South Africa 2022 Recap
Going beyond the traditional game drives
For this last group trip, we chose to go to South Africa’s northernmost province, Limpopo, which is home to fascinating wildlife and bushveld, huge rivers and beautiful rock formations. It borders Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. We had great access to the big 5 and unique conservation opportunities that were available to us.
We stayed at Karongwe River lodge. The beautiful accommodations were surrounded by nature and wildlife. Our room was a mixture of modern furniture with a rich African style and a private veranda. The main lodge had a spectacular viewing deck, a lovely dining room/lounge, bar, outdoor pool and a great curio shop.
A few important things I always focus on when planning these kinds of trips.
I start with the animals; where they are, whats a great time of year to go, has the landscape shifted/altered their usual habitat migration route? What kind of experience, expertise and conservation knowledge does the private conservation guide bring? (and humor).
What kind of flexibility options are in our day to day activities such as ample bush time studying wildlife; photography opportunities etc. That we choose secluded-wild, remote and eco friendly lodges/areas, so the only crowds we see are crowds of animals!
I know things can change at any time, unforeseen new opportunities may come up that shifts/alters the day to more surprise adventures. So best to just go with the flow, trust that you’ll have an incredible and unforgettable experience. This is why I love collaborating with trusted specialist guides, as they know what I’m seeking and how I like to travel
Together, we create amazing tailor-made safari conservation-adventures.
We saw plenty of wildlife; leopard, cheetah, lion, hyena, giraffe, elephant, rhino, and all the general plains game. Some highlights included having a herd of elephants surround our vehicle, watching cheetahs hunt, tracking lions, having baboons break into my room and steeling the cookie jar (thankfully no clothes taken, but left a big mess!) having antelopes, warthogs, vervet monkeys and other animal spend their days grazing and relaxing just outside my tent, the great comradery between all guests and friendly staff.
The conservation side to these types of trips are quite remarkable. I would say everyone walked away with a different perspective and new knowledge of what conservation is, including a clearer understanding of why these 'necessary' preventative medical procedures are done on some of Africa’s most iconic-endangered species; which ensures their safety and survival. The more people know, the more they can spread the word.
Trip Highlights
Dehorning Rhino
Wow! The rhino has such a presence in the bush, it’s simply magical to see them this close. Their massive body is full of muscle, thick skin; grey toned-hard like leather with several bush scars and mud mixed in. And behind their ears, inside the gums, inner legs, skin is as soft as babies, and their aroma is of sweet musk, and kind big eyes. Speaking with the wildlife vets; management team, the anti-poaching unit, helicopter and plane pilot was all very educational. And the participation that each of us had with rhino, was mind blowing. It’s actually a bit of an emotional, spiritual and humbling experience that affects you in the most profound way.
Vet Hospital to See Pangolin
Pangolins are the most trafficked animal in the world. It’s rare that you’ll see one in the bush, if you do, you’re very lucky. The fact that we saw a pangolin up close was incredible. We went to a specialized wildlife vet hospital that had recently rescued this beautiful pangolin. This female was traumatized and was desperately trying to acclimate to her new surroundings. She had a long way to go, but was on the mend. The care was top notch, nothing spared. It was great to get first- hand knowledge from the vets and learn about this particular incident. This beautiful pangolin was in the middle of being sedated and was getting much needed medical nutrients-liquids. It was then that we got the privilege of being able to very gently touch this pangolins body. They are uniquely covered from head to tail with large, brownish-geometric scales made of keratin, and have lovely brown eyes, and delicate hands with claws and cute little feet. I was so touched by the vulnerability of this sweet mammal and her amazing rescue story it brought me to tears, yet I was grateful she was now in the care of the wonderful vet team.
Visits with Several Anti-Poaching Units
I’ve always been intrigued and very impressed with the work APU’s do. These men and woman risk their lives daily in order to save Africa’s wildlife and Flora. It’s very educational-interesting to see where and how they live, especially as they spend many consecutive days out in the bush in the hot sun, in a small tent with minimum equipment and supplies and riffle. They are the most exposed and vulnerable ‘foot soldiers’ on the frontlines of the anti-poaching war. In addition to these teams, are Project Rhinos anti-poaching K9 units and anti-poaching horse units. They are the ‘animals saving animals’ teams. I felt privileged to get to know them all and listen to their stories. Their commitment and bravery are beyond measure.
Review the SA 2022 Trip
Limpopo South Africa; Lion and Rhino Safari Conservation Trip.
September 12th-18th, 2022
Testimonials
"It’s such a good mix when you get to have these conservation experiences with safari. The safari is just amazing and eye opening and incredibly experiential in terms of just being close to these beautiful animals that otherwise you’d just see in photographs or documentaries, and then to be able to get close and see the conservation work that people are doing to really try and save these animals is phenomenal. Its far exceeded my expectations." - Denise H.
"I didn’t really know what to expect. Our lodge is mind blowing, so beautiful and tranquil, and with the animals just walking right through the grounds it was really special. The safari itself has been just magical, its literally day 2 and last night we saw a pride of lions, then went back after dark to see them again, it was extraordinary, I can’t even describe it." - Shannon C.
It’s just really incredible to be involved in an actual conservation experience. This cause is so important to me personally, and even some of the folks that were here that aren't fully aware of what’s happening with endangered species, it was fascinating to watch them learn and become more aware of what’s happening with rhinos in particular the dehorning. I love watching people learn about the cause because they become more passionate and they tell others and that’s how the word spreads. - Jen P.