Volunteering Elephant Protection, Zambia

Embark on a unique conservation adventure in Zambia, where you'll contribute to essential conservation efforts, including protecting orphaned elephants and gathering vital biodiversity data.

Over three weeks, you'll explore different parts of Zambia, from the bustling capital Lusaka to the awe-inspiring Kafue National Park.

This experience will offer deep insights into wildlife conservation, community outreach, and the delicate balance between nature and human communities. So get started and plan your adventure in conservation in Zambia!

Topics and activities of volunteering in Zambia

During this trip, you'll engage in a variety of conservation activities. Starting at Lilayi Elephant Nursery near Lusaka, you'll spend your first week conducting biodiversity surveys in Lusaka National Park. This will help in understanding the presence and abundance of various species. You'll also participate in community outreach, supporting educational and empowerment projects.

In your second week at Musa Camp in Kafue National Park, you'll work alongside rangers on anti-poaching initiatives and continue with biodiversity surveys. The final week at the Kafue Release Facility will focus on elephant rehabilitation, where you'll gain insights into elephant behavior studies and help with staff capacity building. Each activity will provide you with hands-on experience in conservation.

Note: In this project, great importance is attached to strict compliance with the "no-touch policy" in order to ensure the protection of the animals and avoid interactions with wild animals by non-experts.

Arrival and orientation

Your adventure begins at Lusaka International Airport, where you'll be picked up and taken to the Elephant Nursery. After settling in, you'll receive an orientation, including a cultural and safety briefing, before diving into your conservation tasks. This initial phase will help you acclimate to your new environment and prepare for the hands-on work ahead.

Accommodation and board in Zambia

Throughout your trip, you'll stay in comfortable yet rustic accommodations, starting with a tented setup at Lilayi Elephant Nursery in Lusaka. The camps are equipped with basic amenities, including hot water and shared facilities, all powered by solar energy. In Kafue National Park, your accommodations will include tents at Musa Camp and the Kafue Release Facility, where you'll enjoy the natural surroundings and proximity to wildlife.

Meals are a communal affair, with simple, predominantly vegetarian dishes prepared by the group. Limited electricity means you'll rely on solar power for charging devices, and you can stay connected with a Zambian SIM card.

Leisure time during the project

Volunteers enjoy one off-day per week, perfect for exploring the surrounding regions. During your time in Kafue National Park, you can relax at a nearby lodge, swim, or join staff on shopping trips. Evenings are reserved for unwinding with games, reading, or simply soaking in the natural beauty of Zambia.

The region of Lusaka and Kafue National Park

Lusaka, Zambia’s vibrant capital, offers a lively introduction to your conservation journey. Nearby, Lilayi Elephant Nursery focuses on rehabilitating orphaned elephants, providing an insight into wildlife care.

Moving to Kafue National Park, one of Zambia's largest reserves, you'll explore diverse ecosystems and witness extensive anti-poaching and biodiversity efforts at Musa Camp. The Kafue Release Facility, located along the Nkala River, is pivotal for elephant reintroduction. This adventure combines urban experiences with immersive wildlife conservation, deepening your connection to Zambia's rich natural heritage.

You wanna know more about the Volunteering in Zambia trip? You can find detailed information here.