
Experience Zimbabwe’s fantastic wildlife whilst aiding rhino conservation efforts on one of the country’s most impressive reserves!
Built upon a sprawling 10,000 acres of land, the Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project stands as a testament to meaningful wildlife conservation efforts in Zimbabwe. The reserve was founded in the 1950s and has seen the arrival of a range of impressive species, from impala to antelope, waterbuck and more, though it has also played witness to a number of tragedies, including the poaching epidemic of the 1980s. It is during this time that Zimbabwe’s black rhino population plummeted from 10,000 to less than 1000 in the space of just a few years, though the project’s conservation efforts have seen the animals’ numbers stabilise.
The team at the Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project are proud to run a breeding programme for both black and white rhinos, and as a volunteer you will support their efforts to introduce the animals back into the wild. This will be done by monitoring the rhinos on the reserve to ensure that they are progressing well towards their eventual release. However, while the project’s main focus is to improve rhino populations, you will also assist in the day-to-day running of the reserve, and this includes providing care for another one of Zimbabwe’s most famous animals: the elephant! By engaging in enrichment walks with these gentle giants and enjoying a unique ‘breakfast with the elephants’ out in the bush, you can be sure that your experience on this project will never be forgotten.
From aiding African wildlife to assisting in the education of the local community, there are many ways in which you can make a difference during your time in Zimbabwe.
Built upon a sprawling 10,000 acres of land, the Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project stands as a testament to meaningful wildlife conservation efforts in Zimbabwe. The reserve was founded in the 1950s and has seen the arrival of a range of impressive species, from impala to antelope, waterbuck and more, though it has also played witness to a number of tragedies, including the poaching epidemic of the 1980s. It is during this time that Zimbabwe’s black rhino population plummeted from 10,000 to less than 1000 in the space of just a few years, though the project’s conservation efforts have seen the animals’ numbers stabilise.
The team at the Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project are proud to run a breeding programme for both black and white rhinos, and as a volunteer you will support their efforts to introduce the animals back into the wild. This will be done by monitoring the rhinos on the reserve to ensure that they are progressing well towards their eventual release. However, while the project’s main focus is to improve rhino populations, you will also assist in the day-to-day running of the reserve, and this includes providing care for another one of Zimbabwe’s most famous animals: the elephant! By engaging in enrichment walks with these gentle giants and enjoying a unique ‘breakfast with the elephants’ out in the bush, you can be sure that your experience on this project will never be forgotten.
From aiding African wildlife to assisting in the education of the local community, there are many ways in which you can make a difference during your time in Zimbabwe.
Please note, itineraries are subject to change so what follows is simply a rough guideline.
To secure a place on this project a deposit of $245 is required at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due any time up to 60 days prior to your start date.
Please be advised, although we are able to offer a 7-night option, a minimum duration of 14 nights is recommended for a more in-depth experience. If taking part for only 7 nights there is no guarantee that you will be involved in all the activities listed.
During your time on this project, you will be living in one of three beautiful thatched houses located within the conservancy. These houses can host up to 12 volunteers, with rooms being shared and single beds provided along with all bedding (duvets, pillows and extra blankets for winter). Shower and toilet facilities are also shared, and hot water is available. Please note, Wi-Fi is not available at the project site and whilst not all bedrooms have power sockets available, they are available in the communal areas.
Three meals a day are provided for you on this project. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served in a buffet-style, and you are free to select what you want to eat. Water, juice, tea and coffee are also available throughout the day. On Sundays, the chefs have a day off, but you are free to use the food provided in the kitchen to prepare your own meals. Vegetarian and limited vegan options are available upon request.
If you have a specialist diet (such as gluten or wheat intolerance), you will need to bring appropriate food with you; however, the chef will be happy to prepare your food for you. There is also a small onsite bar at the volunteer house which offers a variety of snacks, as well as both alcoholic and soft drinks.
Most of the activities on this project run year-round, with the exception being any work with the school children (which may be impacted by the school holidays). As this is an active reserve, you will see wildlife no matter when you choose to volunteer, although the weather may impact which time of year you choose to visit.
Summer (November-March) – Also thought of as the ‘wet season’, this is the rainiest time of the year. Rain may fall throughout the afternoon and can even continue for a few days; however, more rain does often equate to more activity on the reserve. Vegetation springs into life which, in turn, means there are improved food sources for the animals, and you may have a greater chance of spotting them grazing. Temperatures throughout the summer can still be rather warm, reaching around 32°C/90°F at their peak, so be sure to pack lighter clothing as well as a waterproof jacket, sunglasses and adequate sun protection.
Winter (April-October) – This is the dry season, during which there is minimal rainfall. The reserve’s animals may congregate around waterholes and rivers when the other water sources dry up – in fact, it’s not uncommon to catch sight of one elephant, Mac, as he searches for water near the volunteer house! Temperatures are quite cool throughout the season, not often exceeding 10°C/50°F in the mornings and 28°C/82°F in the afternoons. Night times are even colder, so we advise that you pack a fleece and some gloves in the event of an evening game drive!
You will need to fly into Harare International Airport on your project start date, arriving by 1pm, as the private transfer from the airport to the reserve departs shortly after. Additionally, your return flight must depart Harare after 12pm in order to provide enough time for your transfer back to the airport. Airport transfers outside of these times can be arranged for an additional fee of US$100.
Citizens of most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and most of those within the EU will be granted a 30-day tourist visa upon arrival into Zimbabwe. Please be aware, however, there is a charge for this of approximately USD $55. We advise checking this charge before travelling as it can change and it is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of the correct rates and have the cash with you to pay this.
If you are unsure of your individual visa requirements, we recommend speaking to your local Zimbabwean embassy at least 2 months prior to travel.
Each day on the project can be rather busy and may involve a range of physical activities, therefore, we recommend that you have a moderate level of fitness if you wish to take part. No specific skills are needed for this project – all we ask is that you arrive with a willingness to get involved with all activities, and that you are dedicated to the project’s ethos. Most importantly, we ask that you have respect for your environment, your fellow volunteers, and Zimbabwe’s incredible wildlife!
The vaccinations required will depend on the individual medical history of each volunteer. We recommend that you consult with your GP regarding your own immunisation needs, as this will ensure you are protected and prepared to travel. In conjunction with this, we would recommend that you check Fit for Travel’s website for more helpful information on what you need to do before your departure.
Take a look at the amazing Rhino and Elephant Conservation Project video and become our next volunteer in Zimbabwe!
Watch as volunteer coordinator Morgan gives you your very own tour of the stunning accommodation on the Rhino And Elephant Conservation Project!