Become a part of the conservation effort to save Wild Dogs in South Africa! GPS collars are an integral part of monitoring and keeping track of these illusive dogs, especially when it comes to keep them safe from farmers in the ongoing saga that is human-wildlife conflict. Their susceptibility to poachers snares is also a huge risk to their population and a tracking collar allows for swift veterinary intervention when required. In addition to the incredible opportunity to get up close and personal to these apex predators, your participation is providing a life-line to one of Africa's most endangered species.
A few of the many incredible things you'll see and experience while on this journey.
Day 1: Arrival - Johannesburg, South Africa
From Johannesburg we will whisk you straight into the wilds, to an area renowned for wild dogs- the Timbavati Private Game Reserve. Arrive at Tanda Tula Safari Camp, unpack and settle in, enjoy some lunch before heading out on your first afternoon game drive!
Days 2-4: Tanda Tula Safari Lodge, Timbavati Private Game Reserve
Regarded as the best tented safari camp in South Africa, Tanda Tula honours the essence of being connected to the wilderness. Explore the Timbavati with Tanda Tula's exceptional guides and amazing trackers. Enjoy daily game drives, night drives, walking safaris, bush breakfasts and sleeping out in the Star Bed.
Days 2-4: Conservation focus: EWT's Wild Dog research
During your stay at Tanda Tula, you will meet the head of the EWT's Greater Kruger National Park Wild Dog research team. Prior to a day spent in the field, enjoy drinks and dinner, followed by an evening presentation on the EWT Carnivore Project and the work being done with Wild Dogs in the region. Spend the day assisting with Wild Dog Conservation. Depending on what research needs to be done, this might include, wild dog den monitoring, wild dog darting, snare removal, collaring of dogs, or tracking dogs with existing collars to monitor behaviour.
*Please note: We can't guarantee specific activities as it is dependant on where the various dogs are at the time and what work needs done.
Days 5-8: Tintswalo at Lapalala, Lapalala Wilderness Reserve, Waterberg
Your wild dog adventure continues today as you fly to the Waterberg and your next lodge, Tintswalo at Lapalala. Home to a plethora of wild game, the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve forms part of the UNESCO-declared Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. The reserve is known for its research and breeding programs of rare and endangered species as well as the environmental education program it delivers at the Wilderness Bush School. Explore Lapalala on twice daily game drives, bush walks, fishing, sundowner barge cruise, visit bushman paintings and iron age sites, and enjoy Lapalala's legendary bush banqueting and picnics.
Days 4-8: Conservation focus: Waterberg Wild Dogs
During your stay at Lapalala, become a part of the Wild Dog conservation efforts in the Waterberg region and leave a personal legacy by sponsoring a GPS collar for one of the dogs. Enjoy a Wild Dog Presentation by the research team during afternoon tea and then head out on Game drive with a vet and ecologist to track the dogs and to try collar them. This is vital for the continued monitoring and protection efforts of the pack.
*Please note that the tagging of the Wild Dog is not guaranteed as these animals are fast moving and roam freely between the Lapalala Wilderness Reserve and Kruger National Park. However, the experienced guides and trackers will do their utmost best to successfully locate the Wild Dog. Veterinary operations will only go ahead if conditions are right.
Day 9: Departure - Johannesburg, South Africa
After 8 stunning days on safari and having made a significant impact to the conservation of wild dogs in South Africa, it will be time to head home. Transfer by road back to Johannesburg (approx 3hr30 mins.) where you can connect with onward international flights home.
This Impact Safari experience includes:
Join a wild dog research team in the field and spend time monitoring their behaviour and assessing their health. Participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience to join rangers on a conservation journey to track and collar a wild dog.
We've carefully selected local projects that are doing amazing work for conservation in the area. You can add a visit on to your itinerary which will automatically include a direct donation to their work. Note: Some of these projects may already be included in your itinerary!
.png){kind=small}
