PARK 4 | AMAKHALA

July 01, 2017 | BY Nikki Bolton

Amakhala Game Reserve (7500ha) was established in 2011, for the purpose of re-introducing animals to the area where they once roamed freely and contributing to the conservation of South African heritage. There are eleven individual lodges on the property.

Hlosi Game Lodge, a family friendly four star safari lodge was one of the first lodges to join the Amakhala portfolio and hosted the Olli Team. Offering warm hospitality, luxurious accommodations and a Big 5 game experience, the lodge is set in a wide grassland valley, with expansive views and great game viewing opportunities form the comfort of one's own suite.

Bundled up, beanies pulled low and collars pulled high, the Olli Team headed off for a game drive, stopping for sundowners on a hillside overlooking a valley edged by a river, giving a wonderful perspective of the varied landscape represented in this park. Nearby 3 white crosses were a sobering reminder of the poaching of 3 rhino. It is hard to believe that in such a pristine and beautiful environment such a brutal incursion is possible. The ever present anti poaching unit is reassuring as an indication of this park's committment to do whatever it takes to protect these iconic animals.

Dr. William Fowlds, a well respected conservation hero and someone the Olli Team has had the privilege of spending time with, along with Brent Cook, are members of AGR, and conservationists in their own right. Dr.Fowlds is currently supported by Investec Rhino Lifeline and has been extremely instrumental in their efforts to save the Rhino whilst highlighting the rhino’s current plight internationally. Brent is also focused on conserving the rhinos and is the co-founder of the Chipembere Rhino Foundation.

Amakhala Game Reserve was the fourth and final park of day 1. Here Wayne and the support riders were greeted by Mark Palmer and his anti poaching unit including Ella, their amazing cold track dog.

"Public awareness of conservation issues, such as poaching,
is one of the most important factors in the quest to
protect oiur natural heritage.
Thank you!"
(Mark Palmer - Amakhala Game Reserve - Reserve Manager)

A special celebration for the Olli Team...
108kms and 4 parks were covered on day 1. Brandon Booth, a 13 year old Woodridge pupil cycled the entire route (the furtherest he had ever cycled) as part of his personal goal to raise money in support of Olli. Along with other fund raising initiatives he was sponsored per km and altogether raised R5000 which will go directly to Olli's beneficiary Care for Wild Africa.