2026 Raptor and Wildlife Conservation Safari in South Africa
Raptor and Wildlife Conservation Safari in South Africa
To Benefit
The Raptor Trust
Raptor and Wildlife Conservation Safari in South Africa
If you love birds and wildlife and are interested in their conservation, you will love this experience!
May 10 - 23, 2026
14 days - 13 Nights
$8899.00 / pp. double occupancy ex-flights
$750.00 / Single Supplement ex-flights
10% of your trip cost is a tax-deductible donation in your name to
The Raptor Trust. (Charity Navigator: 4 Stars) .
Professional Guide, Leader, comfortable vehicle, and all lodging and meals included.
The Experience
★ Africa’s Birds of Prey - When you live among lions, you’d better be tough. We will seek out some of Africa’s most amazing avian predators with our passionate naturalist (avian specialist) guide.
★ Even the Toughest Bird Needs Help Sometimes. We will visit two important rescue and rehabilitation facilities.
The Dullstroom Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Center is an oasis for injured and orphaned raptors and others. We will meet one of their experts for a behind-the-scenes tour and lecture.
The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre specializes in rescuing and rehabilitating, then releasing poisoned or injured wildlife and birds back into the wild when possible. On our full day at the facility, we will learn the challenges faced by birds and wildlife and how they are being helped.
★ Meet the Big 5 with Day and Evening Game Drives. We will explore Kruger National Park’s three biomes - forest, grassland, and savanna- for the Big Five: Elephant, Lion, Buffalo, Leopard, and Rhino, and more, while we look for a plethora of owls, eagles, and other unique birds
★ Night Walks. After dark, the wild African world changes. This is the time of African owls, including the African Scops owl (and the honey badger)!
★ Make a Difference on Two Continents: Our itinerary directly supports wildlife and habitat conservation and community well-being programs in and around Kruger National Park, plus two crucial South African bird and wildlife rescue facilities. In the US. 10% of your trip cost is donated in your name to The Raptor Trust, a leader in raptor and wild bird care (orphaned, injured) for two generations.
The Highlights
Introducing
African Raptors
South Africa is the place to discover the continent’s most charismatic (and threatened) raptors including twelve eagle species, plus another 7 snake-eagles, 8 kestrals, 7 goshawks and sparrowhawks, 10 owls, 5 different vulture species, 3 harriers, 3 buzzards, 2 fish eaters, and the unforgettable Secretarybird, and that is just the beginning.
For a fast idea of some of South Africa’s most thrilling raptor species, take a look at “The Bold Bad Birds of the African Bush.” And undoubtedly, one of the best places in South Africa to see raptors (and elephants, lions, cheetah, giraffe, zebra etc. etc.) is Kruger National Park. Suffice it to say that Kruger is undoubtedly one of the greatest wildlife reserves on the planet.
Where there is wildlife and people, there are accidents. We will be visiting two significant raptor hospital/rehabilitation centers, meeting with the professionals there, and learning firsthand about the challenges facing raptors, other birds, wildlife, and their rescuers.
And, of course, we will enjoy comfortable Kruger National Park lodges, a private vehicle, and a professional naturalist guide (in this case, Marc Cronje, one of my favorite people in the world,) plus the excellent company of a few wolf/dog and wildlife lovers.
Trip-Highlights
About Kruger National Park
The peacefulness of Kruger may lull you into a relaxed state - but don’t be fooled! Kruger National Park is WILD! Image: ©Marc Cronje
Kruger National Park covers a vast area of 19,485 square kilometers (7,523 square miles) in the northeastern portion of the country and extends 360 kilometers (220 mi) from north to south and 65 kilometers (40 mi) from east to west. The South African government protected the park’s first areas in 1898, then in 1926 it officially became South Africa’s first national park. Kruger NP is now part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park, a huge peace park that links Kruger National Park with the Gonarezhou National Park in Zimbabwe and the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique.
Giraffe in Kruger National Park. Image ©Marc Cronje
Kruger National Park is home to the famous “Big Five” (Buffalo, Elephant, Rhinoceros, Lion, and Leopard) plus another 147 large mammals, more than any other African game reserve. Over 520 species of birds ( ~58 raptor species!) have been documented here, along with vast numbers of reptiles, insects, and other fauna and flora.
About The Dullstroom Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Center
In Their Own Words: The Dullstroom Bird Of Prey and Rehabilitation Centre was established in 1997 and has been located at its present site since November 2004. The Centre’s original aim was as an educational centre, ….. The need for care of injured and orphaned birds of prey prescribed the evolving of the rehabilitation centre as well….
The time has now come where the province is in desperate need of facilities that cater for all species; hence the vision has expanded the education and rehabilitation facility to encompass all species of wildlife.
The Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre is managed by the Wildlifesos Trust (IT000101/2015(M/N)) and incorporates Second Chance Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. We are a non-profit organisation (169-719 NPO) (930053148 PBO) and receive no subsidies from the government. We rely solely on the generosity of the public and corporate communities to ensure we achieve our goals and remain sustainable.
