The dream of experiencing South Africa’s big cats up close came with a crucial lesson for three locals who made the trip to volunteer at a sanctuary for the animals.

“Most people have this romanticised view of Africa and what is has to offer — wild animals, thriving in their natural habitat, on display for the common tourist,” said Carly Lima, who travelled with friends Savannah Tribley and Conor McLaughlin.

As volunteers, the three imagined playing with lion cubs — but soon had their eyes opened to the mistreatment of big cats, all too common in South Africa.

In their search for a wildlife refuge, they count themselves lucky for finding the Panthera Africa sanctuary, home to lions, leopards, tigers, caracals and jackals, where they spent the first half of a two-week trip in November.

The group shared their findings so that others would beware of exploitative facilities.

Asked what would remain with him from their time in South Africa, Mr McLaughlin was frank.

“What stands out for me was the fact that we were so naive going in. That was embarrassing; it opened my eyes to the world.”

The group found that more than 8,000 predators are confined in South Africa, with breeding camps unrelated to conservation efforts. Cubs, used for the entertainment of visitors, go to zoos and farms where they are subject to abuse.

However, Panthera is “a true sanctuary, where no cub petting, breeding or trading takes place”, Ms Tribley said.

“We wanted to share our story with others, to spread awareness of the inhumane treatment of animals at some facilities, which unfortunately most tourists are ignorant to, as we were.

“Although playing with lion cubs, or having a picture next to a great predator, would be a great memory or souvenir, it’s adding to the destruction and demise of wild animals. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience than Panthera Africa, as they truly care for the wellbeing of animals and fight to protect them.”