RHINO TRACKING WITH THE SPECIALISTS

 Thanda Safari, the privately owned game reserve situated in South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal province, is inviting guests to join their dedicated Rhino Monitoring Team for a half day’s insight and participation into the daily activities required to protect these magnificent species from poachers.  

As part of the reserve’s mission to serve as a responsible custodian of the environment, Thanda Safari’s Rhino Monitoring Team are tasked with overseeing the surveillance of both the white and black rhino and recording the data daily. Members of this team are not only guardians of these threatened species, but also play an intricate part in contributing towards the reserve’s ecological data. Departing by vehicle 15-20 minutes before sunrise, a time when these animals are still active, guests will be briefed by a Rhino Monitor and qualified Lead Trails Guide on the challenges around rhino monitoring as they look for tracks.

Detailed explanations during the dawn drive will include how to track a rhino and record its ecology, their behaviour, feeding patterns and vegetation preferences as well as the ongoing threats faced by the species. Once rhino tracks have been found, the guide will lead guests into the bush on foot. Closed walking shoes, long trousers and neutral-coloured clothing must be worn (no white, cream, or bright colours). Identification signs on the rhino will be explained, with guests assisting to classify the rhino based on its ear notches and record its condition. They will also learn to observe wind direction and the activity will continue to be as interactive as possible depending on the tasks of the day and within the predetermined safety perimeters.

Costing R1500 per person for the 3-4 hour activity, the not-for-profit fee is split to cover costs and directly be channelled back into conservation. R500 will go to hospitality to cover drinks and snacks, use of a dedicated vehicle and the guide’s salary, whilst the remaining R1000 will contribute directly towards veterinary bills, fencing, cameras, APU (Anti Poaching Unit) salaries and so forth.

For more information and bookings email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call: +27 32 586 0149 www.thanda.com

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Notes to Editors:   Known for offering an authentic South African wildlife experience, matched with sincere commitment to the Zulu culture and passionate conservation of the environment, Thanda Safari offers numerous activities, from Big Five game drives, specialised bush walks and wildlife conservation activities to Zulu cultural tours into the rural community along with photographic safaris, further enhancing the guests’ African experience. A choice of three accommodation options are also available: Thanda Safari Lodge whose 9 bush suites are shaped like a traditional Zulu homestead; Villa iZulu (‘heaven’), a majestic 5-suite Villa that provides an outstanding safari hideaway for those seeking true privacy and Thanda Tented Camp, comprising 15 spacious canvas tents, which offers a relaxed non-electrified safari experience. Full board accommodation at Thanda Safari Lodge with twice daily safari activities starts from Rand 7700 per person.