Wildlife Rehabilitation is NOT about interfering with nature. In fact, it is taking responsibility for the wildlife casualties caused by human activities! Sadly, the vast majority of cases admitted are the direct result of conflict or interference by man. Rehabilitated animals are given a “second chance” to be released back into the wild to be free.
We never want to imprint babies (or tame any animal) that crosses our doorstep, as successful release depends on maintaining the animals’ inherent instinct and wildness and VERY IMPORTANTLY, retaining their natural fear of man. That is why human contact is kept to the absolute minimum, and for this reason, the Rehabilitation Centre is not open to the general public.
About the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center
In Their Own Words: Our Mission and How We Began
At Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, our mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured, orphaned, and poisoned wildlife while creating awareness of the urgent challenges facing conservation today. We provide a safe haven for animals that cannot be returned to the wild, using them as ambassadors to educate the public about the threats to their species. Through research initiatives, such as tracking leopards and vultures, and successful breeding programs for endangered species like Servals, we actively contribute to preserving South Africa’s biodiversity. By fostering harmony between humans and wildlife, we aim to inspire global action for a sustainable and thriving natural environment.
Detailed Itinerary
Your Raptor Conservation and Wildlife Safari Itinerary
Day 1 (May 10, 2026)
Welcome to South Africa!
We will spend our first night in South Africa at an airport hotel adjacent to OR at Tambo International Airport. Here we will relax, meet our companions, enjoy a welcome dinner, and then head to our beds early to get ready for our adventure starting in the morning.
Welcome dinner
Accommodation: TBD - near the airport
Day 2 - 4 (May 11 - 12)
Dullstroom and the Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Center
Activities:
On our first morning, we will load up the vehicle and be on our way to Dullstroom for our first 2 nights on our Raptor (and Owl) Conservation Tour and Safari.
Depending on time, we will have a few stops along the way to add some waterbirds to our list, as well as lunch at an authentic South African roadside restaurant. Not far off the N4 highway, there are some pans and wetlands where we will look for species such as Greater Flamingo, Cape Shoveler, Hottentot and Red-billed Teal, Yellow-billed, White-backed and Maccoa Duck, Southern Pochard, Black-necked Grebe, Southern Red Bishop, and many others.
Rufus-breasted Sparrowhawk searching for lunch. Image ©Marc Cronje
Dullstroom is one of South Africa’s premier fly-fishing destinations; its relatively cool and temperate climate has made it a favorite weekend getaway destination. The town boasts many excellent restaurants, curio shops, and South Africa’s biggest whisky bar!
The altitude around Dullstroom varies from 2,000 to 2,250 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, and the habitat is comprised of open grasslands and rocky hillsides. If time allows, we may have a short afternoon drive in the area before getting ready for dinner. Species we will be on the lookout for include the endemic Southern Bald Ibis, Cape Longclaw, Ant-eating Chat, Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, Buff-streaked Chat, Mountain Wheatear, Pied Starling, Jackal Buzzard, Cape Crow, Common Fiscal, Bokmakierie and many others.
The Dullstroom area does not hold too many large mammals, though Black Wildebeest, Blesbok, Springbok, and other antelope can be seen on farms, having been re-introduced by many landowners. Grey Rhebok, Mountain Reedbuck, Yellow Mongoose, Meerkat, and Natal Red Rock Rabbit live under free-ranging conditions and can be seen in the area.
We’ll then have some time to freshen up before dinner at one of the many excellent establishments in town, and then our first night’s sleep of the trip.
On our full day in Dullstroom we will visit the local rehabilitation Centre, namely Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Centre. The Centre was established in 1997 and has been located at its present site since November 2004. The Centre’s original aim was as an educational centre, teaching members of the public about raptors and promoting an awareness of the raptor species and their plight as a growing endangered species. The need for care of injured and orphaned birds of prey prescribed the evolution of the rehabilitation center as well. We will be enthralled by the flight display of the birds and an educational talk.
In the afternoon, we can continue our birding in a range of wetland habitat types, including permanent and seasonal marshes and streams, peatlands, and springs situated in an area of high-altitude grassland close to Dullstroom. The reserve contains more than thirty wetlands in a near-pristine state.
Specials we will be looking for include the endemic Grey-winged Francolin and Red-winged Francolin, Wattled and Blue Crane, the endemic Yellow-breasted Pipit, Gurney’s Sugarbird, Mountain Wheatear, Ant-eating Chat, the endemic Eastern Long-billed Lark, Pale-crowned and Wing-snapping Cisticola, the endemic Sentinel Rock Thrush, Denham’s Bustard, and the endemic and fascinating Ground Woodpecker. We will look for the Long-tailed Widowbird, Southern Red, Yellow-crowned, and Yellow Bishop. Raptors such as Jackal Buzzard, Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk, and African Marsh Harrier can be seen over the grasslands.
