Baby hyena standing in the grass

Wildlife Rescue

Volunteering Wildlife Rescue, Malawi

Location
Africa, Malawi
Price per person
From 2.900 €
Trip duration
4 weeks

Embark on a transformative journey with Lilongwe Wildlife Rescue in Malawi, where you'll play a vital role in rehabilitating injured, orphaned, and rescued animals, primarily focusing on primates. Engage in essential tasks such as animal care, food preparation, and habitat maintenance within a serene nature reserve.

This volunteer project not only allows you to contribute meaningfully to wildlife conservation but also immerses you in the rich biodiversity of Malawi. Make a lasting impact while experiencing the beauty and tranquillity of this unique environment.

Wildlife Rescue Project, Malawi

  • Rehabilitate diverse wildlife in a natural haven centred in Malawi’s capital city
  • Work at a wildlife sanctuary that prioritizes rewilding rescued animals into their natural habitat
  • Engage in the daily care of rescued wild animals
  • Work side-by-side with veterinarians and animal welfare experts
  • Become an advocate for animal rights and a stop to the illegal trade of exotic animals
  • Explore the stunning landscapes of Malawi in your free time, complementing your volunteer experience with unforgettable adventures

Topics and activities of volunteering in Wildlife Rescue, Malawi

We prioritize returning animals to their natural habitats by maintaining a hands-off approach in rehabilitation, only interacting when necessary for veterinary or rehabilitation purposes. As a volunteer, you will be working alongside our committed animal care team, ensuring the well-being of injured, orphaned, and mistreated wildlife. From chopping food and cleaning enclosures to providing late-night care for orphaned animals, each task plays a vital role in their rehabilitation journey.

Expect to engage actively in various aspects of animal care, including cleaning, feeding, and habitat maintenance, as well community integration efforts. Alongside these responsibilities, you'll have opportunities to delve deeper into specialized areas such as enrichment, behavioural observation, and various rehabilitation techniques, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful volunteer experience.

Arrival and orientation

You will arrive at Lilongwe's Kamuzu International Airport, where a staff member will be waiting to welcome you. Together, you will head to the wildlife sanctuary, about 30 minutes away from the airport. You will be shown all around the centre’s premises and be given time to settle in to your room and unpack.

When you’re ready, our team will gladly show you around the surrounding area and point out where you can find everything you might need during your stay. You will be given an orientation to the project, and the daily schedule and work tasks will be explained to you. The next morning, you will begin work bright and early with the support of your team.

»Watching a baby animal grow and get stronger every day makes the long days worth it. It is the best feeling going from feeding an orphan to witnessing it being integrated into an adult troop to eventually being released into the wild, you really feel like you make a difference. ”«
- Mary (former participant)

Accommodation and board in Malawi

The volunteer house comfortably accommodates up to 17 individuals across six bedrooms, with optional single rooms available at an additional cost. It features communal spaces including a lounge, kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas, two bathrooms, a laundry room, terrace, and garden. Complimentary Wi-Fi and cleaning/laundry services are provided. Situated amidst the nature reserve, it offers a serene bush life experience, perfect for unwinding by the fire after a fulfilling day of work, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the forest.

Indulge in daily freshly prepared meals crafted by our on-site chef, with Sundays allowing volunteers the opportunity to cook for themselves or enjoy leftovers from the previous day. Our vegetarian/vegan menu showcases a diverse array of international and local dishes to cater to various preferences.

Leisure time during the project

Five days a week you will be engaging in the daily conservation tasks at the centre, while two days a week are yours to spend as you like. Volunteers often take the time to relax at the centre, or take a taxi or tuk-tuk into the city, just 10 minutes away. You can explore markets, go out to eat, go to a nearby swimming pool to cool down, or venture further out on longer excursions. Staff on site is more than happy to offer recommendations for nearby areas to explore so that you can take full advantage of your time in Malawi to experience all the wonder it has to offer.

The region of Lilongwe, Malawi

Lingadzi Namilomba Forest Reserve stands as a verdant oasis on the outskirts of Lilongwe city, offering a tranquil escape into nature's embrace. This pristine reserve is a sanctuary for a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including towering indigenous trees, vibrant bird species, and elusive wildlife such as antelopes and monkeys. Visitors can embark on guided nature walks along its winding trails, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance of the forest while discovering its ecological significance. The reserve also serves as a vital green lung for Lilongwe, providing essential ecosystem services and serving as a haven for biodiversity amidst urban development.

Meanwhile, Lilongwe city itself offers a vibrant tapestry of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences for visitors to explore. From the bustling markets of Old Town, where the aroma of spices fills the air, to the serene surroundings of the Lilongwe Nature Sanctuary, there is something for everyone to discover. The city's modern skyline is juxtaposed with traditional African architecture, reflecting its dynamic growth and rich heritage. Visitors can sample authentic Malawian cuisine at local eateries, mingle with friendly locals at community events, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this cosmopolitan hub in the heart of Africa.

You wanna know more about Volunteering in Wildlife Rescue in Malawi, you can find detailed information here.

Natucate

Natucate is a conservation-focused travel agency offering a range of nature-based experiences worldwide, including volunteering opportunities, nature-focused training courses (especially field guide training), internships, and customized sabbaticals and gap years in nature and wildlife conservation. They also specialize in safaris, adventure travel, and responsible ecotourism.

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