Rhino Trimming & pilansberg game reserve
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.
Pilansberg Game Reserve Overview
Pilanesberg is situated in the Northwest Province of South Africa, a short 2.5-hour drive from OR Tambo international. The reserve is the fourth largest park in South Africa with an area of 221 sq/mi.
Pilanesberg Game Reserve rests in a volcanic crater that erupted 1.3 billion years ago. It is a unique environment that boasts the “Big 5” as well as a large variety of fauna and flora.
The reserve is also located in close proximity to the world-renowned – Sun City resort, which is well worth a visit and only a short shuttle away.
TOUR ITENERARY
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.
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)
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.
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.
GALLERY
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
Arrival and Check-in
- Depart from Mafikeng and take a scenic 3.5-hour drive to Pilanesberg Game Reserve.
- Arrive at Bakubung 4-Star Lodge and check into your Deluxe Suite.
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, followed by an evening game drive to observe the "Big 5" and other wildlife.
Pilanesberg Game Reserve
- Start your day with a thrilling morning game drive through the reserve to spot a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat.
- Return to the lodge for breakfast and relax or enjoy the lodge’s amenities.
- Head out for another exciting evening game drive, experiencing the reserve as the animals are most active at dusk. Return to the lodge for dinner.
Optional Activities and Sun City
- Enjoy a morning game drive or opt for additional activities such as a visit to Sun City Resort (transfer available from the lodge).
- Explore Sun City, or relax at the lodge and enjoy the stunning surroundings. You can also book an additional game drive or other activities at the hotel.
- Return for a relaxing dinner at the lodge and unwind from the day's adventures.
DEPATURE
- After breakfast, enjoy one last game drive or relax at the lodge before checking out.
- Transport will be provided for your return to O.R. Tambo International Airport.
*Additional game drives and activities, including a transfer to Sun City, can be arranged at the lodge for an enhanced experience.
GALLERY
