Supporter for Big Five Conservation

First Day 

If you arrived one day prior to the project start date, you will need to return to Richards Bay Airport from your B&B as to meet the project coordinator and to begin your journey to the project site. After you arrive, you will be given time to settle in and meet your fellow volunteers! 

Project Days

On a regular day, you can expect to leave camp at sunrise in an open 4x4 vehicle to track collared wildlife on the reserves. You will observe and record data on these animals. After a relaxing lunch back at camp, you will head out to do it all again, keeping your eyes peeled for countless species along the way. 

You may take part in the following activities throughout the duration of your stay:

Wildlife Monitoring And Tracking 

Work alongside expert wildlife monitors assisting them in a number of activities, such as the daily tracking and location of priority species - from wild dog to cheetah, rhino to vulture, there's so much to learn about the wildlife here in South Africa!

Data Collection

As well as monitoring the animals on the reserve, you will be taught how to map their locations using GPS equipment and telemetry. You may also record information on their group composition and behaviours, such as feeding patterns, retaining information for research purposes.

Wildlife Photography

You will be asked to take photographs of the animals, and when necessary, create identikits for reintroduced or relocated animals. Camera traps are a key part of the research carried out by the project for collecting data and observing wildlife in specific areas, so you may help to set up such devices at watering holes and game trails. 

Data Analysis

You will spend at least one day per week putting all gathered information into the project's own computer database allowing them to analyse all findings: the more the project knows about its animals, the more they can do to protect them.

Other Activities

From time to time, you may be invited to help out with additional activities, such as animal releases, collaring, and notching (a form of identity marking on species such as rhino). These activities are entirely dependent on necessity, so are not a given, but should you have the opportunity to assist you will gain a unique insight into the nature and importance of conservation work.

PLEASE NOTE: Itineraries are subject to change and the information provided is simply a rough guideline. 

The Final Day

Sadly, your final day has arrived, so you will be transferred back to the airport to fly home or to commence your onward travel plans!