Journeys with Purpose: Eco-Tourism, Conservation, and Community

This event highlights KACF’s expanding conservation and community engagement efforts through new and growing partnerships in South Africa. It features discussions on a new collaboration with Custom Trails, exploring opportunities in eco-tourism, hands-on conservation initiatives such as lion and elephant collaring, and internship pathways.

The program also includes the premiere screening of KACF’s new documentary film, HART, by Michael and Emily Hartzog, which showcases KACF’s conservation and community work in South Africa and spotlights collaborative efforts with the Southern African Wildlife College, Zululand Conservation Trust, Custom Trails, and the Tembe Community-owned Elephant Park.

ABOUT OUR GUEST SPEAKER:

Chris Beukes is a South African conservationist and professional wildlife guide based in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal, with nearly 18 years of experience in the wildlife and ecotourism industry. His career has been shaped by extensive time in the field, working across protected areas and conservation landscapes throughout South Africa.

After years of guiding and hands-on conservation work, Chris founded Custom Trails to offer a more personal, ethical, and meaningful way for people to experience the wild. Recognizing a growing disconnect between conventional tourism and authentic conservation engagement, he set out to bridge that gap through tailor-made, low-impact wildlife experiences.

Through Custom Trails, Chris designs and leads bespoke safaris, walking trails, and conservation-focused experiences in areas such as Tembe Elephant Park. Many of these immersive experiences provide guests with insight into real-world conservation efforts, including wildlife tracking, monitoring, camera trapping, and supporting field teams—fostering a deeper understanding of ecosystems and animal behavior.

With a strong emphasis on responsible tourism and conservation education, Chris believes that meaningful time in the wild cultivates respect, awareness, and long-term stewardship of natural landscapes. Known for his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, his guiding style blends practical field expertise, storytelling, and a deep respect for wildlife, ensuring every Custom Trails experience is both informative and impactful.

ABOUT OUR NEW DOCUMENTARY FILM:

For the first time, we will screen KACF’s new documentary film, HART, by Michael and Emily Hartzog. The film showcases our conservation and community efforts in South Africa and highlights our collaboration with the Southern African Wildlife College, along with new partnerships with Zululand Conservation Trust, Custom Trails, and the Tembe Community-owned Elephant Park.

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