Volunteer Programs in Swakopmund, Namibia

This programme is based on the immense and spectacular desert, The Namib, home to magnificent, wild elephants. This is one of only two places in the world where elephants can be found living in the desert. Volunteers will spend the first half of the programme working with a local NGO to help resolve the conflicts existing between villagers and elephants, and building walls to protect farmers crops while ensuring that drinking water reaches the elephants. During the second part, volunteers will learn the art of tracking and monitoring elephants in the wild. Important data is collected to help create protection campaigns and initiatives. A suitable volunteer is someone willing to help out and who is enthusiastic about the welfare of these gentle giants. This programme is also available to people looking for an internship. Applicants need to be studying relevant degrees (conservation, environmental studies, biology, etc.).

Damaraland, a sparsely populated area, is home to virtually untouched nature with fascinating plant and animal life. To ensure that the region's desert elephants can roam through Namibia’s Damaraland for years to come, the project is devoted to the protection of these animals. Only a few desert elephants were left in the region 20 years ago mainly due to conflict with local farmers. Life in Damaraland is largely dependent on the few springs, which have water all year round. These springs are often taken over by man, so the elephants sometimes destroy the farmer’s homes and wells in their desperate daily quest for water. The project aims to create a balance that meets the needs of both humans and animals. You will help the farmers with development aid, schooling, training, and setting up protective walls. You will build new water holes for the animals, away from settlements and the local population, fostering a harmonious co-existence between man and elephants. Moreover, you will monitor the desert elephants, accompanying these gentle giants on their endless ramblings and observing their population, behavior, and movement patterns.