Tel. +44 (0)1273 600030 (UK)
This special hands-on experience ensures that travellers become acutely aware of the importance of conservation so that future generations can continue to appreciate Africa and its myriad wildlife. Having done this trip most clients become vocal ambassadors for the sustained protection of wildlife and wilderness the world over. The focus of this special adventure is animal management, giving clients an insight into the vital work being done in this field and where practical and safe, helping to carry out routine procedures on animals such as rhino, lion, elephant or leopard. You are accompanied throughout by your own vet/guide, so you are kept fully informed of the work being undertaken and the objectives in mind.
Using accommodation with a distinct focus on conservation this trip supports a number of innovative responsible travel projects. For example the Jane Goodall Institute is committed to conserving the primates, which are estimated to become extinct within their natural habitats in as little as 10 years. The goal of the sanctuary is to rescue some of the Chimpanzees that have survived the various threats to their existence, including the ‘bush meat’ trade and illegal pet trade practices. Besides being provided with a home to live out their lives, they are also provided with the necessary attention to recover from the trauma that they have experienced. We will have the unique opportunity to see Chimpanzees in semi-wild surroundings with normal social interaction and behavioural patterns under group members.
Our lodge is situated within the 1000 hectare nature reserve with breathtaking views over the picturesque de Kaap Valley Mountains. Each of the 13 rooms is individually designed to reflect a unique African ambience. Buffet breakfasts and candlelit dinners are served in the restaurant or on the deck overlooking the reserve. Other projects visited on this trip include the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre where we take a private tour of the work being done here, escorted by a guide from the centre. The Centre is a non-profit organization, relying completely on the support of the public and exposes a different facet of wildlife work and conservation. Here a wide variety of birds and animals (lion, leopard, serval, lynx and honey badger) can be seen, being nursed and nurtured after being orphaned or injured, for release back into the wild. Some animals cannot be released and are kept for breeding and educational purposes.
This operator has made the conscious decision to exclusively employ local tour leaders in the belief that by offering a steady income through employment, tourism can ultimately make a real positive difference to local communities. Regular training is provided to all local tour leaders on a variety of issues, from environmental awareness to First Aid. This is not only important to the overall conduct of the tour but also provides local people with important life skills.
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