Conservation is at the heart of what we do and what we stand for at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. Our purpose as a tourism-conservation entity is to contribute sustainably to the environment, protect the incredible biodiversity of the Eastern Cape, and positively impact the surrounding communities.
At Kwandwe, we currently support a healthy, growing population of black and white rhinoceros, which we reintroduced to the reserve in 2000. The succulent thicket provides black rhinos with ideal nutrition and the Great Fish River Game Reserve, neighbouring Kwandwe, has an important population of black rhinos, exhibiting the significance of this region in conservation. To help protect and preserve this important work, Kwandwe offers guests the rare opportunity to observe and participate in this important conservation work through three distinct experiences: the Rhino Monitoring Drive, the Rhino Conservation Safari, and Backstage Kwandwe.
RHINO MONITORING DRIVE
Available year-round, the Rhino Monitoring Drive is a flexible, private experience that immerses guests in the fascinating world of rhino conservation. Tracking and locating each of our rhinos to get an eyes-on check is a critical part of the monitoring and managing of the species in a private reserve. Each rhino is identified through ear-notching and guests have the opportunity to join the rhino monitoring team as they skillfully use resources of bush skills, telemetry, drones and even AI as they locate individuals. This is a drive with a difference, it is a fun and interactive learning experience as you are focused on the task at hand and have a mission to accomplish alongside the Kwandwe team.
Key Highlights:
- Up-Close & Personal: Gain intimate insights into the lives of rhinos and the efforts needed to ensure their survival.
- Tracking & Teamwork: Join guides, rangers, and trackers using radio telemetry, drones, and AI to identify and monitor individual rhinos.
- Interactive Learning: This experience is both educational and engaging, allowing guests to actively contribute.
RHINO CONSERVATION PARTICIPATION
The Rhino Conservation Safari provides an even more immersive conservation experience, blending traditional monitoring with advanced technological methods and hands-on involvement in critical conservation procedures. As the world of conservation integrates with technology and the power of AI, we have embraced leading tech applications to preserve and protect their rhinos and our guests now have the opportunity to join in on these important efforts.
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive Briefing: Detailed briefing on conservation efforts and assigned roles for the day’s activities.
- Assist & Protect: Participate in administering medication, taking scientific measurements, and fitting ankle collars to rhinos.
- Technological Integration: Witness the use of AI and other advanced technologies in rhino conservation.
BACKSTAGE KWANDWE
Offered on set dates with limited availability as well as on an exclusive basis, Backstage Kwandwe offers a 4-day experiences showcasing the reserve’s behind-the-scenes conservation activities. This exclusive experience allows guests to work alongside the Kwandwe team, engaging in various conservation projects. The shared experience includes a stay at the beautiful Ecca Lodge which is our newly-refurbished stylish and vibrant lodge.
Key Highlights:
- Comprehensive Insight: Get a truly insiders look at conservation at Kwandwe.
- Hands-On Involvement: Participate in rhino conservation work, including darting and notching, as well as other initiatives like the K9 APU dog team and Spekboom planting project.
- Advanced Technology: Interact with cutting-edge conservation tools like drones and Earth Ranger software.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you choose the Rhino Monitoring Drive, the Rhino Conservation Safari, or Backstage Kwandwe, each experience offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the vital conservation work being done at Kwandwe Private Game Reserve.
View our information on the three unique experiences here
For more information, rates or to make a reservation, contact our team at reservations@kwandwe.co.za
Read more about our rhino conservation efforts at www.kwandwerhinotrust.org.za