AWV Blue sky Impact Safari 2026

South Africa
Date: 10th – 21st June 2026
11 nights / 12 days

Theme: Adventure • Conservation • Connection • Travel
Group Size: Min: 6 | Max: 10 + Hosts
Accommodation Type: Luxury lodges (single & sharing options available – first come basis)
Fitness Levels: Moderate – suitable for most travelers with a love of the outdoors and wildlife
Travel
Arrival Flight: King Shaka International Airport (Durban) – 10 June 2026 before 10am
Departure Flight: Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town) – 21 June 2026 after 12pm

Investment (Per Person). Quoted in South African Rands (today’s rate – subject to change if the Rand/USD exchange fluctuates immenseley)

Trip Payment Summary:
Single Option
Base Trip Item                               ZAR / USD
Section 1 – KZN – Single (7 nights) R152,861 /$ 8,835
Section 2 – CT – Single (4 nights)   R37,050 / $ 2,132
TOTAL (Single)                            R189,911 / $10,967
*Pre Trip – Extra night Ballito           R1,750 / $ 101
Sharing Option
Base Trip Item                                       ZAR / USD
Section 1- KZN – Sharing (7 nights)      R134,174 / $ 7,755
Section 2 – CT – Sharing (4 nights)       R32,500 / $ 1,872
TOTAL (Sharing)                                R166,674 / $ 9,627
*Pre Trip – Extra night Ballito                  R1,750 / $ 101

Please note: we don’t partner guests. 30% deposit required to secure your place. Balance due 90 days before departure (T&Cs apply). Should you prefer to pay by credit card, please add a further 3.5% to the above quotation as a processing fee.

Note: This trip is a collaboration with African Wildlife Vets. All contributions support African Wildlife Vets 

Summary

Why This Safari Is Unique

The  African Wildlife Vets Blue Sky Impact Safari 2026 is not your average safari—it’s a specialised, small-group conservation journey designed for those who want to go beyond wildlife viewing and become part of the story of conservation in Africa. Hosted by Carla Geyser (Blue Sky Expeditions) and Kate Church (Founder of African Wildlife Vets), this high-end impact safari offers an intimate and exclusive opportunity to walk alongside some of the most inspiring conservationists in South Africa.

Over the course of 8 days in Zululand, you’ll meet veterinarians, rhino researchers, ecologists, and rangers who dedicate their lives to protecting Africa’s most vulnerable species. Depending on conservation priorities at the time of your visit, you may even witness or participate in real-time veterinary interventions such as collaring, de-snaring, or treatments in the field.

This safari combines luxury, adventure, and purpose—with a deeper focus on meaningful encounters than you’ll find on a traditional trip. Every lodge has been carefully selected for comfort and exclusivity, while every activity has been chosen to offer insight, connection, and impact.


What You Can Expect

Behind-the-Scenes Conservation
Gain rare access to the African Wildlife Vets Zululand team, joining them in the field (depending on need) and hearing directly from the people on the frontlines of conservation.

Meet Inspiring People
From veterinarians and rhino orphanage carers to ecologists and rangers, you’ll have the chance to engage in eye-opening fireside conversations that reveal the realities, challenges, and triumphs of wildlife conservation.

Iconic Destinations

  • Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park – Africa’s oldest game reserve, home to the Big 5 and central to the history of rhino conservation.
  • Manyoni Private Game Reserve – A premier Big 5 reserve where you’ll visit the Zululand Rhino Orphanage and take part in conservation-focused activities.
  • iSimangaliso Wetland Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) – Explore breathtaking landscapes by game drive and boat, from hippo-filled waterways to Zululand’s wild coastline.

Luxury Lodges – Stay at three handpicked lodges, each offering premium comfort, exceptional cuisine, and unforgettable settings that immerse you in the wild beauty of KwaZulu-Natal.


Cape Town Extension – 4 Nights (Included) 

Conclude your Blue Sky Impact Safari with 4 nights in Cape Town, combining natural wonders, world-class food and wine, and iconic landmarks.  This final leg of the safari blends urban sophistication with coastal and mountain beauty, offering a perfect contrast to the immersive wilderness experiences of Zululand.

Do YOU have any questions? We would love to hear from you.

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Highlights

WHY JOIN – A Safari with Purpose

This is not just another safari—it’s an exclusive, high-end impact journey where luxury, conservation, and purpose meet. Hosted in partnership with African Wildlife Vets, this one-of-a-kind adventure combines luxurious lodges, Big 5 game drives, and behind-the-scenes access to groundbreaking wildlife conservation. Your participation directly funds life-saving veterinary interventions and wildlife projects, ensuring that every moment of your journey leaves a lasting legacy.

