My first trip with African Conservation Experience (ACE) was only two and a half months ago and I knew I needed to go back, but this time was completely different. I was concerned that I had over-romanticized my first experience and it was too good to be true, but this second trip confirmed it really is a magical place.
On my previous experience with ACE, there was a strong focus on rhinos with the different projects I joined, whereas my 2 week trip to the Phinda Wildlife Research Project had more of a focus on cheetahs this time around. The Phinda staff’s knowledge on this area is very impressive and we learned a lot. We even did bush clearing and I was taught the importance of understanding the different biomes.
My first week on the project was very educational. I learned all about the landscape, its ecology and how it’s changed over the decades.
The landscape really changes with the seasons. My first trip was at the end of summer in South Africa and everything was lush and green. The air was warm and animals were a little harder to spot due to the dense vegetation at that time of year. This time round, things were more rustic in colour with browns and oranges. Animals were also easier to spot as there was less rain and they weren't hiding from the sun.
If you visit in winter be prepared for cold mornings and evenings. Especially when driving in open air vehicles as it can get quite chilly! Thankfully they provide blankets but layer up!
In my second week at Phinda, I was able to witness a rhino horn trimming and saw a pangolin too! We had a lot of cheetah work where we were tracking a mother and her cubs and focusing on ecological survey work. This cheetah work was the highlight of the trip for me. We got to observe their natural behaviour and enjoy it in such a beautiful setting. We also got to watch and assist with bird collaring. It was fascinating to see how it's done, understand its importance and why it is done.
The educational talks were interesting and relevant, and the staff are very welcoming. I can't recommend Phinda enough.
When I joined the project, there was a group of volunteers that had already spent some time together, so I worried it would take a little time to adjust and integrate. Within a day or two we were laughing and had bonded quickly which was so nice and only added to the experience. The real challenge was dealing with the emotions that came at the end when we didn’t want to leave!
I definitely want to come back. I have fallen in love with South Africa and its people. This project is really special and I would love to see how it develops in the future. I can't wait for my next visit!
Feeling inspired by Isabella Drenthen's experience?
Learn more about Phinda Wildlife Research Project.
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