We will return to Dullstroom town in the early evening, freshen up at our accommodation, and then have dinner in a local restaurant, followed by a good night’s rest.
Dinner Bed and Breakfast
Accommodation: The Rose Cottage B&B is located about 2.5 hours drive from Johannesburg in a quaint fly fishing village of Dullstroom, Mpumalanga
Day 4 - 5 (May 13-14)
Dullstroom to Southern Kruger
Activities
After breakfast, we will be on our way to Kruger’s most well-known camp. Skukuza is the park’s administrative headquarters, its largest camp, and sometimes feels like a small town compared to the other camps in Kruger. It is situated on the southern bank of the Sabie River.
This is a perennial river and one of the largest and most biologically diverse in the park. The habitat here is comprised of riparian zones, with large trees lining the river banks, and Sabie River thickets away from the river courses. The permanent water source here attracts large numbers of Impala, one of the main prey items of Leopard, and we will be on the lookout for these and other predators such as Lion, African Wild Dog, and Spotted Hyaena.
African elephants and African buffaloes are also common in the area, usually heading down to the river as the day heats up. The area is, however, not really suited to large numbers of grazing animals, and small herds of browsers, such as Greater Kudu and Bushbuck, are more common here.
We have two nights at Skukuza Safari Lodge, spending time in the mornings and afternoons out in the field looking for mammals, birds, and anything else that attracts our interest. We will traverse the southeastern section of the park, going down to Lower Sabie Camp (with its tranquil Sunset dam nearby) or even venturing further south to Crocodile Bridge Camp.
Our daily routes will depend on what we have seen so far and what the general weather and other wildlife conditions are like. We might also visit the famous Lake Panic hide near Skukuza’s nursery; a great spot from which to see aquatic bird species and animals drinking from close up. Our expert guide will make the decision as to where to point the nose of the safari vehicle to ensure your maximum enjoyment!
When we are not out on safari in the park, it is important to look around for interesting creatures, even inside the lodge grounds. The grounds are well foliage, and there are some lofty trees along the river’s edge. Activities and facilities are diverse, as are the animals and plants found both within the camp and in the surrounding areas. The camp is a great place to spot the dove-sized Wahlberg’s Epauletted Fruit Bat and the very cute South African Thick-tailed Galago.
Kruger National Park is famous for its population of Leopards. Image: ©Marc Cronje
At the rest camp, there is the Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Library And Museum (James Stevenson-Hamilton was the first warden of Kruger National Park), which has some fascinating artifacts on display. You’ll get to know some things about Kruger Park that you’d never imagined! There are also very engaging stories to read, like the miraculous tale of Harry Wolhuter, one of Kruger’s very first game rangers, complete with real-life props showing his escape from a lion attack while patrolling on horseback.
Evenings
We will spend our evenings walking in the camp itself on the lookout for Owls and Owlets that call the campgrounds their home.
Dinner and Breakfast
Accommodation: Skukuza Safari Lodge situated near the Paul Kruger Gate in the Skukuza Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Day 6 & 7 : (May 15-16 )
Kruger National Park, Satara Camp (aka: Cat Camp)
Activities
We will head north this morning, enjoying the change in vegetation along the way. Satara camp, although fairly large, has a rustic charm, with the bulk of the accommodation set out in a series of circles. The nightly fires burning in front of the bungalows are a special sight. The ambiance of the camp, Kruger’s third-biggest, recalls the mood of colonial Africa with red-roofed public buildings, thatched chalets, and neatly raked paths.
We will spend two nights here, going on morning and afternoon game drives, maximising our chances of seeing animals, birds, and other interesting fauna and flora. We will definitely explore one of the most famous roads in the entire park, the S100, which runs east-west from Satara towards the Lebombo mountains and Mozambique.
Many long-time visitors to Kruger swear by this road for spectacular sightings of the Big Five, many species of raptors, and other rare creatures. We will be sure to venture to the nearby Nsemani and Sweni dams, always worth a “stop-and-scan.”
The sweet grasses that grow on the fertile soils formed on shale and volcanic basalt, and an abundance of excellent browsing trees, sustain the largest Impala, African Buffalo, Giraffe, Greater Kudu, Common Wildebeest, Plains Zebra, Waterbuck, and Sable Antelope populations in the Park. Satara, however, is Lion territory, as no fewer than 50 different prides occupy home ranges in this area, with an average pride size of 12 lions. Within a 20 kilometre radius of Satara, 22 lion prides have been counted! Satara is rightly known as “cat camp”. Lions are inevitably followed by scavengers, and this area also contains large numbers of Spotted Hyaena, Black-backed Jackal, and vultures. It is also one of the best areas in the entire Kruger to see Cheetah.
