Hands-On South Africa
Johannesburg
1 Night
Begin your adventure in Johannesburg, a vibrant gateway to Africa’s iconic destinations. Unwind at the InterContinental O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel, just steps from arrivals, offering luxurious, soundproof rooms for a restful stay before your exciting journey ahead.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
3 Nights
After a welcome breakfast, board a short flight to Hoedspruit, near Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Explore this 135,000-acre wilderness, join a helicopter patrol with a field ranger, and engage in conservation efforts. Relax at Tanda Tula Safari Camp, offering secluded suites with private decks and plunge pools, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the peaceful bush setting.
Babanango Game Reserve
3 Nights
Babanango Game Reserve has achieved “Big 5 Status” with the reintroduction of elephants, lions, and rhinos after years of dedicated conservation. Join a wildlife monitoring team to track black rhinos and cheetahs. History enthusiasts can explore Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battle sites. Madwaleni River Lodge offers luxurious tented rooms with heated plunge pools, set along the White Umfolozi River with stunning views.
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
4 Nights
Explore the Great Fish River Valley, a sanctuary for black and white rhinos, and witness the intensive conservation efforts of the Kwandwe Rhino Conservation Trust. Join a rhino conservation safari, participating in crucial tasks like rhino notching and microchipping. At the elegant Great Fish River Lodge, relax in spacious suites with private decks offering stunning views of kudu and nyala grazing near the river.
Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve
4 Nights
End your journey at Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve, where you’ll encounter rare wildlife like desert black rhinos, black-maned lions, and meerkats in a diverse “green Kalahari” landscape. Meet researchers and join a conservation effort, before enjoying a farewell dinner at the renowned Restaurant Klein JAN, celebrating the region’s heritage foods. Relax at The Motse, with spacious suites offering shaded verandas for daytime views and stargazing at night.
Johannesburg
1 Night
Begin your adventure in Johannesburg, a vibrant gateway to Africa’s iconic destinations. Unwind at the InterContinental O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel, just steps from arrivals, offering luxurious, soundproof rooms for a restful stay before your exciting journey ahead.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
3 Nights
After a welcome breakfast, board a short flight to Hoedspruit, near Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. Explore this 135,000-acre wilderness, join a helicopter patrol with a field ranger, and engage in conservation efforts. Relax at Tanda Tula Safari Camp, offering secluded suites with private decks and plunge pools, perfect for stargazing and enjoying the peaceful bush setting.
Babanango Game Reserve
3 Nights
Babanango Game Reserve has achieved “Big 5 Status” with the reintroduction of elephants, lions, and rhinos after years of dedicated conservation. Join a wildlife monitoring team to track black rhinos and cheetahs. History enthusiasts can explore Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battle sites. Madwaleni River Lodge offers luxurious tented rooms with heated plunge pools, set along the White Umfolozi River with stunning views.
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
4 Nights
Explore the Great Fish River Valley, a sanctuary for black and white rhinos, and witness the intensive conservation efforts of the Kwandwe Rhino Conservation Trust. Join a rhino conservation safari, participating in crucial tasks like rhino notching and microchipping. At the elegant Great Fish River Lodge, relax in spacious suites with private decks offering stunning views of kudu and nyala grazing near the river.
Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve
4 Nights
End your journey at Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve, where you’ll encounter rare wildlife like desert black rhinos, black-maned lions, and meerkats in a diverse “green Kalahari” landscape. Meet researchers and join a conservation effort, before enjoying a farewell dinner at the renowned Restaurant Klein JAN, celebrating the region’s heritage foods. Relax at The Motse, with spacious suites offering shaded verandas for daytime views and stargazing at night.
Hands-On South Africa
Discover Hands-On South Africa. This expedition goes beyond traditional safari experiences, giving you the chance to actively participate in South Africa’s most critical conservation efforts. Witness first-hand the vital work of monitoring endangered species, embark on an anti-poaching patrol flight by helicopter with a field ranger, and join experts on a rhino conservation safari as they passionately share the stories of these majestic creatures.
