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African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation Project in South Africa

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$1250-1500Program Costs
VerifiedProvider
4.5 / 5Student rating
520Reviews
20Programs
2004Year established

Program Overview

Join our Wildlife and Research Conservation Project and immerse yourself in the captivating wilderness of South Africa’s Greater Kruger area. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or an aspiring conservationist, this enriching volunteer experience will unveil the many wonders of the African bush. No matter your skill set or expertise, this wildlife conservation program in South Africa will immerse you in the African bush alongside a skilled and qualified team that includes Field Guides and Research professionals. Contribute to meaningful wildlife research and conservation projects by participating in animal tracking, monitoring, and data collection initiatives during daily game drives. Your contributions will directly support the protection of incredible South African wildlife and their habitats.

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Program Highlights

Spend your time in the wild, researching Africa’s ‘Big 5’ – lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.
Collect information that will influence wildlife conservation by protecting wildlife from threats, such as poaching and habitat loss.
Assist with capturing data and processing camera trap images.
Offer much-needed assistance with removing invasive plant species and going on anti-poaching snare sweeps.
Head out on daily game drives in search of wildlife.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
In-Country Orientation

Quick Details

Location
Limpopo, South Africa
Starts At$1250-1500
Availability
Year(s) Offered:2026, 2027, 2028
Duration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • Summer
  • Alternative Spring Break
Age Requirement18+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Conservation
  • Environment
  • Wildlife
Types:
  • Adventure Travel
  • Animals
  • Volunteering
  • Wilderness
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Argentinian
  • Asian
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Bahraini
  • Belarusian
  • Belgian
  • Bolivian
  • Bosnian
  • Brazilian
  • British
  • British Virgin Islander
  • Bulgarian
  • Canadian
  • Caymanian
  • Channel Islander
  • Chilean
  • Chinese
  • Colombian
  • Costa Rican
  • Croatian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • Emirati
  • English
  • Estonian
  • European
  • Filipino
  • Finnish
  • French
  • Georgian
  • German
  • Greenlandic
  • Guatemalan
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Israeli
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Kiwi
  • Korean
  • Kuwaiti
  • Latvian
  • Lebanese
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Luxembourg
  • Macedonian
  • Malaysian
  • Maldivian
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Mexican
  • Monegasque
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Qatari
  • Romanian
  • Russian
  • Saudi Arabian
  • Scottish
  • Serbian
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • South African
  • Spanish
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • Taiwanese
  • Thai
  • Turkish
  • Ukrainian
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
Inquire about this program

Updated Mar 26, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Limpopo, South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered: 2026, 2027, 2028
  • Duration: 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, Summer, Alternative Spring Break
  • Gap Year Timing: After College, Career Break / Mid-Career, During College

Eligible Nationalities

  • American
  • Argentinian
  • Asian
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Bahraini
  • Belarusian
  • Belgian
  • Bolivian
  • Bosnian
  • Brazilian
  • British
  • British Virgin Islander
  • Bulgarian
  • Canadian
  • Caymanian
  • Channel Islander
  • Chilean
  • Chinese
  • Colombian
  • Costa Rican
  • Croatian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • Emirati
  • English
  • Estonian
  • European
  • Filipino
  • Finnish
  • French
  • Georgian
  • German
  • Greenlandic
  • Guatemalan
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Israeli
  • Italian
  • Japanese
  • Kiwi
  • Korean
  • Kuwaiti
  • Latvian
  • Lebanese
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Luxembourg
  • Macedonian
  • Malaysian
  • Maldivian
  • Marshallese
  • Mauritian
  • Mexican
  • Monegasque
  • Norwegian
  • Polish
  • Portuguese
  • Qatari
  • Romanian
  • Russian
  • Saudi Arabian
  • Scottish
  • Serbian
  • Seychelles
  • Singaporean
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • South African
  • Spanish
  • St. Barts
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • Taiwanese
  • Thai
  • Turkish
  • Ukrainian
  • Virgin Islander
  • Welsh
  • This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Families, Group

