Field Trips For Schools, Colleges, and Universities
International field trips
Education meets impact.
We develop school, college and university field trips that don’t just educate students but give them a sense of agency to affect important global issues. Each trip blends curriculum-based experiential learning with meaningful, hands-on conservation work. Guided by highly qualified experts, students have the chance to deepen their theoretical knowledge while building real-world practical skills.
With our education experts, we develop custom itineraries aligned to your group’s specific learning outcomes. And with an in-country support team, we’re on the ground in Africa to ensure your field trip runs safely and smoothly - so you can focus on making your students’ time in Africa unforgettable.
If you are looking to volunteer in Africa, you know that going with ACE you will be supported every step of the way and we witnessed this countless times with the ACE team supporting multiple volunteers!
I travelled with African Conservation Experience (ACE) for my school studies, and to see whether a career in conservation could be right for me. I feel like I’ve made a real positive impact, and helped to conserve the wildlife and the land here.
One of the things that made this experience so exceptional was the incredible diversity of veterinary work I was exposed to. Every day brought a fresh challenge and a new opportunity to learn.
Although many of the students on my trips are biology majors, I have had several education majors and they have commented to me how much they learned with little background in the sciences.
Having personally overseen the coordination of these field courses with colleagues at ACE for a number of years, I can testify that the service provided by the ground staff both in the UK and in southern Africa is second to none.
Real-world learning through conservation, culture, and collaboration
Our school, college and university trips to Africa are designed to immerse students in the real challenges and triumphs of conservation today. Working closely with experienced local professionals, students explore how Africa’s complex social past informs modern conservation efforts, from wildlife rehabilitation to ecosystem restoration. These experiences not only bring abstract concepts to life, but also provide critical insights into the ethical and practical considerations of field conservation.
Throughout the trip, students will engage with local experts, scientists and conservationists to build a nuanced understanding of biodiversity, ecosystem dynamics, and interdisciplinary wildlife care. Whether your students are studying ecology, animal science, geography, or global development, our programs offer curriculum-aligned content that supports both academic and personal growth.
Fully supported, fully customised: trips built around your students’ needs
No two school trips abroad are the same - and we believe they shouldn’t be. That’s why we work closely with teachers and professors to create custom itineraries that support your learning goals, courses, and curriculum outcomes. Whether your group is focused on scientific research, animal husbandry, or service learning, we tailor every detail to ensure maximum impact for your students.
You’ll have a dedicated education expert and in-country support team throughout the process. From the initial planning phase to landing back home, we’ll help you secure senior leadership approval, host information evenings, and provide full parent and guardian communication support. Plus, with all meals, accommodation, transfers and on-the-ground logistics included in the international field trip cost, there are no surprises - just a seamless and rewarding learning experience in Africa.
FAQs
What support do you offer to help the trip to Africa get off the ground?
After our initial meeting, we will put together a detailed slide deck of your custom itinerary that you are welcome to use to present to your school, college or university leadership team, parents and guardians, and students. We would also be delighted to host information evenings to meet with parents, guardians and students to discuss and answer any questions about the trip!
What are your safeguarding procedures?
Safeguarding is paramount throughout the trip. On each day, students will always be in the presence of at least one teacher or school chaperone. We will never split the group into more vehicles than there are teachers or school chaperones. Students will share accommodation with other students of the same gender, while the teacher and school chaperone accommodation will be separate but nearby.
How do you assess risk on your field trips to Africa?
We use certified Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) practitioners to regularly assess every location, activity, and transfer. We are also very happy to provide a copy of our internal risk assessment for you to look through and assess for yourselves.
What is the procedure for dealing with medical emergencies for students?
A member of our in-country team will be with you at every step of your journey - from the moment you land to when you check in for your flight home. They will be on hand to deal with any emergencies, should they arise. In over two decades of running school, college and university field trips to Africa, there has never been an emergency that we have not been able to solve comprehensively.
Will I have access to the internet to keep in touch with parents, guardians, and my institution?
Yes! All of our sites provide internet access. However, everyone is encouraged to disconnect and fully engage in life in the bush.
We also carry our own private router for your use in case of emergencies.
What if parents and guardians are still worried about travel to Africa?
It's natural. To put them at ease, we are one of the most trusted names in school, college and university travel to Africa. The health and safety of everyone present on our field trips is our top priority. With the expertise of our team and our comprehensive safety protocols, we’ve enabled hundreds to take part in school expeditions to Africa with confidence and peace of mind.
We're ABTA-accredited, ATOL-bonded, and follow strict UK and international travel standards. That means complete protection, legally and financially, for your booking. We also have our own on-the-ground support team, available 24/7. You can find more information on how people travel with confidence at the dedicated page.
We’re also happy to chat with parents and guardians directly, answer their questions, and give them peace of mind.
How will students support conservation efforts?
Depending on your itinerary, you may assist with wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, or animal care and husbandry.
We only partner with wildlife research projects in Africa that either support fully self-sustaining animal populations or follow an "assisted sustainable" model, where minimal human intervention supports long-term viability. All our partner animal rehabilitation centres strictly follow the animal welfare standards set by SATSA and ABTA, ensuring that animals live as naturally as possible while receiving the highest standards of care, ethical treatment, and conservation value. Both types of work align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and we are also proud to be affiliated with leading global organisations like WWF and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), so you know your contribution will be delivering high conservation value.
How do I start planning a school trip with you?
Take the first step by simply submitting an enquiry form. Our education experts will then be in touch to discuss the various opportunities we have available, tailoring the trip to your learning outcomes.
We can't wait to speak with you about the best field trips to Africa!
