African wilderness
is the only place on earth where meaningful co-evolution between humans and wildlife occurred. Its animals inherently recognize an ancient shared history; one where humans were not always the apex predator.
A wilderness is usually a large unmodified area, retaining its natural character and influence, without permanent or significant human habitation, where natural forces and processes predominate, and which is managed to preserve its natural condition for current and future generations.
Wild Life Foundation operates in wilderness areas across South Africa, Botswana and other countries in southern Africa by invitation.
Hluhluwe-Imfolozi
The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park in central KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa's oldest nature reserve, established in 1895. Spanning 96,000 hectares of rolling hills and river valleys, this wilderness area shelters a remarkable diversity of wildlife. As one of the few state-run conservation areas where the "Big Five" (elephants, rhinos, buffalos, lions and leopards) can all be found, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi plays a vital role in protecting these threatened mammals. Thanks to rigorous anti-poaching efforts, the park now safeguards the largest population of white rhinos left on Earth. However, these creatures still face the constant threat of poachers seeking their horns. Beyond the famed Big Five, a range of other animals—like giraffes, zebras, wild dogs and over 300 species of birds—also thrive in the preserve. With dedicated conservation measures in place, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park stands as a testament to South Africa's ecological treasures and the importance of sustaining them for future generations.
Okavango delta
The Okavango Delta in northern Botswana is one of the world's largest inland deltas. This unique wilderness forms where the Okavango River empties into the vast Kalahari Basin, creating a sprawling wetland that spans over 15,000 sq km. As the water fans out across the delta's channels and floodplains, it creates a lush oasis teeming with wildlife in the middle of an arid desert. The seasonal flooding cycle attracts huge numbers of grazing animals like wildebeest, zebra and antelope, while predators like lions and leopards thrive in the dense papyrus stands. The delta is also home to over 400 species of birds, including vibrant kingfishers and African fish eagles. Unlike most deltas, the Okavango has no outlet to the sea. Its fragile water system evaporates and transpires into the air, relying entirely on rainfall patterns upriver. Named one of the Natural Wonders of Africa, this flourishing inland delta demonstrates the beauty and ecological riches made possible by wild, free-flowing waters.
