From Tusk Till Dawn: A Blog By Carrie-Ann Singh
What does it look like to protect wild African elephants up close? After a 10-day expedition at the Kariega Game Reserve in South Africa, volunteers stepped into the field as research assistants to observe these incredible animals in their natural habitat. Working in collaboration with the Kariega Foundation and Bring The Elephant Home (BTEH), the team contributed directly to vital wildlife conservation efforts. In the blog post below, volunteer Carrie-Ann Singh chronicles the team’s experiences and shares what it was like to live alongside these gentle giants.
Reflection and Lasting Impact
Sitting back a few weeks later, I think I have given myself enough time to pause and reflect on the magnitude of this experience. Without a doubt, this was life changing!
The first day was filled with a blend of curiosity, excitement, and the uncertainty that comes with stepping into something entirely new. Any sense of discomfort quickly melted away as I realised I was surrounded by an extraordinary group of people. Within moments of arriving at the Kariga research centre, we were welcomed by a herd of elephants – little did we know this would only be the beginning of the many blessings the wild had in store for us.
As we drove into the reserve, nature revealed herself in full splendour — rolling green hills brushed with golden sunlight, the deep rumbles of elephants echoing through the valley, birdsong layered against the gentle melody of the river, and thousands of butterflies dancing through the air. Beneath that endless sky, South Africa breathed freely – wild, raw, and unapologetically beautiful-claiming a piece of every heart.
That evening laughter filled the air around a vegetarian braai (a first for me), learning about each other’s experiences… Wow, what an amazing group of ladies!
African Skies and Shared Purpose
I won’t go into too much detail around every day that I spent on this programme, but what I will say is that from a beautiful canvas of the milky way, seeing an endless night sky, to the gold, amber, fuscia and orange hues that brings new days of sharing hope. Knowing that the wellbeing of these amazing animals, brought people from the Netherlands, USA, Singapore and Spain together… that’s something special.
In a world that is currently in turmoil, being around people who deliberately choose kindness was extremely refreshing and needed. To Antoinette and Brooke, for sharing their knowledge / expertise with us, Yes – I will NEVER look at an elephant the same again. Your dedication, drive, resilience and accomplishments are more than admirable and extremely inspirational.
Moments of Awe
Our theme was around moments of “awe” – (Moments of awe are intense, self-transcending emotional experiences triggered by encountering something vast—nature, art, or human greatness – source: Gemini). My Many moments of awe:
- BTEH – The work in Africa and Asia
- Elephant behaviour – Not only becoming more knowledgeable about elephants but gaining a deeper understanding of their spirit — the rhythms of their behaviour, and the profound imprint they leave upon our environment, our cultures, and our spirituality. When elephants flourish, life around them flourishes too, in ways both seen and unseen. To protect them is not only an ecological necessity, but an economic and ethical calling.
- A standout event was on a Saturday afternoon at the watering hole – Moment’s prior, we were fortunate enough to witness more than 60 elephants come together, shortly after most of them headed to the watering hole to cool down, we were in store for a theatrical performance. Observing a herd of the largest land animal tumble around, unashamedly show their joy and have fun was magical. It was also such a special moment, you constantly heard giggles as the largest of the elephants flipped backwards in the water, the tiniest calves stood just close enough to the edge to be part of the fun, while having enough supervision to ensure their safety. I remember so clearly being lost in observing their behaviour, and just as the thought came to mind that I might be the only person so captivated by this performance, I heard Brookes voice next to me, “Oooh, to the left, coming in Hot!!” while giggling… it was a sub-adult bull running towards the water, that memory will never leave me… he looked almost as though he was happy dancing towards the other elephants, their joy was clearly contagious since even the most experienced in the group were clearly lost in that moment. My takeaway was that even elephants know when to relax, dance and have fun.
- Emotional exchange – What seemed to be a mother, and her sub-adult son shared a moment of pure emotion. Their trunks intertwined gracefully as they closed their eyes and rested their foreheads together — a gentle, unspoken exchange that felt like their own version of the warmest hug
- Our night drive – spotting honey badgers, brown spotted hyena’s and more laughter
- The beauty of the Eastern Cape – from Kariega to Kenton on Sea – The trip made me fall in Love with South Africa – Home, all over again.
Thank you, Carrie-Ann!
A massive thank you to Carrie-Ann for writing and sharing her wonderful experience at the Kariega Game Reserve. Thanks to her personal report, we can get a unique insight into the collaboration between the Kariega Foundation and BTEH.
Did this blog make you want to join us in South Africa? You can find more information here on the next research expedition to Kariega Game Reserve from 14-24 of September 2026! We hope to see you then!
