This powerful 3-day conservation experience takes you behind the scenes with the Black Mambas, Africa’s first all-female anti-poaching unit. Based in the Greater Kruger area, this unique journey offers a rare chance to witness real conservation in action. Guided by the courageous women who dedicate their lives to protecting South Africa’s endangered wildlife.

Designed as an add-on to your Kruger or Hoedspruit safari, this immersive experience includes time on the ground with the Mambas, lodge-based comfort at Bush River Lodge, and meaningful interactions with the people shaping the future of conservation.

What to Expect

• Visit the Black Mambas Operations Room and learn how this groundbreaking team operates.

• Join the Mambas on a "Walk & Talk" and a snare sweep patrol, gaining direct insight into anti-poaching work.

• Spend time with Craig Spencer, founder of the Mambas and Transfrontier Africa, during evening drinks and fireside chats.

• Enjoy full hospitality at Bush River Lodge, a tranquil riverside retreat in the heart of the Lowveld.

• Support real conservation: a portion of your booking directly funds the Mambas’ patrols, outreach programs, and daily operations.

This experience is ideal for travelers looking to go beyond the game drive.To understand the human element of conservation, to meet the protectors behind the protection, and to engage with Africa's wildlife crisis in a way that is authentic, ethical, and respectful.

Whether you're a first-time safari guest or a returning conservation-minded traveler, this journey offers something rare: a real connection to the people and purpose behind wildlife protection.

After your Hoedspruit or Kruger safari, you’ll transfer to Bush River Lodge, your comfortable base for this behind-the-scenes conservation add-on. Settle in, then meet the fearless women of the Black Mambas at their Operations Room for an eye-opening introduction to their pioneering anti-poaching work.

Join a guided Walk & Talk patrol along the Poachers Trail, gaining intimate insight into their frontline conservation efforts. Return to the lodge to relax and refresh.

End your day with drinks and dinner in the tranquil bush setting, followed by campfire conversations that bring you closer to this vital conservation journey.

Your second day begins with a peaceful breakfast at Bush River Lodge, followed by one of the most impactful moments of the experience, joining the Black Mambas on a snare sweep at Ekuthuleni. This hands-on conservation activity offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of protecting wildlife on the ground.

After returning to the lodge to refresh, enjoy a leisurely lunch and time to relax by the river. In the late afternoon, you’ll be joined by Craig Spencer, founder of the Black Mambas and director of Transfrontier Africa, for a casual drink and open conversation about conservation in action.

As the sun sets, gather for dinner with Craig, a thoughtful and inspiring close to a day dedicated to purpose, connection, and real conservation impact.

Enjoy a final, slow morning in the bush with breakfast at Bush River Lodge, surrounded by the sounds of nature. This is a chance to reflect on your time with the Black Mambas and everything you’ve learned about life on the frontlines of conservation.

After breakfast, you’ll check out and transfer to Eastgate Airport (HDS) for your onward journey. Leaving not just with memories, but with a deeper understanding of the people and purpose behind wildlife protection in South Africa.