Overview
Join us for an unforgettable journey that blends hands-on conservation with thrilling wildlife encounters. Your adventure begins at an exclusive Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll spend the first four nights working alongside dedicated conservationists to care for orphaned rhinos and contribute to vital field research. Gain unique, behind-the-scenes access to one of the world’s largest rhino rehabilitation centres, assisting with feeding, behavioural monitoring, and data collection. Through interactive workshops and guided activities, you’ll develop a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs of wildlife conservation while making a direct impact on the future of these endangered animals. After an inspiring start, your journey continues with four exhilarating nights in Kruger National Park, South Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserve. Here, you’ll embark on expert-led safari drives, guided bush walks, and night excursions to track the legendary Big Five and witness the raw beauty of the African wilderness. Stay in comfortable, eco-friendly lodges as you immerse yourself in the rhythm of nature, learning about Kruger’s diverse ecosystems and the ongoing efforts to protect them. From thrilling game drives to starlit storytelling sessions around the campfire, every moment is designed to deepen your appreciation for ethical travel and wildlife conservation. This exclusive conservation odyssey is more than just a trip—it’s a life-changing experience. With limited spots available, you’ll be part of an intimate group of like-minded travellers, all united by a passion for wildlife and sustainability. Whether you’re an avid nature lover, aspiring conservationist, or adventure seeker, this journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage with Africa’s wildlife in a responsible and meaningful way. Join us for an extraordinary expedition where adventure meets purpose, and leave with memories that will stay with you forever. Minimum number to run the tour is 10 people.
What you will be doing
Arrive at KMIA airport and transfer to your eco-friendly accommodation at the exclusive Rhino Sanctuary. Join your expert guides and fellow conservation enthusiasts for an orientation session outlining the sanctuary's conservation goals and the hands-on experiences planned for your stay. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local dishes, setting the stage for an immersive conservation journey.
Experience a rare, behind-the-scenes tour of the orphaned rhino sanctuary. Assist with morning routines such as milk preparation, bottle-feeding, and basic husbandry for the orphaned rhinos (with limited, essential contact). Participate in observational sessions and interactive workshops led by conservation experts focused on animal behaviour and health monitoring.
Engage in vital fieldwork such as using cutting-edge tools like EarthRanger and Cybertracker to record and monitor released rhinos and track new calf births. Attend a workshop on the realities of the rhino poaching crisis and explore the conservation strategies employed to combat it. Share insights during a group debrief and enjoy a light field lunch in the sanctuary's natural surroundings.
Participate in advanced conservation exercises, including reserve management and community upliftment initiatives. Enjoy an interactive session with conservation leaders, discussing both the challenges and successes of wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Conclude your stay at the sanctuary with a reflective group dinner that celebrates your contributions over the past days.
After breakfast, transfer from the Rhino Sanctuary to Kruger National Park. Check into your eco-friendly accommodation in Kruger, where you'll spend the next 4 nights immersed in the wild. In the afternoon, set out on an introductory safari to witness the iconic African landscapes and wildlife. Return for a relaxed dinner under the expansive African sky.
Rise early for a full-day private safari, exploring diverse ecosystems and seeking out the Big Five along with other majestic wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Pause for a scenic bush picnic and gain insights into the intricacies of wildlife tracking and habitat conservation from your expert guide. Conclude with a traditional braai dinner in the heart of the park. Cap off the day with a stargazing session, marvelling at the clear, unpolluted African skies.
Venture on a guided bush walk to explore Kruger's rich flora and fauna up-close, learning about the delicate balance of its ecosystems. Participate in an interactive discussion on ethical wildlife tourism and the ongoing efforts to conserve this unique ecosystem. Savour a reflective bush picnic lunch and a farewell group dinner that celebrates the unforgettable experiences shared during your journey.
Relish a hearty farewell breakfast in the serene South African wilderness while sharing final reflections on your conservation adventure. Transfer to KMIA airport for your departure, carrying unforgettable memories and a profound commitment to wildlife conservation.
Where we'll meet
🧭 Meeting/pick-up point: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport
🗺️ Instructions: We will pick you up from the ariport
Things to know
Accessibility:
Children friendly
Fitness requirement
Moderate fitness level
Tour Language
English
License requirement
None
Additional information:
This tour requires a minimum of 10 people to run the tour. If we do not hit this minimum, we reserve the right to cancel the tour, in which case we will contact you to offer an alternative tour or send a refund.
Maximum number is 20.
Inclusion ✅
Tour guide
Accommodations
Meals
All activities
Pick up and drop off transport
Tour transport
Airport pick-up
Entry fees
Exclusion ❌
Alcoholic beverages
Snack
Gratuities
About your host
OdysseyWe were born from a deep-rooted passion for ethical conservation, immersive travel, and creating meaningful impact. What began as a local wildlife research initiative under the name Nkonzo Wildlife and evolved into a dynamic brand that reflects a broader vision: to connect people, wildlife, and places through purpose-driven travel experiences. The name Odyssey represents more than travel—it symbolises a journey of discovery, transformation, and purpose. It reflects our belief that true adventure lies in learning, in giving back, and in walking a path that leaves a positive footprint. Whether you're a student conducting hands-on research, a traveller seeking an authentic wildlife experience, or a group leader planning a school expedition, Odyssey is your partner in meaningful exploration.
For every trip booked, Kodama Travel donates £1 to Just One Tree to restore our forests and the ocean.