How to Volunteer With Wildlife in Africa

Work with wildlife in Africa.

Conservation volunteer work can be a very rewarding experience, especially when combined with the gorgeous landscapes and wildlife of Africa. It is an opportunity not only to help the planet, but also to form bonds with like-minded people from diverse places and to learn more about yourself. You do need to be prepared for the venture in order to ensure your safety and to provide the best possible experience.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Passport
• Visa and/or Work Permit
• Outlet Converters
• Luggage
• Luggage Lock

Instructions

1. Research different volunteer organizations to see which one works best for you. Some are only geared toward students. Others may only offer a three month program while others have a year-long one. Some even have age requirements. If you are a student, see if your school is affiliated with any African wildlife programs. This will make it easier to organize your trip. Otherwise, see which programs work best with your schedule and future plans. This is important even if you're not a student. It is also very important to research your chosen program to make sure it is reputable.

2. Learn as much as you can about the program's destination and its culture.

3. Find out the cost of the program. If you're traveling with an organization, you may need to hold a fundraiser to ensure that everyone can make the trip.

4. Make travel arrangements if the program does not do it for you. Some programs even deduct the amount of money they would pay for your flight from your total cost if you make your own arrangements.

5. Apply for a passport if you don't already have one. If you do have a passport, check to see that it's current, and if not, renew it. Allow several weeks for the application to be processed. Make photocopies of your travel documents to leave with friends and family. Depending on the program and the destination, you may need to apply for a visa and/or work permit.

6. Schedule an appointment with a doctor to get the vaccines or medication recommended by the program. These are usually optional, but you may risk getting illnesses such as rabies and malaria. Enroll in a medical insurance program.

7. Contact your cell phone provider to make sure your phone is activated with international roaming. Purchase outlet converters if you're bringing a laptop or other electrical devices.

8. Be sure your luggage is sturdy and nondescript. You should also be able to lock it.

9. Be emotionally strong when working with the animals. Some involve sheltering animals fatally injured in traps, dealing with tensions between local farmers and wildlife that threatens their land, and rehabilitating problem animals. You will have to deal with possibly losing animals you've grown attached to or assisting in procedures that may not be for the squeamish. Of course, you may also get to witness wildlife births, tend orphaned baby animals, or go on hiking and kayaking trips. In the end, the benefits outweigh the costs, and if times get hard, just remember what the ideas and motivations that brought you there.

Tips & Warnings

• Join with a friend or a group of friends instead of going by yourself. That said, be sure to reach out to other program members.

• Always travel in pairs or groups once you're abroad.

• Keep in regular contact with friends and family. You could even start a blog to reach everyone at once and to upload photos.

• Look to your other group members for support if you feel homesick.

References

• African Conservation Experience: Frequently Asked Questions
• Operation Crossroads Africa: Who Should Apply?
• African Impact: Responsible Travel - Visas
• African Impact: Responsible Travel - Health & Safety
• Enkosini Eco Experience: Noah's Ark Wildlife Centre
• Enkosini Eco Experience: Amakhala Game Reserve

Resources

• Travel.State.Gov - Passports
• The United Kingdom Identity and Passport Service