The Bateleurs are hosting an auction giving away two luxurious and exclusive stays, all in the hope of raising funds for the work they do in serving wildlife across South Africa.
South Africa (11 July 2025) – For over 25 years, The Bateleurs have taken to the skies to protect what lies below. With a fleet of volunteer pilots and aircraft, this proudly South African non-profit offers environmental and conservation organisations a vital aerial perspective, at no cost to the beneficiaries. From tracking endangered wildlife to surveying habitat destruction and transporting wildlife in need, their work has become a lifeline for researchers, policymakers, and conservationists alike.
Now, the Bateleurs are inviting the public to join them, not in the cockpit, but by supporting their newly launched Wings for the Wild online auction series. The campaign offers bidders the chance to win one of two luxury fly-in safari experiences: a 2-night escape to the breathtaking Karoo, or a 2-night stay in the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Each includes return private charters with Africa Sky Runners, adding to the magic.
Heart set on the Karoo, the winning bidder gets a 2-night stay at the exclusive Tzamenkomst River Lodge. For the Kruger winning bid? A luxury 2-night stay at the Kruger Shalati.
But the real prize? Supporting flights that save lives, protect habitats, and nurture the next generation of environmental leaders.
Beyond their frontline conservation work, The Bateleurs also run the Bonizwe Programme, providing conservation students from local universities with the rare opportunity to gain practical training through aerial missions. The flights help learners connect their studies to real-world environmental challenges, quite literally lifting education to new heights.
Volunteer pilots cover around 70% of the organisation’s operating costs through their time, aircraft, and fuel. The rest is made possible through fundraising. That’s where Wings for the Wild comes in. Every rand raised goes directly toward mission-critical flights, from relocating endangered species to providing aerial data to communities fighting deforestation.
So if you’re dreaming of a safari escape and want your next getaway to leave more than just footprints, this is your chance. You can find the Kruger auction page here and the Karoo auction page here.
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