African Conservation Experience

If I had to sum up my experience at the Okavango Wilderness Project in one word it would be “monate”, which, coincidentally, is one of the only two words in Setswana I managed to learn in my two weeks there. It roughly translates to “good” in English, which might sound a bit anticlimactic, but the kind of “good” you'd use for a good day, a good meal or a good life. And I find that quite fitting. Botswana had been on my bucket list for quite a long time, especially after my time in Zimbabwe, South Africa and Namibia, which made me fall more in love with Africa and its breathtaking nature each time. The Okavango Delta, specifically, was one of those destinations I had kept in my list of “places to visit before I die”. I didn’t want to see it from an outsider’s perspective however, I wanted to experience it from an active conservation perspective and see it through the eyes of the people who call it their home. Finding a project which ticked all my boxes seemed like quite a difficult search, but African Conservation Experience offered me exactly that. They took the time to answer each and every one of my questions (before, during and after my trip) with patience, and believe me, it took a lot of kindness and care. They ensured my experience was smooth and hassle-free each step of the way, from my first enquiry to my check-in at Johannesburg airport after my experience, when I was feeling absolutely miserable because I was going back home. Whoever knows me also knows that two weeks in a bush camp with minimal facilities would be a challenge, but I was up for it. It actually made the experience even more memorable. The hecticness and chaos of ordinary life was shut down, and we were free to enjoy and truly experience our surroundings. And if I survived it (and loved it), believe me, anyone can. The transect we went on each day actually fed data to a government database, as Dr. Christiaan Winterbach, in charge of the research project, took the time to explain to us. With so many variables simultaneously interacting and impacting the wellbeing of the Delta, of its wildlife and of its people, this monitoring becomes a vital activity. Knowing that by participating, you actively support such an endeavour gives you peace of mind. You get to enjoy the beauty of the Delta while also giving something back. While we were going on daily game drives, each one with new, marvellous sightings, we knew we were actively contributing to wildlife management in the Delta. I’ll forever remember the sunsets, the sense of freedom and complete contentment as the jeep drove on the bumpy roads of Botswana, the sense of awe and surprise each sighting brought. From the majestic elephants trumpeting at us to the colourful and graceful lilac-breasted roller, from a lioness nursing her four cubs to a leopard crouched down in the shrubs waiting to hunt a group of impalas. This, in and of itself, would have already made the experience absolutely priceless. But what really made this experience exceptional for me was the people who shared these two weeks with me and the sense of community we managed to create, even over a short period of time. I’ll always be grateful to Okavango project staff, for their kindness and experience, and for making us feel like we were truly part of a team. The same goes for the volunteers who shared this experience with me. I’ll remember the endless laughter and the banter around the dinner table after a day of beautiful sightings. I’ll also remember the Setswana lessons, one of my fellow volunteer’s snoring covering the roars of lions and the hyenas’ calls at night, and our guides asking us to identify plants and trees while already knowing they would be met by general confusion. It really feels like I’ve just dreamt all of this. There was too much beauty and happiness contained over the course of two weeks for it to feel real. I can’t wait to go back, it’ll be a way of pinching myself, to make sure it wasn’t just a dream. In the meantime, all I can do is cherish all of the memories and nostalgically go through my photos from a wonderful two weeks at the Okavango Wilderness Project.

My volunteering experience with African Conservation Experience involved spending a month at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre as an intern on the Wildlife Rehabilitation Placement. As soon as I arrived, it was clear that Moholoholo is an amazing place filled with passionate staff who are all dedicated to helping wildlife. During my time on the project, I was able to learn new skills and techniques for animal care and husbandry. I had such a variety of experiences, not only through conversations with the staff, but also in the hands-on experience I was able to do as well. Whether it was how to hold an owl during routine medical examinations, proper procedures for quarantine and animal releases, or new and interesting enrichment activities for animals. Beyond the volunteering, I was lucky enough to have amazing experiences like watching a giraffe be released, vulture feedings, as well as making great memories with the staff and my fellow volunteers. The sanctuary is also located beneath a beautiful mountain that is never tiring to wake up to, in addition to being near a small town with plenty of shops. The time I spent volunteering at Moholoholo is one of the most fulfilling and enriching experiences of my life. The work can be tiring, but for anyone and everyone who is interested in learning the correct and modern methods for wildlife conservation and care (or simply wishes to do work that directly helps wildlife), Moholoholo, with its knowledgeable and dedicated staff, is absolutely the best place to visit and volunteer.

My time with African Conservation Experience (ACE) has been an amazing three-week journey, spent alongside a very welcoming and highly skilled team who were always eager to share their knowledge of wildlife, conservation, and their beautiful country. Words are hard to find to describe such a unique experience. During my time at the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience, I learned so much about wildlife veterinary medicine in the field. I also discovered what conservation truly means and involves. Some of the most thrilling moments were spent deep in the bush, taking part in wildlife captures and interventions. I will never forget the adrenaline of tracking and managing different species, from sables and kudus to rhinos and agile impalas, often working in tandem with a helicopter to herd and dart them across challenging terrain safely. The adventure didn't stop in the field. The weekends offered an incredible escape into some of the most magnificent, timeless landscapes I have ever seen. Spending time amongst the breathtaking, mystical cliffs of the Leshiba Wilderness and exploring the vast, untamed expanses of the Kruger National Park were absolute highlights that left me in complete awe of South Africa's natural beauty. I came home with new perspectives, valuable skills, and beautiful memories to last a lifetime. I am so grateful to the Shimongwe team and ACE for this unforgettable adventure, one that has been deeply enriching on both a professional and personal level. I already miss it, and I truly hope I will be able to go back soon!

Volunteering at the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience was easily one of the most memorable and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment I arrived, the team made me feel welcome and supported, and I was well looked after throughout the entire program. Everything ran smoothly, from airport transfers to daily activities, which made it easy to settle in and fully enjoy the conservation experience. The project is extremely well organised, and it’s clear that volunteer safety and wellbeing are a genuine priority for the team. The experience itself offered far more than just wildlife encounters, although those were certainly incredible. It provided meaningful, hands-on involvement in conservation work, opportunities to learn from knowledgeable and passionate staff, and exposure to experiences that are difficult to find elsewhere. Every day offered something different and unique. Some of the activities can be physically demanding at times, for example we helped the project with some bush clearing, and the days often begin early in the morning. However, the environment is highly supportive and the experience is immensely rewarding. If you come with an open mind and a willingness to get involved, you’ll get so much out of the experience. My only regret is that I only stayed for one week, I could easily have stayed longer. I left with a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation, as well as memories and friendships to last a lifetime. I would highly recommend the Vikela Kruger project to anyone looking for a unique, meaningful, and genuinely worthwhile volunteer experience.

The drive to Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience set the tone for everything that followed. Winding through the mountains, taking in that landscape, it was stunning! It was the kind of arrival that tells you straight away you're somewhere special. At the project, the tracking was something I'll never forget. Our guide at the project was a master tracker and expert in bushcraft. They were so patient and generous with their knowledge. They really were a brilliant teacher! Having the opportunity to follow fresh rhino footprints through the bush was stunning. At times, I genuinely couldn't see what they were seeing at first. It was incredible to see how they worked. They could tell you that a rhino has passed through just by pointing out the broken twigs on the tree! The moment the tracker got excited about something, everyone around them got excited too. That passion is contagious. By the end, I was starting to understand the landscape in a completely different way, not just looking at it, but reading it. When at the project, we also got to enjoy the excursions. Visiting Moholoholo, a fantastic Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, and then also the Blyde River Canyon, where we got to see hippos and crocodiles. The landscape there is so special, no photograph does it justice. One of the most valuable things I took away from the experience was a conversation about ethics in wildlife tourism with the African Conservation Experience (ACE) team when I arrived at the airport. It was refreshing and honest, the kind of conversation you don't often have. It really gave me a great perspective right before joining the project, as it was so fascinating to hear about the scale of unethical volunteering across Southern Africa. It made me very grateful to have chosen ACE, as from everything I witnessed, it was clear to see their ethical approach towards conservation volunteering. Just learning about how many people think they're helping when, in reality, they are in fact causing harm is eye-opening. I had never really considered how so many wildlife areas are artificially managed for tourist purposes, created so that sightings of iconic species can be pretty much guaranteed. Whereas ACE only works in large intact ecosystems and reserves that still have a conservation value due to their size, as they can maintain healthy wildlife populations! This made me appreciate the real value of volunteering within large, open ecosystems where nature has the space to act naturally. For some people, sightings are very important, but one idea that stuck with me was that not seeing an animal is never a failure; the tracks in the ground are real, the animal was there. That is enough. Being in that environment, present and aware of everything around you, is extraordinary in itself. If you get to see that animal, that is a wonderful bonus! Looking back, before the trip, I was a little nervous about travelling alone and whether I'd find my people. That worry didn't last long. The booking process was seamless, and from the moment I arrived, everything felt taken care of. Thank you very much to the ACE team for making this trip possible!

I must confess I had no idea that volunteering with wildlife in Africa existed before this! African Conservation Experience (ACE) took care of me by advising and placing me in the program that best suited my needs. That’s how I arrived at the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience. If I could describe this experience in one word, it would be inspiring! I spent 14 days at Vikela, and I feel it completely changed the way I see conservation. I used to think I knew something about wildlife and conservation. All of my prior knowledge was derived from reading wildlife books or watching documentaries, but being at the project opened my eyes and gave me a new perspective. I now feel like I have a better understanding of what conservation really means. Conservation isn't just about actions; it’s about changing and impacting mindsets, and if I can assure you of one thing, it’s that absolutely everyone at Vikela dedicates their lives to this, and being able to see and feel it is absolutely wonderful. All activities were amazing, from tracking footprints to anti-poaching activities, as well as hiking, sleeping out in the bush, spending the night listening to lions and hyenas, and sharing this experience with people from different cultures and different parts of the planet! We all bonded over our shared passion for wildlife conservation. Every day, we got up at around 6:30am to be ready to leave shortly after. To be honest, this part of the day was my favourite! It was so beautiful because all still felt quiet, with the river flowing nearby and the first animals slowly waking up in the distance. Another highlight for me was the tracking - it was so interesting! Walking through the bushes following tracks and then finally finding the animal we were looking for, and seeing many others along the way, was simply amazing! Can you imagine doing this every day and also constantly encountering many animals? It was mind-blowing. We usually returned to camp around 11:30am for lunch and a short rest, then we were ready to go out again. Sometimes we would cut down the tree branches that the elephants knocked down onto the road, sometimes we would be learning about poaching, and sometimes we would go out tracking again, but every activity had the same objective - to monitor the balance and equilibrium in the ecosystem to help with conservation. I am so grateful to ACE and the people of Vikela because they opened my eyes and gave me an experience that I will never forget. Throughout this entire process, the ACE team was always there for me, answering my questions and guiding me along the way. I never felt alone on this adventure! If I could give one piece of advice to people interested in volunteering in wildlife conservation, it would be to have zero expectations and give it your all because every day, everywhere, there will be many things that make it so worthwhile. Believe me, it’s something you will never forget!

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to complete one week at the Phinda Wildlife Research Project with African Conservation Experience (ACE). I took a sabbatical from work and I wanted to immerse myself in a completely new experience with the opportunity to help out in the conservation world. The primary reason I chose ACE out of the many other programs available was the focused nature of ACE on wildlife conservation and working directly with conservationists. From the moment I connected with ACE, I knew this was the right fit. Between the consultative nature of the team to help place me in the right project and the top-notch customer service that the team answered all my questions, I felt very comfortable. The pre-departure packet in particular, was extremely helpful. Having everything handled from arrival to departure allowed me to fully be part of the experience. Being on-site at Phinda was amazing. It was the perfect balance of being well programmed but open enough for any last-minute adventures too. I particularly loved the hands-on experience, it was amazing! It was nice to have a group of other volunteers in the house to compare notes with and spend time with too. Our staff at Phinda were phenomenal! I would absolutely recommend this to others and am considering doing another trip myself! This was a life-changing trip for me. From connecting with my housemates on the project, to doing something totally different. I've already started taking some classes in my spare time that focus on various aspects of conservation. I'm not sure where it will lead yet, but I know this will go down as an experience that left a true impact on my life. I hope that I was able to give Phinda just a fraction (at least) of what I got from this experience. Thank you to the whole team at Phinda and at ACE. I truly appreciate you!

When I first arrived at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, there were impala, nyala and duikers running around, and because I come from Germany, I couldn’t believe it! My favourite moments at Moholoholo were either when a vet came in, and we got to hear the heartbeat of a cheetah or when I got to see a duiker being released after it had been rehabilitated! When that duiker was brought in, he had severe swelling, and it was amazing to see him become fully healed before releasing him! Before speaking with an African Conservation Experience (ACE) consultant, I thought I would be working with lots of sick and injured animals. After speaking with ACE, I learned that my responsibilities would be with animals at different stages of their rehabilitation. I’m glad I wasn’t only working with severely injured animals, because despite learning lots through my time at Moholoholo, that job should definitely be left to the qualified staff or interns. Instead, a lot of my responsibilities were with the animals that cannot be released, either due to severe injuries or because they had been rescued from being raised in captivity and wouldn’t have the skills to survive in the wild. They were residents there, and I really loved everything I did for them. The manager of Moholoholo gave us a talk when we first arrived about the rehabilitation they do there, and it was really powerful. He talked about what they’re doing with the animals, how they’re going to release them and the importance of minimising human contact. I learned that if the animals bond with humans, they cannot be released for their own safety and for the safety of the people around them. That’s the reason some of the resident animals are at Moholoholo, because they were rescued from people who tried to raise them like pets in captivity, and now they can never be released into the wild. It’s terrible that people do that, but it’s why Moholoholo are so careful with minimising human contact. An example where I saw this in action was when a baby giraffe needed to be fed. In order to feed her, there was a wall between the giraffe and me so she wouldn't see I was a human. Instead, all she saw was a wall that had a print of a giraffe. Moholoholo are doing a really good job and they really try to be as ethical as possible. Before I volunteered with ACE, if I ever saw an injured animal, I would think I needed to take it to the vet immediately and try to help it. But I’ve learned that sometimes the best thing you can do is leave the animal for a while to see if its mother returns, and only if no other animal comes back for it should you get help from a professional rehabilitation centre or veterinary clinic. Moholoholo are really trying to do the best job they can. They are always trying to find new ways to improve in every aspect of what they do. My favourite activities were definitely the enrichment. For the African wild dogs, we used a plastic ball with holes in it and stuffed meat inside, then threw it into their enclosure so they could play with it and figure out how to get to the food. For the honey badgers, we gave them a box filled with leaves for them to dig through. Later on, we gave them their dinner in a similar way but smothered in honey, and they went crazy because they love honey! During my time at Moholoholo, I really bonded with two of the girls in the same room as me. We are all into photography, and they taught me more about their skills and techniques. I learned a lot from them and left my experience with around 3,000 photos! That’s what was so great about Moholoholo, I loved all the people that were there because I learned so much from them. They even taught me how to braid my hair and how to sew, too! My trousers were really long, and they taught me how to sew them shorter. The girls were really crafty! The staff were really nice too. You could always go to them with questions or jokes, and they were always lovely, even when you could see how much work they had to do. During the excursion to Kruger National Park on my day off, we stopped for 20 minutes by the first elephant we saw. We thought it was amazing, but the guide told us there would be loads more. By the time we finished the safari, it felt like we had seen millions of elephants and giraffes! We saw so many baby elephants too, and they were so sweet! Even on the Kruger excursion, we learned so much from the guide. Because we had stopped so frequently to see the elephants and giraffes on the first excursion, when the opportunity to go again came the next week, I had to go for it! During the second safari to the Kruger, I got to see a jackal, hyena, leopard and lions too! The lionesses are beautiful, and throughout this trip, I felt like I was falling in love with them! I’ve never been on a trip alone before because I’m 16, so it really helped meeting the ACE team at the airport. I really like being independent, and I knew I wanted to do this alone. I did my own research, and when I had a call with one of the ACE consultants, she told me about Moholoholo, and I knew that’s where I wanted to go. My parents were a bit nervous and wanted to know the contact information of a staff member who they could call if they needed to, but when they realised ACE had already passed on that information, they relaxed a lot more. Even though I am someone who likes doing stuff on my own, one of the other volunteers on my travel buddies list texted me before I left Germany, so I had a friend before even arriving! It really helped to know that there was a person waiting for me when I landed and that someone I was meeting at the airport was going on the same project as me too. If my friends wanted to go to South Africa, I would definitely tell them to volunteer at Moholoholo. They would have the best time of their lives!

In February, I took part in a volunteer project at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. It was my first experience in animal conservation work, and I was struck by how clearly defined and meaningful the volunteer roles and responsibilities were. My favourite part was preparing meals for the servals and owls. The process was surprisingly labour-intensive: a nearby farm donates chicks which have been humanely killed and are used to feed the centre’s larger birds of prey. We had to carefully deyolk and wash the chicks before they could be fed to the birds. It felt really rewarding to see the larger birds eagerly finish their food the next morning. Beyond the hands-on care, the project broadened my perspective on wildlife rehabilitation. I was inspired to learn that the most effective way to prepare an animal for release is to minimise unnecessary human interaction. The team at Moholoholo is really passionate about rehabilitating and releasing as many animals as possible, and you can feel their genuine care and dedication coming straight from the heart. What surprised me most, however, was discovering how limited the availability of suitable habitat is in South Africa. This is mainly due to agricultural expansion and urbanisation. Some rehabilitated animals never get the chance to return to the wild simply because there isn’t enough space left for them. Every decision, whether to release or provide lifelong sanctuary, is made with the animal’s long-term well-being in mind. This experience not only allowed me to contribute directly to the animals’ care but also left me with a deeper appreciation for the complexities and quiet commitment behind conservation work. On top of the excellent experience at Moholoholo, African Conservation Experience (ACE) did a fantastic job organising the entire volunteer placement. They provided us with very detailed project information well before the trip, and the airport pickup was smooth and hassle-free. What touched me the most was their thoughtful messages during the project and even after we returned home. The whole ACE team genuinely made sure we felt supported, valued, and safe throughout our time in South Africa. If you’re considering volunteer work in South Africa but don’t have a travel partner, don’t hesitate to go alone. It’s absolutely fine, you’ll quickly make friends along the way, and ACE does an outstanding job of ensuring you feel secure from arrival until you leave the country!

The Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience was fantastic. The experiences there were amazing, but I feel like the project staff really made it the best experience it possibly could be. The staff on the project were so personal and took the time to connect with each one of us. We had such meaningful conversations on our off day on Sundays. We sat together over coffee, discussing the ethics of hunting, the role of game lodges in conservation, and the wider implications their presence has on wildlife and local ecosystems. It was great to sit down and talk with the project staff about all of the things we didn’t know about because they were just so interesting to listen to. Hearing from someone who's on the ground, and their thoughts about all of these complex issues, really changed my perspective on how I view these things. The team’s sense of humour and sarcasm just added to how much fun we had, too. We all got along, we teased each other, we became part of a family, and the staff there really helped to encourage that. Talking with people about other previous experiences, they didn't always have that sense of family. Whereas we had sit-down meals together twice a day, and we'd be free throughout the day to talk about the plan for what we’d be doing. It just made it a really immersive experience. Our project lead was happy with everybody asking questions, which was lucky because he had such a wealth of knowledge! I had talked with an African Conservation Experience (ACE) consultant about what the project was, and how this project was described to me was spot on for what I experienced. If anything, the ACE consultant I spoke with downplayed what I was going to expect. I knew I was coming for volunteer work, so I thought, "There's no guarantee that I'm going to see any kind of animal. You just don't know". I didn’t want my expectations to be too high, but this experience wildly surpassed what I was expecting. We were able to do a lot of game drives and a lot of bushwalks. The project staff taught us about different tracks and how to spot them. By the second week, we had the opportunity, with all of the skills that we had learned for tracking, to try to track for ourselves! It was cool to be at the front of the line and look for the signs myself. We were able to track white rhinos, elephants, leopards and lions too! I really liked the structure of the morning drive and the afternoon drive. And it was nice how the afternoon drive always extended into the evening, so we got to see the landscapes as the sun set. Hearing the project staff explain how the costs of this experience help to fund the project itself, really highlighted the true conservation aspect that ACE advertises. Even something as simple as when we were going to check the water pumps, there were solar panels next to them. While I was kneeling on the ground, I asked what all the names were around the solar panels. Our guide said that those are the names of the volunteers who were here to help install them. It was cool because he said this project only started in 2002, but you could see from the reserve management work that had been done by past volunteers, that you can make a lasting impact on this project. You can actually see the impact past volunteers have made, it's not just talk. It was mentioned to me in the initial chat with the ACE consultant that there was a possibility of sleeping out in the bush. Luckily, everybody in my group was on board, so we actually did it two weeks in a row! There was nothing better. I could hear leopards, lions, hyenas, and wild dogs all calling out in the night! It was incredible to be sitting on a log late at night and looking up at the stars. We saw the Milky Way, Mars, Saturn, and shooting stars. It was insanity for me! I’d never seen any of that before, and it was just incredible. I didn't know what the makeup of the group was going to be. If it was going to be for retirees or kids, and I think we had a great mix. I was so pleasantly surprised that in my first week, I had two girls my age who were also solo travelling, so the three of us got really close. I’m incredibly grateful I chose Vikela and to travel with ACE, it exceeded my expectations and gave me an experience I’ll never forget!

The Golola Rhino Orphanage staff are some of the most passionate people I've ever met. One of the staff members was particularly enthusiastic, and every time she would tell a story or answer a question, she would answer it with the same passion as if she were speaking about it for the very first time. They truly are an incredible group of people. I could listen to the project staff tell stories all day, every day. It's so interesting. I was at Golola for three weeks. I thoroughly enjoyed the work during my time at Golola, and I could tell my input was needed. If they didn't have volunteers there, I honestly don't know how they would manage. They do manage regardless, but having the volunteers there really does help them. During my time at Golola, I was able to bottle-feed one of the youngest rhinos there. Each rhino has its own history, and some are sadder than others, so I felt really sorry for some of them, but it made me love them even more. I would love to go back and see the rhinos again, particularly if I could see them go from being in the orphanage to eventually being out in the field! The team at Golola go above and beyond to do anything they can to make the calves not feel alone after being separated from their mothers due to poaching incidents. For example, they bring in foster mothers who are technically now their surrogate mothers, so they can try to put the calves at ease. This is to help the calves adjust to their new lifestyle at the rhino orphanage before they’re eventually ready to be released. I really felt like what I was doing on a day-to-day basis made an impact. Even the small things like scooping the rhino poo, putting it back into the earth, then replanting it into the plains, where the grass can grow. Even doing seemingly minor things like that, that's contributing towards the rhinos' welfare and getting them back into the wild. The people there definitely make me feel appreciated. The staff would always be checking in to see how you are. They would ask “Are you still enjoying it? Are you still happy?" And I would reply, "You don't need to ask me that, I’m loving it!" Being a vet nurse back home can be hard at times, but with the amount of work that these guys put in, what I do at home is nothing compared to what they do. Wild animals are completely different. One day, the vet came out to check one of the rhinos, and he ended up darting her to recast her leg and get a new boot for her injured leg. I was so lucky that I was there because I monitored the anaesthetic on the rhino using my training. But even just listening to the drugs used and comparing them to what we use at home in dogs and cats, it's really nice to have the background knowledge and actually know what the vet was talking about. It was so cool. A highlight for me was getting up every morning and working so close to the rhinos. Some of the roads were difficult to get through after a storm hit, so we couldn't go up to certain areas. And then we would see the rhinos finding their way around. I think it made me realise how intelligent the species actually is. On social media, you see the good things and the pretty things, but you don't see the behind-the-scenes work and all the hard work that goes into it. What I learned is that this kind of work doesn’t happen overnight. It takes years to release them back into the wild. When a member of staff was teaching me about how many people are involved in poaching and rhino deaths, it made me realise that the Golola team must feel like they're just swimming against the tide. But they're still going, they still get up every single day, and they're still trying to save the species. This project allows you to get fully involved, and it can be hard work, but if that's what it takes to help save sick species, then I would do it for the rest of my life. My top 3 reasons people should volunteer at Golola would be: 1. The people, because they really are the most amazing group of people to work with, they're so welcoming from the minute you get there. Everyone is so down to earth, everyone's there for the same thing. 2. You get to see the difference you’re making. Even in the short three weeks that I've been there, the work that I have done has made some sort of contribution to saving the species. So if you can spare a tiny bit of time, even just a week, go out there and you’ll be contributing helping to save the species. 3. Definitely bottle feeding the rhinos - It’s just incredible. It's a really good experience to meet like-minded people and people who are passionate towards animals in general, because animals are so much more precious than humans. I couldn't have felt more looked after during my time in South Africa. From the minute we landed and met the African Conservation Experience (ACE) team to the minute we got to the project, I felt so safe and looked after. Especially when you are coming out by yourself. I couldn't have asked for a nicer three weeks. It's been amazing. It really has. It’s definitely money well spent, and even though I’d happily do another program with ACE, I definitely will go back to Golola.

I first came across African Conservation Experience (ACE) when I read a testimonial on their website that said, “just do it, you won’t regret it”, and that’s exactly what I did. I knew I was with the right organisation when that first phone call was made, the staff took time to make sure I found the project that was right for me! My passion for rhinos made the Golola Rhino Orphanage And Rehabilitation Centre the obvious pick. Travelling alone seemed daunting, but the staff in the UK and South Africa put all my worries aside, making sure I was safe and always a phone call away. Arriving at the project was amazing. The team at Golola are 100% committed to taking care of the precious rhinos, and I felt privileged to be part of that. I learned so much working alongside them and appreciated their patience and sharing their invaluable knowledge with me. Because of this project, these amazing, beautiful rhinos who were brought in as babies are now thriving and given the best level of care and even going on to reproduce, which is wonderful, especially at a time when rhino populations are declining. I have booked my fourth trip with ACE, so I think that says it all!

If I had to sum up my experience on the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience in one word, it would be “Adventure”. The work was varied and full of surprises: Once, the guide suddenly said, "In five minutes, I have to leave the camp for a brief but quite physical tracking task. It involves walking barefoot in the sand. Who wants to come?" Everyone, of course! In that case, as in others, we were explained the meaning of every action or movement: the guide's maneuvers, our contribution as volunteers, and of course, the animals themselves. The Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience was all about learning from experience: a game between when the guide answered our questions about what we saw, and when he asked us questions that allowed us to reflect. A reflection to begin seeing how everything in the bush is truly connected: not only plants and animals (down to the smallest of insects), but also and especially the soil. Our guide was extremely experienced both as a bush guide and in managing volunteers: through clarity, patience, and a sense of humor, he enabled us to begin to understand even complex aspects of conservation. Especially from a long-term perspective. All this without getting into right-wrong thinking, but showing the positive and potentially problematic sides of different human interventions for animal and nature protection. This experience reminded us that we humans are originally part of this nature, even if we tend to forget it.

The personalised veterinary experience offered me loads of hands-on experience working with wildlife, and it was better than I could have ever imagined. Right from the start, I was straight into the action. Our first job was to help relocate six kudu antelopes from one farm to another. It was an early start, as we had to wake up at 3am to travel to the farm! When we arrived, we helped with drawing blood and administering vitamins before we assisted the vet in transporting them and releasing them into the new property. Over the next few days, I got to work with more antelope species, including waterbucks and my favourite, sable antelopes. At the end of my first week, I also got to help an injured rhino. First, I helped to draw some blood, and then we helped clean its wound. It was an awesome experience. I got to ride up in a helicopter with the vet, which was awesome. We also helped relocate not one but two prides of lions into larger spaces, which was incredible. Apart from riding in a helicopter, a highlight for me was working with six Buffalo, where I got to administer vitamins and tick spray. It’s too hard to choose the best moment, because every day was so amazing and different. I was actually initially supposed to travel with African Conservation Experience (ACE) in 2024. However, two weeks before I was due to leave home, I broke my ankle playing rugby. We were a bit worried about whether it would be possible to change my trip at such short notice, but the ACE team were really supportive and managed to transfer my trip to the following year. I’m so glad that it worked out. I would 100% recommend this experience to anyone who is going into the veterinary field and wants to build up their practical experience. I’ve done work experience in a clinic before, but I wanted a more hands-on experience, which is why I got in touch with ACE. I had such a great time working with the vets. The work could be stressful at times, as it’s fast-paced and you’re working with these amazing, big animals. But once the work was over, you just had this sense of gratitude wash over you. I’ve always known that I want to work with wildlife, and this experience definitely confirmed that for me.