You’ll visit four carefully selected private reserves: Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Babanango Game Reserve, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, and Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve. Each reserve faces its own unique conservation challenges, met with unwavering dedication by their teams of experts. With landscapes ranging from lush savannas to the vast Kalahari, you’ll feel as though you’ve journeyed beyond South Africa’s borders.
This expedition is designed to foster a deeper connection with the land and its wildlife, leaving you inspired by the impact of conservation and the stories of those protecting these precious ecosystems.
Highlights
- Take to the skies on a helicopter patrol with a field ranger in Timbavati, gaining insight into anti-poaching efforts from above.
- Engage with renowned wildlife vet Dr. Peter Rogers, and learn about critical wildlife rehabilitation and translocation efforts firsthand.
- Go “hands on” with conservation activities at Timbavati, participating in initiatives crucial to preserving local wildlife.
- Track black rhinos and elusive cheetahs alongside expert conservationists at Babanango Game Reserve, where efforts have recently brought back the Big Five.
- Immerse yourself in South Africa’s history with a visit to the Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battle sites, iconic locations in the Zulu-British conflict.
- Join a rhino conservation safari at Kwandwe, assisting in rhino notching and microchipping to support anti-poaching efforts.
- Explore the unique desert and savanna ecosystems of Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve, where you’ll observe desert-adapted black rhinos, black-maned lions, and meerkats.
- End your journey with a farewell dinner at famed Restaurant Klein JAN, savoring heritage-inspired cuisine that showcases the flavors of the Kalahari.
Itinerary at a Glance
Hands-On South Africa
Johannesburg, South Africa
Begin your adventure in Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant main travel hub and a gateway to some of the continent’s most iconic destinations. Take the evening to unwind at your luxurious hotel, allowing yourself to recover from your international journey. Whether you choose to relax or explore, Johannesburg offers a perfect introduction to South Africa, blending urban sophistication with rich history and culture. Recharge and prepare for the exciting days of adventure that lie ahead.
Conveniently located less than 250 feet from the international arrival hall, the upscale InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport Hotel features well-appointed soundproof rooms with king beds and blackout curtains for a comfortable rest.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
After meeting fellow travelers at our welcome breakfast, we’ll board a short charter flight to Hoedspruit, a charming town on the edge of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. This 135,000-acre wilderness is known for exquisite game viewing thanks to prolific and diverse wildlife – including populations of big cats, African wild dogs and elephants – in combination with a low density of visitors and game viewing vehicles. Join a Timbavati field ranger on a helicopter patrol flight and learn about the importance of this “eye in the sky.” Engage in a conversation with renowned wildlife vet Dr. Peter Rogers, who will speak about his involvement in critical wildlife rehabilitation and translocation efforts. We’ll go “hands on” with an exciting conservation activity, depending on the reserve’s needs at the time. At night, enjoy the serenity of the bush and stargaze the southern hemisphere night sky.
Tanda Tula Safari Camp sits on the banks of the seasonal Nhlaralumi River. Tanda Tula means “to love the quiet,” and the camp truly delivers. Secluded canvas and glass suites feature private decks and heated plunge pools in a peaceful setting overlooking the riverbed.
Babanango Game Reserve
The newly established Babanango Game Reserve undertook ambitious conservation efforts that have paid off in a remarkable way, recently achieving “Big 5 Status” with the reintroduction of elephants, a species not seen in this area for almost 150 years. The reserve’s conservation team has been working tirelessly since 2019 to restore its biodiversity, beginning with the reintroduction of buffalos, as well as white and black rhinos. In early 2023, the reserve facilitated ‘The Return of the King’, introducing two male lions recently joined by females. Accompany a wildlife monitoring crew tracking black rhinos and elusive cheetahs and experience a thrilling safari adventure in an ecosystem on its way to former glory. And history buffs can join an engaging tour of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift – major battle sites in the 1879 war between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom.
Nestled along the banks of the White Umfolozi River, beautifully appointed tented rooms at Madwaleni River Lodge feature private heated plunge pools and breathtaking views of large, molded river rocks complemented by lush hills.
