Wildlife Conservation Volunteer

International Volunteer HQ; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 50 000 - 200 000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking organization dedicated to wildlife conservation in one of Africa's most iconic national parks. This unique opportunity allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park while contributing to vital conservation efforts. You'll gain hands-on experience in reserve management, participate in various ecological activities, and learn about the importance of preserving wildlife habitats. With support and training provided, you'll develop personally and professionally while making a significant impact on the local community and its wildlife. Embrace this chance to explore the beauty of South Africa and be a part of something truly meaningful.

Benefits

Meals included

Airport pick-up

Accommodation

24/7 in-country support

Certificate of International Volunteer Service

Qualifications

• Passion for wildlife and conservation is essential.
• Hands-on experience with ecological practices and reserve management.

Responsibilities

• Monitor wildlife and collect data during field excursions.
• Participate in habitat surveys and environmental management tasks.

Skills

Wildlife Conservation

Bush Ecology

Animal Identification

Data Collection

Environmental Management

Education

No formal education required

Tools

Camera Traps

Job description

Are you passionate about animals, love the outdoors, and dream of contributing to wildlife conservation? International Volunteer HQ’s Wildlife Conservation project at Greater Kruger National Park offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of South Africa’s iconic wildlife reserve. Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest and most renowned game reserves, is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, including the legendary Big 5: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. By joining this project, you’ll play an integral role in preserving the park’s ecosystem while gaining hands-on conservation experience. Volunteer from as little as £16 / day.

As a volunteer, you’ll start with an introductory training period, equipping you with knowledge about reserve management, bush ecology, and the significance of your contribution. Once training is complete, you’ll dive into a variety of activities, such as:

• Orientation and Bushcraft Training: Learn animal identification, behavior patterns, bush navigation, and safety protocols for interacting with wildlife.
• Game Drives and Transects: Monitor rare and endangered species and collect valuable data during field excursions.
• Camera Trapping: Assist in setting up and analyzing camera traps to monitor wildlife movement.
• Tree Protection: Safeguard trees like the Marula from elephant damage.
• Habitat Surveys: Study vegetation, biodiversity, and habitat health.
• Bird Point Counts: Conduct surveys to monitor bird populations.
• Herbivore Dietary Analysis: Track and document feeding behaviors in large herbivores.
• Animal Patrols and Mapping: Locate and map injured or at-risk animals through vehicle patrols.
• Environmental Management: Participate in bush clearing, alien plant removal, erosion control, and disaster management for issues like wildfires or drought.
• General Reserve Tasks: Contribute to manual labor, road maintenance, and other essential conservation tasks.

As a Wildlife Conservation volunteer in Kruger National Park you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:

• Contributing to conservation efforts and wildlife protection
• Learning about game reserve management and practices
• Gaining wildlife conservation experience
• Immersing yourself in South African culture
• Exploring one of Africa’s biggest game reserves.

Kruger National Park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the Big 5 - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Originally established in 1898, Kruger became South Africa’s first official national park in 1926, and at nearly 2 million hectares it is one of Africa’s largest game reserves.

As a Wildlife Conservation volunteer, you’ll have the opportunity to get involved in a variety of conservation work while being immersed in life on the reserve. You’ll be making a difference towards wildlife conservation and enjoying the spectacular environment that Greater Kruger National Park offers.

What's Included?

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Airport pick-up
• Transport to and from your volunteer project
• Accommodation
• 24 / 7 in-country support
• In-country program orientation
• Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
• Personalized preparation tools, guides, and checklists
• Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
• Discounts on travel and tour add-ons
• Certificate of International Volunteer Service