The world’s tallest raptor at 4ft 3in / 1.3 m, the Secretarybird (subsaharan endemic) struts its way across the grasslands hunting for snakes and other prey which it will kick or stomp to death. Image: ©Marc Cronje
The camp itself is always worth exploring, and a walk inside the fence perimeter might give us views of Honey Badger, African Scops Owl, and Red-billed Buffalo Weaver. An optional night drive from Satara might yield Cape Porcupine, Leopard, and even the elusive Aardvark.
Breakfast and Dinner
Accommodation: Satara Main Camp Satara Camp is situated in an excellent game viewing area, with the bush relatively open and the animals plentiful and diverse. The camp is surrounded by huge grass plains, crossed by rivers at regular intervals. The plains attract game, which in turn attracts predators. Satara is well-wooded, and the birdlife is prolific.
Day 8 - 9 (May 17-18)
Kruger NP, Satara Camp to Olifants Camp
Lion pride, see the female in the background. Image: ©Marc Cronje
Activities
We have two nights at Olifants, spending time in the mornings and afternoons out in the field looking for mammals, birds, and anything else that attracts our interest. We will visit the stunning Olifants lookout point east of the camp, as well as the N’wamanzi lookout point to the west. At both these spots, we will be allowed to exit our vehicles and take some stunning photographs. We will also venture northwards to follow the S93 road as it meanders along the Letaba River; a great area for vast herds of African Elephant and soaring Martial Eagles.
Our daily routes will depend on what we have seen so far and what the general weather and other wildlife conditions are like. Our expert guide will make the decision as to where to point the nose of the safari vehicle to ensure our maximum enjoyment!
When we are not out on safari in the park, it is important to look around for interesting creatures, even inside the camp fence. The campgrounds are well foliaged and there are some lofty trees. The camp is a great place to spot the Grey-rumped Swallow, Brown-throated Martin, and Common Dwarf Mongoose.
On our full day (Day 8) we will be up before sunrise to go on a guided bush walk where we will be hoping to see the infamous Pel's Fishing Owl.
At Scotia Dam. Hippos move surprisingly fast (30 km/hr/ 19mph) and can weigh up to 1500 kg / 3300 pounds. Image: Courtesy of ©Idube Game Reserve, all rights reserved.
Overnight: Olifants Main Camp. Olifants Main Camp is beautifully positioned on a hill overlooking the Olifants River in the Kruger National Park and features panoramic bushveld views.
Dinner, Bed and Breakfast
Day 10-11: (May 19-20)
Kruger NP to Moholoholo
Activities
We will exit Kruger Park today via Orpen gate and make our way to Moholoholo Forest Camp.
Nestled beneath the majestic Drakensberg mountains lies Moholoholo Forest Camp, an intimate lodge situated amongst Africa’s huge Quinine trees and home to a variety of bird and animal species.
On May 8, 2025, one of the largest poisoning incidents in South African history killed 123 vultures, including 102 (CE) White-backed, 20 (E) Cape, and one (E) Lappet-faced vulture. Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center was among the team of wildlife conservation professionals deployed to save another 84 rescued alive. Image: SanParks, South African National Parks, and The Endangered Wildlife Trust.
Forest Camp and the world-renowned MOHOLOHOLO WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTRE are set on the same property of roughly 420 hectares. Forest Camp provides a unique opportunity to experience both forest and savannah wildlife and is also a bird lovers’ paradise. The regular visits from Vervet monkeys, baboons and the rare Samango monkeys will keep you entertained, and nightly visits from our Bush pig family, Bush Babys, and Owls will give you a true taste of our nightlife. Our stay here will include game drives on the reserve and an early bush walk.
On our full day we will go to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. The unique Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is home to many of South Africa’s abandoned, injured, and poisoned wildlife. Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is extremely proud of its efforts in wildlife education in South Africa.
At Moholoholo, they are often faced with the difficult decision of what to do with an injured or poisoned animal that cannot be released back into the wild. As a result, they have a number of “permanent residents” at the Centre, and at their own cost, these animals become “ambassadors” for their respective species. Members of the public can get an up-close and personal experience of these incredible creatures, and with the Centre’s hands-on approach, they have the ability to demonstrate to the public the threats and problems our wildlife is facing today.
The Centre has a long-standing and successful Serval Breeding Project, and more than 160 have been reintroduced successfully to areas where they have become extinct. They are actively involved in research on the movement and behaviour of leopards and on a number of vulture species that they monitor daily at their “vulture restaurant”.
We will be spending our full morning at the Centre doing a half-day tour and learning more about Moholoholo and how the center works.
Accommodation: Moholoholo Forest Camp
Basis: Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast
Day 12 - 13: (May 22-23) Magoebaskloof
Activities
This morning, after breakfast, we will be on our way to the beautiful Magoebaskloof area, a popular area, offering spectacular scenery, many forest hiking trails, and fantastic accommodation and restaurant options.