The phone call I had with one of the African Conservation Experience (ACE) consultants before booking was so helpful in painting a picture of the project and what to expect, and ACE delivered exactly what was promised and more! I love that ACE meets you at the airport. Meeting the team and other volunteers before heading off to the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience really put me at ease. As soon as we met the guide we would be working with at Vikela, I immediately knew this was going to be a great experience. The vibe within the group was high, and only increased as we listened to old school pop music on our drive into camp! At Vikela, every day was different. We were involved in everything from clearing roads, moving rocks to protect solar water pumps from elephants, and going on incredible bushwalks! What I loved most was that we worked as a team. Everyone mucking in together, not splitting off to do separate tasks. And, you could actually see the impact of your work right in front of you as you were doing it, which made it so rewarding. Aside from the work, the wildlife encounters were unforgettable. On one game drive, we got incredibly near to an elephant - I would estimate around 5 metres away! We also had a close encounter with a small pride of lions after one of our bush braais. We could hear them roaring in the distance, so we jumped into the vehicle and drove out to get a closer look. We got within about 15 to 20 feet of a lion just walking along, completely unbothered by us. Seeing a lion that close in the wild ignites something in you - it was really cool. I learned so much more than I expected and this trip changed my understanding of conservation. I’m currently studying environmental sciences, so I thought I knew what to expect, but this was completely different to learning in a classroom. Our guides would stop during our bush walks to explain everything - even pointing out details as small as a black rhino midden and explaining how they could tell it was from a black rhino by the 25-degree bite angle on the vegetation! I’d think to myself, How do you even know that?! Their wealth of knowledge was incredible! And they approached every question you asked with enthusiasm and clarity. They never made you feel silly for asking anything. The accommodation was also something that exceeded my expectations. I was expecting tents and no hot water (the last volunteer project I joined had no hot water at all), but the team at Vikela has really put effort into making it comfortable. It's not fancy with unnecessary frills, but it's really good quality and has everything you need. The food was excellent too! I'm a vegetarian, and they had something delicious for me every single meal. The social aspect of this project wasn’t something I went into it for, but it was another highlight for me. I have so many inside jokes with my fellow volunteers. It's crazy how fast you get to know people when you spend every day with them. I had to remind myself I'd only been there for three days because Johannesburg already felt like a lifetime ago. Everyone who was there genuinely wanted to be there, and you could tell. There was no one who wasn't pulling their weight or didn't care. This week was one of the most memorable of my life so far. I would definitely do it again - I'm already thinking about coming back in a couple of years with friends!

I did most of this experience with my friend Madeline who I met on the project! We travelled separately for this experience and had never met each other before, but bonded quickly during our time on the Shimongwe Veterinary EMS placement when I spent three weeks on the project and Madeline joined for the final two weeks. On Madeline’s first day, we were taken to a reptile centre with 150 different species of venomous snakes. Wow. That was incredible. These snakes and lizards were from all over the world, and the staff there collect venom from them every week! This was purely observational for us because they do have some dangerous snake species there, so we were kept safe at all times. We learned about how there is an antivenom shortage in South Africa, which is what made this so interesting, because there is a real need for this work. Instead of working directly with the snakes, we drew blood from different lizards for DNA testing. We split into teams of two and ended up being much faster than we expected. We got to work with geckos, Sungazers and lots of other types of lizards. We called this ‘Lizard day’, and it was so cool to work with so many different species. The vet placement was amazing, and we ended up working on over 140 buffalo in one week! The project staff were constantly on the move to help us, as there was a lot of work to do. There was darting, loading the buffalo into trailers and moving them to different farms. Every time the vet darted them, we did injections of dewormer, medication, or vitamins. Some of them needed to be microchipped, some of them needed to be checked for pregnancy, some needed tuberculosis testing and brucellosis testing, so we drew blood for analysis too. We even found some pregnancies and could see them through the ultrasounds. My main hope before going was to see a lion, and during my time on the project, I got to work with one! I even had the rare opportunity to give a lion an injection, which was my favourite part of the whole experience! Madeline hadn’t worked on big animals very much before going on this experience, so she thought the darting, anaesthesia, and learning how to handle these big, dangerous animals was really worthwhile. During the weekend, we went to Leshiba Wilderness, which is a private game reserve that has lots of rhinos. We got to go for a hike through this incredible environment, and it was so fun. We had a good view of the valley, went on a night drive, and saw a bunch of rhinos. We really appreciated the project helping to organise this excursion for us. The farm day with one of the vets was really fun. We had more of a quiet day in terms of the workload on Friday, so the vet found some work for us to do on his farm involving working with different animals, then helping to move them to the stables. After a long day of work, the vet organised a braai (traditional South African barbecue) for us and we got to eat it in the bush, which was pretty cool. We never knew what we were going to get, but we loved everything we did. Madeline says that after this experience, she definitely wants to pursue a career in wildlife. This experience helped her understand which areas she’s less experienced and less knowledgeable in, so she knows what to work on if she moves forward with this career path. I felt this experience was really valuable, and I really enjoyed it. I definitely want to do more of it in the future! Madeline felt management of wildlife is pretty different than in the U.S. It was really eye-opening to learn about the farms that people have in South Africa and the conservation work that’s done. Before I organised my placement, I didn't know what to expect, but when I booked a call with ACE, we spoke a lot about how conservation and vet work is done in South Africa. It’s hard to understand until you see and experience it for yourself. When we went out to do the vet work, we were in huge areas that aren’t just enclosures with animals, so I really understood how the whole ecosystem functions once we saw it and got to work in it too. I am really happy that I have more knowledge on the reality of vet work now, because when I was looking on the internet at the different options, I just did not understand how vet teams and procedures worked. Now I know why the unique work we did was so important! It’s similar to back home in Canada, except more exciting as we swapped deer and moose for buffalo, impala and sable!

From the moment I landed, everything ran perfectly. I was met at the airport by the African Conservation Experience (ACE) staff, and they immediately made me feel welcome. Even the drive out to the project was fantastic. Our driver was hilarious and knowledgeable, telling stories about the country, which set the tone for the trip ahead! Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience itself was incredible. As a small animal vet, it was such a precious opportunity to work with large wildlife species, as we worked with some rare and beautiful animals. For example, one day we darted and treated a roan antelope (locals even told us they’d never handled one before!), another day we treated sable and nyala bulls and helped relocate them safely to other farms. On our final day, we darted a nyala, administered injections, and helped load him into a trailer for relocation. Watching how smoothly the team worked together was truly impressive. You felt part of something meaningful every single day, and I loved getting to know the dedicated people behind the conservation efforts! We also worked with an incredible number of buffalo. By the end, I was joking that I’d become a buffalo specialist! We helped the vets take blood samples for tuberculosis testing on the buffalo and also gave vitamin and anti-parasitic treatments, and assisted with relocations. It was physical, sometimes chaotic work, but in the best possible way. Every day was different. I can’t say there was one special day, I loved all of it! One day drawing blood, another treating, another relocating, never boring, never repetitive. The sunsets after long field days were something else, too. By the end, I lost count of how many times we just stopped to take it all in! In the clinic, the team was also brilliant. For students, it’s an incredible learning environment where they deal with everything: coughing, diarrhoea, vomiting, wounds, you name it. The vets, nurses, and technicians were all so kind and open. They shared everything: dosages, protocols, and their reasoning behind treatments. Even though I already work as a vet, I loved hearing their different approaches and seeing how they worked with wildlife species. They were also just genuinely fun people to be around, warm, professional, and easy-going. The accommodation was great too. It was clean and comfortable, with our own kitchen, bathroom, and even a terrace to relax on. There was a pool to cool off in after long days, and our host was super friendly! On weekends, we went exploring. Our first trip was to the famous Kruger National Park, my first time there! We saw so many elephants (they were everywhere), giraffes, birds, and even a lioness. Then another weekend, we visited Leshiba Wilderness, which was one of the most magical places I’ve ever seen. We went hiking during the day, and in the evenings, we could sit by the pool with a view over the bush, watching rhinos, giraffes, and zebras walking past. It honestly felt surreal! The people I met made the trip even more special. There were volunteers from the UK, the US, and a few other Czechs, too, which was such a nice surprise! One of the Czech girls and I are still in touch. We text and call all the time. Everyone at the project was like a supportive, funny family, and I would work with them again in a heartbeat! When I had to leave, I cried. That’s how much I loved the people there! I came home, went straight back to small animal practice, but a part of me stayed in Africa. I still think about it every day: the people, the animals, the sunsets, the feeling of purpose. I honestly think my friends are tired of me always talking about it! If anyone’s thinking about going, just do it. It was organised perfectly, the team was professional and kind, and the experience itself was everything I hoped for and more. I am already in talks with ACE to plan my trip out with them again next year, and I absolutely can’t wait!

I grew up in a family that loved animals, and I’ve always felt a deep connection to the natural world. I’ve always found rhinos adorable, but to actually see them up close, to work with them and play a part in their recovery… it was beyond anything I had ever imagined. One of my fondest memories was bottle-feeding milk to a younger rhino at the orphanage. To know that I was making a difference to her life was incredibly moving. What I loved the most was how I was made to feel like such a valuable member of the team. Before arriving, I worried that we would be treated like tourists, but that couldn’t have been further from the truth. The staff were warm, welcoming, and treated us as part of the team. Whatever they did, we helped too. It was totally different from visiting a zoo or going on a safari. As a volunteer, you get really involved, not only in the fun stuff like feeding rhinos, but in all of the real, behind-the-scenes work that is necessary to care for orphaned rhinos. There was a lot of hard work, from cleaning up after the rhinos to unloading gigantic grass bales. There was only one day when I was physically unable to help with lifting the grass bales as they were too heavy for me, and I have had some back problems in the past, but the staff were extremely understanding and accommodating; they really could not have been any kinder. We learned so much during our stay, and even had some fascinating talks from the orphanage’s founder. It was great learning about every aspect of rhino rehabilitation, from how precise you have to be when preparing milk formula for the babies, to all of the extensive measures taken to reduce the risk of poaching. One day, the staff took us for a three-hour hike through the reserve surrounding the orphanage. It was one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. We spotted incredible wildlife, including a baby giraffe and, my favourite sighting, a baby rhino calf, only one month old, with its mum! This experience changed me. Working alongside such dedicated staff and being so close to the rhinos reinforced my connection to nature and deepened my respect for the remarkable people fighting to protect it. I really can’t thank the staff at the orphanage enough for everything that they do!

Before I set off on my five-week veterinary adventure with African Conservation Experience (ACE), I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. I had read about the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience and knew it would be hands-on, but I couldn’t have imagined just how rewarding and eye-opening it would turn out to be. From the moment I landed in Johannesburg, I felt completely taken care of. An ACE representative was waiting to welcome me at the airport, and after a good meal and introductions, we set off on the five-hour drive north to Louis Trichardt. The journey flew by, our driver shared fascinating stories about South Africa’s history, culture, and wildlife along the way, giving us a glimpse into the country we were about to discover! When we arrived at the project, we were greeted warmly by the team before settling into our guesthouse. The accommodation was wonderful, surrounded by a peaceful garden and a swimming pool, and often visited by a few friendly dogs who quickly became part of our daily life. Our very first day set the tone for the entire experience. We were up at three in the morning to help with the tranquilisation and transport of a kudu. Watching these animals up close was something I’ll never forget. Over the next few weeks, we worked with a wide range of wildlife, including sable, tsessebe, blesbok, waterbuck, buffalo, and even lions. Being part of wildlife veterinary procedures like health checks, immobilisations, and administering medicines gave us a real sense of purpose and excitement each day. Working with rescued lions at the rehabilitation sanctuary was an unforgettable highlight. To be so close to these powerful creatures and assist in their care was both humbling and exhilarating! Alongside wildlife work, we also gained valuable experience with domesticated animals such as cattle, goats, and horses. It was a reminder of how veterinary medicine plays a crucial role not just in conservation, but in supporting local communities as well! The vets at the project were exceptional mentors. They were patient, knowledgeable, and passionate about teaching. Every day with them was an opportunity to learn something new, whether in the field or at the clinic. On weekends, we explored more of South Africa’s natural beauty. Visiting the infamous nearby Kruger National Park and the breathtaking Leshiba Wilderness Reserve gave us time to reflect on the importance of what we were learning. Horse riding and hiking on our time off also added even more adventure to an already incredible experience! Looking back, what made this journey so meaningful was how it offered a complete picture of conservation in practice! I came to understand that wildlife management, population control, and habitat balance are all essential parts of protecting nature, each connected and equally important. My time with ACE was truly unforgettable. I’m deeply grateful to everyone who made it possible, from the ACE staff who made everything run smoothly to the dedicated veterinarians who shared their knowledge so generously! This experience opened my eyes to the realities of conservation and veterinary work in Africa, and it strengthened my passion for wildlife medicine even more. See you next time!

I booked this trip as a graduation gift for my daughter, Megan. She had never been to Africa before, and I wanted her first experience to be something meaningful. We wanted the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, get involved in hands-on work, and most importantly, give back to a worthwhile cause. The African Conservation Experience team organised for us to join the team at Phinda Wildlife Research Project, and it turned out to be everything that we hoped for and more. What really stood out about ACE was the variety of projects that we could join and the focus on real conservation work. From our very first call with the team, it was obvious that this wasn’t going to be anything like a typical safari experience. ACE offers something much deeper - the chance to actively take part in genuine, impactful wildlife conservation work alongside professionals in the field. We also felt reassured by what ACE doesn’t offer. Whilst we were planning our trip, we came across other organisations promoting experiences like lion or cheetah cub petting. Megan did some research and discovered how unethical those activities are. It was a relief to find out that ACE not only refuses to support these unethical practices, but also helps travellers understand why they’re harmful. On our first day at the Phinda reserve, we were lucky enough to assist with a rhino horn trimming. Watching the wildlife vet dart the rhino from a helicopter and then seeing the procedure up close was an incredible experience. A pretty good first day! We also had the pleasure of seeing lots of big cats. Cheetahs have always been Megan’s favourite animal, and she was thrilled when we got to see a coalition of three males, three days in a row! We also got to see a mum and her cub, another exciting moment. Another day, we were driving through a forested part of the reserve, and as we rounded a corner on the dirt path, we came across a pride of lions, sitting just metres away! I was surprised at how much wildlife we got to see; it was constant. Every day brought something new… From spotted hyena cubs coming to sniff our car to waking up early in the morning to search for pangolins and finding one! One of the most interesting things for me was seeing how technology is used to help track wildlife. Our ecological monitor showed us how to use an infrared drone to track down rhinos - we found several white rhinos, but the black rhinos proved more elusive! We also got to learn more about the history of Phinda and all of the research being carried out at the reserve. It was a very informative experience. Travelling like this opens your eyes. It gives you a new perspective on the world and the challenges faced by conservationists every day. We could have stayed in a lodge and done a traditional safari, but this was something entirely different. To get hands-on, to see behind the scenes, and understand the struggles and successes of conservation work is invaluable. I would absolutely come back to help again.

Cheetahs chasing down an impala, wild dogs feasting on a fresh kill, hundreds of elephants crossing a river… I really got to see it all! After four unforgettable, action-packed weeks and three amazing projects with African Conservation Experience (ACE), I’ve come home with incredible memories and a much deeper understanding of conservation in Southern Africa. My journey began at the Phinda Wildlife Research Project, where I had so many special experiences. The highlight for me was witnessing three cheetahs, two brothers and a male, take down an impala. We watched the whole thing unfold, from the moment they began to chase it to the kill and eating it afterwards. Phinda reserve is also home to a number of pangolins that have been rescued from the black market. During their first few weeks of release, the research team tracks their movement to make sure that they are doing well. During my time at the project, I was lucky enough to help locate one of these pangolins to replace a tracking device that had fallen off. Knowing that pangolins are one of the most trafficked animals in the world, it felt amazing to play a small part in their protection. Another unforgettable experience was taking part in a rhino horn trimming, a procedure that is done every few years to reduce the risk of poaching. In the morning, I got to speak with the wildlife veterinarian, and they explained how the horn trimming would go ahead. A group of us helped locate the rhino from the ground, whilst overhead, the vet sat in a helicopter ready to dart and immobilise the rhino. Standing beside the sedated rhino as the procedure took place was a deeply humbling experience and a once in a lifetime moment which I’ll never forget! I loved the team that I was with and we had a great ecological monitor working with us, but whilst I was sad to leave, I also felt very excited to go to my next project, the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience. At Vikela, one of the highlights was tracking rhinos on foot through the bush. We also saw wild dogs, and got to see a cheetah hunt an impala again, but this time the impala was too fast and it got away! What struck me most was the difference between Phinda and Vikela. Phinda is a fenced reserve of around 30,000 hectares, which is already a massive area. But then you have Vikela which is situated in the Greater Kruger, adjacent to the Kruger National Park: together the Greater Kruger and the Kruger make up 20 million hectares of interconnected, unfenced, protected wildlife area. I felt that because of this, the wildlife at Vikela was less habituated to seeing humans, and this gave me a good sense of being off the beaten track. My third and final project was the Okavango Wilderness Project in Botswana. We did a lot of tracking and our guides were extremely knowledgeable, showing us how to read animal tracks and teaching us about the different wildlife and trees in the area. I also got to learn about how the data that we collect is passed onto the Botswanan government to help inform management decisions - this gave real meaning to the work that we carried out. My favourite part of this project was definitely the weekends of remote camping near the Kwai River, which was such a cool and unique experience. On our way to the remote campsite, we came across some wild dogs eating a fresh impala, only to see a hyena rush in moments later and steal the meal! A few hours later, we reached the Kwai River and saw hundreds of elephants crossing. It was a crazy day that I will never forget! Visiting all three projects was an extremely worthwhile experience. I got to understand the differences between all three settings on a deeper level, from Phinda’s well-managed and fenced reserve, to the vastness of the Greater Kruger, to the remote expanses of the Okavango. The whole experience was extremely educational, and I gained a much better understanding of the roles that tourism, funding, and even hunting play in conservation. Conservation is difficult and complicated, but this trip showed me that there is a lot of hope. I’m already missing the adventure, the sounds of the wildlife, and the amazing teams I met along the way. I’ll definitely be returning as a volunteer with ACE, that’s for sure.

When I signed up with African Conservation Experience (ACE), I didn’t realise how profoundly my time spent volunteering would affect me. Leaving behind the scorching summer of the Midwest and a heatwave in France, I arrived in South Africa’s winter, dry, yellowed, and harsh. It’s exactly during this season that wildlife is most vulnerable, and that’s when I truly understood how important the work of the orphanage is. ACE placed me at the Golola Rhino Orphanage, a discreet but vital haven for orphaned rhinos. My days quickly filled with meaningful tasks: preparing food, feeding orphaned rhinos, and helping with their daily care. One of the most unforgettable moments was bottle-feeding a baby rhino for the first time! The bottle itself was nearly the length of my forearm, and it required patience, gentleness, and precision. That simple act carried a profound sense of connection and responsibility. I also witnessed the rescue of a baby rhino who arrived dehydrated and with a fractured leg. Watching the veterinary team, led by Dr. Pierre Webster, act so swiftly and skillfully was both humbling and inspiring. It showed me the dedication and expertise required to give these animals a second chance. What struck me most was how much rhinos matter to the entire ecosystem. They’re not just majestic creatures - they’re gardeners of the savanna, dispersing seeds, creating paths, and shaping habitats for countless other species. Protecting them means protecting biodiversity itself. Volunteering through ACE gave me the opportunity to not only care for these incredible animals but also to understand the bigger picture of conservation. The experience was challenging, moving, and deeply rewarding. I returned home with a renewed sense of purpose and admiration for everyone who works tirelessly to ensure rhinos have a future. I would wholeheartedly recommend ACE to anyone considering conservation volunteering. It is life-changing to know that, in some small way, you’ve been part of protecting a species and preserving an ecosystem.

It’s pitch black. You’re zipped into your sleeping bag, safe but alert. Out there, in the silence, something stirs. You don’t know what it is—or what’s curious enough to wander past a small pack of humans daring to camp in the wild. That thrill, that raw vulnerability, is something I’ll never forget at the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience. Truly, a trip of a lifetime! For me, tracking has always been an interest, so having the opportunity to track wildlife in the bush through this project was amazing! With my military background, I understood the basics—I’d practised it. But with my veterinary career now underway, I wanted to learn how to track wildlife. And I wasn’t disappointed. Watching a true professional at work was humbling. In tracking, time is everything. A delay can mean injury—or worse. That pressure, that precision—it was extraordinary to witness and invaluable to learn from. When people ask me what my favourite sighting was, I hesitate. Was it the slow, silent grace of an elephant herd moving through the bush? The hyena sneaking a drink between a lazy lion and a defiant bull elephant? Or the leopard that melted so perfectly into the landscape, it was as if it had never existed at all? Each moment was unforgettable in its own way. But this experience wasn’t just about the thrill of sightings or the theory of conservation. It was about the reality—the complexity of people, agendas, and challenges on the ground. Not everyone is in it for the right reasons. Not everyone shares the same vision. You’re constantly navigating a system that’s messy, political, and demanding. But seeing this project in action—seeing the dedication of the team—I knew it was worth supporting. They care deeply about their impact, about the volunteers, about what we take away. They want us to truly understand, to see the value in every moment! The African Conservation Experience team made the entire journey seamless. From the first call to the travel logistics, they handled it all. I boarded that plane feeling unprepared, unsure—but from the second I landed, everything was taken care of. So here’s my advice: don’t let fear stop you. Book the ticket. Get on the plane. Let it change your life!

There are some trips you just can't explain. There's a pull from your roots. An emotional cord that is being played. I had to go home. Back home to Africa. I was born in South Africa, we emigrated when I was very young. Despite this, I never lost my connection to home. Memories of the deep orange sunsets and the cry of the hadida reminded me of the life I once had. I decided to book a trip to Phinda Wildlife Research Project for three weeks. And it changed my life. Getting into the nitty gritty of conservation and hearing different perspectives and opinions - you realise just how challenging conservation is. There is no roadmap that has all the answers. It's trial and error and grit and determination. I wanted to come home and this was one of the ways that I could do it. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, then this is what you do. It doesn't involve fancy hotels and lodges, but you will be driving around in a beautiful reserve, and you will get your hands dirty and feel what it feels like to be in the presence of these animals that are in their own habitat. The moment that changed everything for me was meeting one specific elephant at Phinda. He's quite unique in his behaviour, and I just fell in love with him straight away. It was amazing to be on the same path that he’s walked on for 40 years. His majestic walk and the way he moves within his surroundings was mesmerising. This is a wild animal in its prime. It was amazing that I could share his environment and contribute to keeping him safe. Each day has brought a routine and a sense of peace but is different in its activities and sightings. I've seen and experienced so much - it's hard to put into words so others can understand what it's like. I’ve watched how amazing drones can be in day-to-day conservation, and I've seen rhino horn trimming and translocations of rhinos. I've witnessed a cheetah being treated. The list goes on! I feel inspired and empowered. I feel connected to the project and everything they do. I feel the need to do more, learn more. Maybe this is the start of a new direction for me. I really don't know. What I do know is I am so thankful I signed up for this trip. The African Conservation Experience team has been amazing. Who knows, maybe I will find myself wearing the ACE volunteer shirt again in the future!

I can't explain it; there is just something magical about the Phinda Wildlife Research Project. I arrived and connected with the landscape immediately. It was a busy 2 weeks at Phinda - each day brought something different and interesting. Given my veterinary background, I could see the impact their efforts were having. There is a strong ethos of concern for animal welfare, and it meant a great deal to be witness to that. During my stay, the work was particularly rhino-focused. From x-raying a rhino toe, to rhino horn trimming and rhino translocations - I really got to see and understand these charismatic creatures. Having the privilege of witnessing all these procedures and activities, you come to appreciate the individuality of each animal. Their own personalities and responses are reflected in their reaction to events unfolding around them. I particularly connected to the sand forest at Phinda. Its beauty and uniqueness captivated my interest as soon as we arrived. I connected with something bigger than myself. No matter how one describes a project and its landscapes, you cannot prepare yourself for your reactions and responses. My connection was instantaneous. A particularly memorable moment was watching a battle between a skink and a snake. It just highlighted the rawness of nature. It went on for ages - we moved on before we could identify the winner. But that fight for life will stay with me for ages to come. As a seasoned traveller, I appreciated that African Conservation Experience (ACE) could handle all the logistics for me. I had been to South Africa before and wished I had this level of assistance then! From the prompt responses to my emails to the logistical update emails and just the friendly check-in emails, at each step, ACE had a professional team member at the helm. Africa holds a special place in my heart. I can't wait to come back. I already have an idea of which projects I would like to visit next… but Phinda will be the first project I come back to. I cannot recommend travelling to Africa enough. Pick up the phone and take the leap. You will find yourself on an adventure of a lifetime!

The first time I saw a baby rhino at the Golola Rhino Orphanage And Rehabilitation Centre approach the boma gate, her eyes locked straight onto the milk bottle I was holding, one I’d just helped freshly prepare. She stomped gently towards me, her small feet thudding softly against the dusty ground. It was a moment I’ll never forget - because in that instant, I knew I was part of a team working tirelessly to give her a future. What struck me most was the level of care and precision that goes into every detail to help these little rhinos survive, and I contributed to that. From preparing the right milk formula to monitoring the animals’ progress day by day, every action matters. Being able to meet people on the ground who live and breathe this work was inspiring. I spoke with team members who’ve collaborated with scientists, conservationists, even nuclear physicists on anti-poaching technology, but what stood out most was their humility; they weren’t in it for recognition. They were in it for the rhinos. Every action was based on research and compassion... this isn’t just a job - it’s a mission. One of my most memorable moments at the project was observing the vet team as they carefully fitted a new custom cast for one of the rhinos recovering from a leg injury due to a lion attack. They explained each step with such patience and knowledge, making me realise that conservation isn’t always glamorous, but it is deeply meaningful. It was a rare privilege, something I had quietly hoped for but didn’t expect. That moment made everything feel more impactful. It went beyond your daily tasks like prepping pellets, which are, of course, important, but seeing the bigger picture made everything click. It makes you realise that the money that I spent on this trip is actually going towards helping, and that’s the kind of transparency and purpose you hope for. When you support a project like this, you want to know it’s making a difference - and here, you can see it with your own eyes. When at the project, one of the things that surprised me most was the scale of the work. You think of an orphanage and imagine tiny babies, but you start your morning feeding rhinos that are like towering creatures that feel more like something out of a dream. Even after a long-haul flight, I felt lucky just to be there. To stand that close, in their presence, doing something that actually matters. That’s a kind of joy that’s hard to explain. Even when you have to wake up at 6:00am in the morning… you don't care because it's another day that you get to feed a rhino. And sure, some moments are uncomfortable. You’re down in the dirt, sweeping up leaves, cleaning enclosures, sweating in the sun, but every single task contributes to their wellbeing. These animals have already lost so much and they deserve a safe, clean, quiet place to recover. It’s not about selfies or cuddles. It’s about doing the right thing, even when no one’s watching. This trip really opened my eyes to conservation. If I had to tell people about what I had learned during my trip, I would say ethics is so important. Look past the glossy photos and ask questions, and do your research. The focus should always be on the animals and their welfare. At Golola, they approach it in the right way. They are very clear, they want these little orphans to have a future in the wild, which means there are rules to follow. That is how I knew they were a genuine conservation project. This is what real conservation looks like. It’s measured, it’s careful, and it’s deeply respectful. One of the biggest things I learned is how important it is to choose a project that truly aligns with your values. When you’re passionate about what you’re doing, everything just feels easier and so much more rewarding, too. African Conservation Experience (ACE) really helped me figure that out. During my consultation, I initially thought I’d go for an experience focused on big cats - but after talking about my background fostering kittens and my natural nurturing instinct, they suggested something more hands-on with vulnerable animals, one where I could really make a difference. They listened and guided me toward a project that truly matched who I am. I feel lucky, I feel happy, I feel like this is what I'm meant to be doing and where I'm meant to be at the right place at the right time in my life. This trip meant everything to me. It didn’t just teach me about rhinos; it taught me about myself, about what really matters. These animals are facing extinction. That’s the real urgency needed. In witnessing that, I’ve realised there’s so much more to life - and that each of us really can make a difference.

