The Timbavati Traverse is an annual, conservation-driven adventure event held in South Africa. Rather than a traditional competitive race, it is designed as a shared-experience journey where participants move together in groups for safety. The event takes place in Timbavati Nature Reserve. The reserve is open the the Kruger Park, with big game moving freely across their boundary roads. The event raises funds in support of the Timbavati Foundation.

Last year, Wild Wonderful World sponsored the first prize in the Timbavati Traverse raffle: a conservation experience to the value of R35,000. The lucky winners were able to attend the first helicopter training of the Luna Hounds Bravo Pack.

This year in 2026, Michelle and Nini - together with Wild Wonderful World travelers Gary and Jess - ran in the 21km division. On their run, they came across a variety of plains game, as well as a pride of lions! The day started out misty and cool, but soon turned toasty - well before they reached the finish line! Ev and Christina volunteered to man one of the water stations dotted along the various routes, to provide the walkers, runners and cyclists with food and drink to sustain their stamina. The theme and food was so appreciated by the runners, we even won the "Best water table" prize. 

Events like these provide crucial opportunity for community-building and creating awareness of local and regional conservation challenges. Congratulations to all participants in the event, as well as the organising committee for pulling this together each year.