WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERING: THE RED FLAGS MOST PEOPLE MISS
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My experience in South Africa at Phinda Wildlife Research Project and Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre has truly been the opportunity of a lifetime.
To anyone who is even thinking about doing something like this, please do it. It will change you in the best possible way.
I am currently studying zoology, and this experience has made me even more excited to finish my degree and continue working in conservation! My ultimate goal is to work my way into wildlife veterinary medicine and this trip has truly confirmed that I am on the right path.
At Phinda, I had some of the most incredible, hands-on experiences I could have ever imagined. Taking part in rhino monitoring with the research team, pitfall trap surveys for pangolin research, an elephant collaring and witnessing a rhino horn trimming and release were all things I will never forget!
Seeing conservation in action like that is so powerful and inspiring!
The staff and other volunteers who joined me at Phinda also made my time so worthwhile. The inside jokes, the laughs, and the knowledge we all shared meant everything. The staff created an environment that felt like home away from home. We learnt so much about and took part in some of the most important efforts in conservation.
My group even gave me the nickname “the cheetah whisperer” because I always seemed to spot them or somehow be the reason we did! Even if that meant stretching pretty far out of my seat!
Seeing the Big Five in the wild was something I’ll carry with me forever.
Moholoholo was just as unforgettable. I had the absolute pleasure of looking after the honey badgers - they are small but mighty, and incredible! From meat room cleaning, de-weeding, and feeding, every task felt meaningful and hands-on. Talking and learning from the staff at the centre made the entire experience even more worthwhile. Their passion and knowledge really shine through and make you appreciate the work even more.
A huge thank you to the African Conservation Experience team as well. You helped me through so much and always kept in touch. Your support meant more than you know. Because of this journey, I have made lifelong friends that I will carry with me wherever I go.
This experience has given me not only practical skills but unforgettable memories, incredible people, and a deeper understanding of conservation that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
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