Given that I’ve never written a review before, this really means something! If you’re scrolling through the testimonials from travellers of African Conservation Experience (ACE), wondering whether they are trustworthy and whether your time and effort will truly make a difference, I was in the exact same position just a few months ago. Like you, I researched various organisations and volunteering projects, hoping to make the right decision. And now, having experienced it first-hand, I can confidently say you don’t need to look any further! If you’re passionate about wildlife conservation in southern Africa and want to be part of a project that has a genuine, lasting impact, reach out to ACE. The ACE team is incredibly helpful in guiding you to the right project based on your interests and expectations. Through a personal consultation with ACE, I chose to join the Phinda Wildlife Research Project, where I spent two incredible weeks. Phinda focusses on the protection of a variety of animals (including lions, elephants and rhinos) within their large private reserve. The physical and financial support volunteers provide helps the research team to continue to manage the wildlife so successfully. Coming from a job where I sit in an office all day in Switzerland, the contrast in environment and work was nothing short of breathtaking. Seeing first-hand how dedicated and passionate the qualified conservationists on the ground are, and how much their work truly matters, was an experience I will never forget. Rather than saying more, I’ll leave you with a few pictures, because some experiences speak for themselves!

Vikela, is ideal if you want to see animals in the wild and feel the adrenaline of tracking and observing them in their natural habitat. Both places offer unique and unforgettable experiences. If you’re thinking about it, don’t hesitate, it’s worth it! I visited the Vikela project first and everything about that place was incredible! Some people might imagine that coming to South Africa is all about going on a safari, however, the Vikela project offers you something so much deeper than that. We were driving around a national park whilst being actively involved in conservation. We tracked animals, monitored key species like rhinos, lions, elephants, and wild dogs, and recorded important details about their behaviour! One of the highlights of this project for me was seeing lions feeding on my birthday - what an unforgettable experience! We also saw baboons, wild dogs, rhinos grazing, and even lions on a hunt. It was incredible! Our days started early, at around 5:30am, with some breakfast and a meeting to discuss the day's tasks. Most mornings would begin with a game drive, to track and monitor rhinos and other wildlife. We would note down important details about them, such as whether they were male or female, adults or juveniles, their distance from us, and their behaviour. After returning to camp for some lunch, we would get involved in some more physical activities such as clearing invasive plants, fixing water points, or assisting other sections of the reserve. In the evenings we would often go on night drives to see nocturnal species. Another unforgettable experience was our bush sleepout! The project staff guided us to our location and I was expecting to feel a little uneasy as we were camping in the wild, but I didn’t feel this at all. They have so much knowledge and made the camp so safe. And all night long we listened to the sounds of lions, hyenas, and buffalo in the bush!

I knew the situation was bad for white rhinos but I didn't know how bad! My week at Golola Rhino Orphanage And Rehabilitation Centre taught me so much and I feel like I am leaving South Africa with so much knowledge to share. My daughter Manuela had been at Golola for a week before I joined her. After I arrived, we watched two documentaries and had several talks about the realities of rhino poaching. I cried - I was so emotional and I really love animals so it was hard to watch but I knew it was important to learn more. Each day we got up early and it was hard work. The staff at Golola work tirelessly every day, but always with a smile. The amount of love they have for the animals is unbelievable and I admire them. I made sure to tell the staff that I find it really important what they are doing. I even told them if I was younger and I didn't have kids or a husband, I would come and help for a year! Seeing the baby rhinos with their mum in the wild and then seeing the orphans alone hurt me as a mother. But seeing the orphans being loved and cared for by the staff was heartwarming. That is why I believe in the work Golola does. I want to go home and tell everyone about the work happening there, tell them to help and to come volunteer. You can see how much work it takes to take care of these animals and every person volunteering knew they were appreciated. The team always made sure we were okay and checked up on us. We had so many laughs - I made friends here and was so sad to leave! Golola is a real project - it isn't fake. It isn't a pet and pay place. Real work is happening. I am very connected to this project. As a mother, I have watched my daughter grow up to do incredible things. On this trip I got to work alongside her. We cleaned out the enclosures and dug mud baths. We prepared the milk and fed the baby rhinos. These are our special memories. My daughter grew up asking friends and family to donate money to worthy charities instead of buying her gifts. She works so hard to help injured animals at the animal clinic back home and now I got to do this with her. I was proud to be there with her. I was very nervous about travelling to South Africa. I was worried about small things like having time to eat before we travelled or where to meet the African Conservation Experience (ACE) person at the airport. But we got regular emails and updates from ACE and easy instructions on where to meet. Even at the end of our trip, we were met at the airport, taken for something to eat and talked about our experience. We then got help checking in for the flight home. The trip was well-planned and ACE was very helpful. I want to go back. I want to do another project with Golola next time. I want my family and friends to experience what we have experienced.

I was feeling disconnected and unmotivated… but after a quick online search and phone call I found myself spending a week at Golola Rhino Orphanage And Rehabilitation Centre. It was a life changing experience! It was also my first solo trip and impacted me in ways I was not expecting. The moment we arrived I saw a family of warthogs and that’s when it hit me - I really am in Africa! Throughout my stay, the staff's attention to small details meant so much. I was expecting a very simple, basic but functional room with the bare minimum… when in reality my room was beautiful. I found myself in accommodation that could rival a really nice hotel! The room had small thoughtful touches like flowers - it was such a warm welcome after such a long trip. I was worried that I would be a bit tired from the physical labour but the staff were incredible. Throughout the day they check in on you to make sure that you are okay and if you need anything. The staff were always, always, always, very adamant about me not overworking myself. They were super vocal about anything that you don't feel comfortable with, you just have to communicate with them. So never did I ever feel pressured. They made it so much fun. They work so hard without complaint - it inspires you. I woke up every morning with excitement, not wanting to miss a single second of the day! The work also helps you feel grounded. You can see just how much they appreciate you being there. Each day your efforts are making a difference. From the feeding and cleaning - all of it. You can see it, feel it. I never felt anything outside of just awe and wonder and happiness. I was hoping I would have a chance to really be in the moment and enjoy the fact that I was in this beautiful place surrounded by wildlife. I have always wanted to experience wildlife in its natural environment, being able to display natural behavior. And I could. For me, the memory that really pulls at my soul is feeding little Binti (an orphaned critically endangered black rhino). If you had said to me that I would have been able to make this memory, I wouldn't have believed you. When I read the project description and services African Conservation Experience (ACE) advertised on the website I was skeptical. All of this? Really? You made me eat my words. You ticked every box. From helping me choose the right project, to the logistics and just supporting me… the quality of the ACE service was beyond what I expected. You answered all my emails promptly. I was met at the airport and made sure I had everything I needed. ACE kept in touch with me whilst I was at the project. I was never alone. I knew I was safe. This trip was incredible. So not only was I able to see so many animals, but to see all the natural landscape and the beauty of everything and rocks that are older than anything that you know, is just such a mind blowing experience. And it really has just ignited a new passion. Who knows what the future holds… I am inspired and excited about my future! I am in just a different place and mindset going home - and there is no price tag on this feeling.

It has been a fantastic two weeks at Phinda Wildlife Research Project. I have seen so many different animals - everything I was hoping to see, all of the Big Five and many more! I've done a couple of safaris before and this completely exceeded expectations in terms of being a really unique and different experience. I was able to get up close and personal with the animals. I stepped off the beaten track and was exposed to the work the rangers do. It makes you feel like you're making a real impact and supporting really important conservation work. It is clear there is a lot of cost involved in running a successful reserve like Phinda. The money I pay to volunteer is clearly going towards the reserve and it is satisfying seeing it being run so well. The work the rangers do day in and day out is really valuable. The fact that you're able to support them and actually have a genuine role where you're doing tasks which are going to benefit them is really rewarding. Each day is different - you get a general idea of what you will be doing but Phinda can't guarantee activities as it depends on reserve management. But that also means you can get the opportunity to do things you weren't expecting! A typical day is waking up quite early and doing two monitoring drives, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This includes recording where animals are located, are they healthy and in good condition, making sure their tags are working etc. It is a fantastic game viewing opportunity but it is so much more impactful than a safari. I even saw a pangolin which was so special! I was very lucky - I started my week working on black and white rhino translocation. I was able to see these animals up close by supporting the rhino whilst the vet’s did a health check, and helped them in monitoring each rhino they worked on. It wasn't just about this one animal but helping contribute towards the wider management of the reserve and the wider management of the species. It was my favourite experience on the trip and was really unique and special! We also helped the professional vet in treating an injured cheetah - being so close to a top predator like this was such an extraordinary experience. I have been following African Conservation Experience (ACE) for about six years but had to wait for the right time between work and university to book a trip. Eventually I found the perfect gap and jumped at the opportunity and ACE made it so easy. I called up ACE and instantly they said “you can start next week or in two weeks time, we will be able to accommodate your requests and will handle all the in-country logistics. Someone will be there to meet you at the airport, help you, guide you through the check-in process and you'll have 24-hour support should anything go wrong”. It made everything so simple and so easy. All I had to do was just say yes, which made it a really good experience and you felt much more relaxed about the whole thing and reassured throughout.

It has been my dream to visit Africa for the last 50 years (so this trip has been a long time in the making) and African Conservation Experience (ACE) helped this dream come true! ACE surpassed our expectations with the support they provided. The UK team worked with me countless times, preparing and planning for this trip, which turned out to be the best experience I could have dreamed of! From the first time I got in contact with them, to the time our party arrived in Johannesburg, ACE went above and beyond to support us. We were met at the airport by the in-country team on our arrival and they escorted us to our transfer to the project. We spent two weeks at the Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience. This experience was everything I wanted to do with conservation and more! From wildlife monitoring to invasive species removal, all the work we were doing was having a positive impact on the ecosystem. I am a retired wildlife biologist so the tasks we carried out at this project were very familiar to me, just in a brand new location with different animals! It was very rewarding to be working in the African bush. Our group ranged in age from 65 to 86 so we had some concerns that we wouldn’t fit in, but those concerns soon faded away. Our age didn’t matter as we were all given jobs that we were comfortable doing. The project staff were outstanding hosts. They took the time to teach us about what we were seeing and doing and happily shared their knowledge on subjects like wildlife tracking, animal behaviour, monitoring species and recording data. We did and saw so much that it’s hard to choose one stand-out moment. If I had to choose one thing it would be the fact that we were able to track and find a mother and baby rhino. With the guide's knowledge and instruction, I was able to do the tracking predominantly myself, so that was definitely a highlight. However, the day we spotted a leopard, a pride of lions, and even a black rhino (very rare nowadays!) was an incredible experience. Then again... the highlight may have been the time we were all sat in the research vehicle sounded by a herd of buffalo! It's tough to pick just one! The adventure was nothing but perfect. Besides the great memories, I’m also taking back the new friendships I gained with other volunteers from around the world. On our return to Johannesburg, we were again met by the in-country team who wanted to hear all about our experience. They even organised a shuttle for us to our hotel! To sum it up, ACE are an outstanding organisation to volunteer with. They care about the projects and their clients equally. I can’t recommend them enough!

Spending 11 days at Golola Rhino Orphanage And Rehabilitation Centre was an experience of a lifetime. Whilst I was there, I did and saw things that I never thought I would and I learnt so much about myself! The work at the orphanage was physically tough at times but the team prepared you very well for this. Some of the jobs I was involved in included helping to roll and lift bales of hay, and carrying large buckets of grass pellets and water. Although it can be demanding, it is also extremely rewarding. For me, it really helped to have a clear vision and understanding of what I was doing this for. One of my main motivations for this trip was to gain an accurate view of what the poaching crisis is really like. I feel like back home, in the United States, the media doesn’t portray the issue correctly so I wanted to visit South Africa to not only learn more but also help make a difference. I feel like I got exactly what I came for. The staff at Golola took the education side of the volunteer work very seriously, and we had some extraordinary talks with them about the issues of poaching and conservation. The team that runs this centre is a force to be reckoned with. They have such a drive for what they do. They are all so knowledgeable and they would answer any question I had. It was also incredible to work with rhinos. It was wonderful to observe them close up in the centre and also to see them in their natural habitat on the reserve. The bond that you build with the animals is amazing and the staff are absolutely extraordinary. I have never seen anyone more dedicated to a cause. They’re incredible! We had a daily routine but there were always things popping up that we needed to help with - working with wildlife is unpredictable. The staff at Golola did a great job of helping us adjust when something new came up and I really appreciated that. I feel like I could see the difference I was making by being there. I put my heart and soul into this work and gave back as much as I could and I felt so rewarded for this. One of the many highlights of my trip was getting to see the rhinos interact with one another - they are all so unique and express such different personalities. Another highlight of mine was the daily drives into the reserve. We would be out for a few hours each day, providing supplementary food for the older rhinos who had been released from the centre. It was amazing to see these animals interacting with one another in their natural habitats. I think if you are on the fence about volunteering, read some more testimonials. They give you a real insight into people's experiences. I also felt very reassured by African Conservation Experience (ACE) as the first step in the process was to have a phone call with one of their consultants. They asked me so many questions about what I wanted to do, why I wanted to do it and what I wanted to gain from the experience. ACE immediately provided me with so much information and they were always so quick to respond to any questions I had! I was so pleased with the ACE team in South Africa, too. Every single detail was worked out for you - they meet you at the airport, make sure you’re safely on your way to the project, and check in with you whilst you are at the project to make sure you are doing well. I appreciated this level of care and consideration so much! Volunteering is a life-changing experience and the more that you give to it, the more interest and awareness you have and willingness to get stuck in, the more you will get out of it.

My two weeks at Phinda Wildlife Research Project were amazing. The project staff and other volunteers were incredible and I loved seeing so many animals out in the field. It was fantastic! A typical day started quite early which can be an adjustment if you are a night owl like me, but it was so worth it. Most days we were carrying out game counts, checking the collars and tags of any animals that Phinda tracks in the reserve, like their Pangolins, and also using telemetry to track animals through the bush. One of the most exciting tracking experiences I had whilst at the project was with a male lion. He had recently been relocated to Phinda and they wanted to keep a close eye on him to see how he was adjusting to his new environment. We were also involved in some management work during my stay. One of the first things we did on day one was a rhino horn trimming! It was so interesting to learn about the process and being so close to the rhino whilst it was happening was incredible. We also helped with the relocation of one rhino which was another extraordinary experience. I saw such a variety of animals and ecosystems on the reserve. I was fortunate enough to see rhinos, elephants, lions, and cheetahs, and explore areas like the sand forest (a habitat that is only found in a few places around the world!) There's something for everyone at Phinda - whether you love birds, mammals, plants or ecosystems, you won’t be disappointed. I have participated in a few different conservation projects but this experience gave me a whole new level of education and involvement. I saw and learnt so much which I will be able to use in my future career. For example, telemetry was something I had never done before so it was great to learn about it - I think it’ll be something that I can use in my future field of study or work! I felt so involved in the research that was going on. I also met some incredible people on this experience. During our downtime we would be playing card games, and cooking meals together - we even had a few traditional South African braai’s with some of the researchers on the project. It was amazing to chat with them and learn more about South African culture!

I loved the unpredictability of this project. The day could start at 8 am (which was the usual) or it could be in the middle of the night, at 3 am, depending on what the vet is doing. Obviously you don’t have to get up in the middle of the night if you don’t want to, but for me, that was all part of the experience. I didn’t want to miss out on anything. You can ask the vet as many questions as you like which means you can gain as much knowledge as possible. I even asked the receptionists and nurses in the clinic questions to further my knowledge as much as I could. I found just being around the practice, interacting with the patients and seeing small animal and wildlife procedures eye-opening. The highlight for me in this project was being involved in resolving some human-wildlife conflict between a leopard, her three cubs and a local community. It was so interesting to see how the vet initially responded to the situation, by contacting the village representative. He was trying to gain an understanding of the situation before putting a plan into action. There were talks of euthanasia for the animals, and this would have been the easy alternative but it was admirable to see that the vet pushed for the best approach, which turned out to be rehoming the leopard and her cubs. It was amazing to be involved in this process. It was also fascinating to witness first hand some of the struggles that conservationists and vets face in South Africa, and how they worked through the situation to ultimately gain the best for the animals and their welfare. It’s not all hard work though - the social side of the projects is amazing too! From going to the pub to have a few pints in the evening, to having a day trip out in the Kruger National Park and even swimming under a waterfall! Those are just some of the sorts of excursions that I did which were absolutely fantastic. Besides the excursions being cool, the other volunteers at the projects with me were amazing. ACE throws you into a room of like-minded individuals who are also passionate about conservation and wildlife. So regardless of whether you are going on a bush walk or going to the pub, you are going to have such a fantastic time socialising with your fellow volunteers.

I recently had the privilege of spending two unforgettable weeks volunteering in Africa, all thanks to African Conservation Experience (ACE). I visited the Okavango Wilderness Project in Botswana, where I truly connected with the wilderness in a way I never imagined possible. Each day was filled with awe as I contributed to an array of different conservation efforts. Whether it was tracking wildlife through the bush or learning about the delicate balance of their habitats, the raw beauty of the Okavango Delta left me speechless. Being so close to nature in its purest form was nothing short of magical. What truly stood out to me was how well-organised everything was, from start to finish. ACE made sure I felt safe and supported every step of the way. I felt completely at ease, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the wild beauty around me. If you're passionate about wildlife and looking for a volunteer experience that will leave you changed forever, I can't recommend ACE enough.

My favourite thing about the veterinary experience was getting involved in the fieldwork. We got to take part in so many different procedures like drawing blood from a buffalo to test it for notifiable diseases, and we monitored the vital signs of a rhino whilst its microchip was checked and its horn was trimmed. It was just amazing to be out there experiencing things you usually only see on TV! Also, the vet experience is fully tailored to your level of confidence and ability. If you want to get involved in drawing blood or helping hold a sedated animal and the vet deems it safe, you can get a really hands-on experience. During my trip I was also fortunate enough to get to visit the Kruger National Park. It was amazing. Even the drive there was beautiful and I can’t even explain how brilliant the Kruger is. Everything I experienced here, from the amazing guide who took us, to seeing the animals in their natural habitats, is something I’ll never forget! Planning this trip through ACE was great, too. I’m the type of person who likes to know what I’m doing, when I’m doing it, how I’m getting there, and I loved that as soon as I had booked my trip the ACE team sent over my itinerary. Then you get so much more information closer to your trip too. It's super useful and I think ACE would be great for younger travellers too, whose parents want to know what they are doing and where they are going. All of the ACE staff are so knowledgeable! From the drivers in South Africa that will answer any questions you have about the scenery, culture, town and wildlife, to the people on the end of the phone who will help you in any way they can! I know I had a few concerns before booking my trip as there is so much misinformation online and you don’t want to be giving your money to unethical projects, but as soon as I spoke with the ACE staff they eased my concerns. ACE also have a really great Instagram that I would recommend you look at as you can see that there are real people at these projects. You can see all of the amazing things that they have done and it just gives you that extra sense of security. I also know that it can be scary as you are investing a lot into this, financially, but you can really see where your money is going. On top of that, the project staff are so obviously grateful to you for coming and helping out. They even go the extra mile for you. My whole experience has just been brilliant.

Travelling with African Conservation Experience (ACE) was an amazing opportunity where I got to experience lots of new and different things every day! We went on game drives to see amazing wildlife in its natural habitat and we got involved in a variety of reserve maintenance activities, like helping to clear roads from trees that elephants might have knocked over! I found that observing the animals in their natural habitat is the best way to learn about them and their behaviour. Being able to develop research skills such as how to tell them apart and recognise males and females at the same time really drove home the learning experience, too. Being out in the field was a real highlight for me and this experience will stick with me for years to come. Some of the most memorable experiences I had were while we were tracking animals on foot. We were fortunate enough to track a pack of wild dogs to their den site and six of their pups ran right by us! Our guide was fantastic. We learnt how to track rhinos on foot and put these skills into practice over several days. The pinnacle of this work was tracking a female with her calf through the bush. We managed to get so close we heard them communicating with each other, it was such a unique experience. Getting to see animals in the wild is incredible, but observing them while on foot and being face-to-face with them is just a completely different experience to being in a vehicle. As well as the rhinos we also got to see a huge herd of over 20 giraffes and a pride of six lions with a fresh buffalo kill. We were so close I could literally smell it! Every day offered something unique, whether it be an elephant moving past our camp in the evening or happening upon a pair of hyena by the side of the road. I made great friends with every single volunteer. Sitting around the fire with everyone laughing and talking together in the evenings was lovely. We were all just friends - the energy and vibes of everyone being together and getting along was really fun. I am going to keep in touch with my fellow volunteers through social media so that we can hopefully organise to travel again together in the future. Travelling with ACE was the smoothest travel experience I’ve ever had. They planned everything and there were never any bumps, from arriving at the airport to getting to the project and back again. There was always someone there to guide me which was super helpful, as even though I had travelled before, I was in an unfamiliar place. Once I arrived at the project too, all the staff were very friendly and welcoming. Around the Kruger itself there's a great variety of things to do. We went on several day trips to see more of the area surrounding the project base in addition to the volunteer work. We had a perfect amount of downtime. Eating lunch while watching the animals around the watering hole is the best way to relax. Overall, there is a good balance of getting your hands dirty, having the opportunity to learn, while also getting to relax and make lifelong friends!

During my time with African Conservation Experience (ACE), I volunteered at the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience for two weeks. Here I was able to observe and be involved with the care of a wide variety of different animals. I worked with smaller domesticated animals such as goats, dogs and cats, as well as some of the more iconic African species such as rhinos, wild dogs and buffalo. ACE tailor your trip to your level of experience and confidence which is amazing. I was able to help with the administration of medication and take samples which was a really great experience! My most memorable experience was probably working with a white rhino. I was taken aback by how big they are! We had to help this individual as they had wounds all over their body as they had been injured by a group of hyenas. We had to dart the rhino, clean the wounds, and administer antibiotics to prevent it from getting sick. It was great to be up close and personal with such a large, iconic animal. I also really enjoyed observing an arthroscopic surgery, a type of keyhole surgery, that was being carried out on a dog in the clinic. The vets had to operate to fix its broken leg. The procedure involved cutting off a small part of a bone in order to then reattach it in a way that would fix the injured leg. I’m really glad I was able to volunteer with ACE. I decided to volunteer at the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience because I wanted more experience in a veterinary clinic and to work with different wildlife. I first found out about the project through my friend who had volunteered here. She recommended it to me, not just for the work, but also for the amazing people that she got to interact with. I think this experience has helped me with my future career! It has given me a real insight into veterinary work and the different things that the vets have to deal with. Before this trip, I was most interested in avian veterinary work and I wanted to specialise in birds, but this has really opened my eyes. It has given me a really good idea of the work that a wildlife vet does and what you can expect day-to-day. I am now super interested in following in their footsteps and becoming a wildlife vet. This experience has completely changed my life!

During my time with African Conservation Experience, I visited Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. This was an incredible experience as I had the chance to work and spend time with a bunch of different animals. One of the most memorable animals that I was able to work with was a baby hippo! That was a really special experience. I also helped look after the lions and cheetahs every day and that is something that I never thought I would be able to say! I think it's an experience that you wouldn’t get anywhere else. I loved my time at Moholoholo so much that I extended my stay from two weeks to one month! Because of this, I was able to help out with a very special case at the centre where I got to be the sole volunteer responsible for that animal. I learnt so much from the staff in my time there and it felt great they trusted me with this responsibility. Another thing I loved about Moholoholo was that I felt like I had worked hard at the end of each day and all for a good reason. The animals are being looked after because of you. It's clear that without the funding from the volunteers, and the extra pairs of hands that you are providing, the work and care for the animals wouldn’t be happening. Things like their enclosures getting repaired and the food that they eat wouldn’t be possible without the volunteers, so you feel like you are making a difference. It’s great seeing animals in the wild and it's very special, but being able to work up close with animals that you wouldn’t ever think that you would be up close with is really amazing. Seeing first-hand the amount of care and attention that the team give to each animal and how tirelessly they work is extraordinary. Being part of this team was phenomenal!

It's almost 3 weeks since l returned from South Africa where l spent a week at The Rhino Orphanage & what a week it was. From the initial booking to when l got home again it was nothing but " The Animal Experience of a Lifetime ! ". With Rhino being my favourite animal this was always going to be a huge huge deal to me & ACE did not disappoint!!! From being met by a very welcoming & friendly ACE Rep at Johannesburg Intl Airport, to our driver who drove us to the meet point where we got picked up by The Rhino Orphanage staff, who then took us to TRO, it really put you at ease being in a very well worked & organised procedure ... I could sit back & relax & think about all the joy that was to come! The Rhino Orphanage itself l was delighted with as it was practically in the middle of nowhere which is what l had been told, the further out in the bush & plains away from civilisation for me, meant nearer to the jungle & animals & that's exactly what l has asked for & got! The time at TRO is very hands-on, but what a joy at the same time as you really do get to work closely with the Rhino & the dedicated staff who look after them, not forgetting bonding with the other volunteers. There is something very beautiful about getting up at 5:15 am when it's pitch black, getting a cup of tea & then mixing up the milk formula for the baby Rhino for their 6 am feed, it's deeply satisfying! Thank you ACE, thank you so so much!!! Looking forward to going back next year!!!

It was perfect! I’m from a non-English native-speaking country, and I felt that it was so easy to understand everything. The experience in itself was just amazing!! The staff were phenomenal at their work and very good at teaching. Another amazing thing I loved about ACE was that they made it so personal. They make the trip exactly like you want to, and then they also keep making sure you have a good experience throughout the trip. They even remember all your great stories even though they have so many people through every week. So BIG BIG recommendation from me and I will be back with ACE if I will have money and time again.

The person that I was before coming here, is the same person that I left behind. Everything that came with me came back magnified. The main motivation for my trip was definitely to give back my time and give back my efforts to conservation and wildlife. I wanted to experience the data collection and to understand how this data collection can actually help conservation. I expected to get my hands dirty, do the data collection and see my time coming back into tangible research. I had great experiences and it is so interesting and heartwarming to see your work coming back to South Africa, Botswana, and African conservation. The highlights of this experience were definitely living with the locals and spending time understanding how they live and how they coexist with this wildlife. Also spending time and getting to know other volunteers and other people who are like-minded and share the same experience. I have achieved a greater understanding of the situation of wildlife in Botswana, and especially a greater understanding of the need for organisations like ACE, to work cooperatively with locals, towards the conservation of this space. I have brought home even more questions than I had to begin with, and I think that’s now my homework to go after them and answer them by myself.

ACE made my trip so much easier. It was my first time out of the country and traveling alone I was super nervous but they really made it stress free. Every detail I most likely wouldn’t have thought of ACE handled such as the small travels to and from places, they helped me set up a hotel that had travel to and from the airport. When I thought I was lost in the airport I made a quick call to them and they helped me find the right way. Truly made the experience so much better because of their support. Thank you so much ACE! I went to Moholoholo for my Conservation experience and it was absolutely amazing being hands-on and helping staff care for these amazing animals.

