An active conservation experience in Africa, for many, is a way to contribute directly to the protection and conservation of the landscape, wildlife and local communities. Across Africa, innovative lodges and reserves are offering hands-on experiences that allow guests to support vital wildlife protection programs. Whether you are interested in pangolins or rhino’s, want to get involved or learn more, there are endless opportunities that not only deepen your understanding of conservation efforts but also create unforgettable moments that connect you with Africa’s most iconic species. Here are some of the most impactful conservation experiences you can enjoy:
1. Rhino Conservation Experience
As we all know rhino are critically endangered and a number of properties in South Africa now offer the opportunity to actively partake in the notching and recording of individual animals. I have experienced first hand this conservation safari at Kwandwe Private Reserve in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. It was humbling to be a very small part of the expert team of vets and rangers and to see the work they do.
Guests can assist rangers and veterinarians in monitoring, notching, and even microchipping rhinos for anti-poaching purposes. The hands-on experience might include helping to track the rhino, witnessing the tranquilization process, and assisting with data collection such as taking DNA samples. This immersive experience not only helps protect these majestic animals but also offers a profound appreciation for the challenges of rhino conservation.
2. Conservation Patrol Flight at Tanda Tula (South Africa)
Tanda Tula, located in the Timbavati Private Game Reserve, adjacent to the Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa, takes conservation to new heights with their patrol flight experience. Join rangers on an aerial survey as you soar above the park’s rugged terrain. These flights are essential for detecting illegal activities, play a vital role in monitoring wildlife movements, and safeguarding endangered species and preserving the overall ecosystem. It’s a breathtaking and unique way to see conservation in action while enjoying an unparalleled bird’s-eye view of the bush.
3. The Ultimate Giraffe Safari with The Safari Collection (Kenya)
Kenya is home to three of the world’s four giraffe species, including the critically endangered Rothschild’s/Nubian giraffe (a subspecies of the Northern giraffe). The Safari Collection’s Ultimate Giraffe Safari is an extraordinary journey to support the conservation of these gentle giants. Starting with two nights at the legendary Giraffe Manor, this 10 night trip takes you to the Western Conservancy, adjacent to Samburu National Park and the world renowned Masai Mara National Reserve.
Accompanied by the two co-founders of the Giraffe Conservation Foundation, the itinerary offers the opportunity to learn more about the challenges facing giraffe populations and the efforts to protect them, and getting actively involved. This safari combines exhilarating wildlife encounters with on-the-ground conservation work, such as helping researchers monitor giraffe movements and population dynamics. Proceeds from your trip directly support initiatives like the Reticulated Giraffe Project.
4. Pangolin Conservation Safaris at Phinda Private Game Reserve (South Africa)
Pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world and now listed as endangered. At Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa, you can play a role in their protection. This once-in-a-lifetime conservation experience allows guests to join researchers in tracking and monitoring these elusive creatures using telemetry equipment. Learn about the reserve’s groundbreaking efforts to reintroduce and protect pangolins, and be part of the fight to save one of the planet’s most unique mammals.
5. Tracking Black Rhino with Save the Rhino in Namibia
At Desert Rhino Camp in Damaraland, Namibia, which is run in partnership with Save the Rhino Trust, guests have the opportunity to join the Save the Rhino trackers and rangers to monitor the rare, and endangered, desert black rhino which make this rugged wilderness their home. This rewarding experience can involve hiking across rocky landscapes alongside experienced trackers and learning how to identify rhino spoor and behaviours.
This partnership between Save the Rhino Trust, three community conservancies and Wilderness Safaris has ensured the ongoing protection of these magnificent animals. An ongoing 21 year collaboration, has seen rhino numbers increase and poaching levels decrease by 80%. Just staying here therefore directly contributes to the ongoing work of conserving these critically endangered animals, all in one of Namibia’s most striking landscapes.
6. Lewa Anti-Poaching Dog Unit (Kenya)
Lewa Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya is home to a remarkable amount of wildlife, including black and white rhino. One of many anti-poaching methods is the Tracker Dog Unit that guests can meet and interact with. Watch these highly trained dogs demonstrate their tracking and detection skills as they track you through the bush. These skills are instrumental in combating poaching and protecting wildlife.
You’ll also have the opportunity to meet the security or anti-poaching team and visit the Operations Room to get a full understanding of the work that is done to ensure that Lewa keeps its wildlife safe. In addition a visit to Lewa school and clinic offers the opportunity to learn about the broader anti-poaching strategies employed at Lewa and how community engagement is critical to their success.
7. Lepogo Lodges, South Africa
Located in South Africa’s malaria-free Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Lepogo Lodges offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with conservation in one of the country’s most pristine environments. As one of Africa’s few entirely not-for-profit safari lodges, every stay directly supports critical conservation initiatives. Guests can participate in activities like monitoring cheetah populations, assisting with wildlife tracking, contribute to and join a vet experience such as ear notching (for identification purposes) or learning about rhino conservation efforts firsthand. Lepogo is deeply committed to preserving the reserve’s biodiversity, and their hands-on approach allows visitors to leave a positive impact while enjoying luxurious accommodations, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Why These Experiences Matter
Participating in these conservation-focused activities allows travellers to make a tangible impact while gaining unique insights into Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems. Beyond the personal memories you’ll take home, your involvement helps fund and raise awareness for critical conservation programs.
By choosing to engage in active conservation experiences, you become a part of the solution—helping protect Africa’s incredible wildlife for generations to come. Whether it’s tracking rhinos in Namibia or assisting with giraffe research in Kenya, these adventures offer a deeper connection to the wild and a meaningful way to give back.
If you would like to chat about planning a holiday to Africa with conservation at its heart, or any other holiday in Africa, please do get in touch with Lucinda and she would be delighted to help.
