MANKWE CONSERVATION SAFARI
6 Nights -7 Days $1850 (per person) For a group of 12. Perfect for small groups or families wanting to experience real conservation efforts.
About Mankwe
Mankwe is a family-run, 4,700-hectare nature reserve in South Africa’s malaria-free North West Province, just 5 km east of Pilanesberg National Park. Focused on education and research, Mankwe hosts 10 international universities annually for ecology field courses and runs 7 Earthwatch research teams. The reserve also works with local communities, establishing Wildlife Clubs in schools and hosting conservation days.
Mankwe has two main camps: Waterbuck Camp (36 guests) on Motolobo Dam and Nkombi Camp (12 volunteers) in the heart of the reserve. Both are unfenced, offering game drives in open vehicles and bush walks, providing an immersive wildlife experience. The reserve is home to 53 species of large mammals, 380+ bird species, 30 reptiles, 15 small mammals, and 68 species of dung beetles.
For 19 years, Mankwe has earned the trust of international universities, allowing students to engage in long-term research projects alongside scientists and conservationists. The reserve offers a holistic education on conservation, sustainability, and ecosystem management. Students can tailor their field courses or join those offered by the reserve, with practical projects to apply their knowledge.
Mankwes Mission
Our mission is to enthuse students, guests and researchers to be passionate and responsible about conservation by showing them the beauty of the wildlife at Mankwe Wildlife Reserve, in the hope that they will leave with a deeper understanding of how all species, no matter how big or small, are essential to sustaining a healthy ecosystem. We strive to manage a healthy ecosystem where all species of fauna and flora are studied, researched and protected. Future generations will have the task of managing and repairing the damage done to the environment by previous generations and this can only be accomplished through education and awareness.
Mankwe offers a comprehensive conservation experience that includes:
- Night Drives: Explore the reserve after dark to spot nocturnal wildlife and learn about their behaviors.
- Camera Trapping: Assist in predator research by setting up and monitoring camera traps.
- Giraffe ID: Participate in identifying and tracking giraffes, contributing to the reserve’s long-term research.
- Large Animal Walk Counts: Join in on walks to monitor large animal populations across the reserve.
- Birding: Take part in birdwatching activities, identifying species within the reserve’s diverse avian ecosystem.
- Rhino Horn Trimming: Gain hands-on experience with rhino horn trimming, an important anti-poaching measure.
- Assist APU (Anti-Poaching Unit): Help the Anti-Poaching Unit with snare sweeps to protect wildlife from poachers.
- Fire Management: Learn about and participate in controlled burns for habitat management.
- Anti-Poaching Foot Patrols: Join foot patrols with APU to monitor and protect the reserve’s wildlife.
- APU Dog Training: Assist in training anti-poaching dogs, enhancing the reserve’s efforts to prevent wildlife crime.
These activities provide an immersive, hands-on experience in conservation, wildlife management, and anti-poaching efforts.
ITENERARY
This suggested itinerary offers a unforgettable experience. Thoughtfully crafted for excellence, it remains adaptable to changes in availability and weather, ensuring a flexible and personalized journey throughout.
ARRIVAL
- Arrival at OR Tambo International Airport & Transfer to Mankwe Private Game Reserve
- Arrival: Meet your guide at OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg).
- Transfer to Reserve: Journey to Mankwe Private Game Reserve (approximately 2-3 hours).
- Accommodation: Settle into your tented accommodation at Mankwe, surrounded by nature.
- Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a traditional South African dinner while listening to a welcome briefing about the reserve’s mission, your role, and the itinerary for the week.
DAYS ACTIVITIES
- Introduction to the Reserve & Data Collection
- Morning: Breakfast in the bush followed by an introduction to the park’s conservation efforts and objectives.
- Mid-Morning: Assist the reserve staff and scientists with data collection activities, such as tracking animal movements, monitoring wildlife, and assisting with the reserve’s biodiversity research.
- Lunch: Traditional bush meal in the camp.
- Afternoon: Guided nature walk or game drive with a focus on the reserve’s conservation work.
- Evening: Dinner at camp, followed by a talk from a reserve researcher about local wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts.
DAYS ACTIVITIES
- Rhino Horn Trimming Experience & Anti-Poaching Activities
- Early Morning: Breakfast and then a visit to the Rhino Sanctuary within the reserve.
- Mid-Morning: Participate in the Rhino Horn Trimming Experience (if available) as part of a crucial anti-poaching measure. Learn about the process and its importance for protecting rhinos.
- Lunch: Packed or at the camp, depending on the schedule.
- Afternoon: Assist with anti-poaching activities. This might involve working with the anti-poaching unit, tracking animal movements, and learning how Mankwe combats poaching.
- Evening: Dinner and a talk from a ranger about anti-poaching efforts, strategies, and challenges.
DAYS ACTIVITIES
Day Trip to Pilanesberg Nature Reserve
- Morning: Early breakfast and depart for a full-day trip to Pilanesberg Nature Reserve.
- Mid-Morning & Afternoon: Explore Pilanesberg’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems on a game drive, learning about its conservation programs.
- Lunch: Picnic or lunch at one of Pilanesberg’s designated areas.
- Late Afternoon: Return to Mankwe for a relaxed evening and dinner at camp.
- Evening: Enjoy the sunset over the reserve and participate in a stargazing session led by reserve staff.
DAYS ACTIVITIES
Days of Conservation Management & Review
Morning:
Start your day with an early breakfast before joining the reserve management team for hands-on activities. In the morning, assist with essential tasks such as trail maintenance, wildlife monitoring, or supporting park rangers in their various roles to ensure the reserve operates smoothly.
Mid-Morning:
Continue contributing by helping with the upkeep of animal enclosures, water points, or engaging in habitat restoration projects. You may also be involved in specific tasks depending on the season, like bush clearing or invasive plant management.
Lunch:
Savor a traditional meal at the camp, giving you a chance to reflect on the morning’s activities and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, keep working alongside the team, focusing on ongoing reserve management projects. Depending on your involvement, this could include road maintenance or monitoring environmental changes in the area. Afterward, participate in a final wildlife observation and data collection session, contributing valuable information to the conservation efforts.
Late Afternoon:
Take some time for a reflective sundowner while engaging in a discussion about Mankwe’s broader conservation strategy and the impact of your work. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the importance of your contribution to the reserve’s ecosystem.
Evening:
Wrap up the day with a celebratory dinner, followed by a debrief with the reserve staff. Share your thoughts on conservation, discuss the week’s accomplishments, and gain insight into how your efforts fit into the larger conservation picture. The evening will also include a recap of your involvement, highlighting the lasting impact you’ve made during your stay.
Depature
Transfer Back to OR Tambo International Airport
- Morning: Breakfast and morning transfer to OR Tambo International Airport.
- Departure: Bid farewell to the team and be dropped off at the airport for your return flight.
Important Notice:
Prices may vary depending on availability and the exchange rate at the time of booking.
Optional activities or additional excursions can be arranged for an extra cost.