Why You Should Visit Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre on Your South Africa Safari

If you’re planning a safari in South Africa, the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservation supporters. This acclaimed wildlife center offers a unique opportunity to see Africa’s iconic animals up close while supporting vital animal rescue and rehabilitation programs.

About Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Located in the Lowveld of South Africa’s Limpopo Province, Moholoholo sits at the base of the Drakensberg Escarpment, offering visitors breathtaking scenery alongside an incredible wildlife experience. The center is:

• Only 60 km from Kruger National Park’s Orpen Gate

• Close to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Pilgrim’s Rest, and the Blyde River Canyon on the Panorama Route

• Just 30 minutes from Hoedspruit Airport

• Near the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, Echo Caves, and Khamai Reptile Park

Wildlife You Can See at Moholoholo

The wildlife rehabilitation centre houses a variety of rescued African animals, including:

• Big cats: lion, cheetah, leopard, serval, lynx, caracal

• Other mammals: honey badger, African wild dog

• Birds of prey: African crowned eagle, African fish eagle, African harrier-hawk

• Additional birds: vultures, southern ground hornbill

Visitors also get to see rescued baby animals and species that cannot be released back into the wild, making each visit a rare, educational experience.

Origins and Purpose of the Animals at Moholoholo

Moholoholo receives animals from across South Africa, often victims of injury, abandonment, or illegal captivity. Once fully rehabilitated, animals are returned to their natural habitats whenever possible. Those that cannot survive in the wild remain at the center to educate visitors about wildlife conservation.

The center also runs successful breeding programs for endangered species, including:

• Crowned eagles: one of Southern Africa’s rarest raptors

• Serval cats: approximately 150 have been rehabilitated and returned to the wild

• Taita falcons: a rare African falcon species

These programs are essential for maintaining biodiversity and promoting species recovery in Southern Africa.

Supporting Moholoholo Wildlife Centre

The Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a non-profit organization, relying heavily on donations and visitor fees to continue its critical work. By visiting, you directly contribute to:

• Animal rescue and rehabilitation

• Conservation education for locals and tourists

• Breeding and monitoring programs for endangered species

History of Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

Founded in 1991 by conservationist Brian Jones, the center is located on the private estate of Johan Strijdom. Brian, who has cared for injured and orphaned animals since childhood, established Moholoholo to address the growing need for wildlife rescue and conservation in South Africa. Today, Brian continues to oversee the center, ensuring that Moholoholo remains a beacon of ethical wildlife tourism.

The Name Moholoholo

The name “Moholoholo” translates to “The Very Great One”, inspired by the last battle of 1864 at Mariepskop Mountain. Mariepskop itself is also called “Moholoholo,” symbolizing strength, resilience, and heritage—the same values reflected in the center’s work.

Visitor Experience

At Moholoholo, visitors can:

• Observe rescued and rehabilitated animals

• Learn about endangered species and conservation efforts

• Support breeding programs for rare African wildlife

• Participate in educational tours and wildlife experiences

For more information and to plan your visit, check out Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

Reviews and Ratings

The Moholoholo Wildlife Centre is rated #2 out of 10 things to do in Hoedspruit on Tripadvisor, with 4.5 stars based on over 1,000 reviews. Visitors praise the center’s ethical approach to wildlife, educational programs, and the opportunity to see Africa’s magnificent animals up close.

Visit Tripadvisor to read reviews and traveler experiences.

Why Moholoholo Should Be on Your South Africa Safari Itinerary

A visit to Moholoholo offers more than just wildlife sightings; it provides a hands-on conservation experience that supports endangered species recovery and educates visitors on the importance of ethical wildlife tourism. If you’re planning a South Africa safari near Kruger National Park, don’t miss this top-rated wildlife rehabilitation center.