The Tamboti Conservation Project

  South Africa

Waterberg

Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Start dates available throughout the year

Description: This popular family run conservation project is nestled deep in the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, where animals and birdlife are prolific.

As a volunteer you will get to meet elephants, black rhinos and white lions face to face, learn about wildlife in the bush and make a contribution to conserve habitats and species, as well as taking with you many experiences and an intimate knowledge of African ecology

Guaranteed activities

* Orientation to the project and reserve
* Bush safety (work and safety issues in the bush environment
* Introduction to the identification of animals, birds, reptiles and insects
* Introduction to the Big Five and other dangerous African animals
* Spoor and tracking workshop
* Ecology and conservation of Black and White Rhino. This includes a visit to Clive Walker's new Wildlife Conservation centre, where you can assist with a variety of jobs including assisting with construction of new bomas and facilities for a variety of wild animals.
* Ecology, social structure and conservation issues of the African Elephant. This includes a unique, once in a lifetime experience of meeting a family group of elephants, where you will be able to touch, feed and even go on an elephant back safari - a rare chance to see the African bush from an elephant's perspective.
* Ecology, genetics and conservation of Lions. A visit to the White lion breeding project is a great chance to get close to these amazing animals and you will be able to see the rare white lion.
* Ecology, behaviour and conservation of Leopards. Find signs and track leopards in the bush. These elusive animals roam free in the Waterberg and you will have the opportunity to survey the area for leopard by bush walks, night hide watches and night drives.

Qualifications: No previous experience is required.

Cost in US$: $1,410 for first 2 weeks, $175 per week thereafter

* Johannesburg Airport collection and drop-off.
* Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg.
* Return transfers between Johannesburg and the Reserve.
* A comprehensive welcome brief from a member of the project team.
* Accommodation at the Reserve.
* All meals for the duration of your project.
* All workshops and activities.
* All excursions.
* All transport/transfers in and around the Reserve.
* Equipment and consumables.
* An attractive certificate recognising your contribution to the Tamboti Conservation Project.
* A reference for inclusion with your CV.

If you are adding the optional Cape Town Week, the following will also be included:

* Cape Town Airport collection and drop-off.
* A Welcome Pack complete with many useful items that will help you settle in, and an opportunity to let your family or friends know you have arrived safely.
* An embroidered AVIVA Fleece.
* 8-night accommodation at AVIVA House in Cape Town with self-service breakfasts (7 nights before your project and 1 night when you return to Cape Town after your project).
* A full-day Peninsula Tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapman's Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon's Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the world's most beautiful scenery.
* A half-day Cultural Tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africa's recent political history before and after Apartheid, includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africa's second largest township after Soweto.
* A full-day tour to the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch regions. Wine tastings and lunch included.
* Our booking service for all attractions and events.
* Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.
* Return flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg to join your project.
* If required, extra nights can be added to your stay to meet your flight dates for only R120 per night. This may help you to take advantage of any cheaper flights that arrive in Johannesburg (or Cape Town) before your planned arrival date.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A typical volunteer... Is open to experiencing new cultures and meeting people from around the world. Is tolerant and respectful of others, no matter what their beliefs or background. Looks forward to broadening their horizons and exploring new lands. Is flexible and adapts well to new situations and environments. Is self-disciplined with a sense of independance. Sees that volunteering provides them with a rewarding way in which to develop their own personal qualities and character while giving something back to the planet. Is pro-active and looks for opportunities to experience their new surroundings. Acknowledges that South Africa in many ways is still a developing country and thus will provide them with a wide range of new experiences.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to South Africa in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 2-8

Application Process Involves:

• Other

AVIVA - Volunteering in South Africa's Mission Statement: AVIVA is committed to supporting sustainable community, wildlife and conservation projects while providing you with a positive, life changing experience in South Africa. We believe that volunteering promotes self-growth, cultural understanding, and provides you with a unique opportunity to really experience a country first hand. We work with grass roots projects that have evolved to meet real needs - so you can be sure that you will be contributing your time to a worthwhile and rewarding cause. From 16 year old students to 70 year old retirees, we have hosted volunteers from a wide range of nationalities and backgrounds, and our dedicated support team (the largest in Africa!) are here to ensure that your volunteering experience not only matches, but exceeds your expectations. Like many previous volunteers, you can open your eyes to new adventures, new friends, and an experience that will capture your heart and mind... Come and join us, we would love to see you in South Africa soon!

Year Founded: 2002