This conservation project located in beautiful Zimbabwe is home to many rhinos and ellies, as well as an intriguing array of wildlife including Africa's famous 'Big 5'!
The Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project is dedicated to the protection of endangered species and aims to significantly reduce the biggest threat to rhinos and elephants, which is sadly known as the ivory trade. To protect Zimbabwe’s wildlife the project works to ensure the security of the animals living on the reserve and helps to empower the local communities all with the help of devoted volunteers.
It's no surprise that the incredible activities taking place here, such as walking with elephants, are firm favourites with the volunteers, and as a result, many of them want to share with you their once in a lifetime experiences. So, let’s take a look at what Darren, Louise and Gena had to say about their time here!
“When you volunteer you want to feel as though you’re making an impact on the lives of people and animals you’re working with. I definitely felt this! Whether it was cutting down trees to build a new fence, feeding the animals, conducting game counts, building garden beds with the women's group or shelling peanuts with the students at the high school, I felt that what I was doing was important and making a positive impact.”
-Louise, Australia
“I had put a trip to Africa as #1 on my bucket list years ago, so when I started to plan the trip I wanted it to be perfect! After months of researching volunteer programs, I stumbled across the Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project. They definitely did not disappoint! The accommodations were lovely... a house on a lake with an inground pool!!! How could you go wrong? Every day was an adventure. Whether you were enjoying a stroll with some elephants, meeting the local children at the schools or tracking Rhinos, the staff always made it memorable. There were chefs making us 3 meals a day, which were delicious (and I’m a picky eater). Our daily guide, Bright was not only knowledgeable but he was entertaining - never a dull moment. The volunteer coordinators Morgan and Rob were some of the nicest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. The elephant handlers were amazing, Petros & Polite. I hope to visit again real soon. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to feed their soul.”
- Gena K, USA
“Whether it be walking elephants by sunset, or feeding endangered rhinos, the programme delivered beyond expectations. Thank you to all staff and the family at Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project for a wonderful experience and ongoing support of African wildlife!”
-Darren, Australia
To find out more about the wonderful work taking place here and how you can become a part of it please visit the project page.
TGP would like to thank Bradly Wolfe for his incredible photos taken at the project.
