Waterberg Rhino UK (charity no 1187429) was set up in January 2020 by 5 dedicated trustees. Each had personal links to this unique area and saw the need to protect it. Recognising the plight of these incredible animals and the effect that the illegal wild trade has had on the local community led to their decision to contribute to the region’s future prosperity.
This unique wilderness area of South Africa has been awarded the status of a World Biosphere reserve by UNESCO. It is a place to be protected and has become a popular safari destination where responsible travel is key. The majority of rhino in the Waterberg are privately owned, so the responsibility for providing security falls upon these individuals. This entails fully equipped rangers who patrol 24-hours a day which it is expensive, relentless and vital. WRUK aims to raise funds to support the training of the rangers, purchasing much needed equipment and working alongside established NPOs to support the community through education and social upliftment programmes.
Mission Statement of Waterberg Rhino UK
The aim of Waterberg Rhino UK (WRUK) is to raise funds and awareness to help protect the rhino population of the Waterberg, as well as protecting other species of wildlife and diverse habitat where they thrive. Through their 3 main focus areas – Security and Protection, Education and Awareness, and Community and Conservation – they are building a vast network of solutions, partners and supporters to help reach their mission to protect these endangered rhinos.
Examples of what they have accomplished and how your money helps:
The majority of rhino in the Waterberg are on private reserves which WRUK supports to meet the huge cost of 24-hour security. The region is one of the last bastions of rhino on the planet and as such is vital to the future survival of the species
LPR cameras using state of the art technology have been installed to track suspicious vehicles, sharing information with authorities, and assisting in apprehending criminals and poachers.
Vital equipment has been purchased for the anti-poaching teams, including communication units, intelligence systems, military-grade boots, medical equipment, binoculars and night vision goggles
Workshops have been set up to introduce children from local schools and communities to the bush and its wildlife and create ambassadors for the future.
Food gardens have been set up in local schools and communities, teaching critical skills, providing job opportunities and feeding the local school children.
Experience this for yourself
Head out on a horse safari and make a tangible difference in Africa!
A horse riding holiday at Ant’s Hill and Ant’s Nest really is something special. This private reserve has diverse landscapes, from wide-open plains to beautiful mountain areas and is home to over 40 species of game including Sable Antelope, Nyala, Oryx, Eland, Giraffe, Buffalo, White Rhino and well over 300 species of resident and migrant birds. All these incredible creatures can be seen from horseback, but one encounter that always stands out in everyone’s memory is the rhinos. As the horses are free-roaming, a natural bond has formed between these two species and riders can get within meters of these incredible creatures. Being able to watch them in their completely natural habitat is an unforgettable and truly humbling experience.
The Waterberg area is home to one of the three largest rhino populations remaining on the planet. A portion of every guest’s stay at Ant’s is a Rhino Conservation levy that goes into the protection of these endangered animals, including 24-hour armed surveillance by their seasoned anti-poaching team. Just by travelling here, you directly ensure their survival! Guests are always welcome to join in on any wildlife management activities which take place on the reserve, all of which can be done on horseback. This includes visits to the rare antelope breeding camps as well as treating any injured animals.
One of the highlights of this reserve is that it can accommodate riders of all levels and with 2 unique lodges, it is perfect for all horse riders, whether you’re a solo traveller, on honeymoon or a multi-generation family. Riders of the same abilities are always put together, a group bigger than 6 will have 2 guides. There is ample opportunity for some fast and adrenaline filled riding for experienced equestrians. And for novice riders, there is no better place to gain your confidence than out in the bush alongside the wildlife. There is no set schedule or itinerary and activities are extremely flexible and can be tailored to your needs.
Responsible Travel is at the heart of this family-run reserve. Community upliftment programmes, school sponsorships are all part of its commitment to the local area as well of course Waterberg Rhino UK. Each year they host a Ride for Rhinos and Game Census which are hands-on conservation weeks.
