South Africa – The Big 5 Wildlife Reserve in the Greater Kruger Area

This project is based in the Greater Kruger Area close to the famous Kruger National Park–one of the largest game reserves in Africa and home to Africa’s ‘Big 5’ species. The park stretches across the Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces in northeastern South Africa. With over 500 bird species, 100 reptiles, 150 mammal species, multiple archaeological sites, and an equally diverse array of trees and flowers, Kruger truly exemplifies the majesty of Africa. Hoedspruit is the main nearby town, about 2 hours away.

This project is based in the Greater Kruger Area, where the focus is on rewilding a private reserve and supporting long-term conservation goals. Volunteers contribute directly to essential data collection, habitat restoration, and ecosystem research, all of which guide wildlife trusts and reserve management teams.

Main Volunteer Tasks

• Wildlife Monitoring – Track elephants, lions, and other species on game drives, recording behaviour, sightings, and movement patterns.
• Data Collection – Contribute to population databases, maps, and identification profiles that inform daily management and long-term rewilding.
• Habitat Restoration – Help remove invasive plants and support regeneration of natural environments so wildlife can thrive.
• Conservation Efforts – Take part in snare sweeps and learn about local anti-poaching initiatives.
• Ecosystem Research – Assist with studies on how species interact within the reserve, adding to strategies for protecting threatened wildlife.

How Your Time Is Spent

Volunteers rotate between conservation activities during the week. A typical split is:

• Wildlife monitoring & research: 40–50%
• Physical conservation work: 30–40%
• Data recording & workshops: 10–20%

Internet: Wi-Fi is available

Laundry: Laundry services are available for a small fee

Accommodations: Volunteers stay in dorms and tented rooms with shared bathrooms. Facilities include a fire pit, dining and lounge areas, and social spaces.

Food: Three meals a day are provided. Breakfast is self-serve and includes cereals, toast, coffee, and tea. The on-site cooks prepare lunch and dinner. They can cater for most dietary preferences, including vegetarians, vegans, and, where possible, lactose or wheat free.

• Minimum age of 18 years (minors may join if accompanied by a guardian)
• Police clearance (valid within 6 months of placement start)
• Good level of English
• Immunizations (consult your travel clinic for advice)
• Malaria advice: The Greater Kruger Area is a low-risk zone, especially October–April; seek medical guidance on antimalarials
• Physical fitness: Volunteers must be able to walk long distances and take part in physically demanding activities
• Teamwork and flexibility: Ability to work cooperatively as part of a group
• Commitment to wildlife and the environment

Travel Extras (Not Included):

Make the most of your free time with adventures in and around the Greater Kruger. Activities can be arranged on arrival at camp, with fees paid either at camp or directly to the provider.

Full-Day Tours

• Panorama Route & Blyde River Canyon – Visit God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, The Pinnacle, and the Three Rondawels.
• Kruger National Park Safari – Choose a guided or self-drive safari, with the option to overnight at a rest camp.

River & Wildlife

• Olifants River Boat Trip – Spot crocodiles, hippos, elephants, and birdlife from the Kambaku houseboat.
• Birding Safari – Join a specialist guide in one of South Africa’s top raptor-viewing regions.

Adventure Activities (Magoebaskloof)

• Tubing – Drift calm waters and tackle rapids on the Great Letaba River.
• Abseiling – Drop 30 metres into George’s Valley gorge, ending at a waterfall pool.
• Guided Hiking – Explore ancient forests on a 5 km trail.
• Canopy Tour – Zip-line between treetop platforms above rivers and waterfalls.

Half-Day Experiences

• Rhino Revolution – Learn about rhino rescue, rehabilitation, and anti-poaching.
• Down to the Wire – Craft a snare bangle while supporting conservation.
• Quad Biking – Ride guided bush trails (1–3 hrs) among giraffes and wildebeest.
• Massage & Spa – Relax with treatments and lunch included.
• Blyde Canyon Hiking – 2–5 hr guided treks to caves, waterfalls, and scenic lookouts.
• Helicopter Flights – Soar above Blyde Canyon or the Olifants River for sweeping views.