I’ve always wanted to take a meaningful trip to Southern Africa. When I came across African Conservation Experience (ACE), I knew they were the right company for my adventure. When you first contact ACE, you will speak with a wonderful consultant who will talk to you about your goals so that they can help you choose the perfect project. They even connected me with a previous volunteer so that I could hear about their experience, which was incredibly helpful! Upon arrival in South Africa, you're greeted at the airport by an ACE representative and you get to meet other volunteers right away. I always felt supported and safe with ACE, and they were always available to answer any questions, no matter how small, both before and during my trip. The days at Phinda were filled with game drives and observing animals in their natural habitat. During my time at Phinda, I observed over 85 different species! There were giraffes, zebra, rhinos, elephants, lions, waterbuck, buffalo, geckos, and Nile crocodiles amongst so many others! Spotting big animals like rhinos and elephants sometimes was a challenge, however, that made it even more thrilling when one did appear. Our guide was a keen birder, and we identified over 40 bird species during my one-week stay, including a martial eagle and a malachite kingfisher. Even when spotting larger animals was proving difficult, we entertained ourselves by guessing bird weights. At Phinda, we also identified and recorded data on animals. I had the unforgettable experience of tracking a pangolin, which is one of the most elusive animals in Africa. I formed a great friendship with two other wonderful volunteers and we spent our downtime chatting and cooking together. We even had two braai’s (a South African style barbeque), adding to the fun. My time in South Africa was incredible, filled with amazing people and unforgettable animal encounters. Highlights included finding and following a pangolin at Phinda and seeing a Bateleur eagle in the wild! If you’re considering a project like this, go for it! Approach it with an open mind and a can-do attitude. Say “yes” and ask “how can I help?” to everything. You’ll feel the importance of your contribution and the difference you make. I loved every minute of my time in South Africa and am already planning to return for more projects!

ACE has been incredible from the start, from booking to travelling between projects. The phone call before booking is really important as it allows the team to figure out which projects are the perfect fit for you, and they explain what you will be doing for each project. You feel supported every step of the way. I was particularly impressed with our guided tour through Johannesburg airport. Like any new airport, it's a little worrying trying to navigate through it. However, with ACE, you are picked up at the gate, taken to a restaurant where you have a lovely chat with the team, and then taken to your next transfer. All concerns are removed! During my time at Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience, I had a wonderful trip filled with various activities such as wildlife research, bush clearing, and wildfire protection. It was hard work, but also very educational. We had the chance to see many animals, but the most memorable day was the second Wednesday of our trip. We were headed out for a morning of habitat restoration when a neighbour radioed to inform us that a cheetah had killed an impala. We were able to witness the cheetah eating the impala, which was a very cool experience! I came to understand the value of my role as a volunteer in Kruger because I spent every day in the bush collecting valuable conservation data. This could include basic information such as the number and species of animals seen, as well as their gender. We also gathered environmental data, such as visibility, and behavioural data, including whether the animals seemed startled by our presence or were behaving normally. All of this information was logged into a database, which in turn helped management understand the location and well-being of the wildlife. Our data played a crucial role in making decisions, such as determining whether additional water holes were needed due to a drought, or if more camera traps were necessary to cover blind spots. Afterwards, we headed back to camp, where we saw many elephants. It was so peaceful just sitting there and watching them for a few minutes. Just as we were about to enter the camp, we saw a buffalo that had been hurt by lions walking very slowly towards the riverbed. Then, out of nowhere, eight lions came out of the bush, following its tracks. My guide and I jumped into the car and went to the riverbed, where we saw the buffalo being killed. It was such an amazing experience, one I won't forget. We were very close, less than 100 metres away when we saw it. It was like watching National Geographic in front of us. Two days after the lion had killed the buffalo, we decided to go down to the riverbed to see if there were any more lions around. Suddenly, a big male lion roared at us from about 30 metres away. It was the first time a lion had roared at me. It was very surreal and a little scary! If you're considering volunteering at Viklea, it's a fantastic project to be a part of. You'll have the opportunity to take part in physical conservation work, such as habitat restoration, and also go out on game drives where you get to see a wide variety of wildlife. The bush walks allow you to explore the area amongst the wildlife. The night drives are particularly remarkable; going out at night with a flashlight to catch the reflection of animals' eyes is a beautiful experience. You’ll encounter different animals, as many species are nocturnal.

I had an amazing experience volunteering for six weeks at the Phinda Wildlife Research Project with African Conservation Experience. During my time there, I had the opportunity to work closely with a variety of species in the field, including rhinos, cheetahs, and many other animals. This experience provided me with a unique opportunity to learn about conservation and reserve management from local professionals. Some highlights of my trip included participating in management activities such as a rhino horn trimming procedure (an effective anti-poaching strategy) and collaring a cheetah! My trip with ACE was very interesting, as it allowed me to learn about the different types of habitats at Phinda. I developed a new keen interest in the sand forests, and the frequent encounters with wildlife at Phinda were very special. Being able to contribute to conserving the habitats and lives of these animals was amazing. I highly recommend volunteering for this project and with ACE! I am looking forward to returning in the future.

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I had to volunteer in southern Africa, and I want to give special thanks to African Conservation Experience for being amazing. My time with ACE has been truly life-changing. I was in a dark place, and my experience in Africa has brought a whole new light into my life. It has shown me how amazing our world is and made me realise that we can save it as long as enough people can see conservation's importance. I don't know if I can even put into words how important my time at Moholoholo was. For those of us who are compassionate about conservation and wildlife, it's such a powerful and emotional project to be a part of. Being a small part of an animal's rehabilitation and helping them survive and get back out into the wild, there are no words to describe it. The dedication that the Moholoholo staff showed every day, through their diligence and hard work for the animals in their care was inspiring. A typical day at Moholoholo is quite diverse. We work six or seven days a week, starting at 6:30 in the morning. We begin by checking on the specific animals that have been assigned to you and your group, making sure they are healthy, eating well, and maintaining a good weight. We also clean their enclosures to ensure they have a clean place to rest. In the afternoon or late morning, we regroup and take care of any additional tasks that have come up during the day. We try to rotate tasks to give everyone a variety of experiences, but if someone is particularly interested in working with a specific animal or in a certain area, they will usually get a chance to do so. After our lunch and free time, we go out for afternoon rounds, where most of the larger animals like the big cats get fed. It's a fulfilling feeling, despite the hard work, to know that what we're doing means something. One of the most memorable aspects of my experience was the connections and respect I formed with the animals. I developed strong relationships with the staff at the project, but it was the bonds I created with the animals that stood out the most. I had an amazing experience volunteering with ACE and would do it again in a heartbeat. They were incredibly organised, and there was always someone available to assist me at every step. I felt fully supported, whether it was through in-person assistance or easily reaching them by message or phone. They guided us through everything and answered all our questions - I never felt lost. Before volunteering, I did a lot of research into other companies and the ethics of volunteering. I can honestly say ACE truly exceeded my expectations.

The entire trip was fantastic with not a moment of negativity. From my first communications with the African Conservation Experience (ACE) team; they were responsive, clear, and detailed to make the travel arrangements stress-free. Upon arrival, our transfer from Johannesburg Airport to the partnered hotel was straightforward. We found the accommodations at the hotel to be very pleasant and clean, and the meals were tasty. We even met some of the other ACE travellers that night, which was enjoyable. ACE organised for us to do an excursion before our volunteer trip even started, where we got to see some of Johannesburg and the green spaces in the city, and it was a great way to start our conservation experience. It was interesting to see the reserve ecosystem so vibrant in the middle of urban sprawl. Our transfers from Johannesburg to the Phinda Wildlife Research Project were flawless. The flight from Johannesburg to Durban Airport was quick and easy. The road transfer from Durban might have been long but it was extremely interesting to see the South African countryside and the people along the way. The volunteer experience at Phinda was top-notch. The volunteer house was very comfortable, and the choice of food supplied was even better than we thought both in terms of variety and quantity. We have been to two other volunteer experiences previously which were not nearly as clean and comfortable as Phinda. It was amazing to have hot water, a nice private bathroom, air conditioning, and a daily housekeeper! That was not expected and greatly appreciated! Our twice-daily jeep excursions to monitor wildlife around the reserve led by the Phinda team were incredibly interesting and entertaining. The wildlife we consistently encountered was frequent and fascinating. We learned so much about the wildlife, habitat, and the ecosystem! We were able to participate in tracking the recently released cheetahs from Namibia, trim the horn of a rhino, and observe lion matings. All memorable experiences. As a keen photographer, I was able to get some brilliant footage throughout my time around the daily volunteer work. I definitely would have been happy to stay at Phinda as a volunteer for longer and was sad when our time there came to an end. I appreciated the enthusiasm of all the monitors, guides, staff and other ACE volunteers that we were lucky to meet. Just a tremendous experience! ACE was fantastic in coordinating our itinerary and transfers throughout our experience even organising everything for our next stop, &Beyond’s Serengeti Under Canvas in Tanzania. Thank you for the great, great, great experience in South Africa and Tanzania and I would not hesitate to travel through the African Conservation Experience again. In fact, I’m looking at the Okavango Wilderness Project in Botswana as a possibility for next year. We hold ACE’s recommendations in high regard, and any chance to replicate our wonderful time at Phinda would be perfect!

I had an amazing time volunteering for the Okavango Wilderness Project in Botswana. The African Conservation Experience was well organized, and the time I spent in the African bush was very authentic. I do a lot of adventure travelling and this journey was one of my favorites. I learned a lot, I saw a lot, and I left with a full heart. I will never let go of the moment when I saw the wild dogs. It was fantastic!

Myself and my granddaughter had a thoroughly enjoyable time volunteering with ACE. We both learned and contributed in our time in Botswana. The organisation of the company is fantastic. We were met at every stage of our trip by either Martin or a representative from ACE. My thirteen-year-old granddaughter has grown immensely in confidence, she mixed with other nationalities and ages and embraced all she did and that was required from her. I thoroughly recommend African Conservation Experience and as a 70 this year grandma, I can't recommend enough that if you are considering volunteering with ACE - do it!!

I spent two weeks with the Okavango Delta project and it was amazing! It was great to see how the project is run, be a part of collecting the data on the wildlife we saw, and meet with the ecologist to hear how the data is used and about wildlife management in the area. You will have a chance to see amazing wildlife while being part of an important project. The project team was great - helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. I am already looking at the other projects with ACE and when I may be able to go back.

African Conservation Experience made possible and helped to navigate me through one of the most interesting journeys in my life - from my day to day job in front of the computer screen to a wildlife rehabilitation centre, Moholoholo. Not only did the crew personally ensure the trip was safe, they've also shared some in-depth knowledge about life in South Africa: its' wonders, as well as the complex difficulties around it. Working with animals and learning from the clinic staff has been an inspiration (and hard work of course, but the kind that feels very right). The environment that consists of nature, animals and people with golden hearts can do wonderful things. To anyone considering becoming a volunteer through ACE - this can be a life changing individual experience, but it may also motive you to continue your wildlife education and open up new opportunities ahead of you. I'm happy to recommend ACE as a professional guide for volunteers.

We decided to join The Okavango Wilderness Project because we have always wanted to visit this area and see the Delta. It has been our favourite location in any documentary series, and we have done a lot of research on the area. The biodiversity and uniqueness of it being an inland river delta that does not flow anywhere else except the Kalahari is so interesting. We have always thought it was breathtakingly beautiful and we wanted to experience it for ourselves. The campsite at the project is lovely. We expected a basic dome tent with only a sleeping bag, but we were thrilled to find a wonderful safari tent with a comfortable mattress, blankets, and a pillow. Moreover, each tent has its own chemical toilet, which comes in handy if you're afraid to walk to the bathroom at night. There are chairs and tables on the porch, so you can relax in front of your tent in the evenings and take in the beautiful surroundings. The campsite has a shower and toilet block, hot running water, and a fully equipped kitchen and living room - what more could you want? Our favourite spot was the fire pit, where the volunteer team would gather around in the evenings to talk about the day. Each day of the project was so different. It would usually start bright and early with breakfast consisting of cereals, fruits, bread, tea, and coffee. Then out on the morning drive, where we would search for wildlife to monitor and collect data on. With carnivores, we would identify their tracks and document them using a Cybertracker program. We used a rangefinder to identify the distance of the animals from our car, and we would record information such as species, gender, age, environmental factors, and number of individuals. All the data we collected went to Dr. Winterbach for his research on wildlife conservation and policy changes, which is really important in this region. After the morning rounds, we would relax at the camp for a few hours before the evening drive. This was because the wildlife was mostly active during the morning and night. Some days, we started as early as 5am to increase our chances of seeing the predators instead of just their tracks. We saw caracal and hyenas on those days, making it very worthwhile. Other days, we had lunch on the road, as we were out on tracks all day. It was exciting to see the mammals, but also the birds and plants, as the team were very knowledgeable about all living things in the area. They wanted us to understand how plant life impacted the ecosystem and was all connected. Tracking was our favourite part of the project because of how in-depth and beautiful the science was. Every day was different and exciting, with something new to learn and discover. One of the highlights of my trip was when I witnessed a lion killing a zebra. It was a mixed emotional experience because I had been watching the zebra herd for a little while, and I think they are wonderful animals. Suddenly, they started running! Then I saw a lioness take off and I was in awe. I did not even know she was lying there. It was like watching National Geographic live in front of the vehicle and I didn't know how to process it. Eventually, the lioness killed the zebra. I was happy for the lion to get a meal but sad for the zebra. Witnessing such a natural occurrence reminded me of how unpredictable nature can be. Another memorable experience was when we were overnighting at the mobile camp and heard lions roaring in the morning. The team quickly got into a truck and drove towards the sound. Here I saw two male lions talking to each other, and taking over the pride! One of the female lions ran away in the opposite direction, while the second one was hesitant to leave. Our guide thought that the second lioness might have cubs nearby and was trying to lure the males away to protect them. The two new male lions then invaded the territory and chased the females away. It was a surreal moment to witness the interaction between the same species that you only read or hear about. A few days later, we saw a vastly different behaviour within the same species! There was another pride of lions enjoying themselves on a zebra carcass. There were males and females, all intermingled and completely at ease with each other. We loved watching a baby elephant that couldn't use its trunk yet. It was around three months at the water hole with its family. It kept coming out of his mom's legs and pretending to charge at us. A very spicy little one! The sightings at this project were unbelievable, resulting in a very long list! We had the incredible opportunity to see lions multiple times, which was truly amazing! We also observed and collected interesting data on the giraffes in this region. As expected, we saw hundreds of elephants, which is unsurprising due to their abundance in Botswana. During our stay at the campout site, we were fortunate to be near a watering hole where we witnessed hundreds of elephants coming and going. It was an incredible sight to see family units of 20+ individuals enjoying themselves, drinking, bathing, and keeping cool. We encountered various species of ungulates such as duiker, impalas, sables, oryx, eland, waterbuck, reedbuck, roan antelope, and zebras. Primate sightings were also a nice surprise! Particularly vervet monkeys which were everywhere. They were quite cheeky and got into the garbage at our campsite, causing a bit of a commotion. I was thrilled to spot crocodiles and hippos, which were a regular sight, with 30 to 40 hippos in the water at times. The bird species we saw were truly incredible! The lilac-breasted roller is now our favourite. We were lucky enough to spot about four or five secretary birds, which the team informed us were quite rare. Every day we observed a new species, making it an unforgettable experience. Our tip for The Okavango Project is to put some money to the side for the optional excursions offered. We went on the Mokoro (canoe through the waterways) and the aerial flight over the delta, which were fantastic value for money. When you take a flight up and over the region, you get to see everything in person with your own eyes, it goes right to your core. It's everything you've ever wanted. The Mokoro cruise is nice and relaxing, after hours on the dirt track. On the water, you gain so much knowledge of life within the floodplains and the history of the bush, local communities, and the animals. It gives you such an understanding of Botswana’s culture and its relationship with wildlife. We even saw an elephant in the water, and one of the guides made a noise to make it go away, and it did. We passed by, and then the elephant came back and started eating again - truly unforgettable! African Conservation Experience was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made. The ACE team took care of us through the entire process and they are incredible people. I cannot say enough about the Okavango and the project staff. If you are looking for an unforgettable volunteer experience, you need not look any further. This experience has made us better people and taught us so much. It's only when you meet the people who live there and hear about their experiences and struggles that you start to gain a deeper understanding.

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is a dream place to be. I had the most wonderful experience, volunteering here for two weeks. The staff made me feel at home and welcomed me from the very first day with open arms. They gave me the chance to work with the very diverse wildlife that they rehabilitate there. The staff at Moholoholo were very trusting of the ACE volunteers and wanted to include us in every single activity that they were doing. They went above and beyond to create meaningful and unforgettable wildlife experiences. I even got to participate in vaccinations and babysit the orphaned wildlife that was coming in through the door. A highlight was bottle-feeding the baby bushbaby! As a volunteer, you felt like you were having a real impact on those animals' lives. The work at Moholoholo can be a challenging experience. You may find yourself doing things you never thought you would, such as prepping vulture food, cleaning bird enclosures, and cleaning up after lions and leopards. However, at the same time, it is an incredibly rewarding experience. You will work alongside like-minded individuals who are all collaborating towards the same goal of giving these animals a better life. While also spreading the word about animal conservation to the thousands of visitors that they receive every year. I can only recommend going to Moholoholo and experiencing it for yourself because it's going to make a difference in how you see things. It's going to bring many new exciting experiences into your life, and you're going to grow a lot through the stay! You will be surrounded by amazing wildlife and really admirable people.

No words can truly describe the experience I had at Phinda through ACE. My time in South Africa was nothing short of phenomenal! And I couldn’t have done it so smoothly without ACE. They were present every step of the way, from the moment I enquired about the project, until the very end, being sent off through security at the airport to return from Africa. The difference between ACE and all the other companies is that ACE is physically there with you on-site when you need it. A big shoutout to one of the ACE reps, Martin, who was amazing! He greeted me when I arrived at the airport, and escorted me to my next transfer — he was there to ensure that everything ran smoothly for me and I didn’t need to worry about a thing. He is extremely knowledgeable on African wildlife conservation and all the projects that ACE work with. I thoroughly enjoyed the conversations I had with Martin and I learnt so much about African wildlife, the issues we’re facing, and what we can do to help. ACE works with truly ethical projects that are passionate about conserving the beautiful wildlife of Africa. My experience has left me with a yearning to do more, and I know I will be back!

After consulting with the ACE team, they suggested that I choose the Phinda Wildlife Research Project. This project offers a hands-on and behind-the-scenes look at conservation, which is a more insightful way to experience wildlife than being a guest on a safari. It also provides an opportunity to understand how this incredible wildlife is managed and protected, and the work that goes on around it. Every day at Phinda, we would start around 5:30 am. Once we got into the vehicle, the staff would give us a briefing on the day's purpose and the tasks that we would be doing on the drive. A big part of my job here was to track a particular cheetah that had recently been released and search for a pangolin that had moved burrow. We would also stop and record data for any priority wildlife, such as rhinos, along the way. Once we had completed our main objective, we would move on to other tasks. This allowed us to cover huge areas of the reserve, which was lovely. We would return to camp at around 10:00 am and spend a few hours relaxing due to the heat, before going out again around 4:30 pm. We would then return to camp around sunset or just after. Our days were varied, which made them exciting! Phinda’s wildlife is incredible, in just a week I saw: rhinos, rhino calves, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, elephants, lions, lots of different birds, crocodiles, buffalo, wildebeest, impalas, nyala, hyenas, zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, warthogs, bush pig, genet, tortoise, monkeys, and baboons. There were so many more that I can't even remember them all! We even saw the elusive Pangolin on camera traps! I have two amazing memories from my time at Phinda. On my first evening, we were tracking elephants and we came across an enormous herd — there were so many of them. The male elephants were fighting in the bushes, and it was fascinating to see how they interacted with each other, and how this behaviour affected the herd. On our way back to the camp, after watching the elephants, it was dark and we spotted a leopard. Seeing a leopard is a rare sight, so we stopped to take a closer look. Leopards are usually skittish, but it stopped, and then walked closer to us and laid down. It was an incredible experience and a great way to start my trip. Volunteering at Phinda offers better value for money than being a safari guest. You get to be hands-on while also getting a better understanding of the animals and actively contributing to their conservation. I know many safari guests who returned to Phinda to volunteer, which speaks to the value of the experience. The living area at Phinda is lovely. There's a comfortable lounge, a spacious kitchen, and a veranda. It's set in a fenced-off area in the middle of the reserve, so during daylight hours you can wander around the garden and look out into the reserve and see some wildlife. You might even be surrounded by wildlife within the garden, such as nyala, impala, and warthogs all grazing. This was a beautiful sight and calming after an early morning of work. We also had a great time cooking for each other! Phinda provided loads of food, and even ordered fish in for me as I don't eat meat! I have learned a lot during my short stay at Phinda. For instance, I've come to appreciate the importance of balance in wildlife management, particularly in a reserve with a high wildlife density that's close to the local community. I now understand how they've managed to make it beneficial for both the conservation aspect and the communities that live here. Additionally, I gained a first-hand understanding of the amount of effort and time that goes into monitoring different species to ensure they remain healthy and genetically viable.

When I decided I wanted to volunteer I did months of research. I kept coming back to ACE, and I'm thrilled I did! They spent time to help me find a program that was best suited to my interests, they sent emails as my volunteer date got closer with valuable information. Once in Africa, they supported me throughout the transition from landing to my destination. While volunteering they even checked in with me to see how my experience was going! I was extremely satisfied with everything and if I ever volunteer again it will only be with the African Conservation Experience team! XO Bridget

My time with African Conservation Experience surpassed my expectations in many ways. While I was volunteering in South Africa I gained many new ideas and experienced inspiration and encouragement to start working on some of my own projects. I am still getting energy from the countless fascinating moments working so closely with nature and wildlife. I was well taken care of by ACE and did not have to worry about anything. The ACE team were reachable for all questions before my trip and while I was volunteering. I was so impressed with how organised they were, from their transfers to the lovely welcome you receive when you touch down in-country. I volunteered at Phinda Wildlife Research Project. Phinda’s accommodations are beautiful, you are based in a camp in the middle of the wild. I can assure you, you will have a great time staying here. I loved watching the amazing sunrises while brushing my teeth in the morning and spotting animals around the camp during downtime. One night we even had lions next to our camp by the fence! I never got bored in the break between our drives through the bush. In our downtime, I got to explore the camp, research what I had learned during the day, or spend time socialising with the other volunteers. Meeting new people here was such a surprising benefit. It was great to see how different you can be from the other volunteers, but still have something in common that binds you all. I met really interesting people that I’m still in contact with to this day. The conservationists and professionals in the reserve were so friendly and open. They are very passionate about their mission and gladly share their knowledge. I asked a lot of questions, therefore, I learned a lot and got to understand exactly how I was helping. There are plenty of opportunities to learn, get an understanding of how things work, meet incredible people, get in touch with nature, and have breathtaking moments with the wildlife. As with everything in life, the experience is what you make of it. For me, it was a very inspirational time and I'm very thankful to ACE and hope to do it again soon.

I decided to volunteer with ACE to the Phinda Project to help me with my college course and to gain hands-on experience in wildlife conservation. My time there was the most incredible six weeks filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and amazing people! It was truly unforgettable. During my time at Phinda, I was involved in contributing to ongoing research into the long-term effects of contraception on elephants. Each day we were tracking different elephant herds across the reserve using telemetry which received signals from the matriarch's radio collar. We would observe the elephant herds and once they had moved on, we collected samples of dung so that they could be tested. I also got to observe four elephant captures where the team changed radio collars and collected blood, hair and skin samples for genetic analysis. During my experience, I got to observe some of the management practices that occur at Phinda, including two black rhino horn trimmings. The procedures involved collecting skin, hair, and blood samples, and microchipping the rhino. Their health was also evaluated and any necessary treatments were administered. I was also lucky enough to watch a rhino calf receive his ear notches - which is done so that it can be identified in the future. Another management practice I was involved with, was the treatment of an injured male cheetah. The cheetah had broken a toe, which the vet decided they had to amputate. I got to witness the procedure and assisted with the weighing and measuring of the cheetah. It was truly a privilege to work with the amazing team at Phinda. They were so inspiring, dedicated and willing to share their knowledge with volunteers. It was amazing to experience wildlife conservation in action whilst being able to make a meaningful contribution. My fellow volunteers also made this experience so incredible, with memories that will last a lifetime. My time at Phinda was nothing short of extraordinary, filled with diverse experiences that enriched both my professional and personal growth. I am so grateful for the ACE team. They were there for me at every step of the trip. This gave me peace of mind as they took care of everything, from organising internal transfers to greeting me at the airport but also reassuring me and answering any questions I had!

I had always dreamed about coming to Africa ever since I was a child. It was something I wanted to do so that I could learn all about the animals and the people who live there. I did not think I could achieve this dream, but last year somebody I know told me, “you can do anything”. This really hit home for me and made me realise that I can do anything! After that conversation, I started researching different conservation projects, and this is when I found ACE, so I decided to contact them. They were quick to respond and made me feel comfortable throughout the process, so I chose to volunteer with them. Everything during my experience was a highlight! I had no expectations going into this trip; everything was incredible. It was the animals and the people that made it special, and it felt like every day was the new best day of my life. My first day was amazing, but every day got better and better. Each day was different; the people were wonderful, and the sightings were great. It was all amazing - it was all perfect for me! When I returned to Johannesburg, I told the ACE team, “I must look different because I feel different”. The week at the Okavango Wilderness Project changed my life and my perspectives on nature. For example, I saw a lioness hunt a buffalo calf, and in the past, that would have just broken me! However, by witnessing that, I was filled with different emotions. This was not because I was becoming cold but because my heart, mind, and soul broadened perspectives. Everything impacted me while there, and I have grown as a person. I would advise volunteers considering joining the Okavango project to do it and do it scared! I was terrified as I had never camped before. I was always too scared to even camp in my own backyard! I went on the trip without expectations, and being terrified made me come out braver, stronger, and wiser. If you want to change your life, this is the project to do.

I looked at many different providers and projects, and I felt that African Conservation Experience (ACE) worked with a small number of projects rather than offering opportunities worldwide. It felt like ACE knew Africa and really cared about projects that it worked with, which definitely turned out to be the case! My journey from application to arrival in the country was pretty swift because I switched to a new team in July and travelled in August. So it was only really a month from inquiring to arriving. I spoke to a member of ACE’s team and they were brilliant and really helpful. They answered every question I had. I think I spoke to them for about two hours in total about different projects. They clearly explained why they recommended them, and what my experience would be like. This gave me a lot of confidence to book. At Phinda I had so many incredible experiences, but the main highlight of my whole trip where I got to see a rhino capture and the trimming of its horn. For me, this was such a bittersweet moment because it's a reminder of the impact of poaching, that we have to remove the horn of such an iconic animal just to keep it safe. It was one of many influential lessons from my experience! I really wanted to work on a project that wasn't just about tourism, with a facade of conservation, and ACEs projects fulfilled what I was looking for. I can't recommend them and ACE highly enough.

The choice to join The Vikela Kruger Experience was an easy one. ACE’s website provided a clear overview of the available projects, and I knew I wanted something adventurous. After my first conversation with a member of the ACE team, who guided me through the options, I was recommended some that would suit my interests. They were spot on, and it was the perfect fit for me. It gave me that adventurous feel with bushwalks and a chance to be out and about in the wild. My journey has been full of incredible highlights. I've been lucky enough to see rhinos and even a caracal in daylight. Seeing a caracal out in the daytime was even a first for our ranger. The Blyde River Canyon stands out as it is such a beautiful place, and it is the biggest green canyon in the world. The people I've met during this experience have been amazing, and we all had similar interests making it very easy to connect. Sitting around the campfire after a day of work was a great way to form new friendships. This journey has been a really big personal achievement, as it is my first solo travel outside of Europe. I also have felt I have made a significant contribution to conservation efforts. I learnt all about how my physical help is going into conservation initiatives, and also the rangers explained the simple way we protect as our presence in an area deters poachers. I've been involved in various tasks that helped preserve the environment as well, like taking fences out and clearing roads. It's a truly unforgettable experience that not many people my age back home have had. To future volunteers considering ACE, I would say, definitely go for it! Don’t be hesitant if you are worried about things like travelling solo, it is not a problem at all. You will meet lots of people out here, and they are all in the same position. ACE also makes sure you feel supported. I have gained a huge amount of knowledge about tracking, wildlife, and the bush, thanks to the amazing guides I've had. They are incredible, I have never met anyone like it! They know everything, they can see a bird 100 metres away or even just hear its faint call and will be like “That's the American Green Wood Pigeon” and then two seconds later it flies past. Working with them and being out in the bush has made me a lot more passionate about conservation, and possibly my future plans.

