Zimbabwe Rhino and Elephant Conservation

Minimum age

Minimum 18 years, maximum decided on potential participants’ health.

Accommodation

The accommodation on this project is fantastic! You will be staying in a comfortable double storied farmhouse, which is situated at the centre of the ranch and on the edge of a dam. Often Elephants, Rhinos and Hippos will come to browse in the garden, which is a stunning sight.

You will be staying in a shared bedroom (either double or four people sharing) with shared bathrooms. Hot water and electricity is available but power cuts are quite normal, so remember to bring a torch! The house has a large dining room, two communal sitting rooms with fireplaces in each and a kitchen. In the evenings volunteers can meet in the sitting room to relax and talk about the day’s events.

Meals

Three substantial meals and basic house keeping duties will be provided for you each day.  You will be required to help with keeping the house clean and tidy, maintaining the garden and the vegetable garden. You may even eat down by the stunning water’s edge, sharing your lunch with the elephants that can often enjoy your company at the river!

Is this trip for you?

You must be in a good physical condition, as you will be expected to walk long distances and participate in physical activities.

Project Orientation

On arrival you will have a briefing as to the rules of safety of the safari ranch. Your orientation will also include:

• Introduction to all camp staff including managers, guides, researchers, and assistants
• Familiarisation with the Safari camp and the conservancy, including the boundaries, internal roads and tracks and some of the wildlife species of the area in which you will be working
• Introduction to current research procedures
• Further information about the rhino protection programme
• Familiarisation with all other duties you will be involved in
• You will be working with the indigenous population of Zimbabwe, so you will also be given a short briefing on local culture and etiquette etc.

Advice & Safety

Throughout your programmes you will have the support and guidance of the programme co-ordinator and team. You will be provided with competent assistance and help with any questions or advice you may need during your stay.

You will be assigned a personal travel advisor who will co-ordinate your programme with you. Feel free to contact them at any time before you go, or when you are on your travels.

In addition, you will have access to a 24 hour emergency contact number so you can contact one of our UK staff at any time should you need to.