Rhino Poaching Awareness in South Africa
Travel to the African savannah to participate in rhino poaching awareness efforts and wildlife research studies.
Join an international team working on rhino anti-poaching awareness efforts and other conservation efforts. Gain a thorough understanding of the African ecosystem and conservation issues and contribute through environmental education, learning about fundraising, and contributing to further research. Get an unfiltered look into some of the most remarkable wildlife and landscapes the African continent has to offer while contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal #15, Life on Land.
The volunteer program is structured in 2 week rotations and you can sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks. Volunteer group size is maximum 26 and people of all ages and from all walks of life join the program, as part of travel plans during a gap year, working holiday or career break through Namibia and Africa.
Activities
South Africa is home to several species under threat, like the critically endangered black rhinoceros and near threatened white rhinoceros. Our international conservation team in Karongwe private nature reserve, only an hour from Kruger National Park, works toward conserving the species found in the protected area by partnering with local and international organisations like the South African National, SAN Parks authority and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.
As a volunteer you are given the opportunity to learn about the global issue of poaching and how international and South African organisations are working on prevention. The focus specifically concerns the poaching of rhinoceros. Volunteers will attend lectures on the topic of poaching, the impact of losing important animals on the ecosystem, how anti-poaching efforts are set up and run which will be presented by a SAN Parks representative, and how fundraising initiatives are set up and run, as well as delivering environmental education workshops in the local community.
Besides Rhino Poaching you will also be involved in general conservation activities within Karongwe game reserve.
On daily game drives, you will learn how to track and identify predators, like lions and cheetahs, and megaherbivores, like elephants and rhinos. This data is used by reserve authorities and conservation organisations to develop an accurate picture of predator impact on prey populations, determine the spatial movement, behaviour, social structure and genetics of specific species.
You can be sure that your efforts has a big impact as all collected information helps authorities maintain a healthy balance of natural resources in the reserve, helps conservation organisations further their objectives, and ultimately assists with conserving important African species and habitats.
Field conditions
Lodgings are large dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms. The base is solar-powered to ensure less impact on the natural environment.
Most breakfasts feature cereal, oats, and fresh fruit, and or lunch, it’s usually sandwiches and salads. Dinner might be anything from a traditional South African ‘potjie’ stew to pastas and stir frys.
Our base has a good connection to local cell towers. There is wifi available between the hours of 7am and 5pm but bandwidth is limited. For large uploads and downloads, participants can purchase wifi vouchers from staff on base.
Languages: English
It has an oceanic climate, with mild to warm summers, and mild to cool winters. It has the mildest climate in South Africa and the second mildest climate in the world, after Hawaii, according to the Guinness Book of Records.
You will have access to all amenities including running water, electricity. Most bankcards work at local banks (VISA, MasterCard, AMEX) and you will have access to the Internet. You will also find that you can purchase almost anything at local shops.
Recommended for those who enjoy having access to restaurants and shops as well as daily communication with friends and family at home.
Costs
2019:
15 Jun 2019, 29 Jun 2019, 13 Jul 2019, 27 Jul 2019, 10 Aug 2019, 24 Aug 2019, 07 Sep 2019, 21 Sep 2019, 05 Oct 2019, 19 Oct 2019, 02 Nov 2019, 16 Nov 2019, 30 Nov 2019
2020:
11 Jan 2020, 25 Jan 2020, 08 Feb 2020, 22 Feb 2020, 07 Mar 2020, 21 Mar 2020, 04 Apr 2020, 18 Apr 2020, 02 May 2020, 16 May 2020, 30 May 2020, 13 Jun 2020, 27 Jun 2020, 11 Jul 2020, 25 Jul 2020, 08 Aug 2020, 22 Aug 2020, 05 Sep 2020, 9 Sep 2020, 03 Oct 2020, 17 Oct 2020, 31 Oct 2020, 14 Nov 2020, 28 Nov 2020
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- 24-hour emergency phone
- 24-hour in-country support
- Access to Alumni Services and Discounts
- Airport pick-up (unless otherwise stated)
- All necessary project equipment and materials
- All necessary project training by experienced staff
- Location orientation
- Long term experienced staff
- Meals while on project (except on work placements for long term internships)
- Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared)
- Welcome meeting
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Additional drinks and gratuities
- Extra local excursions
- Flights
- International and domestic airport taxes
- Medical and travel insurance
- Personal items and toiletries
- Police or background check
Duration (weeks) | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 |
2019 & 2020 | £ 1,745 | £ 2,345 | £ 2,945 | £ 3,545 | £ 4,095 | £ 4,695 |
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