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Journey to the Great Fish River Valley, an ancient haven for black and white rhinos, and take a deep dive into understanding the threat of poaching which has demanded constant protection for these magnificent animals. Kwandwe Rhino Conservation Trust employs environmental educators, full-time monitors, and specialized counter-poaching teams with canine units and advanced technology assets to prevent and detect poaching threats. Experience their efforts firsthand as you embark on a rhino conservation safari with opportunities to get “hands on” and participate in the rhino notching program. Once the target animal is darted, we’ll join the Kwandwe vet team at the scene to assist with microchipping the horns and notching the ears – essential tasks for enhanced identification and protection.
Perched above a magnificent perennial river, spacious suites at the elegant Great Fish River Lodge are designed to showcase the majestic setting. Enjoy uninterrupted views
from your private deck and watch kudu and nyala graze near the riverbanks below.
Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve
We conclude our epic journey at the iconic Tswalu Kalahari Game Reserve for a chance to observe unusual wildlife such as desert black rhinos, black-maned lions, and brown hyenas, as well as burrowing species like meerkats and aardvarks. Tswalu straddles a unique transition zone between the desert and arid savanna landscapes, bisected by the Korannaberg Mountains thus providing a variety of unique and unspoiled habitats in what is called “the green Kalahari.” The desertscape is particularly enlivened at this time of year as the region emerges from the rainy season. Meet scientific researchers and participate in a conservation activity as determined by priorities at the time of our visit. On our final night, we celebrate our journey together with a farewell dinner at Restaurant Klein JAN which artfully showcases the region’s unique heritage foods.
The Motse embodies serenity and casual elegance. Each spacious suite features a private shaded veranda with day bed – perfect for gazing across the desert landscape during the day, and stargazing at night.
Expedition Leaders
Our Expedition Leaders bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to every Scheduled Safari. With years of expertise in leading safaris and coordinating complex travel logistics, they make sure each journey runs smoothly and exceeds expectations. From navigating Africa’s diverse landscapes to sharing their passion for wildlife, culture, and conservation, our Expedition Leaders elevate your experience with their personal insights and attention to detail. They are on hand throughout your safari to guide you through every step, so that your adventure is enjoyable, worry-free, and truly remarkable.
Our Expedition Leaders bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to every Scheduled Safari. With years of expertise in leading safaris and coordinating complex travel logistics, they make sure each journey runs smoothly and exceeds expectations. From navigating Africa’s diverse landscapes to sharing their passion for wildlife, culture, and conservation, our Expedition Leaders elevate your experience with their personal insights and attention to detail. They are on hand throughout your safari to guide you through every step, so that your adventure is enjoyable, worry-free, and truly remarkable.
Journey Experts
Our seasoned Journey experts specialize in meticulously planning our Scheduled Safaris. With extensive experience in travel, tourism, and aviation, they have carefully designed every aspect of your safari to ensure an extraordinary adventure. Now that the groundwork is done, they will work closely with you to handle the finer details, from equipping you with information needed to obtain visas and vaccinations to providing essential packing tips and answering all your pre-trip questions. Their goal is to help you feel confident and excited as you embark on your safari, knowing that every aspect has been meticulously planned for a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Our seasoned Journey experts specialize in meticulously planning our Scheduled Safaris. With extensive experience in travel, tourism, and aviation, they have carefully designed every aspect of your safari to ensure an extraordinary adventure. Now that the groundwork is done, they will work closely with you to handle the finer details, from equipping you with information needed to obtain visas and vaccinations to providing essential packing tips and answering all your pre-trip questions. Their goal is to help you feel confident and excited as you embark on your safari, knowing that every aspect has been meticulously planned for a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Field Experts
Angus Sholto-Douglas, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Kwanwe Private Game Reserve
Angus is the visionary behind Kwandwe Private Game Reserve which he co-founded in 1999. Passionate about wildlife conservation, he has spearheaded the reclaiming of 54,000 acres of farmland for wildlife, repopulating the landscape with over 7,000 animals, and reintroducing rhinos and cheetahs to this wilderness.
Learn about the conservation story unfolding at Kwandwe from this pioneer, who will lead our hands-on rhino experiences as well as enliven our dinners with the history of the Great Fish River Valley and his adventures in wildlife conservation.
