Spend anywhere from 1 to 24 weeks on Kwantu Private Game Reserve, a 6,000-hectare, malaria-free Big 5 reserve in the Eastern Cape, about 85 km from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) towards Makhanda (Grahamstown). As a wildlife and conservation volunteer you work hands-on with our team on the projects that keep the reserve healthy, while living the real African bush experience.
Volunteers work in groups of up to 10, each led by an outdoor volunteer coordinator who acts as your leader and mentor. A weekly itinerary is posted on the notice board; groups rotate so everyone completes the same activities by the end of the week. Work runs Monday to Friday, currently from about 09:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 16:00 after breakfast (times vary between our summer and winter programmes and may be adjusted). Weekends are free, with an optional excursion.
Minimum age: 16. Stays from 1 to 24 weeks, with new volunteers arriving on Mondays.
Not included: flights, visas, travel insurance, laundry (small fee per load), internet use, private transfers and personal spending.
Book online with live dates, or send us an enquiry if you have questions first. You can also call 087 729 8423 or email reservations@kwantu.co.za. See all programmes and booking options.
Please read this before you book: Kwantu is a conservation reserve, not a petting or animal-encounter experience.
The program is designed for those that are interested in getting a glimpse of what veterinary science is all about, while also getting involved in wildlife and conservation experiences. This can be deemed a pre-vet program and does not require any prior knowledge or experience on the subject.
The Kwantu Academy is an academy of training aspiring hopefuls into becoming vibrant game rangers and field guides. The Field Guide course is an 8-week course and is fully accredited by FGASA (Field Guides Association of Southern Africa). The program has set start dates, which dates are selectable.
Get an all-round experience of life on a Big 5 Game Reserve. Become one with nature as you learn about the conservation of local fauna and flora. Your work will play a valuable part in the sustainability of the region, as you assist in general tasks on a day-to-day basis on the reserve.
