A giraffe stands among the trees and vegetation in in South Africa.

 

 

Indalo Adventures


Where Adventure Meets Impact.

A group of people examining and interacting with a large animal, likely a rhino, in a natural outdoor setting.
A group of people standing around a safari vehicle in a grassy, outdoor setting.

Go Beyond Tourism.


Indalo, a Zulu word meaning nature, creation, and our deep connection to the natural world, is the heartbeat of everything we do.


We invite you to join us in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal region for an immersive conservation journey that goes far beyond a traditional safari. Your participation in these experiences directly supports critical conservation efforts, funding helicopter operations, wildlife collars and tags, and essential veterinary drugs.  


Designed for zoo professionals and passionate wildlife advocates, you will experience the thrill of an immersive, hands-on, transformative adventure that will turn you into a passionate advocate for wildlife and wild places.

A large, sprawling tree with a wide canopy dominates the grassy landscape at sunset in South Africa .
A group of people stand near a safari vehicle in an open field in South Africa with tall grass.
A group of people standing around and examining something on the ground in a wooded area.
A group of people, including two women and two men, sitting in a vehicle and looking at the camera.
A lion sits in the grass, its golden fur and alert expression captured in the image.
A man holding a large stick or pole in an outdoor setting with a vehicle and other people in the background.
A monkey sits on a tree branch, its alert expression and fur-covered face clearly visible.
A man wearing safari attire standing near a river in a natural environment.
A group of people walking through a wooded area with tall grass and trees.
A small bird with a brown and white plumage is perched on a branch in a lush, green environment.
A group of people sitting in the back of a pickup truck in an outdoor setting.
A man holding a large mushroom or fungus in his hands in an outdoor, wooded area.
A person holding a wildlife tracking device or other equipment in a natural outdoor environment.
A person wearing a pink and gray outfit with gloves and a mask.
Several animal tracks or paw prints visible in the sandy ground.
A group of people observing and interacting with wildlife in a natural outdoor setting.
A herd of zebras grazes in a grassy field in South Africa surrounded by trees.
A group of people walk along a dirt path through a grassy field in a nature reserve in South Africa.

Where Every Journey

Supports the Wild.



These are hands-on, purpose-driven, working conservation trips. You’ll work alongside experienced field teams supporting the conservation of rhinos, elephants giraffes, lions, and other iconic species, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges and rewards of protecting wildlife in the wild.


Each trip offers 10-12 spots and is intentionally small, allowing for meaningful participation, shared learning, and a strong sense of community among those who join.

Why This Matters

Authentic Encounters. Enduring Impact.
A person in a safari vehicle pointing at something in the distance while on a wildlife tour.

Every journey directly supports local communities and conservation programs working tirelessly to create safe, sustainable spaces for wildlife. Your presence, effort, and support contribute to real outcomes — from protecting animals on the ground to strengthening long-term conservation initiatives.  This is travel you can feel good about — knowing your time and energy are helping make a difference where it truly counts.

A safari vehicle with passengers travels through a grassy field in South Africa in a wildlife reserve.
A group of people interacting with a large rhinoceros in a natural outdoor setting.
A group of people standing in a grassy field in South Africa with a cloudy sky in the background.

 

Leading Your Experience

 

A smiling woman in a green uniform stands next to a giraffe in an outdoor setting.
Executive Director, Longneck Manor

Heather Crocker

Heather Crocker serves as Executive Director of Longneck Manor, a luxury lodging and conservation park in Texas dedicated to immersive wildlife experiences and conservation education. With more than 25 years of experience in global travel and hospitality, she brings a deep understanding of guest experience, operations, and strategic growth.


Through Indalo Adventures, Heather designs and leads immersive conservation travel experiences that connect guests and professionals to meaningful work in the field. These programs are built around hands-on participation—supporting critical initiatives such as wildlife monitoring, habitat preservation, and veterinary efforts—while fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities within global conservation.


Passionate about creating experiences that inspire lasting impact, Heather is committed to advancing conservation opportunities in the field, while building meaningful connections between people, wildlife, and wild places.

A man in a tan hat and jacket stands near a body of water in a natural setting.
Owner, Custom Trails

 

Chris Beukes

 

Chris Beukes is a South African conservationist and professional wildlife guide based in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, with nearly two decades of experience across protected areas and conservation landscapes.


He founded Custom Trails to offer ethical, low-impact wildlife experiences that reconnect guests with meaningful conservation work. Through bespoke safaris and walking trails—often in areas such as Tembe Elephant Park—Chris provides opportunities to engage in tracking, monitoring, and field-based conservation, fostering deeper understanding, respect, and long-term stewardship of the wild.

Travel with Purpose.

Travel that supports wildlife and local communities.
A group of people sitting and standing in a grassy field in South Africa with a cloudy sky.

Travel includes six (6) nights at the rustic Bekhula Sand Lodge at Tembe Elephant Park and an optional extension of three (3) nights at the luxurious Luleka Lodge in Manyoni Private Game Reserve.


A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 is due at registration to confirm your spot, with the balance due 60 days prior to departure.

A group of people sitting together in a safari vehicle in an outdoor setting.
A group of people posing for a photograph in a safari vehicle in an outdoor setting.
A group of people standing in front of a sign for the Tempe Diversion Channel.

2026 Schedule


Each trip focuses on species-specific conservation efforts aligned with

current needs in the region as well as potential opportunistic work with additional species.


