Wildlife Photography Internship in South Africa

I greatly enjoyed my time as a photographer with African Impact. There were numerous morning, afternoon, and evening game drives that gave me ample opportunities for wildlife and bird photography. There was also chances with the research team for camera traps and conservation efforts. Free time on weekends allowed me to make trips to Kruger National Park. This program is highly recommended.

I came to the program because I wanted to build a wildlife photography portfolio and learn from a professional photographer who has experience in the field about working with clients and getting into the industry. From a portfolio building perspective, the photography opportunities were fantastic and plentiful. The guides are so knowledgeable and always pointed out animals and birds, educating us along the way too. From a photography leaning perspective, I didn’t feel that the tuition was what I expected. The presentations were pretty basic and there was very little guidance and instruction on drives. The photography coordinator didn’t have much experience working with clients on photography projects so I wasn’t able to ask the questions I really came here looking for answers to. We did participate in some conservation activities but I would have loved to be more involved with the research team and document more of the wildlife conservation activities. This is the direction i want to go in with my photography and is another reason why I picked this program. So it was a shame that there were not more opportunities to work together and shoot different things than just go on game drives every day. The lodge and accommodation was great, the food was great and additional activities also great and very well organised.

This is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in African wildlife to photograph a huge variety of animals and learn more about them from experienced guides. As an experienced photographer, I didn’t find the tuition and presentations that useful as they were quite basic and more aimed towards beginners, so I used my own initiative to set myself mini projects and goals during my time on the program. I was impressed with the number of game drives we went on weekly, though we often went to the same places as one of the reserves was closed for most of my stay, making the drives repetitive at times. The camp and accommodation is beautiful and I really enjoyed my stay thanks to the staff and the other volunteers who I shared the program with.

It was a fantastic experience with a combination of safari and photography through the South African bush. The accommodation is comfortable and in a bunk bed style with a good amount of room and en suite bathroom. It’s also situated next to Limpopo river which allows you to see wildlife everyday. The guides and staff are hard working and ensure everybodies safety at all times. The food is to a good standard, the only possible problem for me was the portion sizes. The photo course itself is very informative and assists volunteers with all levels of photography experience. The two reserves Balule and Sawong are both fantastic to see all kinds of wildlife.

I found this program simply by googling volunteering options, and that means I didnt know anyone who had done this program (or anything like it, really). Honestly, deciding to do this felt like a leap of faith haha, the feeling of uncertainty was definetly there. But Im not kidding when I say that the same day I arrived I knew I had made the right choice choosing this project. Its purpose, the place and the people… couldnt have asked for a better experience. My only regret is that I didnt book for a longer period of time. I did 3 weeks thinking it was a reasonable amount of time, but it felt like 3 days. If anyone asked me, I’d recommend going for no less than a month. For the first week-week and a half you’ll be learning how everything works, the methodology, etc… so if your goal is contributing, I’d book for a longer period of time. Dear reader: I could write pages about the wonders of the program, but I wont. You’ll have to come and experience it yourself :)

If you love nature, adore all wildlife and want to experience and contribute to conservation and research of not only the Big 5 but other animals, wildlife and birds .. come to South Africa with African Impact. You have the option to stay for at least 2 weeks and get to known research and conservation in action. This is my second time with African Impact and the experience and knowledge sharing from the staff only gets better as they deepen their impact in the Greater Kruger area. Would definitely recommend African Impact .. you will definitely get an experience that you will treasure for a lifetime.

