The iMfolozi Game Reserve lies within the greater Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, which was proclaimed in 1895, making it Africa’s oldest game reserve. The reserve is a critical sanctuary for biodiversity and plays a vital role in preserving species, ecosystems, and cultural heritage, making its protection of paramount importance. Spanning 96,000 hectares within the Maputaland–Pondoland biodiversity hotspot, the Park is a recognised global biodiversity hotspot.

It is internationally recognised as the birthplace of white rhino conservation, thanks to the groundbreaking efforts of Dr Ian Player, Magqubu Ntombela, and their team, who saved the species from near extinction. In fact, the  Park was the last refuge for the species, and every single southern white rhino population in the world can be genetically traced back to the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi.

iMfolozi holds exceptional significance for biodiversity conservation as the birthplace of the “wilderness” concept in South Africa. In 1958, Dr Ian Player established the iMfolozi Wilderness Area and, through the Wilderness Leadership School, introduced guided walking trails into this untouched landscape. Since then, over 70,000 people have embarked on these life-changing journeys, many of whom, inspired by the experience, have become passionate advocates for the preservation of biodiversity.

Importantly, the Park is deeply rooted in Zulu heritage as it was once the royal hunting ground of King Shaka Zulu. King Shaka is widely regarded as an early conservationist, having designated areas for wildlife protection long before formal conservation frameworks were established.

ECOStudy uses this backdrop to foster pride in cultural identity and to position Indigenous knowledge as central to contemporary conservation efforts. Participants learn about the historical and ongoing relationship between their communities and the land, reinforcing the idea that conservation is not a new concept but is embedded in their heritage.