Elephant Protection, Namibia

The desert elephant conservation project in Namibia takes place in the rugged and sparsely populated region of Damaraland, where nature remains virtually untouched. Despite the harsh conditions, this area is home to a remarkable variety of plants and animals. The project aims to balance the needs of both humans and elephants, ensuring peaceful coexistence.

As a volunteer, you'll assist in reducing conflicts between local communities and elephants by constructing protective structures and documenting elephant behavior. This unique opportunity allows you to contribute to wildlife conservation while immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Namibia.

Find out more and start your adventure in elephant conservation in Namibia and combine a unique experience with meaningful commitment!

Topics and activities of volunteering in Elephant Protection

The project is divided into two main parts: "Building Week" and "Patrol Week." During the Building Week, you'll assist local farmers by constructing protective walls, developing new water sources for elephants away from settlements, and educating the community on peaceful coexistence with wildlife. This effort helps mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and fosters harmony between humans and elephants.

In the Patrol Week, you will track desert elephants across the vast Damaraland, observing their behavior, movements, and social structures. You'll gain invaluable insights into their natural habitat while contributing to ongoing research by recording vital statistics and behavioral patterns.

Arrival and orientation

Upon arrival at Walvis Bay Airport, you'll be picked up and transferred to Swakopmund (for a fee), where you'll meet your team and receive an introduction to the project. After some final preparations, the project officially begins on Monday morning, starting with a journey to the base camp in Damaraland.

Accommodation and board in Namibia

During the Building Week, you'll set up camp near local farms, sleeping in tents or under the stars by the campfire. After the Building Week, the group returns to the base camp by the Ougab River, where you might even encounter elephants. In Patrol Week, you'll track elephants through the wilderness, sleeping under Namibia's starry skies. Sanitary facilities are basic, and during Patrol Week, they are virtually non-existent.

Leisure time during the project

After 12 days of the project, you'll head back to Swakopmund, where you can relax and enjoy various activities, such as beach outings or local excursions. During the Building and Patrol Weeks, evenings are spent unwinding, reading, or socializing with fellow volunteers. After the Building Week, the group will visit a nearby town for a day to enjoy hotel comforts like a pool, internet, and local dining.

The region of Damaraland

Damaraland, a rugged and sparsely populated region in northwestern Namibia, offers a unique wilderness experience. The area's harsh conditions and stunning landscapes are home to a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including the desert-adapted elephants. Volunteering here not only allows you to contribute to conservation efforts but also to immerse yourself in the raw beauty of one of Africa's most untouched regions.

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