Conservation experience

A unique conservation experience in South Africa

Lapalala Wilderness offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get behind the scenes and involved with its primary conservation efforts at the private Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve.

Take part in the immobilisation of a white rhinoceros, black rhinoceros, or African elephant, and assist our veterinary team in monitoring the anaesthetised animal as well as in the microchipping, ear-notching and collection of DNA samples for anti-poaching and research purposes.

Lapalala Wilderness is globally recognised for its rhino conservation efforts and also the very first reserve in history to introduce black rhinoceros on private land.

In 2020, the big 5 reserve was proclaimed an official protected nature conservation area by the National Authorities. Lapalala Wilderness consists of 48,000 hectares of unspoiled wilderness and creates a safe haven for a range of African species including the endangered black and white rhinoceros, cheetah, African wild dog and roan antelope … read more about Lapalala Wilderness

“The rhino experience was an amazing opportunity to witness a white rhino up close and personal! The team took blood and horn samples and ear-notched the animal for future identification. It was awesome to see how closely the team worked together and everything went well and smooth. It was an incredible experience that I will never forget.” – Hannah Weiss (Germany)

“The possibility to join a veterinary activity at Lapalala Wilderness has been a highly informative and enjoyable time for me. I admired the great skills of the team and their ability to stay calm and controlled throughout the operation. By being allowed to participate, I managed to get a full-depth insight into the pulsating backstage that runs a wildlife reserve. I strongly recommend and encourage this experience to anyone, especially to veterinary students who are wildlife enthusiasts!” – Carlo Cossu (Italy)