Trip Highlights
Spend 9 days with Anna in South Africa, enjoying YOU time surrounded by wildlife. Most of these experiences are exclusive, for our group only.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Go in search for an array of wildlife including elephants, lion, cheetah, giraffe, rhino, hippo, zebra to name a few in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve – it is particularly famous for its leopard sightings!
Track cheetahs on foot
A once in a lifetime opportunity to track Cheetahs on foot with Cheetah expert
Vet experience
We will join the Dinokeng Wildlife Team and a veterinarian for a Carnivore immobilisation which will either be collaring or whatever needs to be done at the time.
Behind-the-Scenes Rhino Tracking
We will be taken behind the scenes, track rhino and get an insight into what it takes to conserve the rhino – an endangered species.
Volunteer at wild rhino sanctuary
Support the dedicated efforts of a sanctuary rescuing orphaned black and white rhinos whose numbers continue to decline due to poaching. The Wild Rhino Sanctuary is a non profit organisation and is closed to the public.
Adopt an orphan elephant
We will learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned calves, the rewilding and release processes.
Assist with rhino care
Assist in milk preparation for the rhinos, bottle feeding and boma care, participating in behavioural observations and gain completely new insights into the world of rhino care, rehabilitation and conservation.
Meet anti-poaching unit
Meet the rhino K9 Unit and learn about anti poaching.
Unparallel game viewing
Savor unmatched opportunities to see the legendary ‘Big 5’ and immerse yourself in Africa’s extraordinary wildlife.
Gallery
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in South Africa & Track Cheetahs
Meet Anna and the Inspired Team at Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. We aim to depart the airport at noon so if you are unable to arrive before this time we recommend you fly in a day earlier and overnight at an airport hotel which we can arrange for you.
We will load up the vehicles and travel as a group to “a place of rivers” Dinokeng Game Reserve. The Reserves lies in the catchment area of two rivers that flow into the Olifants and Limpopo rivers and on to the Indian Ocean. The Reserves story centers around conservation, as a project started by Provincial Government and the efforts of more than 170 landowners. Together they developed the concept that eco-tourism could become the source for upliftment of rural communities through sustainable employment. Dinokeng Game Reserve has the potential to become a model for future conservation where people and wild animals live in harmony. And it is on the way to prove itself as an example for successful transformation with so far more than 800 permanent jobs created for people living in the adjoining communities.
After lunch and settling into our accommodation, the real adventure begins! We’ll hop into an Open Safari Vehicle (OSV) and set off on an exhilarating adventure to track cheetahs, as part of Dinokeng’s exclusive wildlife conservation experiences. Led by the resident expert cheetah monitor, we will go behind the scenes to gain an insight into what it takes to conserve these beautiful cats and look at what it takes to protect these magnificent animals. Using advanced telemetry technology, we’ll track the collared cheetahs and then step out of the vehicle and continue the pursuit on foot, experiencing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be close to these incredible creatures.
Overnight: Ritako Game Lodge (or similar)
MEALS INCLUDED: Dinner
Day 2 - Vet Experience and Wild Rhino Tracking
Head out early on a Game Drive to encounter Africa’s majestic wildlife. Imagine the excitement of spotting elephants, lions, cheetahs, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, zebras, and so much more in their natural habitat. Feel the fresh morning air and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the wild. As we traverse the breathtaking landscape, we’ll pause for a delightful coffee break, savoring freshly baked rusks right in the heart of the bush or on a picturesque riverbank.
After a hearty breakfast, we join The Dinokeng Wildlife Team and a skilled veterinarian for a carnivore immobilization. This could be collaring an animal or performing crucial medical procedures, but this exclusive, behind-the-scenes adventure is tailored just for our group. We will witness conservation in action and be part of an extraordinary experience that few ever get to see!
After lunch awe will depart to track Rhino as part of Dinokeng’s observing wildlife conservation experiences. We will be taken behind the scenes to give us an insight into what it takes to conserve these Endangered Species.
Overnight: Ritako Game Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3 - Rhino Sanctuary
We will gather as a group and journey together to a Rhino Sanctuary in the heart of Mpumalanga, where we will meet the inspiring Rhino Rehabilitator Petronel Nieuwoudt. In 2001, Petronel founded Care For The Wild in response to the alarming rise in rhino poaching incidents in South Africa. Her sanctuary provides a safe haven for orphaned rhinos, offering them the specialized care they need to heal and grow.
Ultimately, these magnificent creatures are rehabilitated and released back into the wild, giving them a second chance at life. This visit will be a touching experience, as we witness the profound impact of compassion and dedication in the fight to protect and preserve these majestic animals.
Care for Wild is also home to many different animal and plant species. The reserve, together with surrounding areas, are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains contain the best-preserved, oldest and most diverse sequence of known volcanic and sedimentary rocks on Earth.
Our home for the night at Care for Wild is in shared volunteer cabins. The rooms are relatively basic but equipped with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms and electrical outlets.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Care for Wild
Day 4, 5, 6 - Care for Wild
After breakfast you will embark on an extraordinary journey with us over the next three days and join the Care For Wild Team for an exclusive behind-the-scenes insight into the world’s largest orphaned rhino sanctuary where you’ll play a vital role in the heart warming and crucial world of rhino care and conservation. Assist in milk preparation and bottle feeding these majestic creatures, engage in boma care, ensuring their environment is safe and comforting.
We will learn about the rescue and rehabilitation of orphaned calves, the re-wilding and release processes and how we will will support staff with the care of young rhino orphans for the duration of our stay. You’ll also have the unique opportunity to participate in behavioural observations, witnessing first hand the incredible personalities and behaviours of rhinos. This immersive experience will not only deepen your understanding of rhino rehabilitation but also leave you with unforgettable memories and a profound sense of fulfilment.