Dr. Peter Rogers, World-Renowned Wildlife Vet
Considered to be one of the most experienced wildlife veterinarians in the world, Dr. Peter Rogers has been dedicated to saving iconic wildlife for nearly four decades. From majestic rhinos to vulnerable pangolins, his work has spanned a remarkable spectrum of treatment, rehabilitation and translocation of some of South Africa’s most endangered species.
Dr. Pete will join our group at Tanda Tula for an illuminating evening recounting some of the captivating and inspiring experiences from his illustrious career.
Craig Sholto-Douglas, Ecologist, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Craig’s passion for the wild has led him to Kwandwe as an ecologist where he’s dedicated to conservation management, land restoration, rehabilitation, and reserve management. His expertise lies in creating a harmonious balance between flora and fauna, vital for rehabilitating land to its natural state.
While at Kwandwe, Craig will introduce our group to some of the remarkable conservation initiatives underway. Also learn about the importance of restoring native spekboom vegetation for land rehabilitation and carbon offsetting. You’ll have the opportunity to plant some of this “wonder plant” yourself.
Edwin Pierce, Warden, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Edwin is an ecologist with a lifelong passion for conservation and environmental management. In 2018 he was appointed as warden of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. He is a trailblazer, swiftly rising through the ranks and leading an exceptional team.
Join Edwin at the Graeme Naylor Museum in the Timbavati Headquarters as he shares invaluable insights on reserve management, wildlife conservation, and the critical role of security in safeguarding endangered wildlife.
Angus Sholto-Douglas, Co-Founder and Managing Director, Kwanwe Private Game Reserve
Angus is the visionary behind Kwandwe Private Game Reserve which he co-founded in 1999. Passionate about wildlife conservation, he has spearheaded the reclaiming of 54,000 acres of farmland for wildlife, repopulating the landscape with over 7,000 animals, and reintroducing rhinos and cheetahs to this wilderness.
Learn about the conservation story unfolding at Kwandwe from this pioneer, who will lead our hands-on rhino experiences as well as enliven our dinners with the history of the Great Fish River Valley and his adventures in wildlife conservation.
Dr. Peter Rogers, World-Renowned Wildlife Vet
Considered to be one of the most experienced wildlife veterinarians in the world, Dr. Peter Rogers has been dedicated to saving iconic wildlife for nearly four decades. From majestic rhinos to vulnerable pangolins, his work has spanned a remarkable spectrum of treatment, rehabilitation and translocation of some of South Africa’s most endangered species.
Dr. Pete will join our group at Tanda Tula for an illuminating evening recounting some of the captivating and inspiring experiences from his illustrious career.
Craig Sholto-Douglas, Ecologist, Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
Craig’s passion for the wild has led him to Kwandwe as an ecologist where he’s dedicated to conservation management, land restoration, rehabilitation, and reserve management. His expertise lies in creating a harmonious balance between flora and fauna, vital for rehabilitating land to its natural state.
While at Kwandwe, Craig will introduce our group to some of the remarkable conservation initiatives underway. Also learn about the importance of restoring native spekboom vegetation for land rehabilitation and carbon offsetting. You’ll have the opportunity to plant some of this “wonder plant” yourself.
Edwin Pierce, Warden, Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
Edwin is an ecologist with a lifelong passion for conservation and environmental management. In 2018 he was appointed as warden of the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts. He is a trailblazer, swiftly rising through the ranks and leading an exceptional team.
Join Edwin at the Graeme Naylor Museum in the Timbavati Headquarters as he shares invaluable insights on reserve management, wildlife conservation, and the critical role of security in safeguarding endangered wildlife.
Hands-On South Africa
The Hands-On South Africa journey offers an all-inclusive journey where every aspect of your trip is thoughtfully planned to ensure a seamless and immersive experience. From the moment you arrive, all essential services are covered, allowing you to focus on hands-on experiences, connecting with the local environment, wildlife, and communities. This expertly curated expedition includes everything from accommodations and meals to private air travel, guided tours, and group activities, making it a truly worry-free travel experience. You’ll be accompanied by seasoned Bushtracks expedition staff and local guides, who will handle every detail so you can focus on the adventure ahead. With all logistics, transfers, and even gratuities taken care of, you’ll enjoy comfort, convenience, and unforgettable moments.