Education Levels & Language

  • Language: English
  • Education: University Freshman (1st Year)
  • Education: University Sophomore (2nd Year)
  • Education: University Junior (3rd Year)
  • Education: University Senior (4th Year)
  • Education: University 5th Year or More
  • Education: High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
  • Education: Some college credit, no degree
  • Education: Associate degree
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree
  • Education: Master’s degree
  • Education: Professional degree
  • Education: Doctorate degree

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Application Procedures

  • Online Application
  • Written Application
  • Other

Age Requirement

18+

Duration

2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, Summer, Alternative Spring Break

Starts At

$1250-1500

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about African Impact

4.5
520 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
248
4
267
3
3
2
1
1
1

Top categories

Day to Day Life
4.4
Volunteer Placement
4.4
Living Situation
4.3
Health & Safety
4.3
Program Administration
4.3
Community Engagement
4.0

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-20 of 520 reviews

Megan GallantSeptember 2024

Best time of my life

This was a wonderful experience. Not only were the guides and coordinators very knowledgable and thoroughly engaged the participants, but getting to be a part of important research and conservation work was an honour. I really enjoyed meeting people from around the world and being surrounded by like-minded people. This is a wonderful program!

Edoardo MazziniSeptember 2024

Amazing

What an experience. This was an experience that I will remember for life. I fulfilled a dream, I met many interesting people and I had the chance to see the animals that populate Africa live and up close.

Fabio VenerusoSeptember 2024

Great and memorable experience

I didn't know what to expect when I booked this experience but eventually I enjoyed and experienced memories that will likely lasts forever. Moreover I had the opportunity to make new friends and live a completely different life during my stay here in South Africa.

Caroline PruetSeptember 2024

Wonderful research experience

I spent 2 weeks in this program after just spending two weeks in a different program else where. This is definitely a really important program where you go out daily on game drives to gather data for the greater Kruger area. It’s amazing to see all of these animals in the wild and experience life in the African bush although some of the drives did become a bit repetitive it was still interesting to see what animals you would come across that day. The camp was very nice and clean and the staff was very kind and knowledgeable we even got the opportunity to camp out in the wild African bush - the only downfall of that were the bright lights from the nearby mine kind of damped the vibe. The guides are all super knowledgeable about all the animals and plants we pass along the way and are always open to any questions you might have about them. It was such a true pleasure meeting everyone who joined this volunteer project from young teens to people in their 60’s it was a unanimous feeling of togetherness, friendship and community.

Fenna KoperdraadSeptember 2024

Review African impact

I volunteered with African Impact for 2 weeks, and every day was amazing. You really get involved in everything, and you truly feel like you've made an impact here. The camp where we stay is also fantastic. One of the best experiences I've ever had.

Kara BensonSeptember 2024

The most amazing month

I volunteered here for a month and it was the absolute best experience ever. The staff are amazing and so friendly, the atmosphere in camp is really chill and everyone got along so well. The guides are fantastic and any question you have on drives or even in camp is always answered! The knowledge they all have is really impressive. Absolutely loved this place and these people and I will 100% be returning!!

Kayleen LabuschagneSeptember 2024

A welcoming family

The research internship I had participated in for 12 weeks was the best experience of my life! I had never done anything like this before and was quite nervous when I arrived but the staff and other volunteers/ interns made me feel right at home. The facility is amazing and kept clean twice to three times a week and the food is delicious! Being located right next to the olifant river gives you a first hand experience with the wildlife and there’s nothing as surreal as a herd of elephants coming up to camp. This internship has changed my life and would recommend it to anyone questioning themselves on whether to come here or not. Do it, you won’t regret it!

Jelle KluitSeptember 2024

African Impact at Greater Kruger was amazing!

