This is not a typical safari.
This once-in-a-lifetime, hands-on animal conservation adventure is immersive and educational. Over ten days, you will get close to wildlife on game drives, take part in animal conservation and learning projects, and spend meaningful time with the local communities you visit.
The itinerary is varied and carefully planned, allowing you to experience an extraordinary amount in a short time. From wildlife encounters and conservation work to coastal exploration and community projects, you will see and do far more than most travellers ever experience.
“The trip of a lifetime — exhilarating, magical, and truly unforgettable.”
— Alice, September 2025
5 - 14 September 2026
19 - 28 September 2026
Bespoke trips available
Join one of our small 2026 group trips (maximum 16 people) and share the adventure with like-minded travellers. Places are limited, so we encourage you to book early.
If you have your own group, we can organise a bespoke tour tailored to your needs. Get in touch, and we’ll help plan an adventure perfectly suited to you.
Whether you travel solo, with friends, or as a couple, you’ll leave with amazing memories, new connections, and stories you’ll treasure for years.
This is an all-inclusive group adventure run by Our Small Planet. The cost is £1,975 for 10 days.
£175 of this amount goes directly towards the Rhino De-horning Intervention.
The price includes everything except flights* (we’re happy to accommodate different arrival times), travel insurance, field guide tips, and three meals during your free time. Here is a breakdown of everything included:
Accommodation – 9 nights in comfortable, clean lodges and camps chosen for their spectacular locations, safety, value, and atmosphere. This trip is focused on experiences rather than luxury.
Meals – Meals include a mix of traditional South African dishes, braai, seafood, and other healthy options. Dietary requirements are fully catered for.
Travel – All transport is provided, from airport pick-up to transfers back, so you can relax and enjoy the trip.
Game Drives – Expert-led game drives across three different stunning game reserves.
Conservation Work – Hands-on activities and educational sessions with rangers and anti-poaching teams.
Community Visits – Visit to a local village and market, engage with community initiatives, and support grassroots projects.
Additional Excursions – Visit to Snake Pharm, wine tasting, yoga session, river boat cruise and much more.
Guides & Support – Our Small Planet field guides accompany you throughout the trip, with a UK-based team providing pre-trip planning and on-the-ground support.
* Flights are not included – you’ll need to fly into Johannesburg and depart from Durban.
Please note: the itinerary below is subject to change, and the final version will be emailed to you closer to the trip.
We’ve designed this trip to keep costs low without compromising on experience. The itinerary is packed with unforgettable encounters in nature, carefully planned to minimise travel time and maximise adventure. With all transport included, you can sit back, relax, and immerse yourself fully in the journey.
Wildlife Enthusiasts – For those eager to witness incredible animals thriving in their natural habitats.
Conservation-Minded Travellers – Perfect for anyone keen to learn about and actively support the protection of endangered species.
Community Lovers – Those passionate about giving back and connecting deeply with local culture. We encourage fundraising and donations wherever possible, so you can see the real impact of your support and make a meaningful contribution to the communities you visit.
Adventurers – Ideal for travellers who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences over five-star frills.
Solo Travellers – A safe, social, and unforgettable way to meet like-minded explorers.
Groups – Whether you’re travelling with family or friends, this is an epic adventure to share (we also offer bespoke tours).
Throughout the trip, you’ll be supported by Our Small Planet UK-based team and experienced local guides, whose knowledge and passion ensure everything runs seamlessly.
Ready to make it happen? Your South African adventure starts here with Our Small Planet.
Between drives, relax at camp which is set in the stunning bush environment and admire the wildlife.
After breakfast, we head east to Bonamanzi Game Reserve (approx. 6 hrs), arriving in time for lunch and a camp orientation.
Rise early for a visit to a local community school. Afterwards, explore the nearby market, where you can purchase handmade goods from local artists and makers — a meaningful, hands-on cultural experience.
Join the reserve team for a rhino de-horning or fitting a tracking collar (dependent on current conservation needs — may include an overnight at a nearby reserve).
After breakfast, travel to the vibrant coastal town of St Lucia (approx. 1.5 hrs).
Overnight in St Lucia.
After breakfast, transfer to King Shaka International Airport (approx. 3 hrs). Optional stop for lunch if you have a later flight. Hamba Kahle — farewell and safe travels!
