify an endangered white rhino or elephant is a definite highlight and is an excellent way of making a positive contribution to nature conservation. There are also visits to academic research centres including Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Swadini Reptile Park and Kapama Cheetah Breeding Project.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Start Johannesburg. 2 To Mpumalanga and our lodge on the edge of the escarpment. 3 To private bush lodge via Bourkes Luck Potholes and Blyde River Canyon. 4 Game drives and walks with emphasis on tracking and anti-poaching techniques. 5 Game drives and walks with emphasis on animal and bird identification. 6-7 In Kruger N.P. game driving plus guest speakers on conservation issues. 8 Morning game drive; return to private bush lodge. 9 Morning game walk; afternoon visit Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. 10 Participate in the capture and identification of a white rhino or elephant. An exhilarating 4WD ride through bush and necessary ground work with wildlife veterinary services. 11 Field trip to Swadini Reptile Park and Kapama Cheetah Breeding Project. 12 Full day for walks and drives; data collection, group discussions and conclusion of skills. 13 To Johannesburg. End.

Mode of travel: Travel is by minibus and 4WD game-viewing vehicles.
Group size: Min. 7, max. 12, plus expert guide and local staff.
Accommodation: 1 night hotel, 3 nights chalet and 8 nights luxury bush lodge.
Food: All meals included.
Optional Single Supplement: from $900.00
Trip Reference: AZS
Reverse Itinerary: trips that run in reverse are specified with an 'R' in the dates and prices table below.