TWGs in South Africa!

Few experiences can affect teens as positively as international travel. Oakland Zoo has a history of inspiring teens with trips to exotic locations like Borneo, Guatemala, Peru, and Madagascar. This year, members of our Teen Wild Guide Program (TWGs) are currently on a trip in South Africa!

The goal of their trip is to learn about the history, conservation issues, and possible wildlife careers in this area. Through this trip they will be given the tools to prepare their own educational stations at the African Savanna area back here at the Oakland Zoo, and teach the public what they've learned on their trip.

It wasn't an easy trip to South Africa for the TWGs. They experienced an eight hour layover in London but they made the most of it by playing some card games and bonding with each other. It's all a part of the experience of traveling.

The TWGs arrived in Kosi Bay nature reserve to some pretty spectacular weather and had to adjust quickly to the time difference. Their days have been filled with safaris, snorkeling and kayaking in the Kosi Bay.

They've even seen many rhinos on their safari trips. Here they are posing with a fake one :)

They spent four days camping in Kruger. After their camping trip, the TWGs visited the third largest river canyon known as, Blyde River Canyon.

After being out in the wilderness, they finally got to settle down in real beds at the Mogodi Lodge for two nights. After their two night stay, they'll get the opportunity to visit Jane Goodall's Chimp Eden which the whole group is very excited to do.

These teens are having a blast and soaking in once-in-a-lifetime experiences, getting to know the area and each other in a entirely new element. They are excited to come back to the zoo and put their experience to good use. Soon you will see their education stations in the African Savanna and can ask them about their trip!

Learn more about our TWG program »