Practical Conservation & Elephant Experience in South Africa

Program Description

This program aims to provide a practical conservation experience covering the key topics of basic ecology and biodiversity.
You will be living in the famous Garden Route, South Africa, studying a variety of forest and fynbos species and assisting our conservation team with ongoing research projects.
You will also have the exciting opportunity to experience African elephants in close proximity. You will work at a local sanctuary, home to rescued elephants where you will acquire in-depth knowledge of African Elephants and assist with ongoing behavioural research.
Throughout the program you will enjoy a variety of informative lectures, helping you to gain theoretical knowledge of basic ecological principles.
As well as gaining a great deal of knowledge yourself, you will have the opportunity to educate local children about the wonders of the natural world!
Join this program for 4 weeks or more and you will have the unforgettable experience of visiting Addo Elephant National Park. You may also have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research of this elephant population, depending on current needs.

Highlights

- Immerse yourself in the unique forest and fynbos habitats of the famous Garden Route
- Gain hands on experience of a variety of scientific research methods
- Increase your knowledge of fundamental scientific principles
- Educate local children about the wonders of the natural world
- Learn all about Africa’s most majestic mammal at a local elephant sanctuary.
- Visit Addo Elephant National Park and contribute to ongoing wild elephant research (4+ week stay only)

Qualifications

Specific qualifications are not required, although this program would definitely be of interest to and benefit those studying or working in the field of conservation.

You need to have a passion for conservation and nature and a love for working with the community. You need to be hard working, motivated and able to show initiative.

Good health and physical fitness are also required. You also need to be confident with speaking English.

Volunteer Types

What`s Included

-All project operating costs, equipment, tools and resources
-Return Bus Ticket from Cape Town, PE or Johannesburg to Knysna
-Pick up & drop off from arrival points (George airport or Knysna bus stop)
-24/7 emergency support
-Orientation & Training
-Accommodation in our Volunteer House
-3 Meals a day
-Project Related Transport
-Project T-shirts
-Dedicated coordinators to assist you daily
-Project support and feedback sessions throughout your stay
-Assistance with optional activities and tours
-Assistance obtaining a local SIM Card for your phone
-Additional cultural and outdoor activities on Friday afternoons (and some evenings)
-Free, unlimited WiFi and computer access