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.

The Tamboti Conservation Project is dedicated to restoring, protecting and researching the habitat and wildlife of the Waterberg Mountains within the UNESCO Waterberg Biosphere Reserve. Your participation is essential for this important work to continue.

The project offers two different modules, each of which can be enjoyed on their own, or combined for a comprehensive 6-week African bush experience:

* A 2-week Educational module
* A 4-week Conservation module

The 2-week Educational Module
This module is ideal for volunteers with limited time, or for volunteers who want to learn more about African wildlife and animal interactions without letting involved with hands-on conservation work. This exciting and informative module includes a 2-night stay at the Pilanesberg National Park and all of the following Presentations and 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.
* Biology, social structure and conservation issues of the African Elephant.
* Ecology and conservation of Black and White Rhino.
* Ecology and social structure of the African Buffalo.
* Ecology, genetics and conservation of Lions. This includes a visit to the White lion breeding project - a great chance to get close to these amazing animals.
* Ecology & behaviour 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.
* Spoor and tracking workshop & practical.
* A night hide experience (for sighting nocturnal animals such as brown hyena, civet, genet and leopard)
* African grassland savannas and ruminants.
* Biodiversity & Conservation in South Africa.
* Geology
* Astronomy
* Animal behaviour
* South African reptiles
* South African arthropods
* Wild flowers
* Tree identification
* Bush navigation
* Birding and bird identification
* Game Farm management

Highlights: Volunteer Testimonial

Remy Sijbom - 21 from the Netherlands
"My three short weeks with AVIVA have been so amazing that I wish I could have stayed longer. South Africa is such a beautiful country and all the people I've met (from fellow volunteers to the AVIVA team and the people at the Tamboti Wildlife Conservation Project) helped make this summer one of the best of my life. I am recommending the Tamboti project to everyone, and everyone who can should definitly include the Cape Town week. It has been an experience I will never forget."

Qualifications: No previous experience is required.

Cost in US$: USD 1870 for 2 weeks, USD 2010 for 4 weeks, USD 3200 for 6 weeks

* Johannesburg Airport collection and drop-off.
* Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg before you join your project.
* 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 presentations and activities listed for each module.
* 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 would like to spend some time with us in Cape Town, you have the option of adding a special Cape Town Week to your stay. Everything below is included with the Cape Town Week:

* Return flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg to join your project.
* 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.
* 7 nights accommodation at AVIVA House in Cape Town with self-service breakfasts
* A full-day Peninsula Tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapmans Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon's
Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the
worlds most beautiful scenery.
* A half-day Cultural Tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africas recent political history before and after
Apartheid, includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africas second largest township after Soweto.
* A full-day tour to the beautiful mountains of the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and
Stellenbosch regions. Chocolate, Cheese & Wine tastings and lunch are included.
* Our booking service for all attractions and events.
* Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.

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:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

AVIVA - Volunteering in South Africa's Mission Statement: Widely regarded to be one of the world's leading volunteer organisations, AVIVA is committed to supporting sustainable community, wildlife and conservation projects while providing international volunteers with rewarding, life changing experiences in South Africa. AVIVA provides full in-country support, all in-country transfers, accommodation, meals on most projects and a wide range of other benefits. Pre-arrival support is also second to none, with quick response to all enquiries, and expert assistance from their Cape Town based team every step of the way. AVIVA is the only volunteer organisation that provides a free personal trip planner & comprehensive fundraising assistance for volunteers. Previous experience is not required as all necessary training and supervision is provided. Since 2002, AVIVA have hosted volunteers of all ages and backgrounds from over 50 countries. So whether you are a student, taking a career break, or have retired and are looking for a way to travel & make a real difference, the AVIVA team would love to see you in South Africa. Visit AVIVA's web site to learn more, or make a no obligation application using their online booking form...

Year Founded: 2002