It wasn't on my bucket list but I found myself researching volunteer opportunities for the 'mature plus a bit' volunteer. African Impact takes all ages as long as you are fit enough for the programme of your choice. I chose The Big 5 Wildlife Research and Conservation programme as I liked the mix of data gathering and physical work. My only concern when signing up for three weeks was would I be a fish out of water with volunteers and staff who were highly likely to be a lot younger than me. I chose December as I was told the volunteer numbers are small at this time and I would have much more direct contact with the field guides and specialists. There is too much to tell here but I can only say if you think you might like to be a bit adventurous then this programme ticks all the boxes. It was everything and more than I expected. To be so close to nature, from large to the very small, with such knowledgeable staff was one of the best experiences of my life. Was I out of my comfort zone a bit - of course;new environment, sharing accommodation, doing things I have never done before, the unbelieveable experience of being a few metres from elephants, giraffes etc, being in an environment with some school like rules (but for good reason), early starts and long days, heat/humidity/sweat, working along side young people who were decades younger than me...... All these things very quickly fall away. Age didn't matter as we all got on and we were all here to do the same thing. The staff are so passionate about what they do, are so keen to share their knowledge everyone was very friendly. I learnt so much about the wonder of nature. I had no idea this experience would be so off the scale incredible for this townie!

I gained an excellent insight into the processes involved in supporting the ecological And conservational objectives of the area. Learning about the identification and monitoring of species, use iof camera traps and data collection, and the identification of individual animals was very interesting. Guides and researchers at the project are tenacious, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and passionate about their work, and they willingly share their knowledge and expertise in a patient and well explained manner . They work hard and are clearly committed to the work they do. They answer questions and provide clear safety briefings, and the presentations on project were also interesting. Some could have been a little longer and more slowly delivered and others need to beShorter, or punctuated with short breaks so that concentration could be maintained . But all were interesting. Sometimes the schedule was not adhered to which is understandable in certain circumstances, but communication on those changes took different forms, and this could lead to confusion or failure to reach everyone. The isolated nature of the project and 9.00 pm curfew should be emphasised beforehand. Some of the free time periods could be better administrated . Accommodation is not built for comfort and the ability to relax outside ones room varied, with someHaving comfortable benches, chairs and tables and mine at one point having none. Whilst I think there could be some improvement to some of the administrative issues and accommodation issues overall the staff work very hard and long to make this a great experience for volunteers. The availability of activities at certain times of the year should also be preempted , as several of the things I would have like to experience were closed until my last weekend and some beyond that. The ant mknitoring project was interesting and the learning gained regarding the amazing numbers of birds was of great interest.

I had a life changing experience at African impact. The environment is absolutely incredible with a very welcoming atmosphere. The activities are very fun and it is positioned in a unique and awe inspiring setting. The program is really made truly special by the staff who have supported me every step of the way and opened my eyes to so many new perspectives of the world. Being here was truly humbling and a once in a lifetime experience. I wouldn’t change coming here for the world.

When I arrived and got the introduction I was a little shocked because of the lot of rules. I understand why they are there, but I wasn't used to it. I haven't had so many rules in any other place. The Guids and all of the stuff member have a lot of knowledge and take good care of us! I loved the Quiz/Games/Movie Night/Activity Night which they prepared for us. I wish we would stopped more for Tracks and Animals and looked at it closer. invite the volunteers more in facts make it playful don't say straight away what it is.

I spent a fantastic 12 weeks in the Greater Kruger Area on the Wildlife Photography Internship. It was 12 glorious weeks of developing my wildlife photography skills while also learning about the animals themselves and the environment of the Greater Kruger Area. All the guides were knowledgable, friendly and passed on their passion to each and every volunteer.

Wildlife up close. There was not enough information about the conservation work and what it would entail. Also would have been good if they suggested that you knew how to use Light Room - so you could get more out of the experience. Most information was covered. I was surprised that only 3 presentations have the AI branding on it. Many of the presentations were difficult t try o read due to size and colour of the font. Game Viewers were good but the mini bus was awful, when we were travelling in very hot temperatures. The air con was not working and the windows of the mini bus did not open too. Really enjoyed Down to wire- but toilet facilities were awful. Really enjoyed the Rhino revolution afternoon. Learnt alot.

My Review - Photography at Greater Kruger. Mostly great but would have liked some more photo kit specific advice. The staff were all great. The guides are so passionate about nature and absolutely want to share their knowledge.

