Bateleurs / Africa Sky Runners Conservation Safaris
Support conservation in Southern Africa by joining us on awe-inspiring conservation flying safaris with Africa Sky Runners.
From the Southern Cape to Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal, all the way to the Eastern lowveld - traversing its varied biomes. Trace the footsteps and air routes of the dedicated volunteer pilots of The Bateleurs who have championed environmental and conservation missions throughout the country through their aerial support.
Your pilot / guide Mike White, himself a Bateleurs pilot, will share the stories of the various missions at each stop and we will hear directly from the passionate conservationists on the ground around positive impact that is being made on wildlife and environments.
These conservation focused safaris have been developed based on past successful Bateleurs missions. However, more missions are being flown all the time and there are opportunities to craft tailor made Conservation Flying Safaris based on guest interests and time available. Contact us to discuss options.
In addition to ongoing support to the Bateleurs, Africa Sky Runners donates a portion of all profits from these itineraries to the Bateleurs and local conservation projects.
Bateleurs/Sky Runners
West-to-East Conservation Safari Itinerary
12N/13D
Max: 4 guests
Starting in the Western Cape, we follow 6 bateleur missions from the Cape to the North Eastern regions of Kwazula Natal, exploring and experiencing 6 Biomes across South Africa. Get first-hand stories from passionate conservationists and a behind the scenes look at the hard work and positive outcome from initiatives dedicated to conserving our magnificent flora and fauna.
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Take-off Stellenbosch - fly over the Overberg
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Conservation Initiative: annual aerial census of the previously endangered Blue Crane
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Pabala Private Game Reserve | Eastern Cape
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Conservation Initiative: Cape Honey Bee Protection & Education
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Cape Mount Zebra Reserve | Western Cape
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Conservation Missions: Census and relocation flights
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Kwandwe Game Reserve | Eastern Cape
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Conservation Missions: Lion and leopard tortoises (endangered species) relocations
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Babanago Game Reserve
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Conservation Missions: Lioness relocations for genetic diversity, and rewilding project
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Phinda Game Reserve | Kwa-Zulu Natal
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Conservation Missions: Rhino dehorning and anti-poaching patrols, relocations of cheetah, lions, pangolin and elephant tracking
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Rock Tail Bay | Northern KZN
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Conservation Missions: Marine Surveys of Marine Protected Area's (MPA's)
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Manyoni Game Reserve | Kwa-Zulu Natal
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Conservation Missions: Pangolin, vultures, lions and cheetah's protection
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From $15,500 per person (for 4 people)
Includes:
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All internal flights with Cessna210 aircraft; departing from Cape Town International airport and drop off at OR Tambo, Gauteng
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Personal pilot/guide/host who also has bush and field guide training
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Accommodation: Mix of local authentic accommodation experiences to 4/5 star
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All meals and drinks
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Game drives and other guest activities
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Experiences and direct participation (where practical) with local conservation initiatives
Bateleurs/Sky Runners
Zululand Conservation Flying Safari
5N/6D
Max: 4 guests
Departing from Johannesburg, this exclusive conservation-focused flying safari connects you with two of Africa’s most renowned private game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, each making remarkable strides in wildlife preservation—efforts proudly supported by The Bateleurs.
Experience the passion of dedicated conservationists firsthand as you witness groundbreaking initiatives at Manyoni Game Reserve and Phinda Private Game Reserve. Both reserves are celebrated for their impactful contributions to biodiversity and ecosystem restoration, setting new standards in private conservation.
At Manyoni Game Reserve, immerse yourself in a landscape dedicated to wildlife restoration and habitat conservation. Here, the 'Big Five' roam freely, thanks to strategic reintroduction efforts and rigorous anti-poaching strategies, particularly focused on protecting endangered rhinos and the elusive pangolin. Manyoni’s large-scale habitat restoration—removing invasive species and revitalizing native vegetation—nurtures a thriving ecosystem, while collaborative community programs support conservation education and local employment.
Phinda Private Game Reserve, also in KwaZulu-Natal, offers an innovative blend of conservation and sustainable tourism. Phinda’s commitment to wildlife extends beyond its borders, with successful translocations of cheetahs and lions to diversify gene pools across Africa. To reduce poaching, Phinda has implemented a rhino dehorning initiative, dramatically lowering incidents without impacting the animals' wellbeing. Phinda’s partnerships with local communities offer education, jobs, and income through eco-tourism, reducing human-wildlife conflict while strengthening community support. Ongoing research on pangolins, cheetahs, and elephants informs conservation strategies that benefit ecosystems across the region.
Join us to witness and participate in these pioneering conservation efforts, as both Manyoni and Phinda champion ecosystem restoration, species protection, and sustainable practices that preserve South Africa's natural heritage for generations to come.
Get closer to nature, where expert guides and passionate conservationists will personally share their secrets and demonstrate the impact of their critical conservation efforts.
This safari offers not just a journey but an opportunity to make a meaningful impact, supporting projects that protect endangered species and preserve Africa’s natural heritage.
From $8,600 per person (for 4 people)
Includes:
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All internal flights with Cessna210 aircraft; departing from Johannesburg’s Lanseria airport
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Personal pilot/guide/host who also has bush and field guide training
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Accommodation:
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5 star accommodation at Leopard Mountain lodge (Manyoni)
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Phinda Forest Lodge (other options available)
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All meals and drinks
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Game drives and local activities
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Experiences and direct participation (where practical) with local conservation initiatives
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