First Day
After arriving into Port Elizabeth Airport you will take a transfer to the project site and be given time to settle in and become familiar with your new home! This is also the time when you will first meet your fellow volunteers so it presents a perfect chance for you to bond and meet your newest friends!
Regular Days
A typical working day on this project will be from around 8am to 5pm, and you will have the evenings off. Your itinerary will be split evenly between alternating community and conservation days, though itineraries are subject to change depending on the needs of the project.
Elephant Impact Monitoring
Using identification sheets you will help the in-country team monitor the elephants that live on the reserve. You will take notes on the animals range patterns and vegetation impact as well as identifying the different elephants at the projects by their unique ear markings.
Motion Sensor Camera Analysis
Leopards have been present in this area of South Africa for over 300 years, and you will assist data collection from camera traps in an attempt to shed some more light on these elusive animals and their range patterns.
Rhino Monitoring
This project is home to a number of rhinos and as a volunteer, you will help to monitor these prehistoric beasts to play a part in protecting them from the dangers of poaching.
Alien Vegetation Control
Invasive plant species are a big problem as they can have a drastic effect on the local food chain. By removing these plants from the area it gives the local plant life a chance to grow and helps provide food for the local prey species.
Animal Capture
On occasion, volunteers will be given the chance to assist with animal capture and release. You will be involved in the whole process from darting the animal in need of help through to sending them on their way to their potential new home!
Education & Youth Development
Volunteers will mentor children in schools through development sessions that include support in English, Maths, and Science education. You may lead environmental lessons on issues like plastic pollution and sustainability, and assist coaches in after-school sports clubs.
Assisting at EDCs & Soup Kitchens
Engage deeply with the community by participating in childcare and educational initiatives at Early Childhood Development Centres (ECDs) and assisting local soup kitchens with meal preparation and service.
Infrastructure Upgrade
Assist with maintenance and construction tasks such as repairing, cleaning, and inspecting facilities like school buildings, community structures, and vegetable gardens. Your efforts will prevent deterioration and ensure essential infrastructure remains in good working order.
Assist in Community Vegetable Gardens
Volunteers will support sustainable livelihoods by tending to vegetable gardens or establishing new ones, working with locals on planting, weeding, and harvesting.
Domestic Animal Care Days
support rural communities in responsible pet care by participating in veterinary sessions, building dog shelters, and leading educational initiatives during Domestic Animal Care days.
Star Talks
This is a simple activity as you will just be sitting back in a safari vehicle and admiring the stars in the clear African sky. What really brings it to life is the incredible knowledge of your volunteer coordinator who knows almost everything there is to know about the stars, and if you listen up you will too!
Game Drives
As you are in Africa you will of course take part in some game drives to head out and spot all of the continents famous wildlife. This is a fantastic chance to tick off all of the animals you want to see during your time in Africa!
You may take part in other activities during your time on the project so be prepared to get stuck in no matter what the task!
Last Day
After saying your farewells to your new found friends you will head back to the airport to begin your onward travels.