Green Twinspot, one of the specialties we will look for in Magoebaskloof. Image: ©Marc Cronje
It is one of the most important hotspots for local and international birders alike, with several fantastic species occurring. Habitats include pristine, majestic Afromontane Forest patches, with small streams that cascade down the hills in ferns and moss-rich gullies, along with upland grassland and alien plantations. Magoebaskloof, and especially the famous Woodbush Forest section, is often touted as the best forest birding spot in all of Southern Africa.
Specials of the area include Crowned Eagle, Bat Hawk, Cape Parrot, Black and African Emerald Cuckoo, Narina Trogon, African Olive Pigeon, Tambourine and Lemon Dove, Orange Ground Thrush, Black-fronted Bushshrike (probably the best place in South Africa to see this species), Grey Cuckooshrike, Square-tailed Drongo, Olive Woodpecker, Buff-spotted Flufftail, Yellow-streaked Greenbul, White-starred Robin, Barratt’s Warbler and Green Twinspot.
Other fantastic species that could be seen are Long-crested Eagle, Jackal and Forest Buzzard, African Goshawk, Black Sparrowhawk, Eurasian Hobby, African Wood Owl, Knysna Turaco, Yellow-billed and African Black Duck, Reed Cormorant, Little Grebe, several cuckoo species in summer, Olive Bushshrike, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Brown-hooded Kingfisher, Black-collared Barbet, Olive Thrush, Striped and Buffy Pipit, Mountain Wagtail, Thick-billed Weaver, Yellow Bishop, Cape Grassbird, Chorister and Red-capped Robin-Chat, Bearded Scrub Robin, Sombre Greenbul, Terrestrial Brownbul, Collared Sunbird, Red-faced Cisticola, African Dusky and Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, Cape Batis, Bar-throated Apalis, Red-backed and Bronze Mannikin, Forest Canary, African Firefinch, Cape White-eye, and African Stonechat.
Overnight:
Bramasole Guest House Located in Limpopo, South Africa, Bramasole. All the rooms have glorious views of the forest with some balconies overlooking the glassy lake and beautiful garden.
Basis:
Dinner, Bed, and Breakfast
Day 13: (Dates) Magoebaskloof Morning Activity and Airport – End of tour
Activities
We will do some early morning birding at the lodge grounds, have a relaxed breakfast, and then head towards our hotel near Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport, where we will enjoy our final dinner together and prepare for our flights home.
Basis:
Bed and Breakfast
Note: If you would like to stay over and leave the next morning, or extend your stay to enjoy extra time in Johannesburg, Cape Town, or other cities, please let us know!
What to Expect
What to Expect on Your Raptor and Wildlife Conservation Safari
Will we see the elusive African Painted Dog? There is no guarantee, but we will be visiting one of the last strongholds of this Endangered species. Image: Courtesy of ©Idube Game Reserve. All rights reserved
Included
✓ 1 night of shared accommodation at OR Tambo International Airport Hotel - single available by supplement.
✓ 6 nights of shared accommodation in Kruger National Park - single available by supplement.
✓ 6 nights of shared accommodation in private lodges - single available by supplement.
✓ All meals
✓ Water in the vehicle
✓ All park, conservation, concession, and vehicle entry fees
✓ Full-time professional naturalist, avian specialist guide
✓ Safari Vehicle - closed with A/C except in Kruger Park, where it will be open.
✓ Fuel ✓Toll Fees
Excluded
x International and Internal (if applicable) Flights
x Lunches in Kruger National Park
x All beverages, including water, except in the vehicle
x Visa Fees if applicable
x Comprehensive Travel Insurance
x Gratuities (optional)
x Laundry or other personal items
Is this Trip Right For Me?
Theme: African Birding (Raptor and Owl concentration) and Wildlife Conservation Safari
Trip Duration: May 10-23, 2026 14 days / 13 nights
Trip Type: Small Group.
Max: 6 guests + D: W Host + guide.
Service Level: Comfortable to Premium
Activity level: Leisurely, most wildlife viewing will be done from a vehicle for safety reasons, and some walking.
Best For: Adults. For Casual to Experienced birders (lists will be kept) and people who love wildlife. If you have a curious mind and are interested in seeing and learning more about bird, wildlife, and habitat conservation and rehabilitation, this is the perfect tour for you.
Age Requirements: 18+ years
Read More about Kruger National Park here
Read More about African Raptors here: The Bold, Bad Birds of the African Bush
Read More: Lowveld? South Africa’s Best Kept Birding Secret Revealed!
Little Sparrow-hawk Image: ©Marc Cronje
Travel Notes
► Activity Level: Leisurely. Travel by open vehicle in Kruger and Sabi Sands, closed, air-conditioned at other times. Some walking.
► Weather and Temperature Changes:
► Health: From the CDC - Travel To South Africa Vaccination Recommendations Destination: Wildlife requests full COVID-19 vaccination for the protection of all participants.
► Visa Requirement: State Department Washington, DC
❖ Additional Resource for Health and Visa Questions: Passport Health USA
Please Note: Destination: Wildlife is not connected in any way nor does it endorse or indemnify information on the site.
