Volunteer Role
The Kruger National Park is arguably Africa’s most famous protected area. The trip to this incredible national park at the beginning of your experience acts as a perfect introduction to the Savannah ecosystem you will be working in while in Swaziland.
As a volunteer, you will investigate the ecology of savannah species, getting involved in research and hands on conservation in northeastern Swaziland.
For example, the raptors and predators that are at the top of the food chain suffer from the increasing effects of the degrading of savannahs, yet they can roam massive distances and are therefore exposed to a variety of threats. Also, relatively little is know about bats and reptiles, which both play an important role in the ecosystem, and often become overlooked.
The project has uncovered important findings about the conservation of savannah species and without this, some of these species may be lost. The project has identified the species that can be used as general indicators of the health of the savannah ecosystem. Therefore the main focuses on the project will be on:
- Monitoring threatened birds and bats, in particular their movement and reproduction
- Monitoring of tortoise movements and activity
- Surveying threatened plants (some of which are not found anywhere else in the world) to monitor reproductive success and survival
What’s Included in the Programme
- All accommodation for the duration of the programme in camping in the National Parks and a backpackers lodge in Ezulwini
- Entrance and accommodation in Kruger
- A guided bush walk, sunset drive or night drive in Kruger (you choose one)
- All meals for the duration of the programme
- Airport transfer
- Orientation on arrival
- Savannah Conservation project work
- Camping equipment, when required
- 24 hour support number and contact
What’s Not Included in the Programme
- Personal travel insurance for the duration of your placement, which should include cover for repatriation
- All flights
- Public transport for personal activities
- All items of a personal nature, such as curios, gifts, clothing (work and other)
- E-mail/Internet and telephone calls
- Soft drinks, wines and spirits
- Any excursions over and above your planned itinerary
Prices and Durations
Kruger to Swaziland Conservation Experience - 4 weeks £1,645
Kruger to Swaziland Conservation Experience - 8 weeks £2,415
Kruger to Swaziland Conservation Experience - 12 weeks £2,965
