December 18

How a Kwandwe Safari Changes Lives

By Michelle Welvering on December 18, 2023

At Rhino Africa, we're not about the run-of-the-mill safari experience. And let's be honest, neither are you. That's why a Kwandwe safari is right up your alley. Tucked away near Grahamstown in South Africa's Eastern Cape, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve is where luxury shakes hands with the wild, and trust us, it's quite the handshake...

Close up photo of a person's hand touching a sleeping rhino's foot

Discover the conservation success stories of Kwandwe, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe Private Game Reserve Unveiled

So, where exactly is Kwandwe Private Game Reserve? Picture 22,000 hectares of wild African bush, where the Big 5 roam free and the landscapes could make even the most seasoned traveller's jaw drop. But what truly sets Kwandwe apart is its heart and soul – the unwavering commitment to conservation and community upliftment.

Observe an elephant dust-bathing itself on a Kwandwe safari

Thousands of animals and wildlife that call the reserve home, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Going Beyond Game Drives

At Kwandwe, the safari adventures are like a perfectly mixed cocktail of thrill and purpose, with a twist of conservation and a splash of community spirit.

Community members dancing in traditional garb

Kwandwe invest in projects that improve lives and create sustainable livelihoods, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

1. Conservation Volunteering: Get Down and Dirty

Ready to roll up your sleeves? Join the conservation team and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to keep the wilderness wild. You could be tracking elusive wildlife, helping restore native vegetation, or playing a part in anti-poaching efforts. It’s a deep dive into the nitty-gritty of nature and is perfect for those who like their safaris served with a side of real-world impact.

Children planting spekboom in Kwande Private Game Reserve

Plant spekboom – one of the top five carbon-storing vegetations on the planet, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

2. Rhino Darting: Not Your Average Wildlife Selfie

Think you’ve seen it all? Wait until you’re darting rhinos! Join Kwandwe’s team in a high-stakes game of "tag" with a purpose. It’s not just about getting up close with these armoured unicorns; it’s about playing a vital role in their survival.

You’ll be in the thick of the action, helping with tracking, monitoring, and medical care. It’s hands-on, it’s heart-pounding, and it’s as real as it gets.

Rhino notching Kwandwe safari

Participate in Kwandwe’s rhino-darting and notching programme, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

3. Community Engagement: More Than a Friendly Wave

Forget just passing through local communities with a wave and a smile. At Kwandwe, you’re diving right in. You’ll be swapping stories, sharing laughs, and lending hands in our community projects. Whether getting your hands grubby in a school garden or sharing a cup of tea with the locals, every moment is packed with purpose and soul-stirring moments.

Community experience

Get to know the locals and join activities at the Ubunye Foundation, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

The Kwandwe Safari Experience: Wild at Heart

But wait, there's more! A Kwandwe safari is also about those classic, spine-tingling moments that make African safaris epic. From fishing and nature walks to specialised photographic and birding safaris, follow expert guides as they reveal the secrets of the bush. Lions lounging in the sun, leopards prowling in the twilight – it's like your own live-action nature documentary.

Boat and catch and release Kwandwe safari excursion

Kwandwe offers a variety of catch-and-release fishing activities, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Kwandwe Accommodation

As for accommodations, think beyond "hotel room" to "luxury bush palace". Whether it's a lodge or a villa, you're in for a treat – stunning views, plush comforts, and perhaps the occasional elephant sauntering past your window. Take a look at their spectacular abodes for the most sumptuous stay during your Kwandwe safari.

  1. Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge 
  2. Kwandwe Ecca Lodge 
  3. Kwandwe Melton Manor 
  4. Kwandwe Uplands Homestead 
Ecca Lodge exterior

Ecca Lodge offers an indoor-outdoor lifestyle embracing the African wilderness, Image Credit: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

Why You'll Brag About Kwandwe

A Kwandwe safari is a one-of-a-kind adventure that's as enriching as it is exhilarating. So, are you ready to join us on this wild ride? You're not just going on a safari. Instead, you're becoming part of Africa's conservation story – and that’s something to write home about!

Featured Image: Kwandwe Private Game Reserve

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Tags

Community Upliftment, Conservation, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Malaria-free safari


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About the author 

Michelle Welvering

Growing up, Michelle always wanted to become a world-renowned artist, a kickboxing-champion and an eccentric explorer – aka a Kickboxing Exploring Artist! After pursuing an education in Fine Arts and opening her own Kickboxing gym in Pretoria, an unexpected twist led her to a six-year stint as a travel consultant in South African tourism. She believes that all things happen for a reason and, driven by adventure, she was eager to find a more “wild” and cultural space to call home. This led her to wander the Western Cape coastline, fall in love with the city of Cape Town and, of course, her workplace, Rhino Africa.

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