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Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

The centre conducts unique research on endangered species such as cheetah (including the king cheetah), African wild dogs and lion. Tours of the Centre start with an informative video presentation where interesting background information on the animals, the research being conducted and the progress of the project is presented. An experienced guide will then accompany you on a tour of the Centre where the highlights will include the viewing of more than 60 hand-reared cheetahs, the vulture restaurant, wild dogs and the rare Barbary lion. A walk with Jabulani the elephant is also an optional extra. After the tour you can enjoy a light meal and refreshments in the tea garden or visit the curio shop.

Contact: 015 793 1633 or visit www.hesc.co.za

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a haven for the rehabilitation and care of sick and injured animals and birds. Wildlife is brought to the centre from all

corners of South Africa, and once healthy enough are re-introduced into their natural environment. There are, however, some species which have been rehabilitated but due to the long-term effect of their injuries stand no chance of survival in the wild. These animals and birds are kept on the premises and used in educational tours. The centre is open to the public twice daily Monday to Saturday. Sunday tours are only held at 15h00, over long weekends or during the school holidays. The tours start at 09h30 and 15h00 and last approximately 2 hours. There is also a tea garden at the centre.

Contact: 015 795 5236 or visit www.moholoholo.co.za

Elephant Whispers

Elephant Whispers is an Elephant Interaction and Safari Venue located on the banks of the Sabie River in Hazyview. Lindiwe, the youngest, is Elephant Whispers' much loved female. Medwa, Andile, Shamwari and Ziziphus are the 'teenagers', and Tembo, the six ton behemoth heads up the Elephant Whispers' herd. Tours on offer include:

• an hour's interaction
• early morning wake-up, brush down and an hour's interaction

All of our elephants were rescued from planned culling operations in local game reserves, but given a second chance, they now work together with their handlers in total harmony.

Contact: 013 737 7876 or visit www.elephantwhispers.co.za

Chimp Eden

Set on a 1000 hectare game reserve, Chimpanzee Eden is a home to chimpanzees that have been misplaced from their natural habitat. The world renowned Jane Goodall Institute has made this tranquil venue their South African sanctuary and has committed itself to the rescue and care of chimpanzees in need of refuge. Being the first, and only, chimpanzee sanctuary in South Africa, this venue will be able to bring the world of chimpanzees closer to humanity through education, tourism and modern technology. Entering the reserve, a mere 15 km from the bustling city of Nelspruit, visitors can expect to be captivated by the beautiful bush surroundings with most of the natural game species roaming the reserve. We do not recommend this experience for children under the age of 10 as these rescued chimps can display some unexpected behaviour.

The guided Chimpanzee Tour is approximately 1 ½ hours in duration. Tours are held daily 10am, 12pm and 2pm while feeding times are at 10am and 2pm

Contact: 013 745 7406 or visit www.chimpeden.com

Kaapsehoop Horse Trails

Kaapsehoop Horse Trails wind through the Berlin Forest above the quaint gold mining village of Kaapsehoop. Overnight rides are also available. Kaapsche Hoop (as more correctly spelt in High Dutch) is set out between large natural clearings in the rock fields near the top of the escarpment overlooking the lush De Kaap Valley situated some 800 meters below with distant views towards Barberton and Nelspruit. Rides are suitable for people of all ages.

Contact: 013 734 4995 / 082 774 5826 or visit www.horsebacktrails.co.za