South Africa – Wildlife Conservation Experience

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Signature Journey

10 Days / 9 Nights

$4,195 Adult* / $3,995 Child*

Live in harmony with nature on an exclusive reserve and become part of the efforts to protect the animals of the Greater Kruger National Park region.

The Experience

The Greater Kruger National Park region is is one of the world’s greatest wildlife refuges. Comprised of more than 7,500 square miles of protected land and has been designated as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, it’s home to more than 500 species of birds and contains more species of large mammals than any other African reserve.  Within this region, it’s possible to spot all “Big 5” (lion, elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros).

Some of the most inspiring and innovative conservation efforts in the world are happening in this same area. Become part of the solution helping local conservationists set camera traps to protect leopards and go behind-the-scenes in the reserve. Along the way, you’ll get up close and personal with a variety of wildlife in a way most travelers never do, including a visit to Jabulani, an elephant sanctuary that will introduce you, up close and personal, to African elephants and the conservation work that surrounds them. This trip allows you to go far beyond the safari — you’ll become part of the wildlife conservation movement!

A Transformative Safari Experience

This is a safari experience unlike any other. Gain a level of access and engage first-hand with some of the region’s most innovative conservation projects while scouting for the iconic wildlife that South Africa is known for.

Our Impact

South Africa’s largest animal reserve faces threats from rhino poachers, leopard-shooting farmers, and outbreaks of immune system viruses among its lion population. Fortunately, there are also many innovative conservation projects happening in the park, with the goal of protecting endangered species. Meet the inspiring leaders spearheading this work, visit wildlife rehabilitation centers, delve into elephant conservation at a local sanctuary, and participate in unforgettable game drives. Go beyond the normal safari experience and live in harmony with nature on an exclusive reserve and become part of the wildlife conservation movement to protect the animals of the Greater Kruger National Park region.

Where You’ll Stay

We work with a portfolio of 4-star lodges in South Africa, all situated amongst the trees where you will feel fully immersed with nature. Your home-away-from-home will be located just along the banks of the Blyde River in the Wild Rivers Reserve, home to a range of wildlife.

All rooms include crisp white linens, a plush bed, and full private bathroom with hot and cold water, hairdryer, lockbox, and fan. You’ll also be able to enjoy your pool, wi-fi, and an assortment of South African beer and wine for sale.

Itinerary Overview

Arrive in Johannesburg and make the scenic drive to Greater Kruger National Park. Along the way, stop at the stunning Blyde River Canyon, the third largest on Earth. Settle into the comfort of your 4-star safari lodge, the jumping off point for our adventures over the next 9 days. Split your time with game drives in the park and engaging with projects and people making a difference.

Visit the site of one of the most famous hippos in the world, set camera traps to record the movement of leopards in the park, meet the ambassador animals at a wildlife & rescue center and visit a social impact project linking conservation with community issues and ideals, finding integrated sustainable solutions to issues plaguing conservation such as wildlife crime, poverty, low levels of education and food insecurity. End the trip with an inspiring visit to an elephant sanctuary before taking a short flight back to Johannesburg

Your Expert Local Guide

Discover Corps’ expert family of guides around the world are by your side throughout the journey. Please note that the actual guide may vary from date-to-date.

Lily & Conraad Loubser

Lily & Conraad are the husband and wife duo that spearhead our South Africa trips. Lily is originally from the UK, but has lived in South Africa for many years working in responsible tourism. Conraad is a native of South Africa and is a certified naturalist guide. He is most at home when he’s out in the bush and loves sharing the natural wonders of his countries with travelers.

Traveler’s Journal

“The entire trip was a whirlwind of seeing beautiful wildlife, unique plants, and speaking to inspirational local people. My daughters and I bonded over the once-in-a-lifetime experience of being so close to nature and the animals. It’s an experience we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”
South Africa vacation

Sandra A.

Del Mar, CA

Read More Discover Corps Reviews

Rating: 5/5 stars

Dates and Prices

Our trips are inclusive of all activities, lodging, transport and most meals to make your experience hassle-free.

$4,195 Adult*

$3,995 Child*

  • Double Occupancy Price. Children’s pricing applies to travelers 16 years old and younger sharing a room with an adult
  • Single Room Supplement = $895
  • *Price does not include mandatory $200 one-way domestic flight supplement

What’s Included:

  • 4-star lodging in renowned nature reserve
  • All meals and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Expert local guides that are there to support, inform and guide you throughout the trip
  • Reliable in-country transportation with experienced drivers
  • Admissions and entrance fees to national parks, historic sites and other scheduled events throughout the trip
  • An active daily itinerary including lectures, day trips and work assignments alongside the local community
  • All gratuities for hotels, meals, baggage & transportation
  • All land transportation during the trip with licensed drivers
  • $50,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
  • 24-hour Discover Corps emergency hotline & turnkey service

What’s Not Included:

  • Tip for the Discover Corps Guide and Driver
  • International Airfare
  • Mandatory One-Way Domestic flight Supplement ($200 additional supplement per person, added at checkout)

Dates

Our intimate, small-group departures consist of like-minded travelers. Don’t see a date that works? Want to make it private? Schedule a personal travel consultation and we’ll make it happen.

2024 Dates

March 17-26, 2024

May 19-28, 2024

June 2-11, 2024

June 16-25, 2024

July 7-16, 2024

July 21-30, 2024

August 4-13, 2024

September 1-10, 2024

October 13-22, 2024

November 17-26, 2024

2025 Dates

January 5-14, 2025

January 19-28, 2025

February 2-11, 2025

February 16-25, 2024

March 2-11, 2025

March 9-18, 2025

April 6-15, 2025

April 20-29, 2025

May 4-13, 2025

May 25-June 3, 2025

June 8-17, 2025

June 15-24, 2025

June 29-July 8, 2025

July 13-22, 2025

August 10-19, 2025

August 24-September 2, 2025

September 14-23, 2025

September 28-October 7, 2025

October 5-14, 2025

October 26-November 4, 2025

November 9-18, 2025

November 30-December 9, 2025

December 7-16, 2025

December 28-January 6, 2026

Want to learn more?

Alumni & Family Discounts, Monthly Payment Plans, and More

Repeat travelers and groups are eligible for discounts. Looking for a payment plan to help manage your trip? Learn more here.

Customized Private Trips

Let us create a custom trip for your group. Learn more about custom group travel.