Volunteering Wildlife Conservation Zululand, South Africa

Join the wildlife conservation project in South Africa’s Zululand, dedicated to protecting endangered species such as cheetahs, rhinoceros, African wild dogs, elephants, lions, and leopards.

This initiative spans three Game Reserves, each with a unique conservation focus and diverse wildlife. Your training takes place entirely in the African bush, where you'll learn to track, monitor, and document at-risk animals' behavior and feeding patterns.

Collaborating with the WWF, you'll work with an international team to experience South Africa's fascinating biodiversity up close through wildlife censuses, bird watching, camera trap management, and reserve maintenance.

Topics and activities of volunteering in Zululand

A typical day in our Zululand species conservation project begins around 4 am. Alongside fellow volunteers and an experienced supervisor, you'll set off before sunrise in an open off-road vehicle to track and observe wildlife. Using gadgets like tracking collars, you'll locate animals and document their behavior and feeding patterns for research.

You'll also learn traditional methods of animal identification and tracking, gaining insights into conservation issues. Afternoons include a second bush trip, with time to relax between outings. Success varies, with some days yielding numerous sightings and others none at all.

Arrival and orientation

You will arrive in Richard’s Bay on the project's start date, where our partner's transfer service will pick you up from the airport and take you to your camp in Zululand. The specific camp will be determined based on various factors. Before arriving at camp, your project leader will welcome you and your team with a short shopping trip for necessary food items.

Upon arrival, you will settle in and meet the other participants. A presentation by the project leader will introduce you to the project's tasks and goals. The rest of the day will be spent exploring the camp, getting to know each other, and preparing a group dinner.

Accommodation and board in Zululand

The project operates across three distinct reserves, each featuring unique vegetation and wildlife. The number of camps you will experience depends on the duration of your stay. You'll share accommodation with fellow volunteers at a research camp within the reserve, equipped with electricity, warm water, and toilets. While towels and mosquito nets aren't provided, you can access the internet once a week in the office. Mobile phone reception may be limited.

The communal kitchen, fully equipped with an oven, microwave, hob, and solar cooker, allows you to prepare meals together with other international volunteers. Participants will rotate cooking and cleaning duties, with all food provided. Enjoy three healthy meals daily, including fruits, vegetables, and regional meat, with water available at the camp and drinks for purchase.

Leisure time during the project

Each day, you'll have some leisure time during the midday period when it’s hot and most animals are inactive, as monitoring drives take place early in the morning. During these hours, you are welcome to read, sleep, eat, play cards or board games, or simply enjoy watching the animals around your accommodation. It’s also a good idea to bring a book or download some podcasts, perhaps even about the region, to make the most of your downtime.

The region of Zululand

KwaZulu-Natal, commonly referred to as Zululand, is a captivating region in South Africa, celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the rugged peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains to the sun-kissed shores of the Indian Ocean, the area offers a diverse tapestry of environments to explore. Renowned for its biodiversity, Zululand is home to a wealth of wildlife, including majestic elephants, rhinoceros, and lions, thriving within its numerous game reserves. Steeped in the traditions of the Zulu people, the region provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient customs and history, making it a truly enchanting destination for both conservation enthusiasts and cultural adventurers alike.

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