I am really great ful that I came to Africa impact and it has been such a amazing experience overall. I have learned a lot from being in the forest for 2 months. I am leaving this course with memories that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

I think the overall experience was fantastic and I definitely learned a lot of things I wouldn’t have been able to from a book. Will Definitely be back soon. Pre-arrival information was very informative, and we had a smooth transfer from the airport to the camp. The food was AMAZING. The staff were very eager to help us in things we didn’t understand/ know how to do, they were also concerned about our safety at all times and ensured we were safe but also having fun.

My friend and I only volunteered for 2 weeks. In the weeks leading up to this program, I was really excited and was looking forward to this learning opportunity.   Joining this program was definitely eye-opening. I learnt how to identify animals, be more observant, have patience, etc. What I loved about this program were the people. Although everyone was from all over the world with different cultures and spoke different languages, when we stepped foot into camp, everyone was so welcoming. Even though it was just 2 weeks, the friendships forged were unbreakable, and the memories made are unforgettable.   However, what (my friend and) I believe could be improved is the emphasis on the purpose of this program. One purpose that was clear was definitely conservation, where we clear invasive species to protect the ecosystem. Even so, activities like data logging and camera trapping were a bit confusing because their purpose was not explained or stressed. Furthermore, the volunteers are a mixed-age group. There was one occasion where the guides found it necessary to discipline one group as a few of the more junior volunteers were breaking camp rules. They decided to implement an alcohol ban on everyone, including the senior volunteers. Although it was necessary to punish the junior volunteers for their misbehavior, I found it really insensitive of the guides to be drinking alcohol right in front of the volunteers. Therefore, I suggest the necessity of bolstering such training with guides on how to control such situations more sensibly. All in all, I will most certainly still recommend this program, be it joining in your gap year/life, or finding a new interest.

I absolutely loved my time with African Impact. I genuinely believe in their mission, and think they are doing an incredible job carrying it out. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and good at what they do. Their love and passion for wildlife is beyond inspiring. They also make sure to help your expirence there to be as amazing as possible. I couldent possibly say enough nice things about the wonderful people who run this amazing program. I absolutely would go back and spend more time here. I felt my time in the Greater Kruger with African Impact was absolutely life changing.

This incredible project exceeded all my expectations and made for an unforgettable experience. From game drives, to general life around camp, I was surrounded by animals and nature, therefore giving me a impactful South African experience. Within my 4 weeks on the research project, I learnt a significant amount about a range of different animals including the Big 5, reptiles & birds, calls, track & signs, animal behaviour, data entry, camera traps and the list goes on. The guides and staff were fantastic from the moment I arrived, with their guidance and knowledge being extensive & inspiring, therefore showing their true passion for the conservation efforts and protection of the wildlife. Everyday was different and exciting which allowed me to create memories that will last me a lifetime and I cannot wait to return again. I can’t recommend African Impact enough.

I had the most amazing time on the Big 5 Research and Conservation programme, one that I will never forget. I made so many new friends for life, learned new things about myself and developed my knowledge on the bush and all things within. The guides all had a tremendous depth of knowledge, skills and understanding, that was valuable to learn from. The staff were really helpful and kind, the programme is really well thought out and offers a variety of trips and activities to get stuck into. Working on this programme has given me a better view on life, the work on this project is so valuable and rewarding. I felt and knew I was doing something important and good. Overall, the project was amazing and a time I will never forget. It holds a place in my heart and I will take the memories and lessons with me in life. I can’t thank everyone enough for making my time as special as it was.

This program was a life-changing experience for me. I was able to get to see animals I always saw on screen, how they live and interact with other animals and nature in general. I met amazing people and amazing guides who shared their knowledge with us, teaching us everything about wild animals and environment. We had the weekends to do some amazing trips, like going to Kruger National park and much more. All the staff of Kambaku is amazing, they work all day to make this the best experience anyone could have.