Join a dynamic rhino rescue mission where you'll rescue a rhino from a high-risk poaching area to the safety of a selected reserve!
The following itinerary is a rough guideline, and all schedules and activities are subject to change depending on the rescue mission strategy and the project's needs.
As a volunteer, you'll be staying at the SanWild Lodge in a luxury safari tent with an ensuite bathroom. The accommodation is provided on a twin-share, same-sex basis (except for couples who will be accommodated together), with a daily cleaning service. You'll also have full access to the lodge's stunning lounge, bar, dining room, lapa (fire-pit), pool, and a wooden deck that offers amazing views of a watering hole regularly visited by incredible wildlife!
If you're looking for extra luxuries, you have the option to upgrade to a Deluxe safari tent that comes with plush furnishings, a spacious open-plan bathroom with a bathtub and separate shower, a bar fridge, a coffee/tea station, and covered outdoor seating. This project is an excellent opportunity to make a positive impact while enjoying some extra comforts!
During your stay at the lodge, you will be provided with three meals per day, including traditional Bush braais (barbecues) and gatherings around the fire, where you can indulge in local delicacies such as potjiekos. The dining hall and deck overlooking the watering hole provide an amazing backdrop, making mealtimes even more magical. Please note that soft drinks and alcoholic beverages are not included in the package, but you can purchase them from the bar in the main building. If you want to treat yourself, you can explore some of the nearby restaurants such as Leydsdorp Hotel, Kalima Game Reserve, and Meranti Restaurant.
You need to arrive at Hoedspruit in the afternoon on your project start date. Here, you will be met by a team member and taken to the project site. The best way to reach Hoedspruit is by air, as there are daily flights from Johannesburg or Cape Town to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS). The transfer from the airport to the project site takes about 40 minutes. Pick-up and drop-off services are available for free on Mondays only. If you need transport on any other day, you'll need to make special arrangements and pay an additional fee.
Alternatively, you can choose to arrange your own transport to SanWild, such as driving yourself, but this will be at your own cost. Johannesburg International Airport (OR Thambo) is about 400 km (248 mi) away and takes around 5 hours to reach by car.
Most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and the majority of EU nations, do not require a visa to enter South Africa and are granted entry for up to 90 days upon arrival. To be allowed entry, you must have a passport with at least 2 blank pages for the immigration officials to use, and it must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country.
If you're unsure about your specific visa requirements, we recommend contacting the South African embassy in your home country at least 2 months before your trip. It's important to note that obtaining a visa is your own responsibility.
Prior experience is not required to participate in the project. However, some tasks, like guiding the rhino into the translocation trailer, may be strenuous. Therefore, it is advisable to have a moderate level of fitness to contribute comfortably to the ongoing conservation efforts. The most important thing is to arrive with a positive attitude and a passion for the project's values.
To ensure that you are fully protected and prepared for travel, we advise you to consult your GP/Doctor about your personal vaccination requirements, as this will vary depending on your medical history. We would also recommend checking Fit for Travel's website for helpful information regarding suggested vaccinations for South Africa.
Didi brings you the details of this exciting rhino rescue operation at the SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve. Find out why these animals need your help, discover your role in their relocation and how your contribution will benefit rhino conservation efforts in the long term.
UPDATE | Oct 2024
Following thoughtful consideration and an enthusiastic vote, the volunteers on the second-ever rhino rescue mission named the five-year-old cow Namela. This name, meaning "climb when you see me," perfectly captures her spirited nature. Through multiple visits to her boma, Zula and Ugai have begun forming a bond with Namela. She will soon be released into the wider reserve alongside Zula and Ugai, and it's heartwarming to envision them all exploring the reserve together!
UPDATE | Oct 2024
This week, volunteers assisted in collaring the largest bull elephant, Mulato. He was outfitted with a new tracking collar, allowing the team to monitor his movements across the reserve closely. This measure is especially crucial during the annual "musth" phase - a period when bull elephants experience heightened testosterone levels, which can lead to increased aggression. The collar also plays a vital role in anti-poaching efforts, enabling rapid deployment of patrol units directly to Maluto and the herd if needed.
UPDATE | Oct 2024
The second-ever rhino rescue mission took place today! After training, the volunteers were ready to rescue this 5-year-old cow and translocate her to the safety of the reserve. She'll join Zula and Ugai, the two rhinos rescued on the last mission, where they will be released into the wider reserve after a period of bonding to form their herd. We look forward to sharing her name with you when the group have chosen one!