I have always wanted to visit Africa, and South Africa specifically for quite a few years. This is mainly due to the wildlife, food, and culture over there that I find really interesting. I looked at some different conservation projects and companies before looking into African Conservation Experience (ACE). However, ACE was the one that had the most recognition, affiliations, and understanding of what needed to be done in conservation. From my research, it was clear that the money that was being spent was going to the right places, so it gave me the confidence that the experience would be something that I was looking for. From the initial application process to arriving in South Africa, it was not long at all. I booked it within two weeks before getting on my flight, so it was an efficient turnaround from the ACE team. I had an hour-long call with a member of the team, and they gave me great insight and guided me toward the most suitable project for me. They really did an amazing job, and were so patient as I needed some time to look over all of the information before booking. In terms of travelling in a new country, with ACE you know that you're very well looked after. From the beginning through to the end, you are met at all of the transit points. The only travelling that took a long time was the international flight; after that, you are supported every second! I always knew exactly where I was going, and I never felt like I was on my own. The Kruger Project really fulfilled my expectations! You can tell that there's so much to be done, and I think I saw pretty much everything that I'd hoped to and more. The experiences surpassed my expectations for sure. At Kruger, I worked with a very experienced ranger and their awesome dog Letta, who was a Belgian Malinois. Letta was extremely professional just like her owner. I really got to see the intricacies and requirements of doing conservation out in the field. We had a few rare sightings, including two Honey Badgers, which one of the staff who have worked there hadn't seen for over 20 years in the wild! Honestly, there was a highlight each day in the sense that you're experiencing new things and learning in far greater detail than you could imagine.

I have travelled to Africa solo before, so I was excited about the prospect of travelling with a friend this time around. Unfortunately, they were unable to make it last minute. However, I was not worried as I knew African Conservation Experience (ACE) was going to be incredibly supportive. I was greeted at the airport arriving and departing and at each transportation facility. I have never experienced this level of support before while travelling and I felt that it was very considerate to be met on arrival. It also allowed me to learn wonderful things from the in-country ACE team and meet the other ACE volunteers who were coming and going that day too. The people I volunteered with at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre were all wonderful and from different backgrounds and ages. From this, I was able to experience new things and broaden my knowledge of Africa from different perspectives. Moholoholo was up close and personal work caring for a variety of animals, an opportunity I never dreamed I would experience. There is always so much to learn and maybe some people think travelling solo at 78 is brave, but age is just a number! If you still feel young at heart volunteering is for you. Mind over matter. I do not think I came across a single activity while volunteering that I did not feel comfortable joining in. There is something magically magnetic about Africa that keeps drawing me back year after year. I feel that ACE was an incredibly supportive company to work with, and I would not hesitate to work with them again. I'm looking forward to hopefully travelling with ACE next year.

Will be eternally grateful for the experience of a lifetime - from the first phone call with an adviser to Martin meeting you at the airport both sides; a first-rate service. As an individual, you're matched with a centre to suit your interests, aims and experience: my time at Moholoholo Conservation Centre will stay with me forever. Thank you, ACE!

Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience, a program offered by African Conservation Experience (ACE). Over two weeks, I was involved in a huge amount of wildlife veterinary work, gaining hands-on experience with many different species. I worked closely with white rhinos, various antelope species (including an eland – Africa's largest antelope), kudu, nyala, Impala, and sable antelope. We also worked with buffalo numerous times. Aside from the wildlife work, I gained experience with a wide variety of livestock including sheep, goats, cattle, and horses. In the small animal practice, I assisted with dogs and cats. I would say about 95% of the time we were out in the field doing wildlife work. It was far more than I ever expected. Due to where I am at in my studies I was trusted with some extra responsibilities. I performed full reversals on several darted wildlife, including buffalo and antelope. I participated in the recovery and monitoring of rhinos and took blood samples from various species. I was also able to administer anti-parasite medications, inject necessary drugs, and provide vitamin supplementation. I feel incredibly proud that I was of genuine use and value. I felt like a member of the staff. A highlight was doing blood work on rhinos to support conservation-related reproduction projects. We took blood samples to measure testosterone levels in a bull and did a pregnancy check on a cow. It’s notoriously difficult to know how far a rhino cow is in her pregnancy without doing a sonar/ physical check. So, this was an amazing experience! I also administered numerous vaccinations to horses, livestock, and some dogs and cats in the clinic. I witnessed various surgical procedures, including assisting in a dog eyelid surgery and observing an abdominal exploratory surgery for a suspected bowel obstruction in a dog. One entirely new experience was assisting in the treatment of a dog bitten by a Mozambique spitting cobra. This exposure to a wide variety of clinical cases and procedures was invaluable. Throughout my time in South Africa, I observed the similarities and the significant differences in veterinary treatments compared to the USA. It was not a matter of one being better than the other, but rather a fascinating contrast. The clinic environment was also very different due to the community's needs and limited financial resources. Vets here focused on providing complete care within these constraints. I was able to see some innovative ways the vets would perform procedures to work within their client's needs. Witnessing the challenges they faced in sourcing materials and medications, made me appreciate the privileges we often take for granted in the USA. I encountered unique diseases and cases rarely seen in American clinics, such as snake envenomation and frequent cases of Canine parvovirus. This really opened my mind and will make me a much better veterinarian. I also saw several interesting things we don't see regularly, for example, large litters of puppies that have huge parasitic loads. I found the clinic work very exciting, and it's inspirational to see the staff help support the community and their animals. I absolutely loved the excursions I did during both weekends of my stay, it allowed me to see the surrounding area and experience the local culture. The first weekend took me to the Leshiba wilderness reserve, a very special and beautiful place with abundant wildlife. The accommodations were lovely with great views, and the staff who ran the lodge, made it feel like a second home. The experience was both rejuvenating and educational, featuring guided nature walks and insights into Venda tribal plant uses for medicinal purposes. We learned a lot about the wildlife, local birds, and insects. We also did an awesome night game drive where we got to watch the sunset over the mountains. All in all such a special experience. I could have stayed there for a whole week. The following weekend, I visited Kruger National Park for two days, which was incredible. This was accompanied by a project staff’s family member, who was wonderfully informative. They knew all the wildlife and made keen birdwatchers out of us all, which I never thought would happen! We saw a lot of wildlife I had not managed to while volunteering like; elephants, hippos, lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Night and sunrise game drives allowed us to see even more species! We loved it! All the excursions were super easy to go on, as the project staff organised absolutely everything for us. This experience was invaluable in preparation for a veterinary career. While I may not end up as a wildlife vet darting buffalo and rhinos, I now have a greater passion for wildlife. I also learnt about how wildlife veterinary works in South Africa, and its place in conservation. I had an absolutely fantastic time, and I wish I could have stayed even longer - I loved every second! This experience was also a form of cultural exchange. We got to meet a lot of different South Africans from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Everyone is incredibly welcoming, and I was immersed in the culture from the get-go. We went shopping in the local grocery stores and ate in local restaurants. Many people came over to talk to us, as they knew the local vets, and there was a real sense of community. The vets are really willing to have a dialogue with you about anything, so don't be afraid to ask questions. I would also say don't be afraid to get dirty! Wildlife work is messy, fast-paced, and exciting. Throw yourself into the experience, and take every opportunity as you will be supported every step of the way. Even if you get covered in antelope drool on the back of a truck don't panic, it will wash out. I was blown away by the experience. I found myself doing things that I never could have imagined. It often seemed like I was living my dream. Being immersed in the Limpopo region and seeing the people, the wildlife, and the beautiful scenery was just indescribable and incredibly impactful. The most amazing thing about the whole trip is that I felt that in some small way, I made a real difference in conservation.

I was fortunate enough to travel through African Conservation Experience for six weeks at four amazing projects: Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, The Vikela Kruger Conservation Experience, Care for Wild Africa Rhino Sanctuary, and Phinda Wildlife Research Project. Being an 18-year-old who had just graduated from high school, I was slightly intimidated to travel on my own for as long as I did. As soon as I reached Johannesburg airport any nerves I had instantly vanished because of how welcoming and friendly the in-country team from ACE was. There ended up being about six ACE volunteers who sat in the lovely Mugg & Bean restaurant at Johannesburg airport and had a complimentary breakfast. It gave us some time to get to know one another and ask any questions to the ACE staff. We also got to hear a very insightful talk from the ACE team that prepared us for some of the realities that we would face when dealing with conservation in South Africa. Some of the other volunteers I met in the airport I later reunited with, which was so cool! Volunteer tip: I recommend trading social media details at the airport with the other ACE volunteers, to keep up to date with the cool things they are doing at the other projects! The first project I visited was Moholoholo. I spent two weeks there and fell in love with all of the animals. I was in the group that was responsible for taking care of 3 eagles, 3 spotted eagle owls, and two servals. Later I was put in charge of two nyala and helped out with many other animals. The work wasn't easy and the days could feel long, but I loved every second of it because the animals and staff were amazing. Each week new volunteers came through, including a group of 18 university students the first week, and so I found it so special getting to meet so many new people. There were multiple presentations that I got to listen to, including a conservation talk from vet Dr Peter Rogers. There was also a talk about the terrible poisonings that are threatening many of Africa’s vulture populations by Dr Lindy Thompson, who works with Endangered Wildlife Trust. I was privileged to be a part of Moholoholo’s release of 10 vultures, including the cape vulture (vulnerable), lappet-faced vulture (endangered), white-backed vulture (critically endangered), and hooded vulture (critically endangered). Another volunteer and I got to spend the whole morning helping the staff and Dr Lindy Thompson and her partner prepare the vultures for release by taking measurements of each one and attaching GPS trackers or tags to them. This was an incredible experience. Leaving Moholoholo was not easy, but fortunately, my next location was amazing as well. I spent one week at the Vikela Kruger Project and was accompanied by one other volunteer. The project staff here are experts at what they do and are accompanied by their beautiful working dog Letta. They taught the other volunteer and I so much about tracking wildlife by foot, and one day we spent 6 hours tracking the critically endangered black rhino in the Kruger and were able to observe their natural behaviours. Right after we spotted some black rhinos and started to collect vital data on them, we encountered a wild dog, a very endangered species - how amazing! We spent every morning and evening driving around the Kruger National Park, monitoring the species that we encountered, and some days we could work on projects such as bush removal and road repairs. We saw a huge variety of animals, including the Big 5, giraffes, hyenas, hippos, many different types of antelope, mongoose, and so many more. The Vikela Kruger Project is an amazing experience that opened my eyes to the importance of saving Africa’s wild animals. My third location was Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary (CFW). I only spent 6 days here, but I wish that I had stayed for longer. CFW is an incredible sanctuary that is home to many orphaned rhinos who are in the process of being rehabilitated and released. Tasks at CFW included preparing bottles and fish cakes for baby rhinos, preparing feed for the older rhinos, and cleaning enclosures. CFW does so much for their community, such as their Lomshyio Community Farming Project and their Junior Ranger Program! I was so impressed by CFW's exceptional treatment of the animals in their care and their commitment to the betterment of their local community. All of the staff at CFW were incredibly kind and welcoming, and even though I only spent 6 days at CFW, I fell in love with the animals and organisation, and would definitely love to go back in the future. My final destination was Phinda Private Game Reserve, where I spent my last 2 weeks. Phinda is a beautiful reserve that is home to a large diversity of species, both plants and animals. At Phinda much of our time was spent locating elephants with telemetry, observing them, and collecting data. I loved this as I got to know many of the heards' different personalities and distinguishing features. We spent so much of our time with the elephants because there was a long-term study on the effects of the contraception used on their elephants. I was also fortunate enough to participate in the horn trimming of one of Phinda's black rhinos, which is an effective anti-poaching method employed to protect South Africa's rhino population. It was amazing to see this technique in action as I learned a lot about the severe effects of poaching on rhinos and other species. I even got to watch the amputation of an injured cheetah’s toe and got to observe it throughout the beginning of its recovery. My highlight of the management work at Phinda I got to be involved in, was the multiple elephant captures for relocations and checkups. This was an incredible experience to learn about. While at Phinda I saw so many beautiful animals and landscapes. I was glad that my last location was spent with such amazing staff and volunteers. ACE is a great company that I would highly recommend travelling through. I loved my experience in South Africa and am already wanting to plan my next trip. All four of the locations I volunteered at were eye-opening in different ways and taught me so much about wildlife conservation, research, and rehabilitation. All of the locations that I went to were very accommodating to my vegan diet and had great food. I felt safe at every project and made friendships with staff members and other volunteers that have lasted until this day. I would highly recommend volunteering through ACE at these locations!

I recently volunteered at Golola Rhino Orphanage, which focuses on caring for injured and orphaned baby rhinos, a heartbreaking consequence of their mothers often being a victim of poaching. However, the orphanage is a place of hope and determination. The staff's passion and commitment to saving these young rhinos and ensuring their growth into adulthood is truly inspiring. They are also fantastic with the ACE volunteers, they made sure that you felt welcome and part of the staff even though I was only there for one week. I was so sad to leave, but I learnt so much about rhinos and the whole rhino poaching crisis when I was there, I feel like I understand things so much better. One of the best things I've ever done in my life was getting to feed a baby rhino. This is something you have to do at least once in your life. You have a bottle of milk and the baby runs to you and then bottle feeds from your hand. While they drink they make these very cute noises, it's almost like a song. At Golola, I felt like I made a meaningful difference in the lives of baby rhinos. What was important to me was that I never felt like a tourist. With ACE, I felt like I got to see a much more honest reality of conservation; some of it was hard to deal with but I'm so glad I know the truth now. This has changed my perspective on travel; I now feel like volunteering is a much better way to see the world. It allows you to contribute to something good as well as getting to do some good yourself! This was far from a "normal holiday"; it has been a life-changing journey. It has opened my mind and helped me make some positive changes in my daily life. It has also educated me more than I could have imagined, I was lucky enough to see and begin to understand the whole picture of a very challenging topic of rhino conservation in Southern Africa. One unexpected benefit of travelling with ACE was the incredible friendships I formed, even as a solo traveller. Even though I was the only volunteer at Golola for a few days, I never felt alone, as the project staff ensured I felt like a part of the team. In the evenings we would socialise and play games together, getting to know these incredible people on a personal basis was such a highlight.

I recently travelled with African Conservation Experience, where I volunteered at Phinda. My time at Phinda was absolutely incredible! I was truly blown away by the strong focus on conservation there, and I also got to see more wildlife than I could have ever imagined. I learnt how the whole ecosystem works together to support all of the wildlife that calls Phinda their home. It was unbelievably beautiful, just like the Garden of Eden - I did not expect it to be that lush and green. The experience of driving through this paradise in an open-top safari vehicle, with the chance encounters of elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, felt like a dream. Each day was such an adventure, you never knew what you would see around the next corner. Even though my time at Phinda lasted just a week, it was the perfect project for me. I was able to become quickly involved in the work while being exposed to so many different species. The sight of elephants, cheetahs, lions, rhinos, hippos, zebras, various antelope species, and even a pangolin was simply breathtaking. The birds at Phinda are also really impressive, with so many different species and colours! The reserve itself is also very diverse with rolling plains, hills, rivers, lakes, and forests. Phinda really has everything. There were so many highlights, but one of the standout moments was witnessing the relocation of a rhino. It was a huge team effort involving Phinda staff, volunteers, veterinarians, and even a helicopter. Watching the rhino being darted, blindfolded, and carefully moved to a new reserve was nothing short of amazing. Another special moment happened when I was relaxing at camp in the evening. I heard a noise so I walked over to the edge of camp, where I saw an elephant fully emerge swimming in the waterhole! He had his head fully underneath the water and was really enjoying himself. It was such a special moment for me, as it was just myself peacefully watching him, and I got to see a completely unique moment without disturbing the wildlife. My advice to anyone thinking of going to Phinda is just to go, it's a perfect perfect place.

I spent 1 week at Moholoholo, and I loved this project and the help I received from Martin whilst I was in South Africa was outstanding. Unfortunately, I injured myself at the end of the week but Martin helped me out with everything (transport to the hospital, contacting travel insurance, snacks + waiting with me at the hospital) so I didn’t have to stress. I would recommend booking through ACE. Genuine conservation work and an amazing experience. Wish I could’ve stayed longer.

The experiences surpassed my expectations for sure. I went to Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. At the centre, I was able to be a bit more intimate with the animals. A highlight from me was standing less than a foot away from a hyena, and looking at them so closely was a pretty insane experience. There was a great group of people who were very keen to work and had a very similar mindset. This made you feel united with what you were doing here. It's been a great first experience in terms of venturing into the conservation world. I'd certainly come back and I'd always use ACE and any of their recommendations! They were perfect.

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre was amazing. They took care of me as well as they did the animals. We got to go to the Kruger National Park for the day on safari, which was great, and something I've always wanted to do. The guide used all of his contacts to work out where everything was. We also spotted a cheetah ourselves, which ended up walking right towards us and crossed the road in front of the car which I think was really, really special. My highlight was just working at the centre, where you understand the human impact on wildlife, and I got to feel like I was contributing. I wanted to work on a project that wasn't just about tourism, with a facade of conservation, and ACEs projects fulfilled what I was looking for. I can't recommend them and ACE highly enough.

I have volunteered with African Conservation Experience (ACE) twice over the last two years, and each time has been amazing! I have been fortunate enough to volunteer at three different projects so far, and I have to say every time has been an unforgettable experience, and it definitely won’t be my last. I have recently returned from a month at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. My days at both projects were filled with a range of responsibilities from feeding, cleaning, providing enrichment, and general animal care. I even got involved in veterinary work and a honey badger release at Moholoholo! Each day was so different and I met the most amazing people during my time at both projects. The staff at the centres treat you like family and you begin to really feel like it’s your home. To any potential volunteers thinking about it, do it! It’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life, and you might even make friends for life. By volunteering with ACE, I’ve been able to build my confidence so much, and it’s given me a huge amount of knowledge to help me with my university studies. I could not recommend it enough!

I am currently on a pre-vet track in college, so I am in the process of applying for vet school for next year, and I wanted to have the chance to work with wildlife and large animals. This is very difficult to do in the US, and I knew an experience with African Conservation Experience (ACE) would be so useful in my application while providing me with a lot of personal development by showing where my interests in this field really lie. I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer at Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience, and the vets there were truly inspiring. Shadowing their everyday work, I learned so much from them. One of the most valuable lessons I took away was how unpredictable the life of a wildlife vet can be. Some days were calm, while others had us trimming the horns of nine rhinos, which was so exciting. A definite highlight of this experience was participating in the relocation of two male lions. I got to witness how to dart and safely transport these enormous animals, and as someone who has never heard a lion's roar before, feeling the truck shake from their roars was incredible! As we were relocating them to the Kalahari region, we got to stay in the most beautiful game reserve - I can not even explain how special that day was! The lead vet was the perfect mentor, handling challenges in the field with a calm and methodical approach. For instance, when we were working with a wild dog she fought off the sedation resulting in us losing track of her. This could have been a very stressful situation, but the vet turned it into a valuable learning opportunity. He calmly dealt with the situation, and we found the wild dog again and successfully operated on her an hour later. As I am so early in my career, moments like these were the perfect learning opportunities, and are definitely something I will take forward into my own techniques. My time at Shimongwe was so fulfilling, and it gave me an authentic look into being a wildlife vet in South Africa. Not every day was super busy but then we didn't have a chance for a break on some other days! My highlights of this trip went from trimming nine rhino horns in a day, relocating lions, flying in a helicopter, to even working with the elusive wild dog. One especially unforgettable moment was when I had a sedated cheetah on my lap while we moved her. A benefit that I didn't even think of until I got there was living with the wonderful host family. As a vegetarian, I was initially concerned as I know meat is a staple in South African diets and I did not want to put anyone out. However, the family were incredibly accommodating and the food was perfect. The accommodations were exceptional, with our own room and en-suite, set on their huge farm. Their dogs were adorable and they even made sure we never got lost on our evening walks, leading us back to the house!

I spend 2 weeks at Moholoholo Animal Conservation Center. I had the most amazing time ever! I went with a friend and we loved every second of it. We met the most amazing people, learned SO MUCH about wildlife and got to experience a true adventure. For anyone thinking about committing to this: I highly recommend it. Get out of your comfort zone and have the experience of a lifetime. I do recommend going with a friend, but most people I met at Moholoholo did Solo travelling which they also really enjoyed. The animals are all kept under really professional conditions, I was so overwhelmed with joy by how hands-on the process is and how much responsibility we received. The staff are all truly interested in making your time there worthwhile. I started planning my trip in January (so around 7 months in advance) and the lovely people at ACE made it so easy. Thank you to everyone! This will forever be something I carry with me!

I have dreamed of coming to Africa to work with animals for quite some time so when I heard about African Conservation Experience (ACE) I knew I had to go! No matter who you are or where you are from, if you love animals and want to experience a wonderful part of this world, this is the company for you. Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where I worked with the other ACE volunteers to care for the animals at the sanctuary. While I was there I was able to help with different projects such as cleaning a new serval enclosure and remodeling a mongoose enclosure. At Moholoholo I was able to work with amazing animals and incredible people. My daily work was feeding and caring for species such as lions, cheetahs, owls, eagles, hyenas, leopards, and many others. There was never a moment in my entire experience where I felt unsafe or unsure of what to do, I constantly had a guiding hand supporting me and helping me contribute to conservation. When I left for my ACE experience I thought this would be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I now know this was the first of many experiences I will have in conservation and animal care in Africa. Thank you so much to Moholoholo and the amazing friends I made along the way! And of course a massive thank you to the ACE team for making this happen!

I spent two weeks at Moholoholo there and fell in love with all of the animals. I was in the group that was responsible for taking care of three eagles, three spotted eagle owls and two servals. Later I was put in charge of two nyala and helped out with many other animals. The work wasn't easy and the days could feel long, but I loved every second of it because the animals and staff were amazing. Each week new volunteers came through, including a group of 18 university students the first week, and so I found it really special getting to meet so many new people. There were multiple presentations that I got to listen to, including a conservation talk from vet Dr Peter Rogers. There was also a talk about the terrible poisonings that are threatening many of Africa’s vulture populations by Dr Lindy Thompson, who works with the Endangered Wildlife Trust. I was privileged to be a part of Moholoholo’s release of 10 vultures, including the cape vulture (vulnerable), lappet-faced vulture (endangered), white-backed vulture (critically endangered), and hooded vulture (critically endangered). Another volunteer and I got to spend the whole morning helping the staff, Dr. Lindy Thompson and her partner prepare the vultures for release by taking measurements of each one and attaching GPS trackers or tags to them. This was an incredible experience. Leaving Moholoholo was not easy. ACE is a great company that I would highly recommend travelling with.

I arranged to travel to the Phinda Game Reserve with ACE for two weeks. Prior to the trip, ACE patiently took time to understand each volunteer's needs and preferences, before matching them with the most suitable program. It was eye-opening and provided a positively contrasting experience, especially for city dwellers such as myself as we managed to witness gorgeous sights and took a hands-on approach to helping wildlife species. Something I would've changed is to also hop on another experience besides the research-focused Phinda program so that there is something else to compare against to better understand what really suits oneself. Nevertheless, a meaningful two weeks well spent and I urge you all to give it a go at least once in your life.

I helped the Moholoholo centre with their daily animal care tasks which were usually cleaning, feeding, and caring for the range of animals at Moholoholo. I got the chance to work closely with two pairs of honey badgers and four white-faced owls. My experience with ACE and the projects was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I could not recommend it enough to other people thinking of volunteering.I can not thank the teams at Moholoholo enough!

A truly great experience. ACE took care of all the heavy lifting while in Africa, all their programs are extremely informative and educational. Constantly working with great people and animals - Moholoholo was brilliant!

As an aspiring vet, I have always enjoyed watching documentaries about African wildlife and dreaming of seeing it all in person. So it was the chance of a lifetime when I was able to spend a month of my gap year volunteering at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and work with a fantastic variety of animals: lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, wild dogs, zebras, honey badgers, eagles, vultures and many more. Spending four weeks at Moholoholo could not have been better. The days were long, but the work was rewarding. Morning rounds began at 6.30 am, when each group of volunteers fed and cleaned the enclosures of the animals they were responsible for. Then we worked on communal “big jobs” for the rest of the morning. In the afternoon, we either relaxed or took part in an activity organised by the staff, and then we did afternoon rounds until dinner. At the start, I asked a lot of questions to try and get my head around the feeding charts, cleaning procedures etc., but I quickly settled into the routine and soon the newer volunteers were coming to me for help! When I was looking for a project, it was important to me that there would be a thriving and friendly volunteer community - this is certainly the case at Moholoholo. Meals are eaten together, often alongside staff members, and free time is usually spent chatting or playing cards. The common room and accommodation are at the heart of the centre, so you are constantly immersed. You fall asleep at night to a serenade of insects buzzing and whirring in the bush, the stillness broken only by the low rumbling call of a lion or the shriek of a hyena. In the month that I was there, I was involved in two releases: a genet and an endangered lappet-faced vulture, the latter of which had to be GPS-tagged. I also helped to trap and relocate a problematic honey badger who was destroying a local farmer’s livelihood. There were plenty of veterinary cases, both routine and emergency. At Moholoholo you quickly learn to be prepared for anything, as you find yourself being called away at a moment’s notice to help with some new and exciting case! Around the rehab, I bottle-fed a baby zebra and even taught a two-day-old baby bird how to eat. I learned a lot about conservation, by attending two talks. I was able to see how Moholoholo’s efforts fit into the wider world of conservation, which made my trip all the more eye-opening. My perspective shifted as I realised that there was a vast “grey” area between the black-and-white of conservation that I originally saw. The lessons I learned will last a lifetime. The staff at Moholoholo were amazing, to the extent that I have kept in touch with several of them since leaving. Everyone was helpful, kind and good-humoured, and this is what creates the wonderful atmosphere which makes the rehab so attractive to volunteers. When I left, it truly felt like I was leaving a home and a family. I am so grateful to ACE and the Moholoholo team for giving me such a memorable experience. I will be back, certainly to return to Moholoholo. It was humbling to be part of the incredible work Moholoholo does and I feel privileged to have been able to make a difference, however small, to the conservation of the magnificent African wildlife.

I am a vet student and I wanted to explore my passion for wildlife medicine further as a possible career path. I saw that ACE offered Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience, which is tailored towards veterinary students and practising vets, and it really appealed to me. I would recommend this trip to non-veterinarians too, as it gives any volunteer a good experience and an insight into what real wildlife vet work is like. Your daily work is varied at the vet project, from caring for domestic animals to working with wildlife in the bush. I had a fantastic experience getting involved in the relocation efforts - this is when we moved species like kudus and waterbucks between reserves. The highlight for me was when we were called out to a nearby lodge to help a rhino with an injured tail. We got to take part in the process of tranquillising and treating him. Throughout my journey, the ACE staff were professional, efficient, and transparent; from the initial talks on the phone, all of my transfers, and the overall experience in South Africa. The ACE in-country team met me at the airport when I landed, and provided me with more information not only regarding the project I was visiting but also the bigger picture of how wildlife vets in South Africa help with conservation. It was amazing to learn more about the complex challenges faced in conservation, and that things aren’t simply right or wrong, but that there are a lot of grey areas when dealing with the conservation issues faced daily. ACE lifted the veil on these issues, and I felt like I was getting an unfiltered look allowing me to form my own opinions. I would definitely travel with ACE again, and I’d love to volunteer at a variety of projects that they work with in the future! I feel like I could return time and time again and never stop learning.

