We invest in you We also work with universities based in the United Kingdom and the world to help structure and ensure our placements are an opportunity for those joining us to "gain while you give".
Our work aligns with these educational institutions as well as internationally accredited professional bodies or best practices. We provide structured internships, courses, traineeship positions and accredited qualifications. Meaning while you're giving back, getting hot and sweaty with our work, you're developing skills and tangible experience to act as a career-boosting opportunity.
Travel on the frontline of conservation Our business owner has spent over a decade working in conservation internationally, from researching and living with elephants, cave diving in the Mediterranean, reintroduction projects in the UK or black mamba handling in Southern Africa... Rightly or wrongly, he thinks immersing yourself in wildlife as you protect it provides the most authentic and personable travel experience possible.
Our only requirement is you are passionate about wildlife, conservation and community development!
Hamba Africa is owned and run by safari guides and conservationists. We work with organisations across South Africa that share our commitment to real-world conservation, wildlife research and sustainable development.
Who should join us?
We're happy to receive a lot of support from university students who join as part of a study abroad placement or as a way to support their academic studies and career employability, taking advantage of the skills and experience they gain from our projects.... Hamba Africa even works with some universities to allow their students to get their placements funded!
We also receive a lot of support from adventure travellers, those on a gap year or ethical individuals looking for a unique experience
We look forward to welcoming you!
Volunteer in the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, South Africa, surrounded by captivating wildlife.
Work and help protect endangered wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, and rhinos.
Diverse and hands on work from rhino monitoring to anti-poaching patrols to veterinary work.
You will develop new transferable skills and gain industry experience that match your passion and interests.
Embrace the South African vast wilderness & culture and see if you can tick off the BIG 5!
Their ultimate mission is to protect wildlife, both big and small, by any means possible. We are dedicated to restoring habitats through various measures and investing in research tools to further education about the natural world. By fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of wildlife, we aim to ensure the preservation of biodiversity for future generations.
Unleash Your Potential: Join the Frontlines of Wildlife Conservation!
Embark on a thrilling adventure where you’ll gain invaluable skills and unshakable confidence, working side-by-side with seasoned experts to protect and preserve wildlife!
Become an Essential Part of the Team
Step into the shoes of ecologists and biomonitoring officers, receiving hands-on training and mentorship. You'll be at the heart of crucial conservation projects, contributing to impactful work that makes a real difference. Your tasks will include:
- Data Collection and Analysis: Participate in wildlife surveys, meticulously capturing and recording data on animal behavior, herd structure, and population dynamics.
- Practical Conservation Efforts: Engage in essential activities like habitat management and hands-on vet work, directly impacting the health and sustainability of wildlife populations.
Exciting Activities Await
Your days will be filled with a variety of exhilarating tasks and adventures, including:
- Radio Collar Tracking: Follow the movements of majestic creatures in their natural habitats.
- Bush Walks: Experience the thrill of exploring the wild up close and personal.
- Vegetation Biomass Surveys: Assess and analyze the health of plant life, crucial for ecosystem balance.
- Game Transect Surveys: Monitor wildlife populations and behaviors across different terrains.
- Herbivore Population Monitoring: Track and study the dynamics of herbivore groups.
- Safari Drives: Observe and record wildlife interactions during exciting drives through the reserve.
- Track and Sign Interpretation: Learn to read the signs of the wild, becoming adept at identifying animal tracks and traces.
- Jackal Research: Dive deep into the behaviors and ecology of these fascinating animals.
- Animal ID Data Collation: Assist in creating comprehensive databases for species identification and research.
- Camera Trap Surveying: Utilize cutting-edge technology to monitor elusive wildlife.
- Predator Monitoring: Study and help manage the populations of key predators.
- And So Much More!: Every day brings new challenges and learning opportunities.
Why Join Us?
By volunteering, you’ll not only develop a robust skill set and build your confidence, but you'll also be making a significant impact on conservation efforts. Whether it’s through hands-on animal care, detailed data recording, or engaging in rigorous research, your contributions will help shape a sustainable future for our planet’s precious wildlife.
Ready for the Adventure of a Lifetime?
Join us and transform your passion for wildlife into action. Your journey in wildlife conservation starts here!
Bedrooms
The communal kitchen is where you'll take turns cooking meals, when the guides aren't treating you to a traditional BBQ (or braai, as it is locally known). These are a common social occurrence and take place outside
The Camp
You will stay in a remote bush camp, secluded at the heart of the reserve and the African bush. There, you'll live and work alongside your fellow volunteers, biomonitoring officers and guides.
Rooms are same-sex fixed base canvas tents, sleeping 2-4 people. Each room will have all the amenities you might need: beds with bedding, blankets and towels, shelves and power points to charge cameras and phones.
