Rhino Conservation Experience at Marataba Luxury Lodges

MORE Family Collection introduces a Rhino Conservation Experience at Marataba Luxury Lodges from April 2024. This experience in the incredible Marakele National Park provides the opportunity to actively participate in the care of endangered rhinos.

This is an exceptional opportunity to take part in the veterinary care of endangered rhinos at Marataba, a 23,000-hectare privately managed section within the malaria free Marakele National Park.

"We are committed to wildlife conservation. Through initiatives like the Rhino Conservation Experience, we aim to inspire our guests to become active participants in the protection of our natural heritage." says Robert More, custodian and CEO of the MORE Family Collection.

From April to September, guests at Marataba can join conservationists in a rhino veterinary intervention, directly supporting efforts to safeguard the species. Each intervention offers a hands-on experience with a single rhino, lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. Once the rhino is located and sedated, guests will actively participate in the activity, involving tasks that may include fitting tracking collars, ear-notching, collecting blood and tissue samples, and micro-chipping of horns. This experience does not include dehorning interventions.

Marataba is a sanctuary of conservation excellence. Founded on the vision of former President Nelson Mandela and Dutch philanthropist Paul van Vlissingen, Marataba stands as a testament to the power of collaboration in safeguarding South Africa's wilderness. Since its establishment in 2000, Marataba has spearheaded numerous conservation initiatives, playing a pivotal role in the restoration of native species, and serving as a vital hub for the replenishment of neighbouring parks and reserves. Both white rhino and black rhino are found at Marataba, the latter is critically endangered with their remaining numbers estimated at around 6000.

"Given the sensitive conservation status of rhinos and the ever-present threat of poaching, every intervention at Marataba Luxury Lodges underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to safeguard these magnificent creatures for future generations," says More.

With a limited number of activities available throughout the year, interested guests are encouraged to book early to secure their place in this extraordinary conservation journey.

Choose between two luxury lodges – Marataba Safari Lodge with 15 Luxury Tents available (this includes four family tents) and Marataba Mountain Lodge with five private Luxury Rooms set in the mountain.