Brad and Grandma Joy's Rhino Conservation Mission

brad and grandma joy's rhino conservation mission

SOUTH AFRICA

Hoedspruit, South Africa

June 8th – 13th, 2025

$5,500 USD

Overview

Join Brad & Grandma Joy on a Once-in-a-Lifetime Rhino Conservation Mission

You may know them as the grandson and grandmother who set out to visit every U.S. national park—63 in total. But what you might not know is that Brad Ryan is also a veterinarian devoted to wildlife conservation. And that Grandma Joy—at 94—isn’t slowing down any time soon.

Now they’re heading to South Africa.

Not for a holiday.

But for something urgent. And deeply personal.

Rhino poaching is on the rise again. And in one of the last strongholds of wild rhinos on Earth, a team of wildlife vets and conservationists is preparing to step in—by safely removing the horns of vulnerable black and white rhinos before poachers can get to them.

It’s one of the most effective tools we have to keep these animals alive.

But it’s logistically intense. Resource-heavy. And only possible with your support.

So Brad and Grandma Joy are inviting a small group of 9 people to join them in the field this June—to help carry out this mission firsthand.

You’ll stay in the beautiful town of Hoedspruit, known as the Gateway to Kruger National Park. Over the course of the trip, you’ll:

• Help dehorn rhinos as part of a frontline conservation team

• Spot the Big Five on safari in the Greater Kruger

• Cruise through Blyde River Canyon, one of the most majestic landscapes in the world

• Craft your own snare-wire jewellery from recovered traps—turning something once meant to kill into a powerful symbol of hope

• And share fireside stories with Brad and Grandma Joy, two of the most quietly extraordinary humans you’ll ever meet

This isn’t a photo-op. It’s a mission.

And your presence doesn’t just support the work—it funds it.

That’s the model: no tourists. Just purpose-driven people making this possible through their very participation.

If you’ve ever felt that pull—that quiet knowing that you were meant to do something meaningful—this is your sign.

There are only 9 spots. Apply now to join us. For the rhinos. For the wild. And for the story you’ll tell for the rest of your life.

BOOK YOUR PLACE

$5,500 USD

Payment Type

20% Non-Refundable Deposit
Full Payment

Places to book

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INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Includes: Accommodation, all meals, in-country transport, field activities and lectures

Excludes: International flights and personal travel insurance

GROUP SIZE

Capacity: Limited to 9 participants on this very special mission.

HIGHLIGHTS

🦏 Join a Real Conservation Mission

• Support urgent rhino dehorning efforts to combat poaching

• Work alongside experienced wildlife veterinarians and field conservationists

• Assist in darting, tracking, and monitoring both black and white rhinos in the Greater Kruger region

👵 Travel with Brad & Grandma Joy

• Join the beloved duo who visited all 63 U.S. National Parks

• Be part of their next chapter: using their story to help save wildlife

• Experience the warmth, humour, and purpose that have made them an inspiration to millions

🌍 Explore the Heart of Wild South Africa

• Stay in Hoedspruit, the gateway to Kruger National Park

• Immerse yourself in one of the most biodiverse and iconic conservation landscapes on Earth

• Wake up to wildlife just beyond your veranda

🐘 Experience More Than Just the Mission

• Safari through the Greater Kruger and spot the Big Five

• Craft your own snare-wire jewellery—a powerful symbol of hope and transformation

• Connect with a tight-knit group of purpose-driven travellers who care as much as you do

WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR

This is for people who want to do more than watch from the sidelines. You don’t need a vet degree. You just need heart. Whether you’re 18 or 80, a student, a storyteller, a scientist, or someone who simply loves wildlife—if this speaks to you, you belong here.

ACCOMODATION & MEALS

Lodging:

You’ll be staying in beautiful, private chalets nestled in nature on the peaceful outskirts of Hoedspruit. Each chalet is fully equipped with electricity, WiFi, and a private bathroom, along with a shared central lounge to relax and connect with your group.

Wake up to birdsong. Watch wildlife wander past your veranda. And fall asleep to the sounds of the African bush—knowing you're part of something truly meaningful.

Meals:

You’ll be well-fed and well-cared for with fresh, hearty meals prepared by a private chef. Expect a delicious mix of local South African flavours and international favourites, served in a relaxed setting after big days in the field.

Whether you're vegetarian, gluten-free, or have other dietary needs, everything can be easily catered for with advance notice—because everyone deserves to feel nourished and included on this journey.

INCLUDED SUPPORT

🚐 All Transport Covered

From the moment you land, we’ve got you. All in-country travel—including airport transfers, daily field travel, and reserve access—is fully arranged for you.

🦏 Hands-On Field Experiences

All permits, veterinary supplies, and even helicopter time (for darting and locating rhinos) are included. You’ll be part of a real conservation operation, working shoulder-to-shoulder with experienced professionals on the frontlines.

👥 An Incredible Support Team

You won’t be doing this alone. A dedicated trip leader will guide and support you every step of the way, while your full-time conservation team—including wildlife vets, trackers, and field staff—will welcome you in as one of their own. You’re not just observing the work. You’re part of it.

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