My stay at African Impact at Greater Kruger Park was an incredible experience. It was well-organized and the staff was both professional and informal, creating a comfortable atmosphere. The program was highly diverse and educational, offering a variety of activities like wildlife conservation projects, bush walks, community outreach, and a lot of game drives. The staff was open to personal input, ensuring the experience was tailored to our interests. Overall, my time with African Impact was unforgettable. I highly recommend this program for a well-managed, personalized adventure filled with diverse and enriching activities.

Giuliana SangiorgioSeptember 2024

Kruger volunteer programme

I just finished with a volunteering conservation program based in Kruger, South Africa, and it was an incredible experience. The program focused on essential conservation work, including eliminating invasive plant species and collecting vital data on the park's diverse wildlife. The hands-on approach allowed us to make a tangible impact while learning about the delicate balance of this unique ecosystem. Working alongside a passionate team on various group projects also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie. I highly recommend this program to anyone looking to contribute to meaningful conservation efforts while immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Kruger.

Aislinn MurraySeptember 2024

An incredible experience

I can not say enough good things about the Big 5 Wildlife Conservation program. Please, go. You will be glad you did. The staff are absolutely incredible, so kind, informative and just fun to be around. The camp is gorgeous, a lodge right on the Olifants river. You will sleep to the sounds of hyenas and lions calling in the night and wake to the sight of hippos flapping their little ears above the water of the river. From the connections I made with the other volunteers and staff, the amazing wildlife, fun weekend excursions, informative presentations and inspiring conservation experience, this was one of the best months of my life, and I just know they will be for you too <3

IrisJune 2024

African Impact Big 5 — Conservation

The conservation project at Greater Kruger was an incredible experience. It was interesting, varied, and fun—volunteers certainly were not overloaded with work, but days were long and busy nonetheless. Game drives were amazing, with very knowledgeable and excited guides, and I felt as though I learned a lot about the local wildlife and environment. The actual work felt menial at times, but that’s often how it is, and I’m not complaining. I hope that the data we collected and the conservation work has made a difference. The staff is personable, kind, and ready to do whatever to make you more comfortable. The amenities at Kambaku are very comfortable, even if there is somewhat of a rat problem, with a lovely patio and good food. They also cater to vegetarians, and have an unlimited amount of snacks available at all times. I think that 4 weeks was the perfect amount of time to stay;any longer and I would’ve gotten bored, I think, with not much else to learn. My only issue with the living situation/program was the lack of physical activity available, as you are unable to walk in the un-fenced area. If they could get the money to revamp the gym, that would greatly improve the problem!

KeriMay 2024

Unforgettable!

My experience volunteer experience with African Impact has been amazing! The staff made me feel like part of the African Impact family. I learned something new everyday. The volunteers were welcoming and excited to get to know you. The staff has created a positive culture. I appreciated that they emphasized to ask them anything. No questions are dumb. I would love to come back.

WickMay 2024

Awesome experience

Doing this project has truly been an awesome experience. The work you get to do is nothing shy of mindblowing. All of the staff are amazing people and chances are that you’ll keep in contact with the volunteers you’ll meet for a long time.

KellyMay 2024

An Amazing Experience

I enjoyed everything about this experience as I've always had a keen interest in conservation. Everything was even better that what I expected and everyone was so lovely. I can definitely see myself coming back in the future.

NoémieMay 2024

My time here

I really loved the place. Nothing was to much to ask, everybody was very helpful the whole time. I learned a lot around here and I'm very happy that I had the chance to come here. The days where quite busy, but we had enough free time in between activities

SanneApril 2024

2 weeks at African impact

I stayed for 2 weeks at African Impact in the greater kruger area. Despite the short period, I learned a lot about the animals and their environment. The staff is very friendly and helpful. Thank you so much for a great time!

