At African Hills Safari Lodge & Spa, conservation is not just a value—it is a lived commitment. Nestled within the Plumari Private Reserve and stretching into the majestic Magaliesberg Mountains, our surroundings are home to one of South Africa’s most remarkable conservation success stories: the return of vultures to the wild.
This impactful conservation initiative is led by VulPro, a pioneering organisation dedicated to the protection and rehabilitation of vultures in Southern Africa. In partnership with VulPro, Plumari serves as a sanctuary where rehabilitated vultures are released back into their natural habitat.
A Growing Population
Recent monitoring by VulPro of the vulture colony on the Magaliesberg cliffs highlights encouraging growth and activity:
- May 2025: 220 active nests, with 152 incubating pairs
- August 2025: 193 active nests, with 150 chicks recorded
- October 2025: 202 active nests, with an impressive 198 fledglings taking to the skies
These numbers tell a powerful story of resilience and recovery. From incubation to chicks and finally fledglings, the lifecycle of these vultures is unfolding successfully right on our doorstep.
A Spectacle in the Sky
During a count on 28 August 2025, the VulPro team recorded nearly 400 vultures soaring freely across the Magaliesberg Mountains. It is a truly breathtaking sight—one that reflects the success of this dedicated conservation project.
Guests staying at African Hills are often fortunate enough to witness these moments firsthand. Watching vultures being released back into the wild, or seeing them glide effortlessly above the cliffs, is an unforgettable experience—one filled with hope, freedom, and a deep connection to nature.
Conservation You Can Experience
A stay at African Hills offers more than just luxury and relaxation—it offers a chance to be part of something meaningful. Every sighting, every soaring silhouette against the mountain sky, is a reminder that conservation—led by organisations like VulPro—works when passion and purpose come together.
We are proud to be part of this journey and to share it with our guests.