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  • Gavin

    < Back Gavin Gavin Raubenheimer is a certified Mountaineering Instructor (M.I.A.) endorsed by the Mountain Development Trust of SA. He is a NQF National Mountaineering (level 7), Cultural and Nature Guide (level 4). He is sponsored by First Ascent outdoor clothing company and by RAM Mountaineering, importers of Black Diamond Equipment, Beal Ropes, Cascade Designs, Bibler and E3 gear. Gavin is a past President of the KwaZulu-Natal Section of the Mountain Club of SA. He has been involved in mountain rescue since 1992 and since 2005 has been the Convener of Mountain Rescue in the province. This involves organising, instructing and leading mountain rescues in the Drakensberg and any other area of the province. Since 2011 he has been the national chairman of the Mountain Development Trust (MDT). In 2000, he represented South Africa at the BMC International High-Performance meet in Wales and again in 2005 at the MC of S International Ice meet in Scotland. Since 1978 he has climbed at almost every major venue in southern Africa and many other mountain areas, including the Andes, Canadian Rockies, French and Swiss Alps, the Atlas Mountains, Kilimanjaro and Mt. Kenya. Gavin has guided in Peru, Mt Kenya, Mauritius, Uganda, France, Namibia and Switzerland. To date Gavin has made over 70 first ascents of rock and ice climbs in South Africa, and has been used as an expert witness and investigator in civil cases involving climbing related accidents. He has written guide books and on-line route guides covering his home area of KwaZulu-Natal. He also has a National Diploma in Horticulture. (Durban 1989)

  • Matt

    < Back Matt With over a decade of experience in the safari industry, Matt now specialises in highly exclusive wildlife expeditions around the world. From the plains of Africa to the jungles of India or the remote northern most wilderness of the Arctic circle, Matt has gained a reputation as one of the leading private guides in the industry, and photographic contributor to the ‘Remembering Wildlife’ book series, one of the most successful conservation fundraising initiatives. His passion for wildlife and experience as a naturalist, combined with his expertise in photographing some of the most iconic wildlife around the world ensures you stand the best chance of coming away with the shots you have long dreamed of. With Matt’s “wildlife first” approach, not only will you create incredible images but also enjoy a truly authentic wildlife experience and memories that will last a life time.

