Program Highlights
Big 5 monitoring (lion, leopard, white rhino, elephant, buffalo), endangered cheetahs and hyena. Conservation activities to assist in preserving the environment. Camera Traps processing Sustainable living education. Contribute towards anti-poaching activities. Get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fly over the reserve with a microlight. Go on excursions to the Kruger National Park and the Panoramic Route. Live and work with like-minded people from all over the world. Learn and apply a sustainable living lifestyle. Much more!
UN’s Sustainable Development Goals:
![Climate Action](/sites/default/files/styles/icon/public/2023-03/E-WEB-Goal-13.png?itok=1vQ6kEMP)
![Life on Land](/sites/default/files/styles/icon/public/2023-03/E-WEB-Goal-15.png?itok=cvSrqemS)
This program is ideal for
Volunteers who are willing to work hard and ready to make a difference in Africa's environment, and get their hands dirty with LEO Africa to restore our green space and wildlife. As your tasks will vary based on various factors, you should be open to helping out in any kind of activity that is prioritised while you’re there.
Explore LEO Africa, a dedicated Big 5 wildlife monitoring and conservation project in South Africa. Discover how our volunteers contribute to preserving key animal species and promoting sustainable living while enjoying a unique African experience.
Are you passionate about wildlife conservation and sustainability? Look no further than LEO Africa, a leading Big 5 wildlife monitoring, conservation, and sustainable living volunteer project in South Africa. Established in 2005, our mission is to provide crucial data on South Africa's key animal species, including lions, leopards, elephants, cheetahs, buffalo, spotted hyenas, and white rhinos, to Reserve Management. We are committed to maintaining the pristine beauty of the reserve where our project operates through various conservation efforts.
The data we collect plays a vital role in evaluating population numbers and guiding informed decisions for future conservation practices. Our dedicated team of Rangers goes the extra mile to monitor wildlife and protect their natural environment.
At LEO Africa, we have a strong emphasis on sustainable living. We promote green energy, recycling, and the reuse of materials, recognizing that the future of wildlife and our planet depends on responsible actions and the preservation of protected natural areas.
Volunteers are at the heart of our work, supporting us in the field, at our base, and financially. Their contributions provide valuable information to reserve management. By joining our project, you will not only learn valuable skills but also create unforgettable memories while living a true African experience.
Our work primarily revolves around collecting, analyzing data, and monitoring the Big 5, cheetahs, and hyenas. We collaborate closely with reserve managers and veterinary teams to prioritize the well-being of both fauna and flora. Our efforts extend to aspects such as bush clearing, road re-opening, and alien plants removal, as we understand that a balanced ecosystem is crucial for the animals' quality of life.
When it comes to monitoring wildlife, we maintain the utmost ethical standards, striving to minimize disturbance during monitoring activities and only resorting to 'hands-on' interactions in medical emergencies.
As a conservation volunteer with LEO Africa, you should have a keen interest in wild animals, nature conservation, and research. You must be reasonably fit and prepared to spend hours tracking and observing animal behavior, taking photos for identification purposes, and participating in conservation work. You'll be surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Abelana Game Reserve.
Our daily routine often includes early morning and late afternoon drives dedicated to tracking, observing, and recording animal behavior, as well as engaging in conservation activities. During your time in the bush, you might also encounter the park's diverse wildlife populations, including giraffes, eland, kudu, zebra, nyala, impala, and more.
The bush environment can be unpredictable, with intense and quiet days depending on various factors like climate, animal interactions, and water sources. This unpredictability makes the study of wild animals and their behavior in their natural habitat truly fascinating. Rest assured that all key species are monitored daily, providing you with a high chance of daily sightings. In the bush, it's essential to appreciate the small things that make the experience memorable.
Your Volunteering journey simplified
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Select a destination & project.
Apply for free. -
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Directly talk to us & your selected organisation.
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Pay a 15% deposit fee to secure your place at the volunteer program.
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That’s it! Get ready to volunteer aboard. We’ll support you every step of the way!