MartinApril 2024

Honest review of Volunteering in South Africa with big 5 conservation course

I would first like to say a huge thank you to staff here they strike a perfect balance between being professional and being supportive and having good friendship with the volunteers. I would also like to say a the volunteers have all been so kind and fun to be around. I've made so many good memories with the people here and met people I know I'm going to continue being friends with for a long time. The course here is hard work but you also play hard, you will have many fun relaxed evening as well as being able to learn alot about the habitats and animals that live. Regardless of whether your in your 50s or 20 years old like me. Most people here are going to be very friendly with a good personality so if your worried about meeting people you will get on with, simply don't because in the last 7 weeks of being here I haven't had any bad experiences with other volunteers. I couldn't recommend this place enough regardless of whether your doing photography group or on the research team. This experience has genuinely changed my life for the better. You have time, so just do it :)

JesseMarch 2024

My review

My experience here has been incredible and the guides has been lovely and hospitable, I’ve had incredible animal sightings and it’s a completely worthwhile experience. Lovely, caring staff. I was treated extremely well since I arrived.

GavinFebruary 2024

Wouldn't hesitate to do it again

My time here has been nothing short of amazing. Outside of the impact I am fortunate enough to make, the wildlife is outstanding. I've seen so many Elephants I've started to take them for granted. On top of that, the people that work here are truly inspirational. Everyone seems to love what they do and accepts everyone with open arms. All the staff is eager to help without any judgement (they're also a lot of fun too). This has been truly a memory I won't forget and I hope to come back one day.

CarolaneFebruary 2024

Great experience

It was an amazing experience with great staff members. I learned a lot from everyone. I received all the important informations before coming and they answered really quickly to my questions about some more informations

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FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to all the most common questions about African Impact.

Do I need experience to volunteer with wildlife in South Africa?

No prior experience is required! What truly matters is your enthusiasm for South African wildlife and a willingness to learn. So, if you’re eager to immerse yourself in the world of wildlife conservation, don’t let a lack of experience hold you back!

Will I need a visa to volunteer in South Africa?

Yes, you’ll need to obtain a visa if you want to volunteer in South Africa. It’s important to check the visa requirements for your country of citizenship, as some nationalities do need to apply for visas prior to arrival. It’s best to check with the African Impact team directly for up-to-date information on visa requirements and the process for obtaining one.

Are volunteers required to speak local languages, like Zulu / Swahili?

No! All inductions and safety briefings are given in English, so African Impact only requires volunteers to speak English.

Do I need a research background to make the most of this project?

Absolutely not! Our qualified team of Field Guides will teach you everything you need to know about the area, it’s wildlife and associated conservation challenges. If you have a research background and are looking to complete your own project, you can check out our Facilitated Wildlife Research Internship.

How can I apply for this program?

Follow these simple steps to apply:

  1. Visit the African Big 5 and Wildlife Conservation Program page
  2. Fill out the application form and submit
  3. Be sure to check your emails for confirmation that your application was received.
  4. Finally, a Journey Coordinator will get in touch with you if your application is successful!

African Impact Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Sarah Cox

Sarah Cox

Participated in 2014

Alumni

Sarah is from Boston, Massachusetts. In the past she was a fundraiser for Public Broadcasting, but thanks to her experiences abroad, she will be start...

I had always wanted to visit Africa! I wanted to see rhino in the wild.

Show Full Interview

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in South Africa 2025
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organization 2022
Innovation in Sustainability 2020 Finalist
Top Rated Volunteer Abroad Organizations of 2020
Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media 2020 Finalist
Innovation in Sustainability 2020 Winner
Innovation in Marketing & Digital Media 2020 Winner
Top Rated Program 2019 - Volunteer Abroad
Top Rated Organization 2019 - Volunteer Abroad
GoAbroad Innovative New Program - Volunteer Abroad 2017
Global Youth Travel Awards 2017
GoAbroad Innovative New Program - Intern Abroad 2019
GoAbroad Innovation in Philanthropy 2019
GoAbroad Top Gap Year Program 2018
GoAbroad Top Volunteer Abroad Organization 2018
World Youth Student & Educational Travel Confederation

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