  • Peter

    < Back Peter Peter ability to design, implement and run a scientific study over a one, two and three year period, gathering results, analysing data and communicating findings in a manner acceptable to the international scientific community. QUALIFICATIONS: ASA Africa Registered Rafting and Hiking Guide University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) Bachelor of Science Ecological Sciences (2005-2007) Bachelor of Science Honours Ecological Sciences (2008) Master of Science in Biological Sciences (2009-2010) Doctor of Philosophy in Conservation and Ecological Science (2011-2013) Gay Langmuir Bursary UKZN Internal Bursary National Research Foundation Scarce Skills Award Doctoral Research Grant COMPLETED COURSES: BIOL701P1 Biology/Ecology Tools and Skills BIOL724P1 Conservation Ecology BIOL790P0 Biology/Ecology Research Project BIOL312P2 Wildlife Conservation and Management BIOL325P2 Reproduction & Behavioural Ecology BIOL390P2 Biology/Ecology Research Project PM Certificate of Merit BIOL300P1 Professional Communication for Biologists BIOL303P1 Community Ecology BIOL203P2 Population Ecology BIOL222P2 Vertebrate Biology ENVS230PV SA Biophysical Environments Field Course PM Certificate of Merit ECOL810 Upper Second. First class pass Adventure/nature guiding (1996 – 2012). Zingela Safari and River Company. Isibindi Adventures. Jozini Tiger Lodge. Pongola River Company. Field assistant – UKZN field trip to Kruger National Park (2002). Demonstrator overseeing 1st year Biological courses in the department of Biological and Conservation Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2008). Academic Tutor overseeing 1st year Biology students in the department of Biological and Conservation Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (2008). Founder and manager KwaNyamazane Conservancy and Pongola River Company (2010 – 2014). PUBLICATIONS: Calverley PM. 2008. Rehabilitation of overgrazed areas in the Tugela Valley with particular reference to the role of the desert karoid shrub Blepharis natalensis in natural succession. Unpublished Honours dissertation. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg. Calverley PM. 2011. The conservation and ecology of Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) in Ndumo Game Reserve. Unpublished MSc thesis, University of KwaZulu-Natal. Calverley PM. 2013. The conservation ecology of Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) in north eastern KwaZulu-Natal and south eastern Mozambique. Unpublished PhD dissertation, University of KwaZulu-Natal. Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. Habitat use by Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa: a naturally patchy environment. Submitted to Herpetologica Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. Population status of Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (1971 – 2012). Submitted to Herpetologica Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. Movement and home range of Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa. Submitted to Journal of Herpetology Calverley, P. & Downs, C.T. The past and present nesting ecology of Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa: Reason for concern?. Submitted to Journal of Herpetology PRESENTATIONS & WORKSHOPS: Calverley PM. Rehabilitation of overgrazed areas in the Tugela Valley with particular reference to the role of the desert karoid shrub Blepharis natalensis in natural succession. UKZN Honours presentation. Calverley, P & CT Downs Habitat use of the Nile crocodile in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa: a naturally patchy environment. Nile Crocodile Workshop January 2010. Calverley, P. Conservation and Ecology of Nile Crocodiles in north eastern KZN. Tembe Elephant Park. 2011. Calverley, P & CT Downs Nile crocodiles in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa. Nile Crocodile Workshop February 2011.

  • Angus

    < Back Angus “ There is no better way to understand the importance of conserving wild places than to immerse yourself in them, if only for a short while .” Angus was very lucky to have travelled extensively as a young person and understood from an early age the value of combining adventure, experiential learning and peaceful reflection. These three things are always components in well planned and delivered African experiences that Angus and his team put together for their learning expeditions and tours. Angus' first expedition to South Africa was prepared in 2002 and delivered in 2003 and was a huge success as have all the subsequent expeditions and ventures have been. Angus likes to include an element of learning in the areas of nature conservation, environmental awareness, cultural diversity and community engagement in all venture, where possible. At the end of 2009 Angus formed Africa Wild Trails and the company now has key partners in Africa Angus has known and worked with for many years. All of the guides, expedition leaders and instructors that he works with are highly qualified and experienced field experts. Angus has always felt that having leaders and guides who are resident in the country of operation is vital in terms of safety, risk management, logistical expertise, maintaining high standards and quality of learning and he will never rely solely on the UK leaders, no matter their skills and abilities. With long term key partners in Africa, AWT has the ability to provide high level youth ventures, adult ventures, charity events, field studies, university level research, bespoke group ventures, and family holidays.

