Rhino Trimming &
Kruger National Park/Lowveld Safari

8 Days

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To be advised

(per person sharing)

Rhino Trimming:

Rhino trimming is a conservation method used to protect rhinos from poaching by safely removing or trimming their horns. Since rhino horns are highly valued on the black market, trimming reduces the risk of poaching.

The process involves darting the rhino from a helicopter to sedate it, then carefully trimming the horn. During this procedure, the rhino also receives a health check, DNA samples are taken, and a microchip is implanted for identification.

The trimmed horn is securely stored and documented to prevent it from being sold illegally. This approach helps protect rhinos and allows them to thrive in the wild without the threat of poaching.

Kruger /Lowveld Overview

The South African Lowveld is a captivating region rich in natural beauty and diverse wildlife, offering a range of tourist destinations.

Key highlights include Kruger National Park, renowned for its safaris and abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five. Visitors can also explore the Panorama Route, famous for breathtaking viewpoints like God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the stunning Blyde River Canyon.

The town of Nelspruit, the gateway to the Lowveld, offers botanical gardens and local markets, while the nearby historic town of White River is known for its arts and crafts scene.

The region’s warm climate, scenic landscapes, and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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    RHINO TRIMMING ITENERARY

    DAY 1
    DAY 1

    ARRIVAL

    • Arrival: Arrive at O.R. Tambo Airport, Johannesburg; meet your guide and transfer to Kameel Drift Private Estate.
    • Evening: Refresh, enjoy a game drive, and relax with a Sundowner and Braai (BBQ). Adjust to the +9-hour time zone.

    DAY 2
    DAY 2

    ACTIVITIES FOR THE DAY

    • Morning: Enjoy a bushveld breakfast overlooking Roodekopjes Lake and Dam.
    • Mid-morning to Midday: Visit a predator orphanage for hands-on wildlife interaction, explore Mafyanes Wildlife Reserve.
    • Mid-afternoon travel to Mafikeng to check into the Protea Hotel, with an optional stop at an elephant sanctuary en route.(time permitting)

    DAY 2 CONTINUED
    DAY 2 CONTINUED

    ARRIVAL IN MAFIKENG

    • Relax and unwind during your 2-night stay at the Marriott - Protea Hotel Mafikeng, complete with comfortable accommodations and a delicious breakfast to start each day.
    • Enjoy hassle-free travel with all transfers arranged for you, including trips to and from the reserve for the rhino trimming activities.
    • Savor a light lunch and refreshing soft drinks during the trimming sessions, and look forward to delightful dinners each evening to end your day on a high note.

    DAY 3 & 4
    DAY 3 & 4

    RHINO TRIMMING EXPERIANCE

    • Join Nico Jacobs (Founder, Rhino911), Dr. Evan Antin (US exotic animal veterinarian), Dr. Gerhardus Scheepers (large game veterinarian, SA), and Neil Socquet for an unforgettable hands-on experience.
    • Watch as rhinos are darted from a helicopter and brought to the ground team.
    • Be part of the ground team that assists with the trimming process, where the rhino horn is carefully cut and removed to protect the animal from poaching.
    • Assist in taking DNA samples, microchipping the rhinos, and performing general health treatments. Each rhino will be thoroughly documented, and the horns will be securely stored.

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    KRUGER AND LOWVELD ITENERARY

    Inclusions:

    • Return Flights: OR Tambo to Hoedspruit.

    • Transfers: Private return transfers from Hoedspruit Airport to the lodge.

    • Accommodation: Exclusive stay at a private lodge within the Selati Private Game Reserve.

    • Meals: All meals are included at the lodge (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

    • Game Drives: Daily guided game drives in the Selati Private Game Reserve and Kruger National Park.

    • Wildlife Interactions: Elephant experience and Cheetah/Hippo interaction.

    • Panorama Route: Scenic tour of the Panorama Route.

    • Boat Tour: Sunset boat tour on the Olifants River.

    DAY 5
    DAY 5

    Pilanesberg Game Reserve

    Arrival and Check-in

    • Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
    • Catch a return flight to Hoedspruit (flight details will be confirmed upon booking).
    • Enjoy a scenic drive (approx. 45 minutes) to the Selati Private Game Reserve.
    • Your private safari guide will provide welcome drinks and orientation.
    • Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, followed by a relaxing evening under the African sky.

    DAY 6
    DAY 6

    Safari Adventures

    • Wake up early for a morning game drive. The private reserve is home to the "Big Five" and offers a chance to encounter Elephants, Rhinos, Lions, Leopards, and Buffalos, along with a variety of other wildlife
    • Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast after your game drive.
    • Enjoy leisure time at the lodge. Relax at the pool, or take in the surrounding landscape.
    • Lunch is served at the lodge.
    • Participate in an exciting Elephant Interaction experience. Learn about these magnificent creatures and engage in an up-close encounter.
    • Dinner at the lodge.
    • Optional: Enjoy a night game drive to spot nocturnal wildlife.

    DAY 7
    DAY 7

    Walking Safari & Panorama Route

    • Early morning walking safari with your expert guide. This offers a unique opportunity to get a closer look at the flora and fauna of the Limpopo Lowveld.
    • Lunch back at the lodge
    • Explore the stunning Panorama Route, known for its dramatic landscapes, including Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, and the Three Rondavels. This tour offers breathtaking views and photographic opportunities.
    • Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner.

    DAY8
    DAY8

    Cheetah or Hippo Interaction & Kruger National Park Safari

    • Cheetah or Hippo Interaction – choose between an exciting walk with cheetahs or an interactive session with hippos.
    • After your animal experience, enjoy a breakfast at the lodge.
    • Depart for a full-day safari to Kruger National Park in an open vehicle. Kruger is renowned for its wildlife diversity, and your private guide will ensure you spot as many animals as possible during your adventure.
    • Picnic lunch in the park.
    • Return to the lodge in the late afternoon. Relax and enjoy your final dinner at the lodge, followed by a chance to reflect on your safari experience.

    Sunset Boat Tour & Departure

    • After breakfast, enjoy a sunset boat tour on the Olifants River. Relax as you cruise along the river, taking in the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
    • Return to the lodge for a light lunch and relaxation before checking out.
    • Private transfer to Hoedspruit Airport for your return flight to OR Tambo International Airport.
    • Arrive at OR Tambo for your onward journey or connection home.

    Important Notes:

    Prices may vary depending on availability and the exchange rate at the time of booking.
    Optional activities such as night game drives or additional excursions can be arranged for an extra cost.
    This itinerary ensures an unforgettable, luxurious safari experience with a perfect mix of game viewing, wildlife interactions, and exploration of the region’s stunning landscapes.

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