Lee Knowles

I decided to spend the start of my 2025 with eight weeks in Africa! During my time, I visited three of African Conservation Experience’s (ACE) projects. 

My first stop was Botswana. At the Okavango Wilderness Project, I finally disconnected. Just… be. Live in the moment. After years of seven-day weeks and promising myself “next year” I’d take a break – I finally did. You forget how beautiful the stars are when there’s no light pollution or planes passing overhead.

The second project I visited was the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience, and it was unforgettable. The team are the real deal – passionate, committed, and welcoming. You’re right there beside them, hands in the dirt, part of the work. I loved putting my skills to use, particularly in repairing water pumps that mischievous elephants had tampered with, to helping maintain vehicles. Another lovely moment on this project was the surprise retirement cake! ACE was sharing photos with my friends, and one of them decided to send a cake, which ACE facilitated! It’s the thoughtful touches that meant so much.

Then came my final project, the Phinda Wildlife Research Project – another level entirely.

A leopard strolled past our vehicle, its scent of popcorn hanging in the air. The thrill of rhino horn trimming and relocation, watching conservation in action – complex, challenging, and deeply rewarding.

In just one journey, I saw pangolins, hyenas, elephants, rhinos, leopards, lions – even a spitting Mozambican cobra. I grew up here, but so much has changed. Coming back meant everything.

All I can say is thank you – to the projects, and to ACE. What an experience!