Volunteers will experience 1 to 6 weeks of living in the African wilderness, sharing experiences with others, growing their skills and making a difference. Programmes will vary slightly throughout the year, as the challenges involved in wildlife conservation are constantly shifting and certain issues may receive more focus than others. Thula Thula offers a well-rounded program aimed at covering both the needs of the reserve and surrounding community, as well as providing a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience for the volunteers

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During their stay with us, volunteers will see themselves as “Assistant Conservation Managers”, as all the work done and data collected by them will be utilized by Thula Thula for conservation on the reserve.

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Volunteers will be provided with practical experience the reserve has to offer in the following areas:

 

• Game Reserve Management

• Research Projects

• Community skill Development and Education

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The Thula Thula Volunteer Academy is situated adjacent to our Wildlife rehabilitation centre, in a securely fenced area, with the most magnificent view over the whole game reserve and Mkhulu Dam, the favourite spot of our herd of elephants. Currently, a maximum of 8 volunteers can apply per session, one of the volunteers being from the local communities. Accommodation will be basic but comfortable, in 8 double tents, entirely lit by solar lanterns and wooden poles ablution area. Accommodation and basic food items will be provided during your stay with us and you will stay in your own tent if you are single, and couples will stay in a double tent..

 

A recommended stay would be two weeks, but you can choose to stay only from a few days (or a weekend) to up to 6 weeks.

 

If you are interested in doing your own research project we suggest a minimum of 3 months, as a reliable research takes time.

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