A Day of Conservation: Protecting Madikwe’s Rhinos

A safari can create unforgettable memories – but sometimes, guests have the opportunity to become part of something much bigger. On Saturday, 22 August 2026, the Tosi family from Italy sponsored a rhino notching operation in the Madikwe Game Reserve, contributing directly to the ongoing protection and conservation of the reserve’s rhino population.

Accompanied by Rhulani’s Assistant Manager and Field Guide Willem Nel, the family joined the conservation team in the field. They located a white rhino mother with her young calf, and both animals were carefully darted under the supervision of the veterinarian and Elzanne, the reserve ecologist.

The young male calf received identification notches and a microchip in his horn, helping the conservation team to identify and monitor him in the future. In a particularly memorable moment, the Tosi family's daughter was invited to choose his name. She called him Leo.

The operation went perfectly and was completed at around 11:30 in the morning. Willem recalls that the family was initially unsure whether sponsoring the experience would be worth the investment. By the end, however, there was absolutely no doubt: it had been an exceptional and deeply moving experience.

In fact, everyone was in tears when the operation was over.

Rhino notching is much more than a unique wildlife experience. It is an important conservation tool that supports the identification, monitoring and protection of rhinos, particularly in the ongoing fight against poaching.

At Rhulani, we are proud to offer our guests the opportunity to go beyond simply observing Africa’s wildlife – and to actively contribute to protecting it.

And somewhere in the vast wilderness of Madikwe, a young white rhino named Leo is now growing up, carrying with him a small mark of protection and a very special story.

A heartfelt and enormous thank you to the Tosi family for their generosity, their passion for conservation, and for helping to give Leo a safer future. Your contribution truly makes a difference. ❤️🦏