Communal Area and Kitchen
There is a communal area, where your guides will work with you each day to help plan which conservation activities you'll participate in, and when. Furnished with plenty of hangout spots and relaxation areas, you'll be able to relax and socialise together in your downtime.
Join us in an ultimate African Conservation Experience for only:
2 Weeks = €1480
3 Weeks = €1870
4 Weeks = €2358
6 Weeks = €3274
8 Weeks = €4178
12 Weeks = €5918
Apply today to secure your spot
Additional Info
Additional Info & What's Included
We have taken care of all the details so you can focus on the adventure of a lifetime!
- Accommodation during your stay
- Transportation and guides for all confirmed excursions and group activities
- Food and drink (excluding any personal extras)
- Entry for any visits to external sites
- All itinerary/activity equipment is provided
- Wi-fi access
- Conservation projects and activities
- Meet and greet event in the UK
- Fellow volunteer contact list, to be sent out prior to departure
- 24-hour emergency onsite support
- 100% financial security with your booking Starting pointOR Tambo International Airport, We'll collect you from the airport.
The drive to camp is approximately 3 - 4 hours, on the route you'll have a chance to pick up any last minute supplies or toiletries you need from the shop. Ahead of joinining us, we'll arrange multiple calls with all volunteers to ensure they are confident with their travel plans and if you need any support making arrangments such as visa's or travel insurance.
You'll be staying in glamping-style tents. Furnished with beds, storage space for clothing, fans during the summer and electrical sockets to charge phones, cameras, and laptops. These tents make for an immersive experience, fall asleep with the sound of hyena and lions calling just meters away from outside the camp fence. These tents are same-sex and you'll share these with your team mates during busy periods or if you come in quieter times of the year, you'll have a tent all to yourself.
For those traveling as a group or as a couple, you're able to request to bunk and stay with any travel companion.
The camp You will stay in a remote bush camp, secluded at the heart of the reserve and the African bush. There, you'll live and work alongside your fellow volunteers, biomonitoring-officers and guides.There is a communal area, where your guides will work with you each day to help plan which conservation activities you'll participate in, and when. Furnished with plenty of hangout spots and relaxation areas, you'll be able to relax and socialize together in your downtime.
All food and drink is included. The communal kitchen is where you'll take turns cooking meals, when the guides aren't treating you to a traditional BBQ (or braai, as it is locally known). These are common social occurrence and take place outside. We typically arange cooking duties in teams of twos or three. For those not confident in cooking, Your team leaders will be able to offer extra support. During weekends or trips into town, you're able to pick up any extra's you can't do without. Major international brands are available in the nearest town so you can pick up things like snacks and drinks.
- Good access at the project site
At least one guide will be with you at all times while you are on-site. Although the place is well illuminated at night, please do stay vigilant and please bring a torch!
Phone and Limited WiFi
The site itself is quite remote and although there is phone signal it does come and go.
For those who wish to purchase their own South African SIM card and phone, you will have a chance to do so during your arrival at the airport. There is a Wi-Fi and cell signal booster in camp for you to keep contact with friends at home.
Laundry
There is an on-site launderette which you will be able to access, so you can keep your clothes fresh and clean - and ready to get mucky again during conservation work!
Fencing and Security
Although the site is fully fenced off to keep a comfortable and safe barrier between animals and humans, for the sake of both parties please be mindful that you are still on a reserve.
Animals such as antelope, baboons and warthogs sometimes like to visit camp. If and when this occurs, your guides will explain any health and safety concerns.
Rules and Respect
The site itself is your home, so please treat the place well. Please also treat the other guests and staff who share the camp with you with the respect they deserve, and you will be treated likewise.
Equally, be mindful that you are on a protected reserve. Anyone found making a mess, damaging the environment or littering risks a stern talking-to from your safari guides!
Location
Located in the Waterberg region of South Africa. The 37,500 hectare reserve is part of the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. Home to over 5000 species of plant and endangered animals such as the black rhino.
The Waterberg region is made up of granite and sandstone rocky escarpments, flat open plains (savannahs), and thick bush cut by rivers, some of which are seasonal. This diverse environment is home to many species of iconic African wildlife such as antelope, giraffes, warthogs, zebras, and predators such as hyena. You can also expect to see and learn about many species of reptiles, birds and other smaller mammals.
What's Included
Services by Hamba Africa
The placement includes:
- Airport transfers to and from the reserve
Airport Pickup at O.R. Tambo International Airport
Ending point You'll be taken back to OR Tambo International Airport. For anyone staying in South Africa, we're happy to help arrange custom transportation or an alternative drop of location.