I was recommended to ACE by my friend who volunteered at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, and she absolutely loved it there. From this, I initially thought to only volunteer at Moholoholo, so I scheduled a call with the ACE team to learn more. The team I spoke to on the phone made sure to ask me lots of questions about my goals, interests, and what species I wanted to work with. ACE really exceeded, there is nothing more to say really. The only thing I would have changed would be to stay longer! The standout moment of my time at Moholoholo was the chance to work with and learn about a wide variety of wildlife. There are so many different species from eagles and lions to cheetahs and zebras. If you're passionate about gaining hands-on experience with lots of different wildlife, Moholoholo is the perfect project for you. I gained a great sense of achievement working within the volunteer teams, ensuring the animals in our care had better lives, it also educated me in lots of different ways. The project staff at Moholoholo went beyond just assigning tasks – they took the time to explain the purpose behind each job. They showed me the right way to do things and when to do them. The staff members were really knowledgeable about conservation in South Africa, they explained how Africa has changed over the years, and how this has affected the animals and their habitats. I gained an understanding of topics like habitat fragmentation caused by fences, and the importance of large wildlife areas. I'm going home satisfied, knowing that I've gained an understanding of conservation efforts in South Africa!

Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre was amazing! It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and was very hands-on working with wildlife we would never get to work with back home. The staff were inspirational, they give so much to the animals, and they always made an effort to include volunteers in special things like animal releases to ensure we felt a part of it. They really wanted their volunteers to experience all of it and understand everything that they do there. They would also grab anyone who they thought may be interested in veterinary work to observe the procedures that were happening in the centre. The experience was phenomenal! From fantastic communication, which gave us peace of mind while travelling to a foreign country, to information about credit cards, safety and transport. Dietary requirements were also very important to us, and ACE and Moholoholo made sure that we had nothing to worry about. I would highly recommend ACE and Moholoholo to people who want to work to help animals.

Conservation is not just about saving one species, but about preserving entire ecosystems. My recent trip to the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa showed me this firsthand. I was able to witness the amazing work being done there to care for and release injured and orphaned animals back into the wild. But what stands out about this centre is its focus on education and sustainability. They understand that long-term conservation efforts require cooperative efforts with local communities. Volunteering at the centre was hard work, but also among the most rewarding experiences of my life. It taught me the important lesson that conservation is more than just a one-time effort. It requires consistent and dedicated work from everyone involved. I am grateful to have had this experience and to have met such dedicated individuals. It's up to us to keep advocating for the conservation of our planet's biodiversity. The journey begins with the actions we take today.

I also enjoyed so much about The Rhino Orphanage. Obviously, feeding the rhino calves and interacting with them was amazing, but it was just the experience of being around the other rhinos, helping them in such a natural environment, which was so exciting. I couldn’t believe it! It’s difficult to sum the experience up, because there was just so much I got to see and do. It was a good balance of work and play, as you were also able to relax. The staff made such a big effort for us, which was wonderful, because I know their first responsibility is to the rhinos, and they’re such hard-working people, but they also organised game drives for us and made us feel at home.

Ever since I was young, I have been fascinated by wildlife and the cultures of Africa. So when I turned 18, I knew I had to go on my own and experience it for myself. African Conservation Experience (ACE) advised me throughout the booking process and had great project staff to assist and teach me while I was out there. Even when my flight arrived late ACE had already made a contingency plan by the time I landed. I am hoping to work in conservation one day, and I felt my time with the researchers and the professional guides contributed to that. This was an amazing experience, it also exposed me to the difficult realities faced in conservation today. The environment is in a dire state, and I feel like it is everyone's responsibility to do their part to help it, and when I left the project I felt like I had done just that. If you are considering an experience like this, you have got to do it! It will open so many doors and show you that a lot is hidden in the world of conservation, whether that is in documentaries, zoos, or a regular safari experience. Coming here, you witness real behind-the-scenes conservation work while spending your time in the genuine wilderness. Thank you ACE!

I decided to travel and volunteer in Africa because I have a big love for animals and wanted to help in any way I could. When I first contacted African Conservation Experience (ACE), they suggested that I volunteer at Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre as it cares for many large predators, with many of them being my favourite species. I was excited by the idea that I would be involved with their everyday care. The highlight of my trip was caring for a caracal named Savannah at Moholoholo. I would try to spend 20 minutes with her after work, because she was calming to be around, and would make each day very special. Everything was well organised before I even arrived in South Africa, and all the email correspondence was so detailed. They are a brilliant organisation! I would recommend this volunteer experience to anyone who would be interested in giving back while having a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. ACE was so great!

I visited was Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Due to staying here for nearly a month, I was given extra responsibilities at the centre. While it was a lot of work, it was such a highlight for me because of the relationships I built with the animals at the centre. It was such a rewarding experience, and I will never forget the animals I worked with. I really recommend ACE to travellers thinking of volunteering. If you are worrying about organising your own trip to Southern Africa, by going through ACE there is no stress of having to book internal flights, organising road transfers, or trying to figure out what projects to go to - instead, everything is done for you.

I have always been interested in rhinos. Five years ago, I travelled to Kenya and saw the last three northern white rhinos left in the world, and it sparked my passion to aid in rhino conservation.  I began looking up ways to help via volunteer work in Africa, which is how I came across African Conservation Experience (ACE). After speaking with the ACE team regarding the different rhino volunteer options, I decided the Golola Rhino Orphanage and Rehabilitation Centre was the right fit for me. The ACE team were so helpful in making sure I chose the right volunteer project that suited my needs and offered a lot of details on what to expect while volunteering at the project.   I spent three weeks at the Rhino Orphanage and completely fell in love with these creatures. They are so interesting, and cute. We called them chubby unicorns, and we have the privilege of sharing our planet with them. Spending time at the Golola Rhino Orphanage has really inspired me to continue working with rhinos! There were so many highlights during my stay!  I was able to witness two wild rhinos (mom and baby) in the surrounding reserve being darted as the baby, Impi, needed to have his leg brace checked. It was very interesting to watch! For context, Impi was attacked by lions before coming to the orphanage, which caused injuries to his back leg, resulting in him needing a brace to walk normally again. The whole process really intrigued me from a nursing perspective. Another highlight for me was monitoring the orphans that were released into the surrounding reserve. We were able to track and locate the rhinos in the reserve, where they are free to roam, and it was so wonderful to see these rhinos in their natural habitat. Monitoring is so important because it ensures their safety and that no poaching has taken place. I even got to see a black rhino walk right past the window of my bedroom. Although there is a fence between the centre and the wild rhinos in the surrounding reserve, it is really close to the centre, which made it feel like I was living amongst the rhinos!  The team at Golola are amazing! They made me feel so welcome and really went out of their way to make it an enjoyable experience for me. They are also so knowledgeable regarding conservation and are very passionate about what they do. Although one has to cook one’s own food, the staff were kind enough to cook me some South African dishes to try and because I am a vegan, they made sure the meals were something I could enjoy. I also learned so much from the team at Golola regarding rhinos, other African wildlife and even different plant species - knowledge I would have never gained if it wasn’t for their expert input.  The surrounding area where Golola is located is just beautiful. One can sit there all day and take in the scenery, especially at sunset. I also saw lots of other wildlife, including giraffe, warthog, zebra and even a rarely seen brown hyena and a bush baby on a night drive.  If you love rhinos, Golola is the place for you. Not only will you help take care of them at the orphanage but you will also aid in monitoring the free rhinos in the surrounding reserve, which all forms part of the conservation effort to protect them.   This experience was life-changing and may have changed the course of what I want to do. I definitely want to return to Africa and work with rhinos again! 

Oh my, how do I start? First of all, the 2 months I spent in South Africa via ACE was probably the BEST time I had in my whole life so far. I am so thankful for the opportunity and all the more than amazing experiences I got to make every single day. The application and contact with the bureau of the organisation was very nice, fast and flexible. They helped me with booking everything, gave me multiple choices and all the mails and calls made me more excited for the long trip. The time at the Moholoholo rehab centre was amazing, I got to do something to make the lives of the animals better each day while having them make me fall in love with each individual and the whole place plus the surrounding area. And there are no words to describe the outrageous amazing time I had at Nhoveni Camp with Jacques and Letta, his dog aka daughter. We had so much fun while collecting data to make sure the animals there can stay safe. There is no other feeling that could come near to walking through the bush on foot, being so vulnerable and still feeling so safe and enjoying every minute, no matter if it ends in an animal encounter or not. I wanna come back so bad, and I will be forever grateful to ACE for these opportunities they give to people all over the world.

From the start the ACE planning, flexibility and information was clear and precise. Correspondence was well organized and the response from head office was always prompt and comprehensive. Nothing was left unexplained. All went so smoothly. Arrival at camp was a pleasant surprise. Beautiful, remote setting, great tents well set up in a glorious location with everything we needed. We were immediately immersed in the African way of life living in the bush. The flush toilet and shower block was a real bonus. We were immersed in the bush and loved it. Early morning starts, monitoring and logging animal sightings with cyber tracking, cups of tea and snacks on the road. Everyday was a different route with different animal sightings. Lots of tracking and the joy of seeing what you have been tracking along the road is amazing. Photography opportunities were unbelievable. The joy of the warm showers provided daily, the great African food and the peaceful campfire and the silence and maybe a gin or cider rounded the days off with the mandatory spectacutar red sky sunset. I had no idea what to expect and was never disappointed, everyday was a new adventure. It was easy just to let the days unfold and whatever happened was marvellous. It was one of the best experiences I've had in Africa and I have been 4 times! The number of animals in Botswana is huge and the added bonus of being there as the water started to move down during our time there was the icing on the cake.

Did a 5 week experience with ACE back in August/September and would definitely recommend ACE to someone thinking of volunteering in South Africa. I mixed my time between Phinda, Krueger and the rhino orphanage. ACE were very organised with shuttling me around each of the experiences and provided all the info needed, making it an effortless on my side. On my 3 weeks at Phinda I luckily got involved in multiple ‘management’ projects and no day was the same with different areas of the park to explore and different tasks to complete. One thing i I would say to be prepared for downtime here as you don’t drive around during the middle of the day due to the heat. (this is also mentioned on the description ACE provide) At the Krueger experience, Jacques is very passionate/knowledgeable about conservation and what they are doing to help and provided a detailed insight into the work he’s doing whilst. Also really enjoyed the bush walks/tracking and even got to see Rhino’s whilst on foot which was quite an experience. At the Rhino Orphanage I got involved with all aspects of the rehab process, from feeding the younger Rhino’s to the not so fun part being packing hay bails for the adults! The ladies that work there full time are very welcoming and friendly, and made the experience much better as a result.

In Botswana, everything is so wild and pure, and you never know when the animals will appear from the thick bush. There are places in Botswana, like the Okavango, where you see groups of people flying directly to their lodges, who don’t really get to experience the true nature surrounding them. But when you’re in transit, and you get to experience the drive to camp, you understand that this is where the tarmacs end, and from here on anything is possible. That’s really amazing! You can’t expect anything, because it’s the wild. You go to sleep and everything is quiet, and then you wake up three hours later with hyenas nearby, the elephants rambling and tons of birds. You can ask the trackers and the driver anything – they know everything about the sounds, the smells, whatever you want to know, they’ll tell you. Everything is there, you just need to grab the information, ask whatever you want. The experience feels like it went super quick – after adjusting to the setting for the first few days, you really start having fun. You get to see the sunrise, and have enough time to relax and read a book. You can cook for yourself and the team on the fire or the stove – everything is possible! The camp is a very nice, secluded place, and you don’t have to worry about anything – it’s lively, there’s fires and big, nice tents. You feel very respectful of nature and the wildlife, and everyone is amazing!

There were so many things that made the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience absolutely amazing. Not only did I see many different species, some of which I had never even heard of before, but I also learnt about and experienced South African culture, all while making amazing friends. Every single person that worked on the project was incredible. They made me feel so welcome as soon as I arrived and they were constantly there if I needed any help. They honestly took me in like family and I would love to go back again in the future. The vet that I worked with was brilliant. He included me in any work he was doing, explaining all the medicine used and why he was using them and how he did a diagnosis. He also gave me valuable tips for my future career! I had so many amazing experiences but if I had to choose one it would be when working on a nyala antelope that the vet had tranquilised. The vet had been teaching me about the drugs that are used and on this occasion he allowed, and trusted me, to do the necessary injections myself. The vet talked me through the process step by step and I was able to find a vein with my first attempt. The experience really boosted my self confidence and gave me an amazing insight into veterinary medicine. This project gave me a very wide insight into everything to do with veterinary medicine, especially on the species that I got to work with. This included nyala, wildebeest, and buffalo. I not only worked with and learnt how to care for individual animals from the vet but also all about the mass capture of animals, which is much more complex than I realised. It really opened my eyes to something I knew very little about. The experience I had has really helped prepare me for applying to a vet school and I am able to take this experience and the skills I have learnt back home to further my dream of becoming a wildlife vet! The accommodation I stayed in was absolutely amazing. Although we were in the middle of nowhere I felt safe and secure as my accommodation was amongst the staff’s accommodation. I never felt isolated or lonely. If I had spare time in the evening I could go and see anyone. There was reliable free Wifi access anywhere in the camp, which also had a beautiful swimming pool and even a gym that I could use when time allowed. The food was also amazing, we had different meals every day and the staff were very accommodating when it came to catering for any dietary requirements. The best part about it was having animals walking around where you lived which was amazing to see! My friend did this project a couple of years back and she said it was one of the best things she has ever done so I went on to the website and found it extremely helpful. ACE were super helpful when it came to organising my trip. Every step of the way ACE was there for me, from the first phone call to arriving back in the UK after I finished my experience. They talked me through each project, which one they thought would be better suited for me and my goals, how long I could stay for, and the support I would get in South Africa. When I needed any additional information I was able to get hold of them straight away. The booking process was super easy and put me at ease because I knew I would be taken care of.

My time spent with the team in northern Botswana was nothing short of an adventure. For a full month, I had the opportunity to assist in vital research, documenting species presence on the Kwatale conservancy. We had some truly special sightings while there: everything from African wild dogs, to Sable antelope, and even a coalition of three male lions! Being able to participate in this project helped me gain a further understanding of the conservation issues faced in this region of the world. It was great being able to apply what I had learned in my lecture halls to the field! In addition to learning more about the local wildlife and ecology at large, I also found myself bonding with the staff and fellow volunteers. The team in Botswana was chalk-full of knowledge; showing us how to identify various tracks, sharing stories from their time in the bush, and patiently answering all our questions. They even laughed at my puns on occasion. It didn’t take long for the camp to feel like home, and thanks to this incredible experience, I have decided to pursue a career in conservation. I cannot thank the team and ACE enough for the opportunity to volunteer with them, and I would definitely encourage those seeking a true, meaningful adventure to consider this program.

We found this project absolutely amazing. We chose it for the range of activities and conservation work but it exceeded all expectations. We have done things we never expected to do in our lifetime! This project has a great breadth of conservation knowledge rather than just focussing on a specific animal. There were lots of different experiences, from tracking and bush-walking to game driving. One of the highlights of the project was definitely being able to see the elephants. They’re one of our favourite animals and it was fascinating to watch them in their natural habitat, seeing the intricacies of them feeding and bonding with each other. It was great that we also did this without causing stress to them – they can walk off when they want to (and they do!) and we leave them be. Just having that bit of time with them was really nice, and very special. The elephants were often alongside different animals, and it was lovely to see them interacting with one another. There was also a male eating a thorn bush in front of us – watching him strip the thorns with his trunk was really, really interesting. It was something we had never seen before, even though we have studied them! We’ve also read about it, but it was incredible to see it in person and it’s an experience we will cherish forever. So many times we would see something happen and we would think: ‘this is like a painting’, ‘this is something I’ve read about’ or ‘this is like a picture you see in a magazine’ – but it was happening every day! Multiple times! The feeling is simply indescribable as you exist alongside the animals in such a beautiful way. You have to pinch yourself to remind yourself it’s real. We just felt like the luckiest people in the whole world. Another highlight of ours was having the opportunity to be on the ground, feet on the ground, tracking the animals and the routes they would take in their everyday, normal life, with them perhaps not having any knowledge of us. We came across rhinos feeding and interacting with their environment, and being there physically, just across from them with no barriers, no other people, was incredible. They would do their thing and move off, and we’d perhaps never see them again… and that made it so incredible, knowing they were free. The camp was in a beautiful setting with picturesque views all the way around. Our room was nice and secluded and the people on site were amazing, so caring and so friendly. It was lovely to see how excited they were as well; it really was a nice atmosphere. Overall, it’s definitely given us a new perspective. Yes, we got excited about the animals, but also at the smaller things – noticing a bit of grass that was pushed down, wondering what had caused that… the different insects, why are there more in one place than the other… and what’s this new plant I’ve never seen before? Our interest for the smaller things in the world grew. We weren’t just interested in the big elephants but also the insects living in their footprints. We also had no interest in birds before we came here, but suddenly we wanted to know why they were interacting with each other in a certain way. The knowledge that was shared with us was incredible and it made everything more understandable, relatable, and engaging. The expertise delivered to us gave us an appreciation for the whole natural journey. It was wonderful.

My time with the African Conservation Experience was amazing. From when they first picked me up at the airport it was an incredible experience. When we first arrived at the Wildlife Capture and Relocation Veterinary Project everyone was there to greet us and make us feel welcome. We had a presentation on the daily life at the project and on all of the animals that are kept there. Our safety was always first and foremost on the minds of all of the project’s employees. We did a mass capture where we created a large corral and slowly corralled the wildlife into different sections which eventually led to a chute where we led them to the trucks to be transported to other farms. The best thing about working with the capture team and ACE was that they really cared about the animals and took their time during the mass captures to make sure that none of them overheated, became too exhausted, or overstressed. I have worked in the veterinary field for several years and this was very important to me. While working with the capture team we spent quite a lot of time with the veterinarian who showed and explained what medications were being used and the route of administration for various drugs. He spent time to think about how the medications would affect each species of animal and the best way to reverse any drug should there be an adverse reaction. We had the opportunity to work with a pregnant lioness and he made sure that the medications that he used would not hurt the cubs and that he could fully reverse the effects of the drugs. Overall working with the African Conservation Experience and the Wildlife Capture and Relocation Veterinary Project was a unique experience. They treated us like family from the time they picked us up at the airport to when we went through the gate to head home. I highly recommend anyone who wants to learn about wildlife conservation while getting hands on experience to go through the ACE team. I will forever be in their debt for the kindness, love and education that they have taught me.

From Lara and Dione: Right at the beginning, there was someone waiting for us at the airport, which was really nice. All of the flights were organised, everything was really good with the transfers – we knew where and when we were going to get picked up. All easy, very easy, no stress at all! The ACE staff really knew their stuff, and everyone at Phinda was so passionate. They helped all of us volunteers get along and soon we were making jokes and becoming friends. Everyone was really accommodating. The accommodation was really nice too – it was so big, and had so many rooms! The fridge and freezer were already stocked when we arrived, to help us cook, which was really kind. We first saw a rhino dehorning. The team gave us a talk about how it was going to happen, and explained to us about the drugs used to put the rhino to sleep and to wake up again. Then we went out, with some volunteers in the helicopter to help spot the rhinos as well. We were in a car behind the helicopter. Once we found a couple rhinos, the team darted them and waited until they were asleep. There were two that time – a mum and a baby rhino. We helped by taking some samples – skin, hair, blood and horn – and microchipped them and tagged the ears. It was a lot of things to do, but it was an amazing experience! It took a couple of hours, but it went by so fast. We then went out later to spot the pangolin that only comes out at night. We needed to change the tags on the pangolin. Apparently, he likes to travel around the reserve a lot. The particular pangolin we were looking for was the dominant one, and he visits the other pangolins on the reserve. He is the biggest and weighs around 17 kilos. We found him, changed the tags and weighed him – he was very heavy! – and then came back to his location in the morning and saw him sleeping. At the time I was also on the lookout for elephants in case they came around and we had to leave. I’m so grateful that I got to see the pangolin in a natural habitat – such a great experience! There was also this cheetah. He needed to be transferred to another reserve because he wouldn’t survive out in the wild anymore, due to him having ripped his skin so many times. So we had to find him, dart him, and then transport him – we got to help carry him. His hair was coarse, and you might think it easy to carry them as they’re small, but all four of us had to join in and help as he was very heavy! I think the whole experience is very different to being on safari because we got to be involved in so many different things. On a safari you wouldn’t have had the chance to be waiting for the pangolin to come out, or see so many different animals, or learn a range of monitoring techniques including line transects – the guides are so good at teaching you. One time we saw a group of giraffes just standing still and staring, and the guides explained where a lion must be. We’ve learnt so much in 10 days and we were so lucky with everything we saw. On the first day we got to see a leopard – in fact, we saw all of the ‘Big Five’. We had a chance to tag a pangolin, helped with a rhino dehorning, saw plenty of lions and elephants, and we even got to visit the local town and learn about the culture.

My name is Micaela Chaffin and I currently attend University in Tennessee. I am a pre-veterinary student currently applying to veterinary programs in the US. I chose to do the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience with ACE for the wildlife medicine experience. I traveled to South Africa alone and was extremely nervous, however, from the moment that I landed in South Africa, I knew that I was in great hands with ACE. I spent three weeks at the Louis Trichardt Clinic shadowing their wildlife vet. I have nothing but great things to say about him and the other veterinarians at the clinic. Most of our time was spent with the vet darting different antelope species, buffalo, and zebra, then treating those animals as needed. This experience is VERY hands on. I got to do many injections, monitored breathing, holding animals, and assisting in any way that I could. If the wildlife vet didn’t have much planned that particular day, then we would shadow one of the other vets. This usually involved assisting in fertilisation, pregnancy, and TB testing of cattle or bulls. We also assisted in treating puncture wounds in bulls. Every day was an adventure and we never knew what was going to happen next. Most weekends when we weren’t working, we got to go on trips to different locations. My first weekend I was there, we took a trip to a safari camp that wasn’t too far from where we were staying. We got to braai, take safaris, and we even did a walking tour that led us to rhinos with their original horns! The next weekend we traveled around Kruger National Park, where I got to see a ton of elephants, zebra, giraffe, lions, and leopards. My last weekend, we took a relaxation trip to a resort with giant pools that we floated in all day. Everyone that I met while on this journey were so incredible, and wanted to make sure that us Americans were having a great time. One day specifically, it was taking a while to dart the antelope, so the owners of the farm allowed us to see their lions. On a different day, we were there to treat sable, but ended up working with Nyala. Every day was unexpected in the best possible ways, and always left us wanting more. The volunteers that I worked with were absolutely amazing, and I believe I may have met some lifelong friends. If there’s one thing that I hope someone gets out of this, is that if you are considering going, but you are nervous, DO IT ANYWAY! This was the best experience of my life and so eye opening! I would go again in a heartbeat.

My experience at Phinda, in three words, was wonderful, unique, and enriching. I always wanted to go to somewhere on the African continent to see the wildlife and landscapes. The initial idea of a Safari tour was tempting but when coming across the fact there are conservation projects for wildlife, I rapidly changed my mind, and thought it would be worth it. The Phinda Wildlife Research Project gave me that experience up to and exceeding my initial expectations, and having also a chance to contribute to wildlife conservation. The twice daily game drives were all different, and full of excitement during my two weeks stay, and all the enriching experience of getting closer to the different species, learning about their behaviour, the road strip counts, monitoring, and other activities geared towards wildlife conservation. The team from the researchers, ecologists, logistic, back-office, and our dear volunteers were all great people and supportive, and helped make my journey wonderful.

I had an incredible experience with ACE and ProVet in Hoedspruit! Two weeks flew by with everything from rhino field care to in-clinic practice on the docket. Coordination and communication with ACE was top-notch the entire time, and I'd absolutely recommend them to anyone interested in wildlife care and support in SA.

Upon my arrival to South Africa, I honestly had no idea what to expect. I was met in the airport by ACE team members who were very nice and excited to see me. Transport to my placement was by road and it was about a 5 hour drive out into the middle of the South African bushveld. I was truly in the middle of nowhere. When I first arrived to my placement, all my fears and worries were gone. The property I stayed at was owned by a busy wildlife services veterinary team. I stayed in small student lodges that could sleep 4. They were extremely nice, newly renovated, and had a tiled bathroom! Also, there was a lodge that had a bar, projector, tables, and a pool. The work I was involved with could be divided into two categories. The first would be working directly with the vet and his wife, both of whom were extremely nice, caring, and extremely fun to be around. I found that at the end of my stay we had become very close friends. A typical day with the vet and my volunteer buddies would be driving out to a farm to help treat any animals that could be suffering from a variety of ailments. During my time, we darted a lot of sable, and I was also able to see some nyala, sheep, tzezebe, and buffalo. During these experiences I was able to administer vaccinations and help aid in other treatments like ultrasound and horn capping. The other category of work I was involved with was with the vet and the wildlife capture team. Working with the capture team was probably the most fun I had. We would drive out to various farms and would basically transport large numbers of animals at one time. Some days we would be transporting buffalo to various camps, and so the vet would go up in the helicopter and dart the buffalo from the air. We would then chase down the buffalo by truck and transport them out of that camp and into another. This was truly exhilarating. I was also able to help with something called mass capture. This entailed building a temporary corral and herding by helicopter the various antelope species into the corral. Once the antelope made it into the corral, we would then herd them by foot into transportation trucks to move the animals out of the farm and into a new one. This was probably the most fun experience I had. Overall, my one month stay in South Africa was incredible and I will never forget the experiences I had. The people I worked with were amazing. The animals I worked with were awe-inspiring. This is something I would love to do again in the future.

The Okavango Wilderness Experience in Botswana (Moremi Game reserve) is truly amazing! A real feeling of being out in the bush and at the same helping out for a great cause. The outcomes from this volunteering are retained for ever! Learning every kind of species that are seen and their social behaviour. You will be amazed by the diversity of animals in this region, and even more about the abundance of birds species encountered. It will also be hard work as it is not as easy as it sounds. Days are long and tough but bearable. If you have never done something like this and you are not quite sure what volunteering to pick, I would suggest to start off by this one as it will give you an idea of what you are looking for. I can assure you, you will not regret it.

I found out about ACE through a friend of mine who is studying to be a vet. She told me about this programme in Africa and so I immediately went online to look it up and came across ACE. I was very nervous to send in my application because I was worried about how my parents would react, but once I did and actually spoke to the ACE team my fears disappeared. I told them about my goal of becoming a vet and what animals I would be interested in working with and they gave me two different project options within the Shimongwe Wildlife Veterinary Experience. The first option would be working alongside an experienced wildlife vet and the second choice was with a specialist veterinary team who focused on relocation work. They went over each project in detail and I was able to decide which project matched my interests the most. I wanted to be working directly with wildlife like big cats, elephants, and lots of different species and so the fact that the project worked with a huge variety of species really caught my interest. The Shimongwe project absolutely fit my needs and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. This was my first time travelling alone, and the first time anyone in my family has travelled alone and on top of that it was to Africa! Most people think that this is one of the most dangerous places you can travel to but I’ve quickly realised that it’s not. It is all thanks to ACE who were able to reassure me and my parents who were very concerned that I would be safe. They went over the entire process of how they would pick me up at the airport as soon as I landed. They also gave me their full support by providing 24/7 support from the team in country and so I felt 100% safe, and this was enough to convince my parents to let me go. I was immediately thrown into the thick of it on my first day when the veterinary team went to do a rhino dehorning. They worked on 3 rhinos, and it was wonderful to see them up close. It wasn’t pleasant to see a rhino being dehorned but at the same time it was an amazing, educational experience. Another special moment was when the team sterilised three lionesses, I learnt how this was extremely important to manage and control the populations to prevent inbreeding. It was interesting to hear how there is overpopulation of lions in South Africa on certain reserves as opposed to the rest of Africa. Aside from the amazing veterinary experience I also got to explore a lot of different amazing natural habitats of Africa. I’m a big naturalist and I appreciated every little tree and plant I saw. We went up into the mountains and the cliffs and I was able to appreciate every colour and all the different animals running around. I went to a bunch of different waterfalls and swam in crystal clear waters, which was beautiful. I went to Kruger and luckily I got to see a lot of different animals including 3 of the big 5! This experience has made me want to return to Africa and spend more time exploring to see what else I can find. My host family were also absolutely wonderful, right from the very beginning they included me as a part of their family. They are a very social family who like to tell jokes and they cooked me the nicest food I could have asked for, which made me feel very welcome and like I was at home. Being in such a social environment was a shock after the last two years of COVID, and so I felt very reserved at first but seeing how the family interact with each other allowed me to open up and join in. This experience has been very eye opening, I have learned about the many different fields I could go inot as of a vet and I feel like I have a lot more options now. I’m very excited to explore and figure out what my future might hold!

