Tswalu, South Africa’s largest private game reserve, is offering a once in lifetime opportunity to get up close to rhinos and at the same time help in a conservation project to protecting endangered Southern Kalahari rhino populations.
From April to September, guests will be able to join the rhino notching initiative to analyse and support the genetic integrity of the protected rhino populations that have suffered a tragic decline over recent years.
During this intimate wildlife experience, trained trackers and veterinarians set out across the Kalahari to dart young rhinos, ideally between two and three years old.
After marking and associating the rhino with a recorded number, the team plants a small microchip under the skin and horns for future identity and security purposes.
Guests form part of the ground crew and are invited to take part in the microchipping experience
DNA samples are then collected and later added into a global DNA database that helps track and prevent illegally traded rhino horns.
During this encounter, guests form part of the ground crew and are invited to take part of this microchipping experience that includes helping to monitor the rhinos body temperature and breathing.
The private rhino notching experience costs $7,265 for 2022-2023 and covers the costs of a wildlife veterinarian, the specialised drugs in the darts and flying expenses.
Tswalu Kalahari features two camps, The Motse and Tarkuni, offering 30 guests privileged access to one of the last remaining true wilderness areas in South Africa. Rates are from about £1,550 a night.
