Rhino Sands grew from our long connection with conservation and the Zululand bush. When developing the camp, we chose canvas and timber structures on raised decks and positioned buildings and walkways around existing trees. Electricity is supplied by an on-site solar installation with generator backup, while some heating and cooking equipment uses gas.
Designed Around the Riverine Forest
The camp’s structures, including the guest and staff areas, were positioned around the existing riverine forest. In several places, decks and walkways were built around trees that remained in place. The forest itself largely dictated the layout you observe with the camp today. In fact, you will see many places throughout the camp where the trees themselves remain intact and the camp and decking has been built around them. 
Unlike the design of so many safari lodges today, Rhino Sands was designed to complement the natural surroundings rather than dominate them. The camp is tucked into the forest, and in fact when viewed from above at a distance, the only visible structure is the solar panels.
Powered by the sun
Zululand basks in sunshine for most days of the year, which is not only great for the safari experience but also means that running Rhino Sands using solar energy was an easy choice. Rhino Sands is off-grid. Electricity is supplied by an on-site solar installation with generator backup, while some heating and cooking equipment uses gas, and we do our best to conserve electricity when and where possible. This significantly reduces our – and by extension your – carbon footprint.
Practical Choices in Day-to-Day Operations
Towels are made from locally grown cotton. Each guest receives a stainless-steel water bottle to use during the stay, reducing the need for disposable bottled-water containers. Camp printing is done on recycled paper.
Menus feature selected local and seasonal fresh produce where available. Would you like to experience Rhino Sands for youself? Contact us or enquire using our online booking form.
