Volunteer: Herpetological Research Manyeleti

The Manyeleti Game Reserve is a 47,000-hectare provincial protected area situated in the South African Lowveld, bordering Kruger National Park.

This project involves daily inspection of pitfall and funnel trap arrays across central and southern sections of the reserve. Species previously recorded include puff adder, snouted night adder, giant plated lizard, rock monitor, golden leaf-folding frog, ornate frog, and red toad.

Due to the high density of dangerous wildlife (e.g., elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, hyenas), an armed guide accompanies all fieldwork. Volunteers are transported in an open-backed vehicle and stay at the Manyeleti research camp, which includes a central house and detached rooms.

The 21-day survey will run from January 27 to February 17, 2026, with weekly volunteer intakes. Five volunteers are admitted per week (January 27-February 2; February 3-9; February 10-17). Volunteers may book multiple weeks. The participation fee includes transport from OR Tambo International Airport, accommodation, and food.