Regeneration

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REGENERATIVE SAFARI TOURISM AT KARONGWE BIG FIVE GAME RESERVE

A quiet revolution in luxury safaris

Regenerative tourism at Karongwe means leaving more than footprints — it means leaving things better. Where sustainability protects what exists, regeneration restores what was lost and grows what comes next. It is about weaving conservation, community and commerce into a single living system: rewilding land, reintroducing wildlife, sourcing from local farmers, and creating livelihoods that circle back to protect the reserve itself. At Karongwe, this is conscious capitalism in action — proving that when people and planet thrive, so does business.

Conservation NATURE RESTORED

At Karongwe, conservation is not a slogan — it’s daily practice. From the data that guides land and wildlife management, to the training of future custodians, every action is designed to safeguard this wilderness. By restoring endangered species, protecting habitats, and investing in carbon and climate resilience, we ensure that the reserve not only survives, but flourishes for generations to come.

Research & Monitoring

GVI volunteers track endangered species, monitor grass and browse twice a year, and produce vital heat maps of the reserve. Their work ensures that every movement and migration is understood, and that management decisions are made from real data, not guesswork.

Guide Training & Knowledge

EcoTraining uses Karongwe as a living classroom, preparing the guides of tomorrow. Dr Peel consolidates their data to balance species numbers and land carrying capacity — preventing overpopulation and ensuring resilience even in drought years.

Endangered Species

Three new cheetah cubs joined our reserve this year — part of a global population of just 6,000. Our wild dogs have a new habitat here, and we’re preparing to welcome black rhino. Every species we rehome is given the space and protection it needs to thrive.

Carbon & Climate

Karongwe is part of an enhanced carbon credits programme. Riverine woodland and healthy soils store carbon, retain water, and support the wildlife our guests come to experience. Every restored tree and revived soil layer is an investment in the future climate of our planet.

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Community PEOPLE UPLIFTED

At Karongwe, regeneration extends beyond the reserve into the lives of the people who share this land. By sourcing locally, reducing waste, and creating opportunities for small-scale farmers and enterprises, we ensure that prosperity is shared, livelihoods are strengthened, and the benefits of tourism ripple out into the community.

Local Farming

We replaced imported baby corn and spinach with produce from a local farmer — fresher, lower carbon footprint at a fairer price. Our lodges now spend R30,000/month with him, and every R30,000 funds a new local job. We have 28 more products & services identified for localisation.

The Pig Project

Nothing goes to waste at Karongwe. Our kitchen offcuts now feed free-range pigs at local farms, lowering feed costs, reducing food waste, and helping small-scale farmers grow sustainable businesses. It’s a simple idea with wide-reaching benefits — turning leftovers into livelihoods.

After-School Meals

Every afternoon, over 200 children from orphanages, child-headed households, and single-parent families gather at Karongwe’s after-school feeding centre. Here they receive a supervised homework session, a hot, balanced meal, and the encouragement of adults who know them by name. Soon, a second centre will open to support another 150 children. Each plate fuels better learning, confidence, and resilience — small daily steps that grow into lasting change for the next generation.

Our Stories

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After-school Meals Helping Children Thrive

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Baby Corn and Spinach: A Local Food Revolution

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Cheetah Conservation in South Africa

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The Pig Project

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How Carbon Credits Fund Our Future

Your Stay Changes Everything

Every night you spend here fuels a circle of regeneration. The land is restored and protected, the wildlife returns, and communities thrive.