Last Updated on 21 January 2026 by Vanessa
Valentine’s Day is all about love and companionship, and what better way to celebrate than by highlighting an extraordinary friendship between two unlikely animals? Meet Nandy, the adorable baby rhino, and Mewie, the lovable rescue cat. These two inseparable companions reside at The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo, South Africa. Their heartwarming bond is a testament to the power of friendship and love, transcending boundaries and species.
The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo, South Africa: witness the incredible bond between a cat and a baby rhino!
The story of Nandy and Mewie
Nandy’s tragic beginning
Nandy’s journey began under tragic circumstances. At just two months old, she arrived at The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo, South Africa, after losing her mother to the cruel act of poaching.
Left alone and vulnerable, Nandy wandered for days, surviving on her own.
Desperate for sustenance, she even resorted to eating sand, which caused harm to her delicate digestive system.
Fortunately, she was rescued and brought to The Rhino Orphanage.
A feline companion
Meanwhile, Mewie, the cat, had his own tale of survival.
Rescued from a township as a tiny kitten, he was also brought to The Rhino Orphanage.
The caretaker, who had a soft spot for orphaned animals, nursed Mewie back to health. Little did they know that Mewie’s presence would bring so much joy and companionship to not just the caretaker, but also to the newly arrived Nandy.
An unusual friendship
Finding comfort in each other
As Nandy settled into her new surroundings, the caretaker realized the importance of providing her with a comforting presence during the night. To ensure she felt safe and secure, the caretaker began sleeping in the same room as Nandy.
Mewie never wanted to miss out on anything interesting though, so she joined them on the bed. This soon grew into something truly remarkable.
The Language of Love
Curiosity and proximity gradually transformed into a genuine friendship. Both animals had experienced the loss of a mother and understood the longing for companionship and affection.
Despite the fact that Mewie purrs and Nandy snorts and squeaks, they discovered a common language of love and warmth.
Unbreakable bonds
Family, not just friends
Through their shared experiences, Nandy and Mewie found solace in each other’s company. With no biological family to rely on, they became each other’s family.
Their bond transcended the boundaries of their species, proving that love knows no limits.
Whether napping together, exploring their surroundings, or engaging in playful antics, Nandy and Mewie have created an unbreakable bond that fills their lives with joy and contentment.
Adventures in tandem
One of the highlights of their companionship is their twice-daily walks.
Whenever one of them starts running, the other eagerly follows suit. It’s exciting to witness their synchronized movements and shared enthusiasm for exploration and adventure.
It’s truly a win-win, because their walks not only strengthen their friendship but also provide them with valuable exercise and mental stimulation.
Can you visit The Rhino Orphanage as a tourist?
Reservations and visitor guidelines
Yes, tourists can visit The Rhino Orphanage. However, visits are strictly regulated to ensure the well-being of the animals and the smooth operation of the facility.
This means you have to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot because the orphanage operates on a strict schedule and limits the number of visitors.
Contact the orphanage directly to inquire about visiting hours, guided tours, and any specific requirements or guidelines for visitors.
Guided tours and educational experiences
When visiting The Rhino Orphanage, you will be part of a guided tour led by experienced staff members.
These tours provide valuable insights into the orphanage’s work, the challenges faced by orphaned rhinos, and the conservation efforts taking place. It is an educational experience that allows you to witness the incredible dedication and care provided to the rhinos.
Volunteering at The Rhino Orphanage
Volunteering at The Rhino Orphanage is a fantastic opportunity if you’re passionate about wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
As a volunteer at The Rhino Orphanage, you’ll be assisting with feeding the orphaned rhinos, cleaning enclosures, monitoring behavior, participating in veterinary procedures, and providing enrichment activities for the animals. You can also contribute to educational programs and outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about rhino conservation.
However, due to the specialized nature of the work and the need to ensure the safety of the animals, there are specific requirements and an application process involved.
Where is The Rhino Orphanage?
Are you inspired by the heartwarming friendship between Nandy, the baby rhino, and Mewie, the rescue cat? Do you now want to visit The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo, South Africa?
You can.
The Rhino Orphanage is located in the beautiful Limpopo province, which also hosts the northern half of Kruger National Park.
Getting to The Rhino Orphanage requires planning and preparation, though. Here’s a guide on how to reach the sanctuary.
How to get there?
Choose the Right Airport
The closest major airport to Limpopo is Polokwane International Airport (PTG).
You can also consider flying into OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg, which offers a wider range of international flight options.
From there, you can either continue your journey by road or by air.
Road trip to The Rhino Orphanage
Once you’ve arrived at the airport, you can rent a car to make your way to The Rhino Orphanage.
Several car rental companies operate at both Polokwane International Airport and OR Tambo International Airport.
To reach The Rhino Orphanage, follow the R71 route from Polokwane or Tzaneen.
The orphanage is located in the Hoedspruit area, approximately 72 kilometers from Hoedspruit Airport.
Fly to The Rhino Orphanage
Instead of driving, you can also take a domestic flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS). Several airlines operate regular flights between these two destinations.
Upon arriving at Hoedspruit Airport, you can arrange ground transportation to The Rhino Orphanage. Various options are available, including private shuttles, taxis, or pre-arranged transfers provided by the orphanage or your accommodation. It’s advisable to make arrangements in advance to ensure a smooth transition from the airport to your destination.
Accommodation near The Rhino Orphanage
To fully immerse yourself in the experience, consider staying at one of the accommodations near The Rhino Orphanage. We recommend Limpopo Lodge, which is nearby and very affordable. Make sure to book your accommodation well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Final thoughts
Nandy and Mewie found comfort in the same place at the same time, and stuck with it. If their unlikely friendship made you pause, pass it on to someone who might need that pause too.
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