A few years back, a group of dentists went on safari. What began as a wildlife adventure turned into something much more profound — a discovery of urgent need in the communities surrounding Hwange National Park. As the saying goes, they made a plan. Soon, an optical team joined the effort. And so, the Smile & See Safari was born.
Fifteen years and over 50,000 patients later, what started as a simple gesture of help has become something extraordinary. Every year, more than 100 strong volunteer dentists and opticians from Italy, Spain and Zimbabwe offer free, high-quality dental and eye care to rural communities who would otherwise go without. In 2025 alone, over 7,100 patients were seen, and the program celebrated both its 15th anniversary and the milestone of its 50,000th patient.
But the numbers only tell part of the story.
The bond between the Smile & See team and the communities they serve has blossomed into something akin to family — a connection forged through laughter, hard work, and shared humanity. They’ve stood together through births, weddings, and even losses. While the scale of the project might suggest a well-oiled machine, the truth is more beautiful: sometimes chaotic, often joyful, occasionally heartbreaking, and always profoundly human.
As the team says, “There are moments that stay with you — a child’s shy ‘thank you’, a hand-woven basket gifted in gratitude, the sparkle in someone’s eyes as they see clearly for the first time.” People tell Imvelo, Smile & See is life-changing for patients. And they agree. But that’s only half the story. These incredible communities — in welcoming them, trusting them, allowing them to serve — have changed their lives too.
As we wrap up 2025, Imvelo Safari Lodges do so with full hearts and immense gratitude to every supporter, guest, and partner who makes this possible. Thank you — here’s to another year of purpose, partnership, and impact.
Image credit: Imvelo Safari Lodges