It was my first time travelling to another country all by myself, I was terrified. I was greeted at the airport by Martin and Natalie, they were very kind and welcoming. They guided me through all the airport process for the internal flight to Richards Bay. When I arrived in Richards Bay airport, I was greeted by a warm and welcoming driver who then took me to Phinda. He kindly took us to a supermarket so we could get some snacks such as sweets and pop. The monitors (Rich, Winston and Charli) were amazing and hilarious! They had incredible knowledge about the wildlife and they were very helpful. Also, Charli’s muffins were amazing! I had to stop myself from eating them all! They made me feel part of the team, and I definitely felt like I was. One of my favourite moments with these guys was making dinner and playing cards after a long but wonderful day. A big thank you to these guys for my marvellous experience! Every day was different and unpredictable. I remember one morning we were supposed to be tracking elephants but we came across a cheetah with three cubs, it was an awesome experience! I loved it when we were able to watch every sunrise and sunset on the drives! Remember to wear layers and a big, fluffy jacket, it is very cold in mornings and evenings! It is my goal to work with and protect animals in South Africa, this trip gave me an insight into what it would be like and I have to say, I am incredibly excited about the future. This project showed me how to use telemetry equipment to monitor the collared animals, setting up camera traps, dehorning and notching rhinos, recording GPS coordinates electronically and taking photos for I.D kits. This project is perfect if you wish to go into a research and monitoring career. You won’t regret going to Phinda Private Game Reserve, and you won’t regret going through ACE.

The 22 hours on a plane and 5 hours I spent in a car to get to the conservation project was grueling, but after arriving at the Shimongwe Wildlife Relocation and Veterinary Experience I could see that it was completely worth it. I spent two weeks with the Shimongwe team and I loved every encounter I had with the unique and exotic wildlife in South Africa. My favorite part of the experience was relocating animals. This was done by darting animals one by one, then administering vitamins, antibiotics, and vaccinations before loading them onto a truck to move to a different farm. This is a very important part of the conservation project because it redistributes genes to different animal populations in order to increase genetic variation. I gained so much experience giving shots to many different species of animals including roan, buffalo, and sable. I am happy to say that I was able to take these practical veterinary skills and apply them back home to the livestock on our farm. I highly recommend this experience if you are at all interested in the veterinary or vet tech field. You will gain so much experience under a wonderful wildlife veterinarian as well as being encouraged to ask any and all questions you might have about the animals and the conservation efforts that are taking place to protect them. While not out with the veterinarian, there were still many ways for me to help out. This includes feeding the antelope, ostriches, rhinos, and big cats as well as filling up water troughs and building friendships with the amazing staff. I also highly recommend ACE if you plan on traveling to South Africa. They go above and beyond to make sure that their volunteers are safe, taken care of, and that they have a good experience. ACE made traveling during the covid pandemic completely stress-free and puts the volunteers above anything else. I cannot thank the wonderful people at ACE enough for the unforgettable trip I had in South Africa.

I’ve always had an interest in veterinary medicine and wild animals. Living in the UK you don’t get many opportunities to work with and see wildlife. I wanted to explore what it would be like working as a wildlife vet, and from hearing about the project that ACE offers through a friend I knew I needed to book this trip! The vet I worked with was an inspiration, not only to me but, to his colleagues and other wildlife vets in the area. He was very friendly, funny, and laidback, but also amazing at his job. He was able to answer all of my questions and more! He made sure I was involved in everything and that I got to see as much as possible. I was involved in so many procedures during my 2 week stay, some examples include, rhino dehorning; working with cheetah by lancing an abscess and injecting them with hormones; treating a buffalo that was injured by a lion; and even seeing how they perform a post mortem on a hyena which was brilliant! Part of the post mortem involves testing the animal for rabies, to do this they have to send part of the brain off for testing! I was part of a particularly incredible operation: translocating rhinos from South Africa to Mozambique. Several vets worked together, however, the vet I was shadowing lead the process. The vets would come to him for approval, for his opinion, and for advice on medication and it was great to see how the team worked together. The rhinos were being translocated to Mozambique because they have very few rhinos left due to poaching. As part of the process the rhinos had transmitters drilled into their horns so they can be tracked easily once they have been released and also to monitor their movements. I got to be very involved in the operation and once the rhinos had been darted and loaded into crates I was able to help the vet nurses administer reversal drugs to the rhinos! Expect the unexpected! One animal I never thought I would get to see was a pangolin as they are the most trafficked animal in the world. On my first day at the clinic I saw a pangolin! I learnt how to effectively care for pangolins in captivity such as how they do not eat unless they are taken on really long walks to forage. The pangolin I saw needed to be given fluids as it was losing weight. The host family that I stayed with were amazing, and they are all very friendly and make you feel as though you are part of their family. Their house is on a reserve that also has wild animals roaming around. The accommodation I stayed in was really nice, it was almost like a small studio with an ensuite bathroom which gave me privacy when I needed it. The rooms are separate from the main house where I would eat their incredible food and play games or watch tv in the evening. On the weekends they also had lots of different activities I could get involved in. I chose to go horse riding on their reserve as the host family owns their own stables. I also went on a trip to the Kruger National Park and saw lots of other wildlife that I hadn’t already seen with the vet. If I was able to stay longer I would definitely have chosen more activities! This experience will help me with my future studies. It has given me a unique opportunity to work with lots of different species which would not have been possible if I had not volunteered. The work I was involved in and the knowledge gained from working with lots of different species will also help me stand out from other students!

I found African Conservation Experience (ACE) incredibly helpful from the get-go. As a newly graduated vet, I wanted to travel to South Africa to work on the many species I was interested in. Upon researching all of the different organisations that supported veterinary projects out there, I just loved the freedom that ACE provided when designing my very own experience. When they described over the phone to me the Shimongwe Veterinary Experience, I loved how it sounded geared more towards a graduated vet, rather than a student, and provided hands-on experience. I was incredibly grateful they provided me with all of the details of a project that really met my needs and what I was looking for. So I jumped on the plane! I travelled alone and didn’t know anyone here, but I couldn’t have been happier with what I had and all the people greeting me. All of the other vet students, nurses, and graduated vets that I met on the experience were such special people and it was so lovely to meet like-minded people from different corners of the earth. It was so much fun comparing the university experiences we’ve all had, the teaching experiences we’ve had, and where some people had time in practice, the knowledge that also came from that. We all benefited enormously from each other, learnt so much from one another, and hopefully will stay lifelong friends. One of my very special experiences was with a Nyala, a type of antelope, which I had never heard of until I came to South Africa! They’re beautiful. They’re also unique because the bull and the ewe are so distinctly different in their appearance. One morning, we were doing game capture to relocate these Nyalas, as there were too many bulls in this one reserve, and the vet darted this bull – but he had gone! The sedation takes time as it’s intramuscularly, so it’s not an immediate effect. So during this time of the drug taking effect, the bull had gone into the deep, deep bush, so we had to find him quickly, as you want to reverse these sedatives as swiftly as possible, to minimise any negative effects. So the whole team of us, the volunteers, the vets, and everyone on the farm, created a line and moved parallel through the bush to find this Nyala. And it was deep bush! You had to go down onto your hands and knees at some points to get through. I was very lucky, though. I was the second person to find the Nyala bull, after the vet himself who had been dragging him through the bush as he was now fully sedated, and had been doing so for over five minutes. He was naturally exhausted, so I had the privilege of taking over! As tiring as it was, it was an amazing experience. I helped to take this bull out and onto the tracks where, after a few moments, he groggily got onto his feet and I led him by the antlers back to the trailer. We quickly treated the dark wounds and gave him parasite treatments, then reversed him and off he went in the trailer to his new home. I’ve gained lots through this experience, and probably most importantly is the hands-on knowledge and understanding of how veterinary practices perform out in South Africa, and the difference with the different species. We all know that one species is not the same as the other – the drugs that are used, their metabolisms, even their characters are so different – but it’s been great for me as a graduate vet to gain more practical experience, as you are still very much in the learning phase. To go on a day of pregnancy diagnosing 150 cattle… that is just so much more hands-on experience which was immensely helpful, and I’ve loved every second of it. I’ve also gained experience of the culture – this was something I thought was really unique to the Shimongwe Veterinary Experience. We were taken to these amazing game lodges and beautiful farms – places you wouldn’t know to go to, and this insider knowledge really immersed me into South African culture.

So, you’re looking for a rewarding adventure and you’re passionate about wildlife. You’ve just found the right people! I’ve been to a lot of countries and photographed a lot of creatures in the oceans and on the land. But, I’ve never been “in the field” and experienced “hands on” action like this. The African Conservation Experience (“ACE”) takes you to another level. A level where you will be interacting on a daily basis with highly intelligent scientists and the animals themselves. Depending on your location, you may actually assist in tagging the animals; you may help track and locate them electronically; you may photograph them for updated records and archives; and, you may observe and help record data regarding a large variety of species. And, all of this is occurring on the beautiful African savannah. ACE gave me a once in a lifetime experience and so many memories that I will never forget. We all know that there are no guarantees with nature, but I can promise that you will leave Africa a different person for the better.

The ACE experience has been one of the most interesting and interactive activities I’ve ever taken part in. I went with a school group for two weeks in order to seen what it was like to work as a conservationist in the greater Kruger national park. There were many great moments of tension and surprise in the bush when we would see something new or learn how to track an animal based on their paw prints. Overall it was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it to anyone who is planning a trip to South Africa as it is not only beneficial for you, but most of the earnings are also put towards conservation and making sure that wild animals such as elephants and lions don’t go extinct.

Picking a favourite moment would be too hard - between chasing Wildebeest through a Boma, running down a hillside after Nyala, simply flying around on the back of a Bakkie, working on Buffalo (favourite of Big 5), or to be so lucky as to see a Leopard of the Big 5 - how do you choose?

The people definitely made my experience. I got along great with everyone and the times we spent together capturing were always memorable. All the wildlife captures we did were memorable from chasing after Blesbok and piping their horns in the trailers to riding in the helicopter. The entire experience was something i'll remember forever.

Our experience & trip with African Conservation Experience really was a trip of a lifetime! We planned our trip around 3 years before yet it had to be postponed numerous times due to Covid. The booking process & changing of dates was reliable & so easy, the team at African Conservation Experience were really prompt & helpful. This experience was something we have wanted to do as a married couple for some time. We have volunteered in other countries; but by far this has to be one of the best! We first spent 2 weeks in the Okavanago Delta collecting & recording data of the species we saw on game drives. It was incredible! We saw lots of wildlife including Leopards! The living conditions are what we were looking forward to being back to basic in a bush camp & living, cooking, & working with local African people. The experience was unforgettable, hard at times with the heat & being so remote where we were. Yet the staff were amazing in making you feel safe & ensuring we had the best experience. Our whole experience was 5*; from the warm welcome we had at the airport from Martin who was there as soon as we arrived & it was great that he was very informative about the projects we were taking part in. We can't recommend this company & projects enough. We hope one day we will return & get involved some more. Thank-you :)

My most memorable moments were the Victoria Falls activities, almost everything done at Phinda: cheetah relocation, tracking and observing such a variety of animals, finding a new species of black widow, watching a rhino’s dislocated toe be treated, seeing elephants explore a new area (Lulu bush), and generally learning about the conservation efforts used at Phinda and how the reserve works as part of the greater environment and drive for conservation in South Africa.

If you want to consider volunteering in Africa and participate in wildlife conservation ACE is the best place to start. The staff are well informed and willing to assist volunteers in any way they can. Highly organized and helpful in assisting volunteers pick a project that's suited to what they are seeking.

lt very well supported. In particular, the staff who waited at the airport were very reassuring, and the transfer was smooth. I was very satisfied with the content of the activities, as I was able to see more of the inside than I had expected, and had many valuable experiences

My favourite moment was seeing a male lion in a Mexican stand-off with some crocodiles to eat a dead hippo in the river at Kwai. The lion was waiting patiently at 10 a.m. and was still there at 7.30 p.m. but was afraid to go into the river because of the crocodiles on the opposite bank of the river.

Helping to care for a baby Pangolin at Phinda! It was amazing to realize that I was handling and caring for an animal that most people in the world have never seen, and that less than 100 people have had the opportunity to care for, especially knowing that I was helping to prepare it for eventual release on the reserve. A memory of a lifetime-- I feel so privileged and honored to have done this.

This was my first trip to Africa so everything, from the environment to the people, was new to me. Seeing the way people live in Botswana was amazing. Driving through all the villages and seeing the excitement on the children's faces to wave to us was really amazing. Being so close to the wild animals that I have only ever seen in zoos was really the highlight. Coming around a corner and almost running into a lion on the road is something I will never forget. The wildlife, the people, and the experience overall made this trip worth it and I would do it a million times over.

My time volunteering with ACE is one of the best experiences in my life to date. Having done two weeks at Phinda and then a two week rhino focussed course split across Kruger and then Care for Wild, I really feel I had a in-depth insight into the African Conservation world. I’ve always been interested in wildlife and conservation and this time taught me so much about reserve management, conservation strategies and the threats they face. It even helped me understand the more political and sensitive issues that affect conservation on a daily basis. The ACE team helped direct me to the projects that were of interest to me and the placements all ran smoothly. I’d certainly travel with them again!

I spent 2 months in South Africa under the care of ACE and I couldn't have been happier with my experience. From arranging very reliable and friendly transfers to ensuring an excellent visit during your stay, ACE will do it all for you and will only ask that you gain from the experience what you can. I did the intensive rhino course, Care For Wild and the Phinda project and they all blew me away. From my trip I can tell how important conservation is to the people who run ACE and the passion that they have for eco-tourism. Everyone at ACE was extremely friendly and helped you to understand the real conservation issues that are affecting South Africa today, rather than other companies which will encourage activities for people to simply have contact with the animals, but have little to no conservational value. The projects that ACE run and support have the best interest of the animals they care for always as their main priority. The rhino intensive course was very interesting to see the realities of the rhino-poaching crisis and you get a very different perspective to what is portrayed in mainstream media and get the chance to try and think of answers together to tackle difficult issues. Care For Wild was an UNFORGETTABLE experience which i shall certainly be doing again very soon. Working with orphaned rhinos and an incredible team paired to make experiences for me where I learnt so much about myself and changed many views. Also the social side of CFW is brilliant and I spent my 3 weeks there with 3 different groups who were all amazing. Phinda had incredible bio-diversity and the tour guides were very informative and fun to work with. Using telemetry and other methods to track animals we were able to gain a greater understanding of the species that we saw and had an incredible experience being on such an amazing reserve and helping with research to help aid conservation. If you’re thinking of coming to South Africa to see animals, please use ACE because they will guarantee that you can see incredible animals and have great experiences, without it being at the expense of the animals or conservation.

I volunteered for 2 weeks at Wildlife Services capture and relocation. The team was amazing. They really make you feel like you’re part of it all and the hands on experience was incredible. It was fast paced work darting with the helicopter and capturing wildlife from the bush to relocate them to a different farm. It was an eye opening experience and I learned so much from everyone there. If you want an action packed adventure this is the opportunity of a lifetime.

I volunteered for 2 weeks at Wildlife Services capture and relocation. The team was amazing. They really make you feel like you’re part of it all and the hands on experience was incredible. It was fast paced work darting with the helicopter and capturing wildlife from the bush to relocate them to a different farm. It was an eye opening experience and I learned so much from everyone there. If you want an action packed adventure this is the opportunity of a lifetime.

My daughter and I went to Phinda with ACE. It was the most amazing experience, one I will never forget and hope to repeat at some time. The help we received from ACE, from the booking procedure to being met at Johannesburg, was outstanding, nothing was too much trouble. And the rangers at Phinda were incredible, explaining everything we done. The accommodation was basic but more than adequate. I would highly recommend this experience. Thank you ACE.

My experience with ACE exceeded all expectations. I was part of the Wildlife Veterinary Experience with Dr Rogers and had the most incredible time. ACE ensured I was fully informed regarding all transport, the host family, excursions and the Veterinary experience itself, from start to finish. I felt safe throughout my entire trip and knew the ACE team were only an email away. My host family were very welcoming and made me feel like one of the family, they went out of their way to make sure I could make the most of my trip. Dr Rogers has great pride in his work and was passionate to share his knowledge and experience with me. I was lucky enough to witness Dr Rogers' work with an enormous variety of species, a few examples include wild dog, rhino, cheetah, serval and elephant, both in his practice and out in reserves. This experience has helped me with my Veterinary medicine university application, giving me something different to offer and some very unique and special experiences.

I spent two weeks working with ACE at the Musina clinic and had an amazing time. The staff were all super friendly and willing to teach plus I got to take part in lots of hands on work which I otherwise would not have been able to. Every day was different which I really enjoyed. Highly recommend taking part in this experience, it was an unforgettable one!

Lifelong dream come true: spending time in the African bush up close and personal with the animals in their wild habitat. I witnessed unimagined animal behavior. I really have no words to describe what the experience was for me except I wanted to stay and live at Phinda I loved it there so much. I was deeply touched not only by the animals but all the people and organizations who are looking after them. Their dedication and efforts are profound. I stayed at both camps with other volunteers from all over the world. We went out in an open Landcruiser every day to track and monitor the animals, sometimes a particular animal. I loved that the vehicle was open and not enclosed. We left just before dawn, came back for lunch and then out again into the evening. These long hours at differing times of days provided many opportunities for exceptional experiences. I participated in other activities as well: rhino dehornings, a darting of a cheetah and her grown cub and the release of impala and wildebeest into a portion of the reserve. I was there 4 weeks. I recommend at least two weeks for a full experience. My Phinda experience still lives on in me, it is with me every day. It was truly a profound, heart opening and soul touching experience. I intend to return.

This is the second time I travel with ACE and it has been another great experience. From the start I had great help and guidance planning my trip from the office and the moment I landed in South Africa I was picked up and well taken care of. I got to work hands on with the animals after a proper introduction from the talented and patient staff. I worked with a dedicated conservation team who gave me an experience of a lifetime.

The ACE team are great in preparing you for your trip and make getting too and from the project super easy so that you don’t have to worry about anything. I got tonnes of experience with a whole range of different species and I learnt a great deal about the different species that we worked with. The staff were great in teaching me everything about the day to day life working with wildlife and about the medicines that are used. The project had two different aspects, one being the veterinary work and the other being the mass captures. These were both fast paced and so much fun. It was an experience like no other and I will definitely have to take myself back there in the future.

My most memorable experience was ny first rhino dehorning, being so close to the rhino was a huge privilege and to touch it amazing. Also seeing and being involved with the pangolin work was incredible having been told that they are the most poached mammal in the world and most native South Africans have never seen one and unlikely to.

After researching I selected ACE. From the help in selecting the projects and throughout the experience the support and service was excellent. The office in UK helped with all details. In Johannesburg and on the projects themselves I was looked after every step of the way which allows you to enjoy and soak up the unique experiences. In my case the Rhino and Phinda experience. Memories of a lifetime and met some amazing people. Having visited Phinda as a guest, this was another level of experience and involvement. So much so, I am returning with my family this year via ACE and no doubt will do many others in the future.

One of the best months of my life! Couldn’t have asked for anymore from my trip! ACE made it so easy for me to get out to South Africa and I can’t thank them enough. The projects were absolutely awesome and I loved every single minute of my trip. I learnt so much about the conservation in Africa and it’s all thanks to these guys! 1000% recommend to anyone who is interested in getting a unique view into conservation in Africa!

I was awakened at 2:00 AM and listened to a herd of elephants grazing on the trees just behind my tent, so close that I could hear their digestive systems churning and gurgling. The Milky Way was overhead with an occasional shooting star. I listened for about half an hour and then drifted back to sleep. Now that… was an amazing experience!

The whole project was incredible. The people were amazing and I learned a great amount of information about the wildlife and the efforts being made on the reserve. The days that weren't routine tracking days, we got to experience more hands on, up and personal work with the animals which were always my favorite days, such as recollaring elephants or releasing cheetah onto the reserve.

I honestly have too many good memories to just pick one. I really loved being able to work with so many giraffe so closely, and play a hands-on role in the transfers. I also found it very cool to have to opportunity to work with a white rhino. The hands-on experiences are unforgettable.

My brother and I are both U.S. Marine Corps veterans, and since we left the military, we have sought ways we can continue to serve. Helping animals is the most meaningful work we have done together, so with that in mind we wanted to find a real deal conservation effort that we could be a part of. After a bit of internet research we came across ACE and the Kruger project and knew it would be the perfect opportunity to get our hands dirty while connecting with nature and witnessing some amazing animals in their natural habitats. At the Vikela Kruger experience we spent our days tracking game through a variety of methods (including smell!), reporting our findings to help chart animal movement and support anti-poaching efforts, participating in activities to preserve the animals natural environment like removing non-native invasive plants, and learning all kinds of amazing facts about the plants, animals, and insects on the reserve from a ranger with over a decade of experience. During our experience we were lucky enough to track down white rhinos more than once, including a face-to-face encounter mere yards away on foot. Being able to track them in the wild was an absolute thrill. Along for the ride was a tracking/detection dog that helped in the efforts and kept us entertained at all times. We got to see her use her sniffer in a training exercise to find hidden rhino horn and ammunition. The list of other animals we saw was endless, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, baboons, zebras, hyenas, and warthogs just to name a few. The camp we stayed at was beautifully understated, with an amazing hilltop view where you could see for miles. During our time there we also made a short trip to Moholoholo Animal Rehabilitation Centre to learn about the work they do and see a variety of animals in their care. And we took a boat ride in the beautiful Blyde canyon where we saw hippos and crocodiles while learning about the history of its formation. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting to experience a slice of life for a ranger sprinkled with lots of learning opportunities and seeing animals in their natural habitats!

I had a trip organized with ACE since 2020 and finally got to go April 2022! I can’t explain how much of an amazing time and a once in a lifetime experience I had. From the get go ACE was nothing but caring and helpful. I can’t recommend this company and the experiences they offer anymore- hopefully in the future I can visit again

I would have to say that all of my vet experiences will last with me for a long time to come! However, the one that I truly loved and never forget was my work with Giraffe game capture - it was very fast-paced and exciting with a lot of work and effort alongside. Always something to get stuck in with. I felt part of the team in both my days with the guys.

I literally loved every day but this day was amazing! We left at 8am and returned to the camp at 4pm. We had left in the morning to relocate buffaloes. I was able to give intravenous injections on two buffaloes. We then relocated two young male giraffes and one young female to the same reserve. We were able to see the complexity of capturing and moving giraffes. In the afternoon we went to another reserve to treat a weak antelope female infected with a nematode causing anaemia. That day was really amazing!

I’m a veterinary student and I traveled last year to South Africa with the Wildlife Veterinary Experience. I stayed there for two weeks and it was absolutely amazing!! I wish I'd stayed there a little longer. I can definitely say it was one of the best experiences I've ever had in my life! During my placement in South Africa, I had the opportunity to work with an incredible team and participate in a variety of different procedures with several african mammals. I also worked in the clinic with small and exotic animals! During my last weekend, we went to Kruger National Park! ACE work was amazing, they were always there to help me and gave me support with everything I needed. It is a safe experience and I learnt SO MUCH. I higly recommend this to anyone that loves animals and nature and is looking for a once in a lifetime experience! I would definitely do it again! Thank you ACE

ACE is an amazing organization and I would definitely recommend going on one of their trips. ACE was there right when we arrived in South Africa and also when we left to make sure we were okay, safe, and well taken care of. You really get treated like family with this organization and get to participate in the most unforgettable and life-changing experiences. I already can’t wait to go on another trip with ACE!

I went to Phinda private game reserve in South Africa for two weeks. To say the least, two weeks was not enough. The wildlife we saw was incredible, I learned so many things about the flora and fauna that inhabit the area. Everyday was a new adventure, it truly was the trip of a lifetime. Thank you to African Conservation Experience for all they did to help the trip go as smoothly as possible, special thanks to Martin as well. As far as the staff that work on the reserve, special thanks to Sibo and Kerrin, they were great. I can’t wait to come back.

I was already familiar with ACE as I'd spent two weeks at Phinda in 2014. However, the project in Botswana seemed like a greater challenge in an area of Africa to which I had never been. As before, the travel arrangements worked perfectly with Martin meeting me at the airport and providing an excellent overview of the project we were to be engaged in. Martin is extremely passionate about his work and it is quite motivating to the novice, which clearly I was, to understand the significance of the project and being provided a clear indication as to the contribution you can make. I was also able to meet my co-volunteers. There is something quite rewarding in meeting people who share your views about conservation and like you who are willing to put some of your own time into making some slight difference. The greatest reward, however, is the privilege of being able to spend time in the bush. While we were under canvas, the camp facilities were brilliant; certainly that would be the impression for anyone who has spent any time camping. My time there was during the dry season and the evidence of migration of animals due to diminishing water holes was clear; and this was recorded with great commitment by our team which bonded amazingly well. The evidence of the cooperation we enjoyed was most noticeable each evening when we shared the duties of creating a meal; and then sharing stories around a camp fire. ACE understand that if you volunteer to work in these contexts you also hope to enjoy seeing as much as possible of the wildlife which surrounds you. The balance which was achieved in terms of getting the job done while providing opportunities to see much of what Northern Botswana has to offer worked incredibly well. The long days monitoring in the vehicle were always rewarding. In addition, the few days when entered the Chobe and Moremi Game Reserves provided a wonderful set of memories to share with those back home. A great experience which everyone in my group of five enjoyed. The most significant of sightings was a Pangolin. As rare an animal as you might find in this part of the world. Even our Botswanan driver was elated by this find.

There were so many I can't possibly choose just one! You expect and hope to have many animal sightings once you go out onto the reserve but you don't necessarily expect to watch rhinos and giraffes strolling in the distance from your kitchen window while eating breakfast or warthogs going about their business around the camp about two inches away from you!

I had a fantastic experience with ACE. The projects they offer are amazing and the way they have things organized is so great. I felt totally safe and taken care of during my trip to south Africa. Before, during and after my trip they were always there to answer questions, give tips and recommendations and ensure that everything moved smoothly. I would 100% recommend booking a trip with them!

ACE is the best company to work through if you want to help with conservation in Southern Africa. I have now participated in 5 of their projects across 3 different countries for a total of 7 months and I have loved every single one. The staff in London are phenomenal about answering any questions and the staff in South Africa are amazing. They would do anything for their volunteers. I recommend them and their projects to anyone.

Growing up with parents who used to live in Africa I was privileged to hear incredible stories from all around the continent. At the age of 19 and one year into an ‘Environmental Science & Business’ degree I decided that it was the perfect time for me to have my own stories to tell. I decided I wanted to be a volunteer and be as involved in animals as I possibly could, so the wildlife research project at Phinda seemed like the perfect choice. I left Australia armed with a camera and a serious amount of excitement, after an entire life of stories my expectations where very high. On reflection the experiences I have had far surpassed my wildest expectations, from dehorning rhinos to riding in the back of a land cruiser with two knocked out lionesses I certainly got what I had hoped for. The ACE team and the Phinda have provided me with memories that will last a lifetime and an endless amount of stories that I will forever treasure. From helping me with my travel plans, what I need to bring and even insurance the ACE team were an incredible help and I cannot recommend them more highly.

I just finished 2 great weeks with ACE doing the Veterinary Experience! I was at the clinic in Musina and would recommend volunteering with him any day! We were able to work with small animals in the clinic, horses on farms, and go on multiple game drives just to name a few! The hands on experience here was one of a kind and my only regret is not staying longer! Highly recommend :)

The first day we went out with Jason and two other team members. We were so lucky to find the two lioness quickly with the three cubs. It was just being in a national geographic movie only 100x better. The interaction and playfulness of the Cubs was so beautiful to see. Also how the Tswalu (mom of the Cubs) was correcting the cubs. Correct them once and then they have to find it out themselves. This was one of the many unforgettable moments with the lions.

I found the ACE team were all very helpful, both with the arranging of the details for my placement and once I was in South Africa. Martin was there to meet me once I got off the plane in Johannesburg and made sure I made it onto my transfer flight to Richards Bay. He was also there to meet me on the way back. My actual project was very worthwhile as it gave me experience of what conservation in the field is like. We carried out activities such as monitoring the animals and helping with rhino dehornings. Altogether it was an amazing experience which I feel very privileged to have had.

