Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature reserve
Protecting Nature, Preserving Tomorrow
Safeguarding wildlife through action, education, and sustainable care.
Conservation Fee
A conservation fee of R30 is charged upon entry into the reserve, and a 3% conservation levy applies to all additional purchases. These funds assist in protecting our natural heritage, restoring habitats, and supporting long-term conservation efforts for species native to this area. Thank you for being part of our conservation journey.
Your Conservation Fee at Work
These contributions support vital habitat restoration projects and ecological initiatives focused on the protection of species that naturally occur in this area. The funds also aid ongoing rehabilitation projects and research taking place here. Through your support, we can continue to preserve this important wildlife space and ensure its sustainability for generations to come.
Wildlife & Species Protection
The reserve provides a safe haven for a diverse range of species, including valuable and endangered wildlife. Special emphasis is placed on the protection of white rhinos, endangered wild dogs, and other species vulnerable to poaching and habitat loss. Rehabilitation and, where possible, rewilding remain key objectives.
Habitat Management & Reserve Sustainability
Effective land stewardship ensures the long-term ecological integrity of the reserve. Grassland maintenance, water resource protection, and invasive species control support a balanced ecosystem for herbivores, carnivores, and endemic plant life. Visitor infrastructure is designed with sustainability and minimal impact in mind.
Conservation Education & Public Awareness
Through guided game drives, predator feedings, and educational programmes aligned with the school curriculum, the reserve instils environmental awareness in guests of all ages. The inclusion of the Bothongo WonderCave experience deepens appreciation for natural and fossil heritage.
Community Partnerships
The reserve fosters strong ties with local communities by creating employment, supporting small businesses, and promoting skills development. Every visitor experience is crafted to contribute directly to conservation funding while uplifting the surrounding area through responsible and inclusive tourism.
The Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is home to species that face real and growing threats, including white rhinos, endangered wild dogs, and other rare species. Protecting them involves constant vigilance against poaching, restoring and maintaining healthy habitats, rehabilitating injured wildlife, and working with surrounding communities to create opportunities that reduce pressure on the land.
With the introduction of a dedicated conservation fee, we can secure sustainable funding for these initiatives, allowing us to expand anti-poaching operations, strengthen rehabilitation work, and restore more natural habitat. Your contribution helps ensure these efforts continue for years to come.
FAQ
Why are you introducing a conservation fee now?
The threats to species like white rhinos, lions, and vultures have grown in recent years. Poaching, habitat loss, and climate pressures mean we need sustainable funding to expand anti-poaching patrols, restore natural areas, and rehabilitate
injured wildlife.
Where does the money from the fee go?
Every rand from this fee supports conservation work inside the reserve, including anti-poaching operations, habitat restoration, wildlife rehabilitation, and community partnerships that create opportunities and reduce pressure on the land.
Does this fee pay for your daily animal care?
No. Not for the majority of species other than endangered and rare species. Day-to-day care is funded separately. The conservation fee is ring-fenced for specific projects that protect and restore wildlife and their habitats over the long term.
Why wasn’t this done before?
Until now, we supported these initiatives through other means. With growing threats to wildlife and the rising need for long-term protection, a dedicated conservation fee is the most reliable way to secure the future of these efforts.
How do you protect rhinos specifically?
We have dedicated anti-poaching patrols, surveillance systems, and veterinary support for injured or vulnerable rhinos. The conservation fee helps us strengthen these measures and ensure the rhinos here remain safe.
How do I know my money is really helping?
We will regularly share updates and stories about the projects funded through the conservation fee so guests can see the tangible difference their contribution makes.
Will the fee go up over time?
Our aim is to keep it affordable and only adjust if necessary. Any change would be communicated with full transparency.
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