A conservation heartland
Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park is widely recognised as the birthplace of modern white-rhino conservation, having played a central role in bringing the species back from the brink of extinction in the twentieth century. iSimangaliso Wetland Park, South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, protects a chain of linked ecosystems from wetlands to coral reef along the same corridor.
Community-linked conservation areas
Several reserves in the region, including areas around Tembe and Ndumo, border community-owned or community-linked land, and tourism revenue and employment from lodges, guiding and craft sales form part of the economic case for keeping this land under conservation rather than converting it to other uses.
How visitors and operators can support this
Choosing registered guides and operators, respecting park rules and rest-camp regulations, and favouring accommodation and tours that are transparent about their community and conservation involvement all help ensure tourism spending supports both wildlife protection and local livelihoods. The Route22 directory and guides section point travellers toward operators working directly in these areas.