Description

As a volunteer, you will be living and working in the heart of a Big 5 Game Reserve. You will be actively involved in carrying out research on the population of Black Rhinos and elephants within the park, as well as analysing data captured from a number of other types of wildlife. You will be involved in monitoring the night time movements of the rhinos as well as the day time behaviours of a newly introduced herd of elephants and you will also help in conservation initiatives looking at topics such as soil erosion and plant control. As of the beginning of this year, a new herd of elephants have been released into the park, so you will play an integral role in monitoring the behaviour, feeding patterns and movements of this herd.

Volunteers will also spend time collating and recording research data on a particular pride of lions, which will mean time in the bush, observing hunting practices as well as noting the social, breeding and territorial behaviour at five different times of day and night. Other duties involve conducting snare sweeps, physical work to help regenerate the bush from reclaimed farmland, as well as contributing to the long term strategy of removing alien plants from the park.

Highlights

You time will be mainly spent in the reserve as there is so much to see and do while you are on your project - with over 14,000 hectares, you won't be disappointed! Should you wish to venture further afield at weekends, there are a number of activities that our colleagues in Africa can help to arrange for you. These include: weekend trips to swim with dolphins in Mozambique, a trip to see the beautiful and rugged scenery of Swaziland to experience the country's cultural heritage, game drives to the Tembe Elephant park - home to the largest Tuskers in South Africa, boat trips on the Kosi Bay Lake to see ancient fish traps and to snorkel in the estuary's mouth, alternate weekend trips to the seaside town of St Lucia to go whale watching (seasonal), relax on the beach or take a boat ride to see hippos and crocodiles up close.

Many volunteer opt to have at least one weekend exploring the town of St Lucia, a charming waterfront town on the east coast of South Africa, situated at the entrance to a world-renowned wetlands park and famous for its wildlife and fishing. The town has a laid-back atmosphere and development is restricted by the tree-canopy - it is not unusual to see monkeys and various antelope in the streets. It is an emerging tourist destination and you can find restaurants, craft shops and supermarkets in the town, enough to satisfy your weekend's needs.

Qualifications

Requirements: age 18+

You must have a genuine love and concern for animals and the environment and be able to work as part of a team. Due to the physical nature of the work and the days spent on your feet in the park, a good level of fitness is required. An enthusiasm, openness and the ability to be flexible and cooperative is vital for your time volunteering and any prior research, knowledge and experience in African wildlife is helpful, but not necessary.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please visit the website for more details.

Cost Includes:

• Excursions
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Pre-departure orientation/Training

Program Fees Include:

* Accommodation: Shared room in a cabin style volunteer house within the Game Reserve
* Food: 3 meals per day
* Airport pick up and drop off
* Weekly laundry service
* Training: Pre-departure information pack, on-site orientation and project induction
* Daily transfers to and from your project.
* Support: 24 hour support from on-site coordinator.
* Activities: Staff help organise weekend activities. (Activity price may be extra)

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Guest House

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Kaya Responsible Travel's Mission Statement

Kaya's mission is to promote sustainable social, environmental and economic development, empower communities and cultivate educated, compassionate global citizens through responsible travel.

Year Founded

2008