One of the many benefits of a safari is the balance it offers. While mornings and late afternoons are filled with exciting safari drives, a good portion of your day is left to enjoy at your leisure. This leaves time to rest, edit photos, enjoy a swim, or indulge in a spa treatment. However, for those who have an interest in conservation and the environment, a stay at the Royal Malewane (part of The Royal Portfolio group of lodges) offers a unique opportunity to visit the Royal Malewane Conservation & Research Centre (CRC).
Royal Malewane is located within one of the largest protected areas in Southern Africa. The Royal Portfolio Foundation actively supports conservation and research projects with the goal of improving conditions for both wildlife and the local communities. The center is a unique space for researchers and conservationists to collaborate and share what they have learned. As a guest of Royal Malewane Lodge, one can take part in learning about their collective efforts, many times alongside local community members, staff from Royal Malewane, and other conservation professionals working on the reserve. It’s a wonderful opportunity to speak with people who have dedicated their lives to conservation, hear their inspiring stories, and learn more about the challenges faced on the ground.
During our recent stay at Royal Malewane, my colleagues and I had the opportunity to visit the Centre, which is now in its second year of operation. We were able to see the living accommodations of the researchers and spend time in The Nature Lounge. The Nature Lounge is an inspiring space with displays of artifacts from the Greater Kruger, and it’s also where where monthly presentations, teacher training sessions, and conservation education programs are held. The Centre also regularly hosts “lessons in conservation” for children from a nearby school that the Foundation supports.
Whether learning about a pangolin rescue or visiting the Anti-Poaching K9 dog unit (which we were also able to do), incorporating a conservation-focused activity adds another dimension to any safari experience in South Africa. One of the reasons Travel Beyond strongly supports The Royal Portfolio group of lodges and hotels (including The Silo in Cape Town, Birkenhead House in Hermanus and The Residence in Franschhoek) is that we share their passion for investing in Africa, uplifting local communities, promoting conservation, and protecting the environment.
Your safari drives will amaze you as you witness animals in the wild, but a visit to the Conservation and Research Centre will help you understand why protecting them matters. Learning about animal behavior, ecosystems, and the science behind conservation efforts can turn your safari into an even more meaningful experience. We were so thrilled to be able to experience this first-hand during our safari at Royal Malewane. However, the true pleasure is sharing this experience with clients on their individual journeys in South Africa and helping them gain a deeper connection to the natural wonders that surround us.