HIGHLIGHTS

Safari Highlights – Zululand & Cape Town

Zululand Experiences:

  • Stay in three luxury lodges across Zululand
  • Daily Big 5 game drives in world-renowned reserves
    Private access to the African Wildlife Vets team – learning about the vital conservation work they do
  • Visit the Zululand Rhino Orphanage
  • Experience a hands-on veterinary conservation activity (needs-based)
  • Explore iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site
    Scenic boat cruise on Lake St Lucia
  • Authentic community and conservation experiences
  • Intimate fireside chats with conservationists and vets

Cape Town Experiences:

  • Table Mountain – Take the cable car to the summit for panoramic views of the city and coastline
  • Cape Peninsula Full-Day Trip – Drive along scenic Chapman’s Peak, visit Cape Point, and see the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach
  • Dinner and Drumming experience
  • Winelands Excursion – Taste award-winning wines and enjoy gourmet lunches in Stellenbosch and/0r Franschhoek
  • Luxury Accommodation – Stay in a premium Cape Town hotel, centrally located for sightseeing, dining, and exploration

 

Do YOU have any questions? We would love to hear from you.

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Includes

What’s Included

  • Accommodation (7 nights) at a curated mix of luxury lodges (single or sharing options, limited single occupancy available on a first-come basis)
  • Accommodation (4 nights) in Cape Town
  • All meals plus a few selected beverages as per itinerary.  PLEASE read carefully.
  • Listed activities & conservation project visits including:
    • Behind-the-scenes with African Wildlife Vets
    • Visit to Zululand Rhino Orphanage
    • Big 5 game drives in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi & Manyoni
    • Exploration of iSimangaliso Wetland Park (UNESCO)
    • Conservation-focused veterinary experience (needs-based)
    • Dinner Drumming experience in Cape Town
    • Full Day Peninsular tour in Cape Town
    • Full Day Winetasting trip in Cape Town
    • Table Mountain & Cable car
    • Marine Eco-Safari in Cape Town  (2 hours)
  • Ground transport & private airport transfers as per schedule as per schedule
  • All national park fees & conservation levies
  • 24/7 Expedition Host & Trip Facilitator: Carla Geyser (Blue Sky Expeditions)
  • Special Guest Host: Kate Church, Founder of African Wildlife Vets (In KZN only)
  • Water provided daily
  • Internal road transfers between all lodges & reserves
  • Fundraising contribution directly supporting African Wildlife Vets, ensuring your journey has a tangible conservation impact

Excludes

What’s Excluded

    • Any international flights & necessary transfers to reach the start/finish of the trip
    • Comprehensive travel insurance (mandatory)
    • Personal expenses, alcoholic drinks, and extra snacks
    • Tips / gratuities
    • Any border crossing fees & visas
    • Any new government taxes, levies, fuel, or industry increases beyond our control
    • Extra meals or optional activities not listed in the itinerary – in Cape Town
    • Pre- or post-expedition accommodation (outside of scheduled dates) – Durban or Johannesburg
    • Domestic flights – JHB to Durban on 10th June 2026
    • Domestic flight – Durban to Cape Town on 17th June 2026
    • Domestic flights – Cape town to JHB on 21st June 2026

Itinerary

AWV Blue Sky Impact Safari 2026
10 – 17 June 2026 | Zululand, South Africa
17-21 June 2026 | Cape Town, South Africa

Date Day Country Route Details Accommodation  Beneficiary / Activities
1 10-Jun-26 Wednesday South Africa Arrive DBN. Transfer to Hluhluwe Imfolozi Game Reserve Rhino Ridge Afternoon Game Drive
2 11-Jun-26 Thursday South Africa Hluhluwe Imfolozi Rhino Ridge Morning Game Drive  + Meet the wildlife vets + Afternoon Game Drive
3 12-Jun-26 Friday South Africa Transfer from HIP to Manyoni Game Reserve Leopard Mountain Morning Game Drive + Afternoon Game Drive
4 13-Jun-26 Saturday South Africa Manyoni Game Reserve Leopard Mountain Morning Game Drive +  Conservation Intervention  + Afternoon Game Drive
5 14-Jun-26 Sunday South Africa Manyoni Game Reserve Leopard Mountain Morning Game Drive + Visit to Rhino Orphange + Afternoon Game Drive
6 15-Jun-26 Monday South Africa Transfer from Manyoni GR to Isimangaliso Wetland Park Makakatana Morning Game Drive + Afternoon Wetland Safari Drive
7 16-Jun-26 Tuesday South Africa Isimangaliso Wetland Park Makakatana Lake Wetland Boat Safari
8 17-Jun-26 Wednesday South Africa Transfer from Isimangaliso Wetland Park – DBN Airport fly to Cape Town or can fly back to JHB to fly home Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel or similar Morning – Optional Sunrise Eco Boat trip or game drive
9 18-Jun-26 Thursday South Africa Cape Town Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel or similar Full Day Peninsular Trip
10 19-Jun-26 Friday South Africa Cape Town Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel or similar Full Day Wine Tasting
11 20-Jun-26 Saturday South Africa Cape Town Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel or similar Table Mountain – Marine Eco- Safari + City tour
12 21-Jun-26 Sunday South Africa Transfer to CT Airport  – Fly  Home

