Volunteer Encounter
Why choose Volunteer Encounter?
Volunteer Encounter is dedicated to providing a unique and fulfilling experience while offering an unforgettable opportunity for our volunteers to make a difference in conservation and community development. Through supporting local organisations, combined with our expertise about Zimbabwe, we are committed to the future of an incredible and vibrant country. Who We Are • We have an optimisti...
Volunteer Encounter is dedicated to providing a unique and fulfilling experience while offering an unforgettable opportunity for our volunteers to make a difference in conservation and community development. Through supporting local organisations, combined with our expertise about Zimbabwe, we are committed to the future of an incredible and vibrant country. Who We Are • We have an optimistic view of the human nature and we pursue our vision for a better world through harmony, by focusing in wildlife conservation and community development. • We are confident in achieving the highest level of success through innovation, purposeful planning and persistence. • We are open to partnerships and collaborations yet we are selective in order to achieve our goals. • We are comfortable being...
Volunteer Encounter Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
It was totally amazing. I loved every minute!
March 10, 2026by: Helene Lambert - CanadaProgram: Volunteer with Horses, Antelope Park
The horses were great, the work was fun and meaningful. The accommodations were very good, the food was nice and the housing perfect. The people who were in charge were great. Il loved doing soup kitchen for the homeless and going to the orphanage was very sad but it made so much sense. Overall I felt like I was on another planet than mine, completely overwhelmed by Zimbabwe and it’s reality. I definitely recommend this trip.
Absolutely the time of my life
March 09, 2026by: Alyssa Orsenigo - ItalyProgram: Volunteer with Horses, Antelope Park
I’ve been to AntelopePark for two weeks and they have been life changing. Truly one of the best experiences of my life. The staff is amazing, you have 24h assistance and they will make sure everything is fine. The horses are angels, you will fall in love with all of them
Community, wildlife, and memories I'II never forget🤍🦁
March 09, 2026by: Gilly Hoy - United KingdomProgram: Community Teaching and Wildlife Management, Antelope Park
Antelope Park is truly one of the most memorable places I have ever experienced, and I can honestly say it changed me as a person. I was mainly involved in the community projects and wildlife work, and both were incredibly rewarding. The community initiatives felt impactful and well thought-out, and it was great to be part of projects that genuinely support local people rather than just observing from the outside. The wildlife side was equally memorable, giving real insight into conservation work and the challenges involved. I originally went for three weeks and ended up extending my stay for an extra week, which says a lot about how much I was enjoying the experience. I met some amazing people and made some amazing friendships. I also had some horse riding lessons with Ted, and I can't thank him enough for his patience - especially for putting up with me and the diva I definitely was at times. The staff I worked with on these projects were knowledgeable, supportive, and clearly passionate about what they do, which made a big difference to the overall experience. There's a real sense of purpose at Antelope Park, and you really feel that your time there is being used well. Since getting home, I've realised just how much I miss Antelope Park — the lifestyle, the environment, and especially the people. I left feeling like l'd gained a lot personally, and I already know I'll be back so I can get even more involved. Thank you for an incredible experience!

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Interviews
Read interviews from alumni or staff

Lily Roberts Nuttall
Interviewed in 2023
Lily Robters Nuttal is a very passionate horse rider and loves all things horses. Recently she went to the amazing Antelope Park as a volunteer for tw...

Lily Roberts Nuttall
Interviewed in 2023
What inspired you to travel abroad?
I was inspired by my first-hand experience on the project and wanting to share my experience with others. I enjoy helping others discover what an incredible place Antelope Park and the other projects we run are—the mental health benefits include being able to escape from the stresses of normal life. I enjoy being able to help others enjoy Africa and all the beautiful things it has to offer.

Jessica Palmer
Interviewed in 2023
Jessica Palmer has worked in the travel abroad industry since 2012. She is originally from the UK, but has lived in Australia, Thailand, Mexico, South...

Jessica Palmer
Interviewed in 2023
What inspired you to travel abroad?
I moved back to the UK and stopped working in international travel for a brief period. An opportunity came up to work part-time with Volunteer Encounter which keeps me connected to the continent of Africa, my biggest passion.

Katherine Daman
Participated in 2022
Katie Daman is 20 years old and from Northamptonshire, UK.

Katherine Daman
Participated in 2022
I previously volunteered in schools in Ghana and India though GirlGuiding Uk in 2017 and 2018 which really created my love of traveling. I loved volunteering but wanted to do something completely different for my gap year from working. Luckily I found the perfect project at Antelope Park, Zimbabwe.
Awards
Check out awards and recognitions Volunteer Encounter has received