► Drinking water: Purified water is available (sold) at all lodges and will be supplied (included) in the vehicle.
Water is becoming a scarce commodity in Africa and much of the rest of the world, vast regions are experiencing desertification due to misuse and the effects of climate change. Please be aware that you will now be charged for drinking water (not included) in lodges and other public places in South Africa. Although the fee remains reasonable, it is a good reminder of how precious clean drinking water is to all life. Please bring a refillable personal container for daytime use.
► Single-Use Plastics: The policy at Destination: Wildlife is to Ban or Limit Single-Use Plastics on our tours as much as possible. That includes beverage bottles, plastic bags, containers, single-use straws, etc. There will be clean drinking water available in the vehicle. Please bring your own refillable water container.
► Group Size: 6 guests, including your host from Destination: Wildlife, and a professional guide (bird specialist)
► Packing: Pack as lightly as possible in one soft-sided bag plus your carry-on. A packing list will be provided.
► Recommended Equipment: binoculars, camera, short lens, long lens, personal, reusable water bottle or canteen, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
► Travel insurance: Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all international travel. Ask us about the best policy for your needs
Travel Insurance
For all Destination: Wildlife tours, guests should have a minimum level of travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies. We highly recommend a comprehensive policy (medical and travel protection) for your tour. If you decide against Travel insurance, you must sign a waiver of release before departure. Travel insurance may cover you for cancellation due to illness, lost bags, missed flights, and other unexpected occurrences. Please see our cancellation policy
Important note: Most travel insurance does not cover preexisting conditions unless purchased within 14 days of the initial deposit (7 days for some carriers). A pre-existing condition can be anything from an allergy to a back problem to a heart issue. We highly recommend purchasing your travel insurance immediately after making a deposit. Additionally, if your job, business, or the condition of a family member may cause you to cancel your trip, ask about specific plans to help protect your investment.
Many companies provide good travel insurance. We recommend Allianz because their coverage is very good, their terms, conditions, and costs are fair and reasonable, They offer a selection of policies to fit your needs - and they always answer the phone when we call.
Evacuation Insurance: Global Rescue. Evacuation insurance is NOT travel insurance. If you feel you need evacuation coverage or would like to know more about it, let’s schedule a call.
Please contact us if you would like a quote, have a question, or need assistance with travel or evacuation insurance.
Terms and Conditions
Read or Download our Full Terms and Conditions here
Your deposit holds your spot. We strongly recommend the purchase of travel insurance within 14 days of deposit.
Due to the nature of our tours, no refunds are available once a tour has started or for any package, accommodation, meals, or other services included. We understand that sometimes, even the most eagerly anticipated plans may need to be canceled. We strongly recommend that every traveler purchase travel insurance. Cancellation Policy.
Cancellation: More than 120 Days before departure
Forfeiture of 10% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare. *
Cancellation 120 to 90 Days before departure
Forfeiture of 50% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
Cancellation 90 or Less before departure
Forfeiture of 100% of trip fees, including extensions, plus any specified donations to the sponsor, and any non-refundable train/airfare.*
*Where another guest fills the space, a portion of your fees may be eligible for an additional partial refund, subject to Destination: Wildlife's sole and exclusive discretion.
Accommodations
Comfortable room at Skazua Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park
The Rose Cottage is a small boutique hotel spread over 3 properties in Dullstroom. Each room is decorated with a different theme, and roses pervade.
Facilities: Shower and Wifi
Skukuza Safari Lodge
In Their Own Words:
Welcome to Skukuza Safari Lodge, where comfort meets environmental responsibility. Choose from our range of accommodations, including 91 standard rooms, 22 family rooms, 7 universally accessible rooms (wheelchair-friendly), and 8 luxury suites. We prioritise sustainability by incorporating green building initiatives and adhering to international best practices. From energy efficiency to responsible waste management, we minimise our ecological footprint while ensuring your comfort. Beyond our lodge, we actively contribute to community benefaction through economic opportunities in construction and operation. By involving local communities, we support growth and prosperity in the area.
Facilities: Motel-style 2 floors, shower, A/C, and WiFi. Pool, Gym, Bar, and Gardens.
Satura Main Camp at Kruger National Park. Image. SANSPark
Satura Main Camp, Kruger NP
In Their Own Words:
Satara Camp, located in the centre of the Kruger National Park in South Africa, stakes its reputation on being one of the best spots in the world for viewing Lion, leopard and cheetah, because of the fertile grazing land found in the area which attracts vast herds of antelope. For this reason, Satara Rest Camp is often referred to as the 'cat camp'. Large cats are frequently spotted in the Muzadzeni area, where a large and successful Lion pride operates, or along the 5100 route that runs east from Satara Camp, hugging the bank of the N'wanetsi stream.
