Bianca Leonard: My Journey to Imvelo Safari Lodge: Experiencing the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative

The beginning of November marked the start of an adventure to Zimbabwe—an unknown and mysterious land to me, with no expectations but a wide-open heart. What I found not only stole a piece of that heart but had me planning my return before I even left.

This trip was all about experiencing the Community Rhino Conservation Initiative at Imvelo Safari Lodge in Hwange National Park. I’d read about their work but had no idea just how impactful their efforts truly were. Their motto, “We believe in enriching the lives of those who live around us as well as our guests. We aim to ensure that the local communities and wildlife benefit directly from you, our visitors,” couldn’t describe the Imvelo team more perfectly.

First Impressions: Victoria Falls

Accompanied by my husband (also a Zimbabwe first-timer) and a colleague familiar with the  country, we landed in Victoria Falls for an overnight stay before heading to Hwange. Our 20 hours there were unforgettable.

For starters, seeing a herd of buffalo casually strolling through the streets and road signs warning of elephant crossings felt surreal. Coming from Port Elizabeth, South Africa, where wildlife stays in parks, this was a fascinating contrast. Before sunset, we’d already spotted elephants, buffalo, antelope, a crocodile, and even fed a squirrel. The trip felt “made” before it had even begun!

 A Journey Through Hwange

The next day, after transferring to Dete Railway Station and boarding the scenic Elephant Express, we arrived at Imvelo Safari Lodge. Over the following days, we met the visionary behind it all, Butch, and his incredible team.

One of the most inspiring story was about the reintroduction of white rhinos to this part of Zimbabwe, a species that hadn’t been seen in Hwange since 2007 due to poaching. Thanks to Imvelo, in 2022, rhinos returned—on a strip of land gifted by the local community, bordering the park and the village.

This land doesn’t just provide a safe haven for the rhinos; it also acts as a buffer between the wild animals and the community’s crops. This innovative setup has drastically reduced incidents of elephants destroying crops—a win-win for both people and wildlife.

Conservation That Transforms Lives

Unlike other rhino initiatives I’d been involved with, which primarily focus on education and fundraising, Imvelo’s approach was hands-on and holistic. The funds generated by tourism directly support local communities.

• A fully functional clinic has been built. (Previously the closest clinic was 25km away)
• A school with a well-stocked library stands proudly, offering education to eager young learners.
• Daily lunch packs are provided for schoolchildren.
• Boreholes have been drilled for both the community and wildlife, ensuring everyone has access to water.

Sitting with a group of bright-eyed Grade 5 students in their classroom, I was asked what my favourite animal was. When I said “giraffe,” they giggled and almost all of them said, “Rhino!” with beaming smiles. That was the moment I truly gave my heart to this project. Because of the rhino, these children have classrooms, meals, and a brighter future.  

Meeting Thuza and Kusasa

The highlight of the trip was meeting the two rhinos, Thuza and Kusasa. These playful bulls were part of the first phase of reintroduction and had their own springy, zoomie personalities. They are guarded 24/7 by the Cobras, an elite security team made up of local villagers who undergo rigorous training to protect the rhinos.

Some of these men were once poachers but have been given a second chance through this initiative. Prouder men you would not find and their commitment was deeply moving.  

A Ripple Effect of Good

This entire initiative is a testament to one man’s vision and the power of collaboration. It doesn’t just protect wildlife; it improves lives, fosters community pride, and creates sustainable tourism.

By the time I left, Zimbabwe was no longer an unknown land. It was a place that felt like home—a land of incredible beauty, resilience, and hope. Imvelo Safari Lodge and its Rhino Conservation Initiative are proof that with determination, teamwork, and heart, it’s possible to create ripples of change that benefit people, wildlife, and their surrounding environment.

Until next time, Zimbabwe—you’ve left a lasting mark on my soul. 🌍🦏