We will get a true understanding into the effects of the rhino poaching crisis in Africa and get the opportunity to meet their K9 unit and hear about their ongoing monitoring, protection and conservation of the rhino species and their ecosystem and are really fortunate to get a behind the scenes look into the daily running of the rhino sanctuary and how it evolves over time as the needs and requirements change.
The sanctuary runs a structured and timetabled programme that is designed to meet the needs of the rhinos under their care, however as they are a Rhino Sanctuary on call 24/7 the programme may be altered at any given time. Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary operates a ‘hands off’ approach to caregiving. Their sole purpose is to rescue, rehabilitate and re-wild rhinos so that they can be released successfully back into their natural ecosystems.
Your involvement is more than just an experience—it’s a significant contribution to the preservation of a species under threat. By joining us, you’re playing an essential role in ensuring these animals thrive for generations to come. Be a part of this inspiring mission to protect and nurture one of the world’s most magnificent animals, and feel the immense satisfaction of making a real difference.
Overnight: Care for Wild
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 & 8 - Sabi Sands Game Reserve
After our morning with the rhinos and last breakfast at the sanctuary we will transfer to Sabie Game Reserve, which is situated within the Sabi Sands. The ultimate South African safari and most famous private game reserve of all.
We will conclude our African adventure with two magical nights at the enchanting Umkumbe Bush Lodge. Our days will begin at sunrise on early morning game drives, and as the sun dips below the horizon, we will set out once more on thrilling afternoon safaris in an open safari vehicles. Our journey will be guided by seasoned rangers, whose deep knowledge and passion for the wild promise to unveil the secrets of the bush.
Sabi Sands and Sabie Game Reserve offer an unparalleled safari experience. Nestled on the edge of the renowned Kruger National Park, , where the wonders of nature unfold before your eyes and famous for its leopard sightings. The untamed wilderness is home to the coveted ‘Big 5’ – the majestic lion, elusive leopard, rhino, elephant, and the mighty buffalo. In this vast, fenceless expanse, the wildlife roams freely, painting a vivid tapestry of life that is both rare and extraordinary. Prepare to be captivated by the raw beauty and timeless splendor of Africa, where every moment is a new discovery.
Overnight: Umkumbe Bush Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9 - Farewell
After a morning drive and late breakfast, we will begin shuttles to KMI Airport, where you can fly directly to Oliver Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Airlink Airline or onto your next adventure. Please book departures for after 14:00 from KMI.
As we bid farewell to Africa, we leave with cherished memories of tracking cheetahs on foot, playing a part in wildlife conservation at Care for Wild, and embracing the vibrant African life. The heartwarming experience of connecting with nature and wildlife in such an intimate way has been truly transformative. Africa has a unique way of touching your soul and changing you forever.
Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey.
If you’re planning to stay on in South Africa the Wild Hearted team would be happy to make arrangements for you.
Meals: Breakfast
** The itinerary is subject to changes. Whilst we do our best to keep to our planned itinerary, on occasions things do have to be altered.
Care for Wild
Care for Wild is the largest orphan rhino sanctuary in the world. They rescue, rehabilitate, re-wild, release and protect rhinos but we also do so much more.
South Africa was fast becoming the centre of the rhino poaching crisis. Rhinos were being brutally murdered daily in National Parks, Provincial Parks and on private property to meet the demand for bogus medicines made from rhino horn. The illegal rhino horn trade catapulted the status of the White Rhino to ‘Near Threatened’ and the Black Rhino to ‘Critically Endangered’.
Many of these devastating poaching incidents left behind young, defenceless, orphaned calves. As the effects of the escalating poaching crisis became evident, so too did the need for a highly specialised care facility that could support the conservation efforts to save this iconic, key stone species from extinction.
Founded by Petronel Nieuwoudt, Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary holds an official MOU (Memorandum Of Understanding) with South African National Parks in our joint effort to safeguard the future of the species and South Africa’s heritage.
FAQ
What's Included
- 8 nights accommodation on twin basis (single room available at additional cost)
- Meals as indicated on Itinerary. All dietary requirements catered for.
- All game drive at Dinokeng and Umkumbe Tented Camp
- Airport Pickup at Johannesburg International Airport
- Private transfers throughout tour
- Guide & hosting services during the course of the tour
- Airport Dropoff at Nelspruit Airport
- Pre-Departure Support via WhatsApp & Facebook
- 24hr On-Site Support
What's not included
- Airfares – Fly into Johannesburg and out of Nelspruit
- Drinks
- Meals not mentioned
- Visas
- All items of a personal nature
- Gratuities and Tipping
- Travel Insurance – compulsory
Your hosts
With Anna at the helm, our South Africa Conservation Experiences promises to be an enriching blend of adventure and relaxation. Anna will guide you on a journey of self-discovery amidst the breath taking landscapes of South Africa, where the untamed beauty of nature serves as the backdrop for inner exploration and growth.
Anna Miller
Anna is the visionary founder of Wild Hearted Adventures, whose warmth, inspiration, and charm set the perfect tone for our retreat. Her boundless energy and infectious enthusiasm will inspire you to embrace every moment of this experience.
She is also a travel writer and the creative mind behind the popular family travel blog, Twins and Travels.
At times, unforeseen circumstances may require a change in your assigned host. However, rest assured that you’ll always be in the capable hands of a passionate, knowledgeable, and exceptional host from the Wild Hearted team, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