Olifants Main Camp, Kruger National Park. Image: ©SANSPark
The camp itself has a rustic charm, with the bulk of the accommodation set out in a series of circles. Satara is well wooded and the bird-life is prolific. At night the clink of fruit bats is fused with the chirping of cicadas and crickets. The calls of owls and nightjars add to the symphony that is punctuated intermittently by the whoop of hyenas, the screech of jackals, and the roars of lions.
Facilities: Separate Cabins with a shower and A/C. Laundromat, Eco-Information Center, Post Office. No pool
Olifants Rest Camp, Kruger NP
In their own Words: The camp is situated a top a hill which towers several hundred feet over the Olifants river. Views from the lookout platforms allow one to see the river below, just as a soaring eagle would survey it, as it hunts from the skies.
Facilities: Separate bungalows, basic but with a shower and A/C, laundromat on premises. There is a shaded look-out platform. “Here you are sure to spot Hippopotamus, Crocodiles in the Olifants River, as well as even the occasional Lion kill.”
Moholoholo Forest Camp in the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Center. Image. the ©Moholoholo Forest Camp
Moholoholo Forest Camp
Set on the campus of the Moholohola Wildlife Rehabilitation Center, the animals seem to understand that this is a safe place. Vervet monkeys, baboons, rare Samango monkeys, and bush pigs regularly visit, and the “nightlife” includes camp visits by bush babies and owls. It is also known as a “birdwatcher’s paradise.”
Facilities: Individual cottages, full bathrooms with showers, and great views.
Bramasole Guest House
This luxury boutique hotel sits at the edge of a lake in the breathtaking Magoebaskloof mountains in Limpopo Province. They
Facilities: 17 Rooms, each decorated in a different style representing worldwide destinations from Hanoi to Santorini, all with a shower, WiFi, TV, some with bathtub, balconies or terraces.
Making a Difference
How Your Trip Makes A Difference
At Scotia Dam. Hippos move surprisingly fast (30 km/hr/ 19mph) and can weigh up to 1500 kg / 3300 pounds. Image: Courtesy of ©Idube Game Reserve, all rights reserved. . Image courtesy of ©Idube Game Reserve. All rights reserved
As with all of the Destination: Wildlife tours, this one is an Unforgettable Journey that Does Good at the destination, and at home. In Kruger National Park, we will be staying in lodges that are run by Sans Park, dedicated to protecting biodiversity and creating socio-economic change. Outside of Kruger, we will be staying in private, locally owned lodges.
We will visit two important avian rescue and rehabilitation centers, Dullstroom and the Bird of Prey and Rehabilitation Center, and MOHOLOHOLO WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTRE. See above: Highlights section for more information. Suggested fees and donations are included. Both facilities now rescue some wildlife species due to the need for and lack of other professional facilities.
Our visit to each of these places makes the protection of wildlife, birds, and the habitat they need economically possible. Protecting natural habitats impacts the entire earth and all life on it by helping to mitigate the causes of climate change. Responsible travel helps our world - and it’s fun!
The Raptor Trust
Destination: Wildlife will donate 10% of your (double occupancy) tour cost in your name to The Raptor Trust [501(c)3] of Millington, New Jersey. A receipt for your taxes will be issued by the organization. Charity Navigator: 4 Stars
In Their Own Words:
The Raptor Trust envisions a world where animals and the environment are not harmed by human activity, unless accidentally, at which time people would do all in their power to heal and correct the harm.
The Raptor Trust’s mission is to set a humane example by providing care to native wild birds in need, and by educating people about wild birds, especially birds of prey.
The Work:
1. Provide free care and assistance to injured, sick, or orphaned wild birds.
TRT’s professional staff supplies the highest quality medical care and maintenance to all avian patients. A fully equipped medical infirmary, including an intensive care wing, exists on site. Services available include diagnostics, X-ray, orthopedic repair, and specialized diets. Although begun as a raptor care facility, TRT now offers assistance to all native wild birds. The goal is always to return all viable individuals to the wild.
2. Educate people about wild birds, especially birds of prey.
The Raptor Trust’s educational efforts to benefit raptors and all wild birds are actively pursued in several ways. Currently, two full-time teachers/naturalists are employed by TRT…These informative, factual presentations are given to schools, scouts, nature organizations, and all other interested groups, and are attended by thousands of people, primarily young people, each year. Live birds of prey are often used in these educational offerings. … TRT educates is through its own written words. Over time, it has published and distributed a great deal of information about wild birds in the form of books, pamphlets, fact sheets, and posters.
Each year, tens of thousands of people visit The Raptor Trust to view the many unreleasable native birds of prey in residence. People are allowed, indeed encouraged, to come and see the birds, marvel at them, ask questions about them, and learn about them. It is hoped that … learning more about raptors, people will become less apprehensive and more tolerant of them.
3. Provide a humane example for others.
… The Raptor Trust has provided its unique services to the wild birds and the people who find them, always trying to be helpful and caring to both. It is TRT’s hope that its long-standing presence and humane conduct have provided a worthy example to others.
