If you are an animal lover and conservation enthusiast like myself, you are probably driven to traveling to Africa over and over again. While I have embarking on many thrilling safaris across the continent, one of my most profound experiences was at Jabulani Safari in the Kapama Private Game Reserve. This special place offers a chance to connect with elephants in a truly meaningful way, all while directly supporting vital conservation efforts.
Jabulani isn’t just a luxury lodge; it’s the heart of an extraordinary elephant herd and the home of the HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development) Elephant Orphanage, South Africa’s first dedicated elephant orphanage. This unique setup offers a powerful blend of ethical tourism and genuine conservation, making it a must-visit for those who want their travels to make a difference.
The Jabulani Story: A Herd Forged by Rescue
I met with the elephant nannies – a group of men who live, sleep, bathe, feed and take care of the elephants 24×7, forming deep bonds. It all began with Jabulani, an orphaned elephant rescued in 1997. Years later, he found his true family when a herd of elephants, rescued from the perilous political climate in Zimbabwe in 2002, were brought to Kapama. This remarkable group, largely orphaned themselves due to culling operations, welcomed Jabulani, forming the unique and close-knit Jabulani Herd we see today.
You can meet Jabulani and even feed her elephant palates, or her favorite oranges!
This herd’s willingness to accept new members is what makes Jabulani and HERD so vital. They provide a second chance for orphaned elephant calves who have lost their families due to human-wildlife conflict, poaching, and other tragic circumstances. The orphanage works tirelessly to rehabilitate these traumatized youngsters, slowly integrating them into the nurturing environment of the Jabulani Herd. Success stories like Khanyisa, the albino elephant calf rescued from a snare, and Kumbura and Timisa, are testaments to their dedication.
Ethical Encounters: Observing and Learning, Not Riding
In an age where ethical animal tourism is paramount, Jabulani stands out. Recognizing the global shift away from exploitative practices, Jabulani phased out elephant-back safaris years ago. Their focus is firmly on respectful interaction and observation, allowing guests to witness these magnificent creatures in their near-natural environment without compromising their welfare.
A visit to Jabulani emphasizes education and connection. Kids and adults gain a deeper understanding of elephant behavior, their complex social structures, and the challenges they face in the wild.
Elephant Experiences at Jabulani
- Sunrise Encounters: Begin your day meeting a few members of the Jabulani Herd, observing their gentle giants as they interact with their devoted carers.
- Learning Their Stories: Hear the individual rescue stories of each elephant, learning about their unique personalities and the incredible journey they’ve undertaken.
- Observing Natural Behavior: Witness the herd as they roam and forage in the vast Kapama Private Game Reserve during the day, accompanied by their carers who ensure their safety and well-being. You might even catch them enjoying a playful bath in a waterhole!
- Supporting the Orphanage: While the HERD Orphanage itself isn’t open to the public (to minimize stress on the vulnerable calves), your stay at Jabulani directly contributes to its operational costs and the ongoing care of the elephants. You’ll gain insights into the orphanage’s critical work and the rehabilitation process.
Why Your Visit Matters: Beyond the Experience
A trip to Jabulani is more than just a luxurious safari; it’s an investment in the future of African elephants. By choosing to stay at Jabulani, you are directly supporting:
- Elephant Rescue & Rehabilitation: Providing vital care, medical attention, and a loving environment for orphaned and displaced elephants.
- Herd Integration: Facilitating the crucial process of integrating rescued calves into a stable and accepting elephant family, something vital for their emotional well-being and long-term survival.
- Anti-Poaching Efforts: Contributing to the wider conservation efforts within the Kapama Private Game Reserve, protecting not only the Jabulani Herd but also wild elephant populations.
- Community Upliftment: Jabulani actively engages with local communities, creating jobs and supporting initiatives that foster a harmonious relationship between people and wildlife.
- Education and Awareness: Your experience helps raise global awareness about the plight of elephants and the importance of ethical conservation.
Your Stay at Jabulani
Jabulani is a family-owned and operated, and one of the oldest in the area. The design feels like an old but updated safari lodge with African art and tapestry. There are six spacious suites and a villa with en-suite baths that have dual sinks, bath tub and separate shower. Each of them comes with a private patio with plunge pool overlooking the dense jungle so you can hear the birds and monkeys right from your camp.
All meals and activities are included during the stay. There are morning and afternoon game drives with South African wines and snacks on board. You will definitely see the Big Five, including rhinos, leopards, lions, buffalos, hippos, giraffes, and zebras with the expert safari guides.
The food at Jabulani is one of the best I have had at a safari camp in South Africa. There are delicious tasting menus for dinner, healthy breakfasts with locally sourced ingredients, as well as fresh made snacks for high tea at the main lodge. At the end of the day, cozy up by the fireplace for a glass of wine and canapés before dinner. You can choose to have dinner inside the wine cellar, at a common patio overlooking the stream, inside the lodge or in the comfort of your own room. There’s also a spa and a lovely gift shop.
Because the lodge is quite intimate, you won’t hear many people running around. Also the game drives and activities will have fewer travelers on safari vehicles. The service is stellar with special attention to each guest.
Planning Your Journey to Jabulani
Jabulani is located in the Kapama Private Game Reserve, near Hoedspruit in South Africa’s Limpopo Province, adjacent to Kruger National Park. Access is typically via flights to Hoedspruit (HDS) airport, followed by a short transfer. I recommend going in the dry season as the safaris are more accessible and the temperature cool.
If you’re seeking a safari experience that combines unparalleled luxury with a profound and ethical commitment to wildlife conservation, go to Jabulani. It’s a chance to witness the majesty of elephants up close, learn from their remarkable stories, and play a direct role in securing a brighter future for these gentle giants.
Read more sustainable travel stories from South Africa.
