Zululand's Biodiversity Discovery
Wildlife Odyssey - South Africa’s Conservation Success Story
- Destinations
- Pongola Game Reserve
- Ezemvelo Nature Reserve
- Isimangaliso Wetland Park
- Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
- Duration
12 – 14 days
Highlights
- Pongola Game Reserve
Explore the incredible transformation of Pongola Game Reserve, from Africa’s first proclaimed game reserve to a period of de-proclamation and transformation into agricultural land, and finally, a rewilding triumph.
Witness the awe-inspiring presence of 4 of the ‘Big 5’ (minus lions) against the backdrop of the Lebombo mountain range and Lake Jozini.
Pongola is a testament to the South African conservation success story, fostering diverse ecosystems supporting nearly 90 mammal species and over 250 bird species.
- Ezemvelo Nature Reserve
Ezemvelo Nature Reserve’s location within the Highveld Grassland biome, biodiversity, and commitment to preserving a threatened biome make it an ecologically distinctive and invaluable protected area in South Africa.
The reserve boasts an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, including numerous grass species, birds, reptiles, and mammals. Some species are adapted to the harsh environmental conditions of the Highveld, making it a hotspot for biodiversity.
Ezemvelo features several wetlands, dams, and rivers which support a wide range of aquatic life and attract a variety of water-dependent wildlife. The presence of wetlands within a grassland biome is ecologically distinctive.
- Isimangaliso Wetland Park
Explore the wonders of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Stretching over 280 km of coastline, this protected area is a paradise of blue seas, white beaches, wetlands, lakes, and unique terrestrial habitats. Nestled in the northernmost region of the park, Kosi boasts 4 pristine lakes interconnected by meandering channels, wetlands, mangrove swamps ranging from fresh to salt water, finally entering the Indian ocean via a pristine estuary, earning its status as a global biodiversity hotspot. Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this extraordinary coastal wonderland.
- Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park
An internationally revered wildlife sanctuary, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park often referred to as the “jewel of Zululand,” and is steeped in history, wildlife diversity, and natural wonder. A landscape of rolling hills, winding rivers, and lush woodlands. The park’s diverse terrain not only offers breathtaking vistas but is the foundation that supports abundant biodiversity.
- Bushwalks to learn about local ecology
- Game drives and night drives to observe animal behaviour and to learn about survival strategies
- Bush skills such as tracking and survival
- Wildlife monitoring activities such as game counts and the use of camera traps and telemetry
- Lake cruise to experience and learn about different freshwater and marine ecosystems
- Canoeing in mangroves
- Snorkelling in the estuary and mangrove
- Local excursions to learn about sustainable wildlife use
Download the programme brochure
Features and benefits of our academic field trips
Increase course appeal + student recruitment
Enhance the appeal of your institution’s study programme and recruit more students by including a life-changing and fully-accredited field trip to South Africa in the curriculum.
Customise the field trip to meet course objectives
Academic field trips are designed at any level to include experiences that meet specific learning outcomes of each group. Depending on the aims and objectives of the institution, field trips can form part of a formal academic module or a supplementary experiential learning nature.
We provide a complete academic field trip planning and facilitation service
Our experienced academic programme coordinators work closely with trip organizers to ensure that the desired outcomes are planned for and achieved. We take care of every aspect of the field trip.
Students learn from and work alongside some of South Africa’s most experienced wildlife and conservation guides
Our field trip guides are true pioneers of conservation in South Africa. To learn from them is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students who are passionate about the environment.
Give students an authentic and educational African safari experience
During their trip, students stay in our purpose-built tented safari camp, with all the mod-cons of comfortable beds, hot showers, well-appointed dining facilities and “boma” area.
What students will learn about and experience:
- The South African Conservation Success Story
- Wildlife Monitoring Techniques
- Ecology and Biodiversity Bushwalks & Game Drives
- Wildlife Behaviour and Survival Strategies
- Human-Wildlife Conflict
- Bush Skills
- Community Conservation Strategies
- Wildlife Rehabilitation
- Endangered Species Breeding
- Reptile Management and Conservation
Why work with African Insight Academy?
Over 25 years in business
We have been working with some of our university, college, and school clients for over 25 years, providing safe, well organized, bespoke educational experiences for over 12,000 students from all over the world.
We hold a British Standards Institute BS8848 health and safety accreditation
Health and Safety is our top priority - We hold global BS8848 safety accreditation from the British Standards Institute. Find out more here.
Expert field guides and mentors
Our internship mentors include some of South Africa’s most experienced conservationists and guides.
Why visit South Africa?
Health and safety is our first priority and African Insight Academy holds a British Standards Institute BS8848 health and safety accreditation. Parents and guardians are welcome to request a copy of our comprehensive health and safety risk assessment for the camp.