ITINERARY – DAY BY DAY
SECTION 1
Day 1 – 10 June | Durban to Rhino Ridge

You will either be collected from your Durban hotel (own account) or King Shaka International Airport between 10-10:30am. and then transferred to Rhino Ridge, at the gateway to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. Relax and take in the sweeping bush views before high tea. In the afternoon, enjoy your first game drive with sundowners and snacks.
Dinner: Welcome dinner with AWV Co-founder Kate Church and trip leader Carla Geyser.
Overnight: Rhino Ridge
Meals: Dinner & Breakfast

Day 2 – 11 June | Rhino Ridge: Game Drives & Conservation

Start your day with a sunrise game drive at 6:30am. Return for breakfast and join African Wildlife Vets for a conservation activity or visit the local community. In the afternoon, enjoy another game drive to spot rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife.
Dinner: At the lodge
Overnight: Rhino Ridge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

Day 3 – 12 June | Transfer to Leopard Mountain

Enjoy a sunrise game drive before breakfast, then transfer to Leopard Mountain in Manyoni Private Game Reserve (11am–2pm). Settle into your luxurious accommodations and enjoy afternoon tea. Embark on an evening game drive followed by a fireside chat with the AWV team about rhino protection and anti-poaching initiatives.
Dinner: Fireside chat with AWV team
Overnight: Leopard Mountain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

Day 4 – 13 June | Leopard Mountain: Safari & Veterinary Insights

Begin with a sunrise game drive and breakfast. Participate in a hands-on veterinary intervention or conservation activity with AWV, followed by an afternoon at leisure or additional game drive. Evening fireside discussion with the AWV team.
Overnight: Leopard Mountain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

Day 5 – 14 June | Leopard Mountain: Rhino Orphanage & Safari

After a morning game drive and breakfast, visit the Zululand Rhino Orphanage to meet baby rhinos and learn about ongoing conservation work. Afternoon game drive or optional activity. Evening fireside chat with AWV.
Overnight: Leopard Mountain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

Day 6 – 15 June | Transfer to Makakatana, iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Morning sunrise drive and breakfast before transferring to Makakatana (10am–1pm). Check-in and enjoy lunch or afternoon tea. Explore iSimangaliso on your first wetland safari drive, spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds.
Overnight: Makakatana
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

Day 7 – 16 June | Makakatana: Lake St Lucia Wetland Safari

After breakfast, enjoy a morning boat safari on Lake St Lucia with picnic lunch while observing hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or exploring the surroundings. Evening at leisure.
Overnight: Makakatana
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (Full Board)

SECTION 2 – Option to leave trip 

Day 8 – 17 June | Makakatana to Cape Town

Optional sunrise eco boat trip or early game drive before breakfast. Transfer to Durban / King Shaka International Airport for your flight to Cape Town (Own Account). Upon arrival, transfer to your 4-star Cape Town hotel (TBC). Evening  Dinner and Drumming.OPTION TO FLY TO JHB
Overnight: Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel (Standard Room) or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Own), Dinner

Day 9 – 18 June | Full-Day Cape Peninsula Tour

After breakfast, embark on a full day scenic tour of the Cape Peninsula. Highlights include Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point Nature Reserve, and Boulders Beach penguin colony. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant en route. Return to hotel for dinner Own Account)
Overnight: Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel (Standard Room) or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Light Lunch, Dinner (Own)

Day 10 – 19 June | Cape Winelands Excursion

Spend the whole day exploring Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl wine regions. Enjoy wine tastings, cellar tours, and a scenic vineyard lunch. Return to Cape Town in the late afternoon for evening at leisure.
Overnight: Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel (Standard Room) or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Own), Dinner (Own)

Day 11 – 20 June | Table Mountain & Eco Boat Safari (Weather Dependent)

After breakfast, take the Table Mountain cable car and enjoy a guided walk with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and coastline with a bit of a city tour. Next, embark on an eco-boat safari from the V&A Waterfront to spot marine wildlife and learn about coastal conservation. Wrap up your adventure with a farewell dinner in Cape Town and some last-minute shopping at the V&A Waterfront. (All activities are weather dependent.)
Overnight: Premier Hotel Cape Town – Hotel (Standard Room) or similar
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (Own)

Day 12 – 21 June | Home

After breakfast, transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your onward flight home. Depart with happy hearts, new friends, and countless memories from your unforgettable adventure.
Meals: Breakfast

**Please note that this itinerary and pricing may be subject to slight changes, and the expedition host will keep you informed of any updates. Terms and conditions apply, based on availability. Some activities may be weather-dependent, and while we will do our best to include them all in the itinerary, flexibility may be required. In certain areas, Wi-Fi signal may be minimal or unavailable (offering a great opportunity for a digital detox). Regarding conservation work, the safety of the animals is always our top priority, and we will do our best to participate where and when possible, guided by expert conservationists to ensure we are contributing in the most responsible and meaningful way.

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