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Wildlife Conservation and Research

location
2 - 24 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Brilliant 4.7  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Make a real difference in the conservation efforts of Africa
  • Gain valuable field experience in wildlife and biology
  • Get involved with white rhino behavior research
  • Real world conservation skills and scientific research


Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Families
Groups
50+

About the program

The Wildlife Research Program offers immersive, hands-on experience in conservation, research, and wildlife management.

Join Nkonzo Wildlife in an immersive study of white rhino behavior, with a specific focus on understanding the effects of dehorning—a crucial technique employed to mitigate the risk of poaching. This opportunity allows you to engage directly with a team of dedicated rangers and seasoned ...

About the program

Join Nkonzo Wildlife in an immersive study of white rhino behavior, with a specific focus on understanding the effects of dehorning—a crucial technique employed to mitigate the risk of poaching. This opportunity allows you to engage directly with a team of dedicated rangers and seasoned researchers, working on the front lines of conservation.
As part of this initiative, you will participate in fieldwork that involves tracking rhinos, monitoring their health and behavior, and collecting data that will contribute to comprehensive conservation strategies. The insights gained from this study are vital for developing effective measures to protect these majestic creatures.

In addition to hands-on experience, you'll have the chance to delve into the complexities of wildlife management and conservation science. Your contributions will play a significant role in shaping policies and practices aimed at ensuring the survival of white rhinos in their natural habitats.
This project is not only an opportunity to make a tangible impact on rhino conservation but also to enhance your understanding of ecological balance, species protection, and the challenges facing wildlife conservationists today. Whether you're an aspiring conservationist, a seasoned researcher, or simply passionate about wildlife, this experience will be both educational and profoundly rewarding.


Typical day

A typical day starts at 7 a.m. with field activities such as collecting giraffe or rhino data, birding, and other observations. We return to camp at 11 a.m. for lunch and a break, though sometimes we pack lunch and stay out in the field. In the afternoon, we continue fieldwork on our way back to ...

Typical day

A typical day starts at 7 a.m. with field activities such as collecting giraffe or rhino data, birding, and other observations. We return to camp at 11 a.m. for lunch and a break, though sometimes we pack lunch and stay out in the field. In the afternoon, we continue fieldwork on our way back to camp, and if necessary, head out again for data entry or identifying camera trap photos. Saturdays involve morning fieldwork, afternoons in camp, and a special evening braai (South African BBQ). Sundays are days off for rest and personal activities. Our program emphasizes practical, hands-on field experience.


Free-time activities

Weekend activities can be arranged when at the project.

Free-time activities

Weekend activities can be arranged when at the project.


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level)

Required Documents

CV, medical insurance and registration form

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 16:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Nkonzo Wildlife

Rates include: Research supervision: In the field and academically, our qualified staff and research assistants will provide you with the appropriate supervision and support during your stay. Research facilities: All research equipment is provided. This includes but is not limited to GPS, camera traps, radio, compass, library, communal desktop computer, databases, and internet access (Wi-Fi). Research Camp: The research camp is fully equipped with everything needed for daily life. You are provided with a bedroom (including linen), a standard bathroom (with hot shower and flushing toilets), and a communal kitchen (including a stove, microwave, fridge, crockery & cutlery). Tap water is drinkable and electricity (220V) is available. Considering our remote location, it may be that you experience occasional water or electricity shortages for short periods during your stay. Housekeeping and cleaning staff operate once a week. Wi-Fi is accessible in most common areas. Meals: Our rate includes three delicious meals per day. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, a satisfying lunch, and a delightful dinner, all self prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. Each meal is designed to provide balanced nutrition and cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring you have the energy and satisfaction to make the most of your stay. Transfers: Your transport from any location in Polokwane to the Research Camp and vice versa, upon arrival and departure, is provided by staff members. Reserves: The conservation fees are a compulsory daily fee to access the reserves. It is mandatory for anyone entering the reserve and is already included in your rate. Rates exclude: Drinks, external activities and laundry are not included. Telephone/Fax are not included but you can buy a South African SIM card at the airport upon arrival. We recommend MTN as their signal coverage is the most reliable around here.

Airport Pickup at Polokwane Airport

Volunteers can be picked up from the Polokwane Gateway Airport

Accommodation

Our research camp offers shared rooms, a communal kitchen, and a barbeque area, stocked with basic cutlery and cookware. Tap water is clean and potable, and a gas stove/oven and shared fridge/freezer space are available. Each room accommodates up to four people. Single beds with pillows, pillowcases, and bed sheets are provided. Each room shares a bathroom with a flushing toilet, sink, and hot shower. Participants are responsible for their own washing and cleaning

Food & Beverages

Three meals per day.

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Polokwane Airport (PTG) in Polokwane. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Volunteers can arrive any day.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 1,987€
3 weeks 2,981€
4 weeks 3,976€
5 weeks 4,970€
7 weeks 6,958€
9 weeks 8,946€
24 weeks (max. stay) 23,858€
Average fees 993€/week

Program fees

993€ per week 2 - 24 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

2 - 24 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Nkonzo Wildlife during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

Nkonzo Wildlife

Brilliant 4.7 rating (12 reviews)

Agency - founded in 2013

Verified by Volunteer World

  Excellent response rate

Coordinated by

Arno

Spoken languages: English

About the project

Nkonzo Wildlife is a unique company that focuses on regional conservation and strengthening the relationship between conservationists and the general public.

Meet your organization

Nkonzo Wildlife is based in the southern region of South Africa in the Cape Floristic Region, a biodiversity hotspot and the most diverse floral kingdom in the world. Research focuses on regional conservation management, behavioral ecology, and human-wildlife coexistence. Visit our various pages to learn about participating in our research or contact us if interested in undertaking your own research.​

12 reviews · rating4.7

Nina Wellnitz rating4.6

2024 at Wildlife Conservation and Research

If you are looking for a volunteering organization which has strict ethical guidelines about conservation and research, I can absolutely recommend NKonzo! Amanda and Arno explained all the research background to me and I was fascinated about their knowledge and dedication. The 3 weeks I spent with ...
Corinna Pachmayr rating5

2019 at Wildlife Conservation and Research

I've spent two weeks with Nkonzo in September 2019 and had a fantastic time! Met great people, had so much fun, learned so many new things: overall just an amazing experience with impressions that will stick with me forever. Arno and Mandi are very great people, they are so kind, know basically ...
I have no words to describe the month I have spent in South Africa thanks to Nkonzo Bush Academy. The way Mandi and Arno do their work and how they transmit their passion for wildlife and conservation is just awesome. Everything was perfectly managed: accomodation, meals, transport, safety... I ...
Im trying to compare that experience with others.. But I cant! Because there is nothing that much beautiful, amazing, adventurous, funny, creepy, exciting, shocking,lovely and instructive at the same time! I love that ...
A wonderful breathtaking experience. I learned so much in such a short time. Definitely would recommend to all friends and family. If you have a chance to go, take it. An experience of a life time. One Life, Live It! Thanks again Arno and Mandy for ...
Charlotte rating4.8

2016 at Wildlife Conservation and Research

The most amazing time of my life! It's incredible to be "lost" in this amazing reserve and disconnect from the rest of the world! Can't wait to be back! Highly recommend it ...

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