August 4-12

Rhinos

Aug 4: Arrive in Durban and travel to Tembe


Aug 4-9:  Bekhula Sand Lodge in Tembe Elephant Park


Aug 10-12: Drive to Manyoni Private Game Reserve


Aug 12: Drive to Durban and travel home


PRICING:

$3,000: 6-nights Tembe Elephant Park Only


$4,300: 9-nights with extension to Manyani

(must have a minimum of 8)

October 3-11

Rhinos & lions

 

October 3: Arrive Durban Airport and travel to Tembe


October 3-8: Tembe Elephant Park


October 9: Travel to Manyoni Private Game Reserve


October 9-11: Manyoni Private Game Reserve


October 11: Drive to Durban airport and fly home.


PRICING:

$3,000: 6-nights Tembe Elephant Park Only


$4,300: 9-nights with extension to Manyoni (must have a minimum of 8)

INCLUDED

  • Stay at the Bhekula Sand Forest Lodge
  • Stay at the Luleka Lodge
  • Transfers between airports, Tembe and Manyoni
  • All meals and drinks (water and soft drinks) while at Bhekula Sand Forest
  • All meals and drinks (water and soft drinks) at the Luleka Lodge
  • Conservation Levies and Fees
  • All activities at both facilities

NOt included

  • Airfare (Indalo Adventures recommended travel agent can be provided for an additional $100)
  • Any meals when we are not at the Bhekula Sand Forest or the Luleka Lodge. Example - meals at airport / airport hotel, any meals needed while driving from the airport to Tembe Elephant Park or from Tembe to Manyoni Game Reserve.
  • Tips for guides, housekeeping, drivers, butlers and lodge staff are additional and can be estimated at approximately $500 per person.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

  • All accommodations are shared and roommates will be assigned based on age and commonality.
  • Participants are encouraged to consult their personal physician or travel health clinic regarding any recommended immunizations or medical preparations prior to travel. Indalo Adventures cannot provide medical advice, and each participant is responsible for making their own healthcare decisions. For the most current travel health information and recommendations for South Africa, please visit the CDC website.

 

  • U.S. citizens do not currently require a visa for short-term travel to South Africa. Travelers must have a valid passport with at least six months validity remaining beyond their travel dates
  • Trip insurance is not required however, STRONGLY recommended

 

Testimonials
A smiling woman with blonde hair wearing a blue shirt and hat poses outdoors.

My trip to South Africa was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I cannot say enough about the incredible time I had. From the moment I arrived, everything was organized, immersive, and deeply meaningful. Participating in the conservation work was both inspiring and eye-opening.

Alyssa B.

A person wearing a hat and backpack standing in a grassy field in South Africa with other people.

Our conservation trip to South Africa, was truly unforgettable. Everything was thoughtfully arranged and completely seamless. Every day felt special and purposeful. This trip exceeded all expectations. I can’t recommend Heather and Custom Trails highly enough.

Michelle G.

Two rhinoceroses or similar large animals walking on a dirt path in a natural outdoor setting.

It was deeply inspiring to witness real conservation work in action and to actively participate in efforts that are protecting wildlife.  The guides were exceptional—knowledgeable, thoughtful, and passionate—and Heather’s leadership made every detail seamless. From start to finish, the experience was effortless, meaningful, and profoundly impactful.

Kelly R,

Testimonials
A woman wearing a striped shirt and hat stands on a hill overlooking a lush, green landscape in South Africa.

Traveling to South Africa was an absolutely incredible experience, and it would not have been possible without Heather. She planned and organized a fantastic trip, filled with game drives, wildlife sightings, and opportunities to assist in conservation work. I felt so excited and inspired by the whole experience.

Jennifer P.

A woman smiling in a grassy field in South Africa with trees in the background.

I 100% recommend this trip! The guides at Custom Trails were 10/10. They were extremely knowledgeable and overall entertaining to be around. Heather was fantastic. She “herded all the cats” to make the trip feel safe but adventurous. A truly life changing experience.


Charlie H.

A woman smiling with trees in the background.

This was a once in a lifetime trip for me and my mom. We definitely came away from this trip with more knowledge and appreciation for animals and the work that goes into the conversation of them. I would definitely recommend any conservation trip with Heather and Longneck Manor no matter your background with animals.

zoe e.

FAQ

Do I need previous conservation or field experience?

No prior field experience is required. This program is designed for passionate wildlife supporters, zoo professionals, and conservation-minded travelers who want to learn and contribute. Field teams will guide all activities and provide instruction when needed. Flexibility and a positive attitude are the most important requirements.

 

what is the physical level of this experience?

Participants should be comfortable with early mornings, long days in the field, and working in warm outdoor conditions. Some conservation activities may involve walking on uneven terrain or assisting with field tasks. While the experience is not considered extreme, a reasonable level of mobility and stamina is recommended.

 

how does my participaton support conservation?

 

A portion of each participant’s trip directly supports conservation work in the region. Funds help cover critical operational costs such as helicopter hours, wildlife tracking collars and tags, veterinary drugs, and other resources necessary for wildlife monitoring and protection. Your participation provides both financial support and valuable assistance to the teams doing this important work.

 

is this experience safe?

Safety is always a top priority. All field activities are led by experienced conservation professionals and wildlife specialists who work in these reserves daily. Participants will receive clear instructions and guidance throughout the program to ensure both personal safety and the wellbeing of the animals.

 

Two people, a woman and a child, looking out a window at animals in a natural outdoor environment.
A close-up photograph of a cheetah or similar large cat in a grassy, natural setting.
A herd of zebras grazing in a grassy, natural outdoor environment with trees in the background.

Learn More

 

If you’d like to do more than observe — to step into the field, stand alongside those protecting wildlife, and contribute hands-on work that truly matters — we invite you to join us. Please reach out with any questions and become part of this important and inspiring conservation journey.

 

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