  • Battlefields | Africa Wild Trails

    Battles of KwaZulu Natal Anglo-Zulu War 11 January – 4 July 1879 Battle of Isandlwana | 22 January 1879 Battle of Rorke's Drift | 22-23 January 1879 Battle of Intombi River | 12 March 1879 Battle of Hlobane | 28 March 1879 Battle of Kambula | 29 March 1879 Battle of Gingindlovu | 2 April 1879 Battle of Eshowe Siege | 22 Jan. – 3 April 1879 Battle of Ulundi | 4 July 1879 First Boer War 16 Dec. 1880 – 23 March 1881 Battle of Bronkhorstspruit | 20 December 1880 Battle of Laing's Nek | 28 January 1881 Battle of | 12 February 1881 Battle of Majuba | 27 February 1881 Second Boer War 11 October 1899 – 31 May 1902 Kimberley Siege | 14 Oct 1899 – 15 Feb 1900 Battle of Ladysmith | 30 October 1899 Battle of Colenso | 15 December 1899 Battle of Spion Kop | 23–24 January 1900 Battle of the Tugela Heights | 14–27 Feb 1900 Mafeking Siege | October 1899 to May 1900 “ 08:05 - Staff Officer Sir, a report has just come in saying the Zulus are advancing in force toward the left front of camp ” Lt Col Pulleine | Isandlwana | 22nd January 1879 The Battle of Isandlwana The Battle of Rorke's Drift The Zulu Trail Developed by AWT and our in-country partners, the objective of The Zulu Trail Expedition is to travel to the rich and diverse biospheres and remote areas of the KwaZulu Natal Province on the eastern seaboard of South Africa: ​ Complete our challenging 5 day, 100km, Zulu Trail following what we believe is an ancient route from the old Zulu iron smelting sites on the Tugela River to the Anglo-Zulu War battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. ​ Hike the Fugitives Trail from Isandlwana battlefield to the Buffalo River, following the route British soldiers took that fateful day in 1879. KwaZulu Natal Battlefield Sites KwaZulu Natal is peppered with battlefield sites from the Anglo-Zulu & Boer Wars. ​ AWT as put together various itineraries for your group to experience the locations, as well as the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of British, Boer, and Zulu soldiers. ​ You will visit the memorial locations from both sides of the wars, and hear the stories brought to life by our exceptional historians.

  • Experts | Africa Wild Trails

    Experts AWT is proud to work alongside some of the most qualified, experienced and inspiring guides, leaders, and instructors in our industry. Whatever country your venture takes place in, we will have the expertise in place to deliver every component to the very highest standards. Angus Wingfield Director of Africa Wild Trails More on Angus -International expedition planning and delivery -Specialist working with young people at risk -International ventures risk management and logistics -OSSM [Off Site Safety Management] -RMOP [Risk Management on Overseas Programmes] -ECP [Expedition Care Programme] Level VII -BS8848, LOtC, EPA, AAA, DofE Gold International Expeditions compliance officer for AWT Gavin Raubenheimer Mountaineering Instructor More on Gavin -Past president of the KwaZulu-Natal Section of the Mountain Club of SA and since 2005 has been the Convener of Mountain Rescue in the province -Certified mountaineering instructor (M.I.A) -NQF National Mountaineering (level 7) -Cultural and Nature Guide (level 4) -National Diploma in Horticulture Dr Peter Calverely BSC. HONS., MSC, PHD More on Peter -ASA Africa Registered Rafting and Hiking Guide -Bachelor of Science Ecological Sciences (2005-2007) -Bachelor of Science Honours -Ecological Sciences (2008) -Master of Science in Biological Sciences (2009-2010) -Doctor of Philosophy in Conservation and Ecological Science (2011-2013) -National Research Foundation Scarce Skills Award Matt Armstrong-Ford FGASA Guide & Photographer More on Matt Matt is the co-owner Armstrong-Fortescue Safaris, and a zoology graduate who trained as a Professional Safari Guide both in South Africa and in South Luangwa, Zambia, an area recognised as setting the benchmark for guide training. It was whilst living and working in these far-flung corners of Africa that Matt’s passion for photography grew and he realised that sharing his expertise with others is what he loves. Further Guides As required for your venture More We can have the following in place for your venture, depending on the final itinerary: ​ -Trails Guides -Safari Guides -River Guides -Mountain Guides -SCUBA Guides -Ecologists -Geologists -Anthropologists