Included in your scheduled tour
- All accommodations, meals, guide fees, park fees, community fees, tour transfers, and private air travel as indicated in the detailed itinerary.
- The services of Bushtracks expedition staff and local guides.
- All group activities and excursions.
- Private group airport transfers to/from Johannesburg airport.
- Drinking water (bottled water not always available), coffee and tea throughout the journey.
- Local brand alcoholic beverages at group meals.
- Limited laundry, where available, at two-night stays or more.
- All airport departure taxes.
- All gratuities during group activities and for the expedition staff.
- Porterage of one soft-sided checked bag.
- Medical evacuation insurance ($100,000) and Medical/Sickness ($25,000 per incident) for covered reasons.
- 30-day MEDJETAssist membership.
Price
March 29 – April 12, 2025
Hands-On South Africa
Test
Participants must be able to climb into and out of private aircraft, helicopters, and safari vehicles un-aided. Also, they must be able to climb up and down stairs without a railing. They should be fully mobile and capable of walking moderate distances at an easy pace, at times over rough terrain, and be able to withstand hard riding, four wheel-drive vehicles that travel over dirt roads and sometimes rough, bumpy ground.
Our chartered flights utilize light aircraft in commuter configuration. The flight schedule may include unscheduled stops due to factors such as weather or fuel availability beyond the crew’s control. Flight schedules can also change at any time should security or other issues arise. The type, model, and registration of the aircraft is subject to change.
In the first two weeks of April, South Africa experiences the early stages of autumn, making it an ideal time to visit. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F, depending on the region. Rainfall tends to decrease as the wet summer months come to an end. Overall, April offers comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and great opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly in the national parks and reserves.
Hands-On South Africa
If you are traveling with your own group, Going Private is the ultimate way to personalize your flying safari adventure.
Hands-On South Africa can be exclusively booked for your group, offering complete flexibility and personal attention. With your own group, sharing a private aircraft is cost effective and an essential component to efficient, time saving travel, flying you directly to camps and making the most of your time in Africa’s remote and stunning wilderness.
Whether it’s a family celebration, corporate retreat, milestone anniversary, honeymoon, multi-generational family vacation, or a bucket-list journey with friends, a private safari is designed around your preferences, providing a seamless, immersive, and unforgettable experience. Perfect for creating lifelong memories, connecting with loved ones, or simply celebrating life’s most important moments in Africa’s breathtaking wilderness.
Price and availability are based on group size.
WHY GO PRIVATE?
- Flexible Itinerary: Tailor dates and activities.
- Exclusive Private Air Travel: Private charter flights ensure efficient, direct travel between remote destinations, giving you more time to explore and less time in transit.
- Personalized Activities: Customize your safari experience with private game drives, guided bush walks, cultural visits, and exclusive wildlife interactions—just for your group.
- Backstage Activities: Enjoy special conservation or community activities booked solely for your group.
- Tailored Group Dynamics: Whether traveling with family, friends, or colleagues, your private safari can be adapted to accommodate traveler ages, fitness levels, and interests, ensuring everyone enjoys the journey.
EPIC SUNDOWNERS
LAOPI FIREPIT TSWALU
ENDANGERED BLACK RHINO
PLAYFUL MEERKATS
EPIC SUNDOWNERS
LAOPI FIREPIT TSWALU
ENDANGERED BLACK RHINO
PLAYFUL MEERKATS
GO PRIVATE
Exclusive Private Safaris
All of our scheduled safaris can be transformed into exclusive private experiences. This allows your group to enjoy the adventure together, with personalized service and a customized itinerary tailored specifically for your party.
PRIVATE AIR EXPERIENCE
Maximize Your Time in Africa
Private air travel is essential to our scheduled safaris at Bushtracks, seamlessly connecting you to Africa’s most remote and iconic destinations, maximizing your time in the wilderness while offering unmatched convenience, luxury, and safety.