Note from Destination: Wildlife
The Raptor Trust has been in my heart for over 40 years. Growing up, this urban girl’s entire experience with nature was the bees, begonias, and once a praying mantis in her mom’s 2 ft. x 6 ft. flower garden squeezed between our driveway and front stairs.
I was twenty-one when The Raptor Trust gave me my first-ever look at a Red-tailed hawk, a Barn Owl, and a huge Golden Eagle, all injured but safely under their care. Their keen eyes watched me watching them, then turned upward far beyond their enclosure to the sky. Light filtered through the chicken wire and danced on iridescent feathers. The birds, dignified and wild still, although hobbled by injury and confined, opened my world.
Begun as one man’s backyard passion project in the 1980s (founders Len and Diane Soucy’s son Chris is now Executive Director), TRT has grown to a full avian medical infirmary (operating room, intensive care, isolation, and rehab facility) and nursery for motherless chicks, caring for hundreds of injured or sick wild birds every year. Its location next to the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is the perfect launch site for their recovered patients. In March, when I visited, permanent resident Winston the Black Vulture played with my shoelace, and Ollie the American Kestrel was patiently fed medicine by hand in a delicious fresh mouse lunch, mashed to accommodate its damaged bill.
Our trip benefits The Raptor Trust and supports them in giving sick and injured birds another chance.
Elephants drinking at Kruger National Park. Image. ©Nature Travel Birding.
Reviews
Read more reviews for Destination: Wildlife’s Unforgettable Journeys that Do Good!
Liz G, New York State
Southern Spain Birding and Culture, 2025
The GBT trips are a sparkling jewel that lights up our year. Each day was totally different and totally wonderful. Nacho was amazing -full of knowledge, tireless, sensitive to individuals’ needs and skills. I constantly marveled at his vocabulary. He totally understood our humor, and I felt he liked our group a lot.
I feel we get very personal attention with Destination Wildlife, and the group size is terrific.
Marianne, B, New York
Winter Owls and Others, 2025
The guides more than met my expectations. I can't even begin to describe how great they were at informing us about the birds.
Michelle C, Oregon
Yellowstone in Winter, Wolf Watching and Learning 2025
The trip exceeded my expectations. I (jokingly) asked if I could join the 2nd group, I loved it so much! Definitely a 10!
Truthfully, there was not one thing I would change. The experience was amazing. I felt taken care of (I'm usually the one making sure everyone else is happy!) Usually, after a trip, I am ready for home, but I can honestly say I did not want to go back!
I appreciate the ethos of Destination: Wildlife in supporting wildlife conservation and supporting local businesses. Les did a wonderful job herding us all (without us feeling herded). I know a lot goes on behind the "scenes," but it was never obvious.
Isabella K. Illinois
Yellowstone in Winter, Wolf Watching and Learning, 2025
I hope I have conveyed how much I enjoyed this trip and how it exceeded all expectations. One phrase I have heard myself say over and over again, "I am so thankful that my life has included this experience."
Roberta R., New York
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
Exceed - Roger was amazing… talented, professional, passionate about his work, skilled, kind, helpful in every way, and a good sense of humor.
Cathy H., Maryland
Southern Colombia Birding and Culture, 2024
It was a10+. Communication was great. I feel taken care of on your trips.
Kathy R., New York
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
We were so impressed with Destination Wildlife's meticulous organizational skills as well as the wonderful choice of lodges. Marc (the guide) more than exceeded our expectations. What was your favorite part of the trip? Seeing new birds for the first time with all of our new friends on the trip.
John C., Connecticut
Birding and Safari in Namibia, 2023
What was your favorite moment?] I am at a loss, as the whole trip was filled with so many memorable moments. One just has to go and see, and they’ll understand. The guides were more than expected and so knowledgeable in so many other areas. Roberta, Les, and Destination Wildlife met my expectations 100%. The whole experience for me was a 10.
Kate S., New York State
Birding in Costa Rica, 2021
[On a scale of 1 to 10] 10, it was an amazing trip (Please rate from 1- worst to 10 – best)
Liz and Alan G., New York State:
Birding Costa Rica and Private Sail Cruise, 2021
We are in awe of the care that you took to make our trip successful. The attention to detail and your ready availability when things didn’t go as planned. Your excitement as our trip progressed and the supervision to the very end to make sure everything turned out alright. Thank you for all that you do. Liz & Alan
Noreen Q., New York State
Exploring Women’s Winter Wolf Trek, 2021
The trip was fabulous and couldn't have been much better. I was impressed that you did a Zoom call rather than just sending a gear list - it is an example of how much personal attention you devoted to us.
Come explore, learn and and be captivated by the thrilling (and dangerous) world of South Africa’s Raptors on an Unforgettable Journey That Does Good at home and abroad. Tour is limed to six guests. Image: Marc Cronje