  • About | Africa Wild Trails

    AFRICA WILD TRAILS International Group Venture Experts Our core work is the planning and delivery of diverse, challenging, and inspiring international ventures, expeditions, wildlife conservation field studies, research, and community engagement. ​ Bush hiking, river kayaking , mountain hiking, mountain biking, adventure sports, and fundraising events are all delivered with an underlying ethos of nature conservation and personal challenge. "Conservation is just a conversation, if we take no action" Dr Ian Player The ethos of these two great men , who were giants in the world of conservation, are one of the key reasons I started Africa Wild Trails. Ian and Magqubu (amongst very many other things) enabled people to meaningfully enter wilderness areas and understand why these immersive experiences in nature are so beneficial for our personal development. We must never lose sight of this, and continue to provide these opportunities for those who wish to come and raise the dust with us in these faraway places. Angus Founded by Angus Wingfield in 2009 , Africa Wild Trails is a trusted provider, complying with the highest British standards for international ventures, expeditions and research, with many testimonials. AWT delivers international ventures for groups from as few as 8, to as many as 90 participants. These include schools, ACF & CCF cadets, charities, national events, and other youth groups, as well as adult groups, and bespoke safaris. ​ Our ventures are delivered in locations where the experience is exceptional and memorable, where nature and communities benefit from our visits, where adventure is different, exciting, and safe, and where we have found the most inspiring, positive, and professional guides in the world. ​ SAFETY RECORD An exceptional safety record is something that everyone who works with AWT is very proud of. AWT has been assessed against, and is compliant with, the very highest British standards for international ventures, expeditions, and research. Risk management is at the very heart of every venture, and all our guides, instructors, drivers, and leaders have the experience, knowledge, and qualifications to enable us to deliver every component as safely as is possible.

  • Testimonials | Africa Wild Trails

    PATIENCE, INTEGRITY, INSIGHT The attention to detail, logistics, health & safety, risk management and connections ensures an experience you will never forget... EXTREMELY WELL ORGANISED AWT delivered a concept and vision into reality. Angus' understanding of today’s youth stood out along with his in-depth knowledge of Africa... INSPIRATIONAL & LIFE ENHANCING Nothing less than superb and a real inspirational and life enhancing experience for not only the students but the adults that went on the trip... TRULY BESPOKE SERVICE Since booking with Africa Wild Trails I have not needed to consider any other company for our African ventures... SOMETHING MAGICAL This was one of my most treasured feelings. Angus asked me to return as Tour Leader for the upcoming trip REWARDING & BENEFICIAL Three weeks in South Africa helped me to become the person I am today! I am so grateful to everyone who was part of the trip WHAT PEOPLE SAY JA This summer, Wild Trails took other pupils from Robertsbridge Community College and I to South Africa, for a fantastic trip that I will never forget. We were able to learn so much about animal conservation and endangered species, but we also learnt about cultures that were very different from our own. This trip showed me the dangers that many innocent species are in due to poaching and has made me think more about the subject. After the trip, I believed that if we all try to stop the horrendous activity of poaching, we can save many of these beautiful animals from becoming endangered. Coming back from South Africa, I believe that I gained more confidence because of the amazing experiences and activities we did. This has helped me in situations back home and I also believe that going to South Africa has made me think and act differently to how I did before. I now have some incredible memories which include feeding elephants, to meeting some beautiful children at a health centre. I can't thank Wild Trails, Angus and the other leaders enough as without them, I would never have been able to have this wonderful experience. More Testimonials