ACE gave me the most amazing experience I've ever had in my life! I volunteered at the Phinda research project and I loved it. Everyone I met while I was there was so nice, funny, smart and so helpful. You won't find better people anywhere else in the world. Being at Phinda was more fun and amazing than I can even put into words, it's easily the most beautiful place on the planet. Mostly because of all the life on the reserve as well as the unbelievable scenery. I urge everyone to volunteer with ACE. They have a great team of people and being a part of the work is so rewarding.

The ACE experience was an experience unlike any other that was packed with a large variety of fulfilling and entertaining activities. Every person I met, who was associated with ACE, was kind, passionate and very clearly dedicated to conservation. I loved being a part of ACE and though the experience only lasted 2 weeks, I left feeling more than satisfied with incredible memories, and the inspiration to become more involved in wildlife conservation.

Working with all the rhinos at Care for Wild is a definite highlight, along working with some of the most inspiring people I have ever met who all strived to involve the volunteers in as much as possible. The amount of wildlife I saw at Phinda was incredible and watching the vet check up and tube feed the pangolins was just astounding.

My time volunteering with ACE is one of the best experiences in my life to date. Having done two weeks at Phinda and then a two week rhino focussed course split across Kruger and then Care for Wild, I really feel I had a in-depth insight into the African Conservation world. I’ve always been interested in wildlife and conservation and this time taught me so much about reserve management, conservation strategies and the threats they face. It even helped me understand the more political and sensitive issues that affect conservation on a daily basis. The ACE team helped direct me to the projects that were of interest to me and the placements all ran smoothly. I’d certainly travel with them again!

The work we did with the vets was so hands on and great. I learnt so much but it is definitely a place you have to be proactive and willing to be there or else you might not enjoy it. I really felt at home in Louis trichardt - my most favourite memories being having a brai by the lake with Dr Harris’s family friends or when we went on a rhino safari and watched the sunset while feeding rhinos and enjoying some Savannah’s!

My favourite memory from the trip was having the opportunity to helicopter over a reserve looking for a rhino that needed a snare removed. It was exhilarating and Dr. Rogers made us feel like we were an essential part of his team. Once on the ground we met up with the rangers and tracked from the backi, it was an incredibly rewarding day.

From the start the ACE planning, flexibility and information was clear and precise. Correspondence was well organized and the response from head office was always prompt and comprehensive. Nothing was left unexplained. All went so smoothly. Arrival at camp was a pleasant surprise. Beautiful, remote setting, great tents well set up in a glorious location with everything we needed. We were immediately immersed in the African way of life living in the bush. The flush toilet and shower block was a real bonus. We were immersed in the bush and loved it. Early morning starts, monitoring and logging animal sightings with cyber tracking, cups of tea and snacks on the road. Everyday was a different route with different animal sightings. Lots of tracking and the joy of seeing what you have been tracking along the road is amazing. Photography opportunities were unbelievable. The joy of the warm showers provided daily, the great African food and the peaceful campfire and the silence and maybe a gin or cider rounded the days off with the mandatory spectacutar red sky sunset. I had no idea what to expect and was never disappointed, everyday was a new adventure. It was easy just to let the days unfold and whatever happened was marvellous. It was one of the best experiences I've had in Africa and I have been 4 times! The number of animals in Botswana is huge and the added bonus of being there as the water started to move down during our time there was the icing on the cake.

I had such an unforgettable experience with ACE. The experience opened my eyes to the beauty of South African wildlife and the urgent need to conserve it, and I was really moved by both the dedication and passion of our guides throughout the trip. Every activity gave me a deeper understanding of the Greater Kruger and national park, each one really unique and special, from the wild bush walks to the night drives. It was truly a once in a life time experience and I have taken so much away from only two weeks. I highly recommend it to everyone!

I spent 2 weeks with a group working with ACE and it absolutely blew my mind. The people were so welcoming and open to teaching us about what to know about the bush, from species identification to tracking animals. The atmosphere was constantly positive, which could not have been possible without the people involved with the project. Overall, I’m very glad I was able to experience something like this.

These guys are great, from the office in England that we went through who organised everything for us to Martin who greeted us at the airport and helped us get on our way. I couldn’t think of any improvements for ACE. Martin was great at the airport offering to pay for food and explaining everything about our conservation And then sent us on our way. All our questions were answered and the team are very friendly. Would recommend coming through this company to do anything in Africa!

This trip for me has been one I will cherish for the rest of my life. I believe that having a trip like this is something people in the western world like myself need to learn more about Africa and how life is like there. The trip that I did was not something you need to do when you just want to pet animals and play around, because as I see this, the trip prepares you for the real world. This trip has opened my eyes on what I want to start my profession in and given me a taste of what is is like in the real world. Excellent!

After spending 3 weeks with the Veterinary Experience, I can say that this trip was the best decision of my life. ACE was so helpful throughout the entire process. They went over each project in detail and I was able to decide which project matched my interests the most. I wanted to be working directly with wildlife in the veterinary field. The Shimongwe project absolutely fit my needs and I couldn’t be happier with my choice. They went over the entire process of how they would pick me up at the airport as soon as I landed. They also gave me their full support by providing 24/7 support from the team in country and so I felt 100% safe, and this was enough to convince my parents to let me go. At the project I got to work with rhinos, elephants, cheetahs, ostrich, and a porcupine. I saw so many procedures that you can’t find at a normal first-world veterinary practice. Besides the many reserves we visited on the job, I had the weekends to explore the area. I've never seen anything as beautiful as the nature in Africa. From the sunsets, to the mountains and trees, to the beautiful bird calls... it was all so surreal. I can go on and on about how amazing this project is and just how much it meant to me. Long story short, it changed my life. It was so much more than just getting close contact with animals, and more than observing a wildlife practice. It changed how I see the world and myself. It changed the way I think. And it gave me hope for the future. If you are considering going, I highly encourage you to try it and see for yourself what I mean by all of this.

Every day was a gift, but I remember 3 occasions, when the guides took me to the safari game trip (boat trip in Moremi), when we went to the hippos pool in Mababe and to a water hole close to the camp. These were incredible experiences - I highly recommend!

I had a wonderful experience with ACE. This was my first time with ACE and I participated in the Botswana Okavango Program. Everything about the trip ran smoothly. We were met at the airport and given a very detailed overview of our trip. We were met in Maun by the ACE reps and the adventure began! The guides in our camp were fantastic. So nice and knowledgeable about the environment and wildlife. Our accommodations, while basic were good and the food was delicious! The daily research activity of identifying animals on set transepts within a concession was a lot of fun. We all learned alot. On our days off we spent the day inside the Okavango Moremi Reserve. The wildlife we saw was extraordinary. It was a fabulous trip.

Traveling to South Africa to help with animal conservation had been my dream for a long time. I did my research and ACE received the most legitimate and positive reviews. Once I connected with ACE, the selling point for me was the time they took to talk to me on the phone (yes I talked to a real person!) to explain the program in detail. I spoke to Ellie several times and she was absolutely a delight. Ruth was also extremely helpful in discussing the finances of the trip. Then I flew into Johannesburg airport and met Martin. He was immediately very reassuring and informative. Once you meet him you’ll see his passion for the projects and know right away you’ve made the right decision. My project was a 14 day stay at Phinda Wildlife Reserve. Daily duties might include assisting guides with transects, where we surveyed the reserve and identified the type, quantity, and location of the animals. We monitored and tracked a variety of animal species. We also able to assist in various research projects conducted by graduate students from all over the world. I was fortunate to have Charlie as my guide for the first week and Winston as my guide for the second. They were both phenomenal. I was also able to interact Simon who oversees all of Phinda and was very open including the volunteers on a variety of activities. My concerns before departing were safety, food, water, bugs, and accommodations. I did not have any problems with any of those factors. Read your packing list provided to you by ACE and you’ll be fine. I did not have any trouble with the food or water. I visited during the cooler time of year for South Africa, so bugs weren’t bad. The house is supplied with food and I was fortunate enough to share a house with a fabulous cook. Some of the animals I saw were lions, elephants, rhinoceros, zebras, giraffe’s, cheetah, and more. Rhinos are now my new favorite animal. You’ll see why if you go. I even got to ride in a helicopter! In summary, I would highly recommend ACE. Volunteering really does help the guides, staff, and scientists. But most importantly of all, it is a way to be a part of protecting these endangered animals.

I spent 1 week at the Moholoholo Experience and it was absolutely amazing, this was a life-changing experience for me and some of the stuff I have done will never be forgotten. Big shout out to Martin, the ACE team, and the Moholoholo staff who ensured that the experience was smooth and organised!

At Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre and went through a transition period – I was initially worried because I didn’t know the other volunteers, there were a lot of different personalities, and I wondered where I fit in. But soon we all became really close – the people were absolutely amazing, and I got to learn how everyone got to where they are now. That helped me a lot, as I wanted to figure out possible career paths, and making those connections made me excited for the future. I’ve also made a lot of friends. You just have to be open with people and you’ll quickly get along! I first told myself that I wouldn’t build up a connection with the animals because three weeks isn’t that long to build up that type of emotional connection… but it was! It very much was. What I learned at Moholoholo was that you’re with these animals all day long. I knew nothing about honey badgers and I was in charge of cleaning the enclosures of them. I learnt so much about them and still miss them. Hammie and Stoffel, the things they do and their behaviours, their sounds… even the sounds of the lions and hyenas! There really is something special about connecting with an animal. I also didn’t know much about birds before coming to Moholoholo and now I am obsessed with them. Missie, the adolescent bateleur, was amazing. I would sit and watch her and I started noticing her individual personality, and I'm sure she started recognising me when I worked around her. I think you should do a trip like this at least once in your life to grow and learn about yourself, not just about the importance of conservation.

Well-organised trip for 3 weeks at The Rhino Orphanage in Limpopo Province. Detailed itinerary which included what you would need to take. Met at OT Airport Johannesburg by Martin who arranged my transfer to my overnight accommodation as well as being there the next day to ensure we were collected for our transfer to the orphanage. As a volunteer you need to be open minded and be willing to immerse yourself in the experience. that way both you and the orphanage will get the best experience. with myself I was not only feeding rhino with formula but making up feeds of cattle pellets, out in the reserve monitoring the rhino, but using my practical skills carrying out maintenance such as minor service of the fire pump unit, checking over their tractor and even building a pee diverting single course wall. At the end it was hard to leave, made many new friends. We were met at the airport by Martin, had lunch, were able to pop into Rosebank to buy curios, before Martin set us up for our departures. Would deffo recommend this and immerse yourself in the experience!

I just arrived back in NY after an amazing time at the rhino orphanage with African Conservation Experience. It is hard to describe how great ACE was from the planning stage and throughout, and how accurate and excellent the description and guidance was - that the ACE reps gave. Every part of the trip and experience was thoughtfully arranged for me and the experience at the rhino orphanage was beyond what I could have imagined. The ACE people on the ground in South Africa and the affiliates and workers at the project were fantastic. The directions and instructions pre-trip and the coordination in country were impeccable. I don’t know how to describe how great it was to help at the rhino orphanage - the feeling of being part of something so worthy and with such excellent people. Bottle feeding an orphaned baby rhino, all of the time at the orphanage - working with the staff and volunteers, meals and chatting together while packing hay and pellets or on an anti-poaching walk.... these beautiful moments will last a lifetime - the experience is a once in a lifetime experience that I most highly recommend.

My experience at Moholoholo was incredibly special and it is impossible to name but one experience as there were so many great things that happened. Being able to work hands-on with wildlife and being involved in mental enrichment activities. The project is trying to help animals but knowing at the same time this meant some animals could not be released so they just try to give them as good a life as possible. I was surprised to learn that many animals cannot be reintroduced to the wild, for example, big cats would become too dangerous to humans if they were released, but animals like antelope could hopefully be released again. I think it’s important for people to understand that in some cases animals can’t be released, not because they don’t want to, but because once they are in a rehab facility it is already too late. The people made my stay at Moholoholo very special, I had an amazing time with the staff and the other volunteers that were there. We went on sunset game drives, and bush walks, and even the little things like playing games at night together made it special.

I can’t believe my two weeks at Moholoholo are over already! My experience at Moholoholo is going to be unforgettable. I’m going to miss falling asleep to the lions roaring and being woken up by the hyenas cackling, panicking thinking they’re right outside my room! The friendships I made in such a short space of time amaze me and I will cherish those guys forever! The experiences and sights I saw will stay with me forever, it wasn’t all rainbows and butterflies, there were some hard-hitting sights, but being able to experience them helps you to understand what goes on with these incredible animals. I learnt so much being right in the middle of it all and experiencing it all first-hand, which makes you realise how incredibly sheltered and in the dark we are with what goes on in the world. I got to see and do things that most people wouldn’t even know happened or even start to be able to understand why it happens. Being able to work so closely with such amazing and powerful animals and seeing how our hard work helps them, makes me incredibly happy and I’m so blessed I got to be a part of it! I didn’t know what to expect going into this project, but I can easily say it overpassed any expectation I could have ever imagined and I feel like I’ve stepped into a whole different world!

I have been on a couple of experiences through ACE and have really enjoyed all, both times I have been working with Rhinos at two separate locations and have been lucky enough to have been involved at the best of times. From assisting with a Rhino calf being darted for a leg brace after being attacked by a herd of lions to assisting with a 4-5 week old Orphaned Rhino being airlifted to the site. ACE are involved with true conservation on their projects rather than others that you see which are aimed just at getting photos. Would recommend and will be going again on other projects in the future.

As a more “senior” individual travelling alone during covid times in November/December 2021, I did have some reservations although I am originally from Zimbabwe. I spent a week at Moholoholo with a diverse group of 9 other volunteers where we cared for many species of animals and bird life that had been rescued or taken in and were unreleasable for various reasons. We had informative talks on conservation by the team, lots of good food and we all worked so well together and had fun. My time here was spent with amazing, hard-working staff and another volunteer. We worked hard feeding and caring for baby orphans, what a privilege.

This experience is everything I could ever wish for, it is a complete experience! It is such a special experience because as a volunteer you get to be involved in every step of the rehabilitation process. Whether it’s bottle feeding baby rhinos, feeding adults, cleaning or preparing food, joining the anti-poaching team on patrols, or helping to train the anti-poaching dogs, you really get a feel of what life is like in the bush. I also had the opportunity to go into the game reserve to monitor the rhinos that have successfully been released. It’s one thing to see orphans in the centre, but then to see them as adults with babies of their own is truly incredible. There are plenty of learning opportunities. The team delivers presentations and showed us films which I wouldn’t get to see anywhere else. The team is fantastic whether it’s the anti poaching team or the rhino carers, their passion is so contagious. Every day was fantastic, towards the end of my experience I was shown a documentary about one specific rhino that had been rescued and then later that day we were able to see this actual rhino in the wild with a calf of its own. This was a really moving experience for me as I was able to see the result of a project that I was involved in. Rhinos have always been one of my favourite animals and I have always really wanted to work with them. Before joining any experience I wanted to make sure the project was ethical and put the well-being of the animals first. This project definitely does put the well-being of the rhinos first! I was really unsure whether I would be able to join the project at such short notice but booking through ACE was super easy! They were easy to communicate with and I had zero difficulty getting my trip organised and arranged. The support from ACE since day 1 has been amazing. My trip was quite unique as I was already in South Africa but having ACE do my planning and itinerary to make sure everything went smoothly was the best! My advice for all prospective volunteers is to be prepared to fall in love with the project and the country. It is so much more than just a volunteering experience, you get to experience a new culture and meet so many different people from all over the world and you can’t help but fall in love with it all!

If you're at all questioning to go on an ACE experience, and deciding which one is best for you, I without a doubt, unequivocally recommend The Rhino Orphanage! ACE made sure I had everything I needed. They took incredible care of me. Picked me up at the hotel, brought me to the shuttle, and made sure I was safe and well taken care of. I had a point of contact for my whole trip (if I needed) and they took care of everything. ACE was unbelievably responsive to my emails and even set up a phone call with me to help me choose the best project for me. Traveling for the US to South Africa is a big task but ACE made sure to support me in any way they could the whole way; I never felt that it was too daunting a task to make the trek. And what can I possible say about the Rhino Orphanage?! In one word: Incredible. In a full sentence? I had the most amazing time of my life, every second of every moment. The people at the orphanage legitimately treat you like family. They are professional, passionate, dedicated humans who are spending their lives saving rhinos. I was only at the Rhino Orphanage for two weeks but I cried when it was time to leave because of how amazing the whole experience was. If you love animals, appreciate hard work, want to feel good about the work you're getting to be apart of, and want to be surrounded by like-minded people... GO TO THE RHINO ORPHANAGE! I mean it. I could write a book about my time there and that wouldn't be enough. Plus, Martin, my point of contact for my trip personally picked me up from my hotel and walked me to my shuttle and then personally picked me up from my shuttle and brought me to my gate at the airport. I never felt so important or well taken care of! He is a magnificent man and we're all lucky to have Martin in this world! I'm so thankful to ACE, Martin, and the Rhino Orphanage for this unforgettable opportunity. I would 10000% go back in a heart beat (and stay longer than two weeks). INCREDIBLE! Thank you all so much!!!!!!!

This experience was a great choice, the staff at Moholoholo was absolutely wonderful, helpful and kind. I stayed at the lodge and there was nothing better than seeing wild animals going past in the afternoon, from the comfort of your porch. When I arrived I received lots of information and guidance from the staff and other volunteers, I liked the organisation in groups. I met volunteers from many parts of the world but I was the only one from Chile! I will remember from the bottom of my heart being in direct contact with the animals I took care of, giving bottles to baby impalas or being a babysitter to others. I really got to understand the damage to the world we as humans are doing and how we are seriously affecting wildlife. So although I was very happy in many ways, in other ways I was very sad to realise how we are leaving smaller and smaller spaces for wildlife. This really broke my heart.

Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre cares for wildlife to be rehabbed and released back into the wild as well as wildlife that can’t be released because they are unable to survive on their own. Volunteers mostly work with the permanent animal residents as it is important to minimise human interaction with animals being released back into their natural habitat, although I did get to observe the release of a Haida bird. I was assigned to a group of volunteers responsible for taking care of two servals, a pied crow, a guineafowl, and two owls, one of which is blind in one eye. The daily routine rounds in the morning and evening to feed, clean up after and check on the health and welfare of the assigned animals, ‘big jobs’ mid-day, and babysitting time in the early afternoon. One Sunday, we made a special excursion to Nhoveni, a property owned by Moholoholo in the Balule Nature Reserve near Kruger National Park where we observed wildlife out in the bush, including lions, kudu, nyala, warthogs and many birds. My favourite time of day was babysitting time– I had the opportunity to feed a baby sable that was rejected by her mother. The days were long and busy, but immensely rewarding — as I fell asleep each night listening to the lions chuff and roar and the hyenas whoop and giggle right outside my bedroom window, I never felt so privileged to be a part of such vital work to help keep alive the wild animals of Africa and to tell their story to others. If I had children, I would not hesitate to entrust my teenager into their hands to coordinate their experience. I am looking forward to planning my 2020 trip to Africa with ACE as soon as I determine the exact dates I can travel.

ACE sorted EVERYTHING out of me, which was perfect, as I had never travelled on my own before! The team were so helpful, and patient and was always there when I needed advice or help. I spent 2 weeks at Moholoholo, which had a huge variety of species varying from birds to honey badgers to hyenas and lions. Aside from the daily work volunteers were also allocated ‘special cases’, which were animals that required additional support. Due to my experience as a vet nurse, I was lucky to get three different cases – Cinnamon and Bun the baby bush-babies, the owls and finches. I loved my special cases, especially the bush babies, as they were ADORABLE and very interactive. Cinnamon and Bun were a joint case with another volunteer, Clare, and we always had a great time with the rascals and always came out of their enclosure with a huge smile on our faces. I even had the opportunity to experience day trips: to Kruger National Park for a safari, a canyon boat trip, and a camp out in a neighbouring farm to Kruger. All of the trips were amazing – but the campout was the best experience of my life and one that I will never, ever forget!

Going to Moholoholo was the greatest thing I’ve ever done, honestly. I had always wanted to work with animal conservation and travel so Moholoholo was a no-brainer. I don’t know what I expected going in, maybe I would just have a fun time for 4 weeks and then return to my normal life like nothing ever happened. Not true. The moment I landed and spoke to Martin, I knew that it would be so much more. It was challenging both physically and mentally and at times it was tough but I wouldn’t change a single moment because I came home with a whole new perspective on conservation. It’s not all fairytales where every animal will live happily ever after if we all just come together and change things, and that was hard to come to terms with. I now understand that difficult choices must be made to ensure the survival of a species. The people and animals I met while I was there will always have a special place in my heart and I’ve done things I never thought I would like; help raise a baby squirrel, hold a baboon spider to get over my arachnophobia and see a white rhino in the wild. I’m glad it wasn’t just an easy-going safari holiday because I genuinely learned so much and would go back in a heartbeat. Even just to see a snake eagle who makes chicken noises. You’ll see.

Well, I practically never respond to requests for feedback about the places I’ve been to, not because I am a nasty, uncommunicative, miserable person, but simply because, well, after you’ve come back home, somehow your “normal” life completely engulfs you again and doesn’t leave much time for reflection. But this trip to South Africa really was something completely different… The whole experience stayed with me, I can still feel, see, hear and smell the sights and sounds of this wonderful country and, instead of gradually forgetting it, I am already starting to plan another trip for 2018! Moholoholo was a fascinating and engrossing mixture of the extraordinary and the mundane. Everyone who has ever looked after animals knows that you do the work not because it is always phenomenally exciting – it can be hard, difficult, repetitive and pretty ordinary. But you do it because you care about the animals, you want to provide them with comfort, you want to make their life as good as it can be and you simply love being with them. And all the time you’re there, little bits of magic happen, you are so close to the animals, some of whom you have never seen before, every day brings something new, something extraordinary, an unexpected, never experienced before sight or sound. Moholoholo is a really good “starter” volunteering experience for people who may not have done anything like that before and are a bit worried about how it is all going to work out. You are very, very well looked after and you get a really “rich” experience and come in close contact with a really wide variety of animals. And you won’t quickly forget a bushbaby landing on your shoulder on your way back from dinner, a fearsome honey badger lying on its back without a care in the world, falling asleep at night to the sound of lions roaring and hyenas laughing outside your window, watching a baby vulture’s first days under the protection of its caring parents and desperately trying to spot a serval in the long grass who you are pretty sure is right under your nose but you can’t see it because they are so infuriatingly good at “melting” into the background. Volunteering at Moholoholo was also an important experience because it made me think about what wildlife conservation meant and made me question my understanding of how it really worked “on the ground”.

As older travellers who have been to many countries around the world, we wanted to give something back while having a great experience. We worked with ACE to find an ethical and long-standing volunteer organization that rehabilitates a variety of animals. We chose to volunteer with Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa. We learned so much and experienced even more. The other volunteers were from all over the world, and the staff were great. It was rewarding to work with the animals up close, and we really got close! The intangibles, like seeing so many stars at night, and socializing with local people, made this part of our trip truly memorable. Thanks, Moholo truly unforgettable.

Moholoholo Rehabilitation Centre is in the Limpopo Province of South Africa, surrounded by the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains. It looks after a variety of animals, from a collection of vultures and eagles to a baby-spotted genet. Moholoholo is run by a dedicated team of staff, who work night and day to ensure the animals are all correctly cared for and safe. The staff have so much to do with all the animals that they really rely on the team of volunteers there to help clean and tidy and generally take the strain. Our daily routine began at 6.45 am with morning rounds. You are divided into four groups, and each group has their own set of animals that they are responsible for. You feed them, clean their enclosures, make sure they are safe and happy and help provide enrichment to keep their daily lives exciting. After morning rounds we headed down to Forest Camp for breakfast – a fairly refreshing walk down a forest path, surrounded by the sounds of baboons calling each other and the early morning song of the birds. After breakfast, you meet in the clinic to discuss what will be done during “big jobs”. Then you have a free afternoon until afternoon rounds. I volunteered at Moholoholo for four weeks, which allowed me plenty of time to get used to my rounds and the routine, but it also allowed me the opportunity to be given my own “special cases”. These are animals that require an extra little bit of care, whether that be extra feeds or special attention. I was able to look after two spotted eagle owls who both had sight problems. They needed to be treated carefully as they were skittish due to their visual impairment and they needed not to injure themselves in fright. I was also able to bottle-feed the baby sables (large antelope) three times a day. This required getting up extra early to feed them before morning rounds, feeding them again at lunchtime and also staying behind after evening rounds to feed them again. This extra bit of responsibility made me feel like I was making a difference. The sables got used to me feeding them and would follow me if they saw me heading up to make up their bottles, relying on me like they would their mother.

On arriving at Moholoholo I was met by the staff and quickly got introduced to the other volunteers. The day always involves a nice early start! Typically you would be doing morning rounds – preparing the food and feeding the animals in your charge, giving fresh water and cleaning their reserves. A walk through the reserve to breakfast then back for the morning meeting where the big tasks are allocated. These could include cleaning the large cat enclosures, preparing their meat, and helping with their feeding. Lunch break was time that I would use to spend some extra time with some of the animals. Afternoon rounds were then completed and then time to go back to the rooms, and get ready for the evening meal. The food is fantastic, you will not go hungry working here! Be prepared for early starts and physical work. Yes it can be hard work and there are sad times but it is the most rewarding and fun work I have ever done and I wouldn’t change the experience. I have so many amazing memories from being at Moholoholo, from a black mamba snake falling from a tree next to me (scary), being pecked by a vulture (he wanted the meat I was holding), being sprayed by a leopard (3 showers eventually got rid of the smell), having a meerkat join us in a morning meeting, listening to the hyenas and lions chat to each other during the night, falling in love with a bush pig, honey badger and lots of laughter and fun with new friends. Work hard, go the extra and you may be given more responsibility with a special case - looking after the baby bush pig! Working closely as a team meant that I made friends with the other volunteers very quickly and these friendships and all the great memories with them will last a lifetime.

The day I came back I started saving to go again, I have now been back 6 months and I travel out again in 8 weeks! This was my second trip with ACE because they are very organised and I felt safe travelling with the company and knew where my money was going for each organisation. khulula is very challenging and not for the weak hearted. Everyday is a mission to care for the animals throughout the day (and night) No where else in the world can I ever gain the experiences I was given here. Truly magical

I went there for the whole month of September 2015, without any previous experience in animal conservation and felt right at home. The location is stunning, with the housing located in the reserve itself. The daily activity consisted mainly in tracking down and recording information on various animals, as well as sometimes assisting in animal capture and care. Despite the work being sometimes quite heavy and tiring, I never felt like giving up or wanting to go home. The flora and fauna are of course spectacular, with all the Big 5 occuring in the reserve. The only problem with Phinda is that it will hurt to leave it behind. For me it really was a life changing experience. After coming back I decided to enroll in a Field Guide Training program, and will be going back to South Africa next year, hopefully permanently. All in all, if you love the outdoors, don't mind getting wet, dirty and smelling of antilope guts and are not afraid of hard work, then Phinda is the place to be.

I have done this project twice now and both times it was nothing short of perfect! ACE organised all my flights and transport for me so I knew I would always be in the right place at the right time and it would always be supervised and safe. The family I stayed with were the most lovely, friendly and accommodating people I have ever met. I got my own bedroom and all dietary requirements are catered for, and the food was always delicious! We were taken out at the weekends if there was no work with the vet, and got to do activities like meeting Jessica the hippo and elephant rides so we got the most out of every second. We got taken to the vets every morning at what ever time we had to be there and picked up in the evenings ready for dinner. Dr Rogers is the most incredible vet I have ever had the pleasure of working with, his commitment and drive is just inspiring, he takes the time to explain everything he is doing so I learned so much about the different treatments and drugs and he let us get as hands on and as involved as possible. There was nothing I would change about my trip and I would go again in an instant if I had the chance! Couldn't rate it better! 5* would definitely recommend it