Camp Jabulani - Kruger Safari In South Africa

This is the story of an abandoned baby elephant who could never have known the impact he would have on the lives of 12 other elephants, and on thousands of people around the world. In June 1997, just 4 months old, a tiny elephant arrived at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC). He had been found stuck in the mud of a silt dam, and was injured and severely dehydrated. He had been abandoned by his herd. It took a full year to nurse the elephant back to health. He truly beat the odds, as not much hope was held that he would pull through. He was monitored around the clock by a dedicated team (including a hand-reared sheep called "Skaap" which acted as a surrogate mother) and was slowly brought back to a state of health. He was called Jabulani meaning "to rejoice".

Now came a challenge of an altogether different kind. Despite numerous attempts to re-introduce Jabulani to the bush, he would have none of it! These humans were his family, and he had no intention of parting ways. What to do with a quickly growing elephant? …. enter the hand of fate once again.

In March 2002 word reached the HESC of 12 Zimbabwean elephants which faced a grisly and untimely end. Their owner's farm was in the process of being expropriated by war veterans, and the elephants were tagged for their meat. A rescue mission was put into place within a matter of weeks. A massive truck left Johannesburg for Zimbabwe empty and returned with a dozen pachyderms.

It was with amazement that the HESC team witnessed the meeting of Jabulani and the herd. He was immediately adopted by Tokwe (the matriarch) and had finally found his kin.

Left with the overwhelming custodianship of these beautiful but mammoth animals, the next logical step was in the creation of a camp to support them. This camp would enable travellers from around the world to experience the extraordinary impact of interacting with elephants. Camp Jabulani was born!
About The Elephants: Camp Jabulani's herd has matured over time to become a very close knit family group. They each have their own character, and just like a human family, have unique bonds with one another. Since the arrival of Limpopo in August 2006, three additional babies have joined the Camp Jabulani herd - Klaserie, Zindoga and Mambo. The intra-herd dynamics have changed significantly since their arrival. While wild elephants group themselves in matriarchal herds, with male bull elephants joining the herds from time to time and having little to do with the younger members - Camp Jabulani's herd are all involved. The males have become as attached to the youngsters as the females. The art of motherhood is something that is usually passed on from generation to generation. Camp Jabulani's elephants had no experience with childbirth or childrearing. It therefore came as a huge shock to the elephants when they were confronted with this massive unchartered challenge. But Tokwe took to the job admirably, and together the herd has learned to become a more relaxed and stable one. The babies have added a touch of colour with their delightful antics and playful nature.

Tell Me More About Camp Jabulani Located In Kapama Private Game Reserve (Greater Kruger Park) as an African Safari & South Africa Safari Vacations Accommodation

Camp Jabulani is a perfect translation of the African bush, seamlessly blending classic and elegant interiors (fit for princes and kings, but warm enough to make the most "down-to-earth" feel completely at home) with the natural bush beyond. A camp of and within the elements. Rich textures of organic elements create a harmonious and pleasing balance between "designer" and "authentic". Grass-pressed mud walls, stone floors and thatched roofs are but some of the natural features guests may expect to find.

An open flow of light and air allow for a communion with the African bush without forsaking optimum comfort. Rich woods, crystal glasses, silver service somehow seamlessly blend into an experience of genuine hospitality and sensory indulgence.

The camp is built along the bank of a seasonal stream. An open-plan dining room and lounge merge with the wooden deck which lies in the shade of gigantic leadwood trees (around which the main facility was constructed). An impressive suspension bridge connects these living areas with the suites which lie scattered beyond the river bed.

The sole objective of the team of professionally skilled and personable staff is to meet the needs of their valued guests. To indulge, spoil, pamper and entertain. But most importantly - to share with them the story and the experience of the elephants.