Conservation - SOUTH AFRICA Daily Life

Daily life

Whilst you will be working on a wide range of activities during your stay with us there is an ongoing structure to our project and you will soon adapt to our routine and strong work ethic.

The heat of the African sun makes working around midday very difficult and you will soon appreciate the early starts and cooler conditions. The wildlife also wilts under the midday sun and so our research is also conducted in the mornings and late afternoons.

Most days will see you up with the light ready to catch the active wildlife or just get a good start on the work before it really heats up. Breakfast will either be before leaving or upon return from a short observation activity and then on to work on one of the projects. Lunch is a self-service affair and after working in the afternoon you return to a hot meal usually prepared on the camp's BBQ which can be enjoyed around the camp fire.

You will be told the night before what our plans are for the next day and a staff member is always on hand to explain what is happening and accommodate you should you have any special requests or projects in which you have a particular interest.

During your time with us you will receive a series of lectures and workshops from our knowledgeable staff and also get involved with managing the data we collect as our database continues to grow. Night drives and overnight observations will enable you to see some of the nocturnal residents of the bush and these will be frequently included in your working week. Sundays give you a chance to unwind, do laundry, relax on the island or just sleep and recharge the batteries for a fresh start on Monday morning.

If that was not enough you will also participate in trips off the reserve in neighbouring South Africa and these will be arranged according to availability and conditions. Your daily routine will be interrupted by a fantastic opportunity to see other parks and wildlife but you will soon be home at Legodimo and back in the routine that will become so natural.

Weekend trips can be arranged depending on demand; future plans are to visit Victoria Falls, Kruger National Park, and a Horse Safari in Mashatu (Botswana). As all activities are optional, volunteers will be provided with costs in advance