  • Mountain Bike & Conservation Awareness | Africa Wild Trails

    Mountain Bike & Conservation Awareness KwaZulu Natal, South Africa This event can be run over 20miles/32kms per day, up to 40miles/65kms per day , and as such we are able to make the event very group specific. The routes take in the stunning Drakensberg Mountain foothills, through rural communities, and ultimately end up in some of Africa's most stunning bush where you will ride past majestic African wildlife. Total distance covered will be up to you, but between 120miles/190kms, up to 240miles/385kms Let's talk about your group Itinerary This itinerary is 10 days, but we can extend the duration if needs be. Daily distance is group-specific and decided in the early planning meetings: 20miles/32kms per day, up to 40miles/65kms Day 1 Arrive Durban airport/ fit bikes/ transfer to bush camp/ settle in Day 2 Acclimatisation ride of 8-10 miles/ route briefing Day 3 Day 1 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Midlands Route Day 4 Day 2 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Drakensberg Route Day 5 Day 3 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Communities Route Day 6 Day 4 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Giraffe Route Day 7 Day 5 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Upstream River Route Day 8 Day 6 of the bike challenge/ Distance TBA/ Home Run Route Day 9 Big 5 Safari/ Transfer to Lodge/ Elephant, Rhino, Lion focus Day 10 Big 5 Safari/ Elephant, Rhino, Lion focus/ Transfer to Durban airport ​ Journey This mountain bike journey takes you epic daily adventures as you ride alongside the stunning Drakensberg mountain range, alongside stunning rivers, through friendly communities, and into some of the most beautiful bush Africa has to offer. Details Group size Minimum of 8, Maximum of 25 Accommodation Guest House, Bush camp & Safari Lodge Catering For all dietary requirements & allergies Kit & Clothing A kit list will be published for the group Terrain Dry Single track, animal paths, some dirt track & tar roads Climate Seasonal. We will advise during initial discussions Fitness Level An average level is required. Training schedule provided Exp[erience An average to a good level of experience is required Transport Support vehicle and driver is provided Trailer A bike trailer will be provided Guiding A guide will ride with you for the entire venture Bike mechanic Support vehicle driver is also the bike mechanic ​

  • Youth Ventures | Africa Wild Trails

    YOUTH GROUP ADVENTURES Below are options you can include in your venture dependant on country, duration, budget, and season. ​ A venture which engages and inspires every participant should contain a diverse range of activities to ensure there is something for everyone. ​ We will ensure the appropriate accommodation, catering, guides, transport and activities are in place for a group. In line with the budget and your wish list for the venture. CADET GROUPS BATTLEFIELDS HIGH STANDARDS Bush Wildlife tracking Ecology & Ethology Wildlife field studies Tracking & Identification Survival skills Conservation initiatives Threats to nature Wilderness Trail Big 5 safari Multi-day bush treks DofE Gold Expeditions Conservation Giraffe field study Elephant field study Rhino field study Ecology & ethology Edible, medicinal, toxic plants species study Local ecosystems Animal release projects Game Ranger Experience Carbon offsetting Community Rural schools visit Football & netball games Vs local schools Orphanage assistance projects HIV Care Centres assistance projects Joint conservation initiatives DofE Gold Projects Adventure Sports Mountain biking River kayaking Abseiling Tree canopy tour Horseback riding Trail running White water rafting ​ ​ Rivers Half day kayaking Full day kayaking Multi day rafting White water rafting River conservation study River quality testing River species census River crossing skills DofE Gold Expeditions Okavango River Zambezi River Tugela River ​ Mountains Full day trek Multi day trek Wildlife field study Flora field study Overnight in caves Bushman cave art study Geology field study Kilimanjaro trek Mountaineering DofE Gold Expeditions Battlefields ​ Cadets Click Here ​ Anglo Zulu War Anglo Boer War Battle of Isandlwana Battle of Rorke's Drift The Fugitives Trail (a 1 day walking trail) The Zulu Trail (a 5 day walking trail) Desert ​ Full day trek Multi day treks Full day camel trek Multi day camel trek Community projects Wildlife field study Flora field study Local history field study DofE Expeditions QUICK QUOTE

  • An African Adventure 2024 | Africa Wild Trails

    An African Adventure 2024 we all deserve an adventure! The epic adventure will take place in the rich and diverse province of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. In groups no larger than 10 people, the itinerary will include wildlife conservation awareness, animal tracking, location, and identification on foot, traditional Big 5 safaris, and two bush lodges with exceptional catering! ​ Open dates: 20-30 August or 20-30 September 2024 Or we can work to your dates, for your own group! Request the Zoom Link by WhatsApp, Text, or Email 07932 327534 or angus@africawildtrails.com

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