THE PHILOSOPHY OF ELEPHANT PLAINS GAME LODGE

Because our environment supports our livelihood, Elephant Plains Game Lodge realises the need to ensure that our presence here is as unobtrusive as possible. It is important that we look after our entrusted piece of nature, in order to ensure that future generations will also be able to enjoy it.

Our main objectives are the sustainability of a healthy, balanced habitat through certain conservation processes, as well as making a contribution to the socio-economic development of our surrounding communities. We believe that there is a fine balance between commercialization and the toll taken on the wildlife and its habitats. We have a conscientious land management program which endeavours to maintain a naturally diverse ecosystem and to minimize the impact of man's activities on the environment. In conjunction with the Sabi Sand Game Reserve ecological department, we have put certain conservation measures in place. These include projects like the regeneration of erosion sites, the removal of alien plant species, habitat management through carefully planned block burning and special off-roading precautions during game drives.

We believe that our biggest contribution to conservation is through education. Our guests are ambassadors for conservation in South Africa. If, during their stay with us, we can expand their knowledge and experiences, then we have achieved our goal. Amazing wildlife sightings, combined with the lessons they have learned about conservation, will remain with them and will be passed onto others through their reminiscences.

Our staff members are also educated in the sustainability of resources. Most of our staff members are from the local villages outside the Gowrie Gate. They are also our ambassadors, as conservation principles obtained through education are also shared with their families and different communities, spreading the word far beyond the lodge itself. We use local suppliers and services wherever possible, as this provides local businesses with a steady income.

At Elephant Plains Game Lodge we work together as a team, combining different types of knowledge and expertise to create a product that is beneficial to everyone. This multicultural community provides the opportunity to learn from one another as we strive to continually raise the standards and services we offer.