Volunteer Namibia
Program Highlights
- Program Fees Starts $1096/ Week
- Program Duration- 2 to 12 weeks
- Program Location- Nearby Windhoek
- Volunteering hours- Hours: 30-40 hrs per week
- Includes Airport Pick-Up, 3 Meals A Day,
- Orientation and In-Country Support
- Host Family/Volunteer House Accommodation
- Amazing Travel Add-Ons Choices
Namibia Wildlife Rescue Volunteer Program
Do you have a love and passion for animals and conservation? Would you like to volunteer in Namibia to conserve wildlife? If this sounds like you then volunteering in a wildlife project in Namibia will be perfect for you.
Namibia is a stunning country, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. With its vast deserts, towering sand dunes, rugged mountains, and expansive savannas, Namibia offers a diverse range of natural beauty to explore.
From the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei to the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha National Park, there's no shortage of awe-inspiring sights to behold.
Despite Namibia's breathtaking beauty, its wildlife faces significant challenges, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. These issues threaten the survival of many iconic species, such as elephants, rhinos, and cheetahs. Additionally, climate change exacerbates these threats, leading to further habitat degradation and water scarcity for both wildlife and local communities. Without intervention, Namibia's wildlife populations will continue to decline, jeopardizing the country's natural heritage and biodiversity.
Our wildlife volunteer program aims to address these challenges by actively contributing to wildlife conservation efforts in Namibia. Volunteers will work alongside experienced conservationists and researchers to protect and rehabilitate endangered species, restore habitats, and lessen human-wildlife conflict. Through hands-on activities such as monitoring wildlife populations, maintaining water sources, and participating in community outreach initiatives, volunteers play a crucial role in safeguarding Namibia's precious wildlife.
Contact IFRE today to get more detailed information on how you can become a wildlife conservation volunteer in Namibia.
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Volunteers’ Responsibilities & Impact
Volunteers participating in the Wildlife Conservation program will play a pivotal role in the conservation, rehabilitation, and research of African wildlife. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for orphaned, injured, or conflict wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and various other species. Volunteers will actively contribute to the care and maintenance of these animals, assisting in rehabilitation efforts and sanctuary development.
This hands-on experience offers a unique opportunity to work closely with African wildlife, gaining insight into their behaviors and care needs. To ensure a comprehensive understanding of the project's scope, volunteers are encouraged to commit to at least three weeks on-site, participating in a variety of activities organized on a rotational basis.
At the research sites, volunteers will engage in anti-poaching efforts and live in close proximity to wild animals in the Namibian bush. Immersed in the natural environment, volunteers will have the unparalleled experience of observing and learning about the behaviors and traits of animals such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
Accompanied by like-minded individuals passionate about animal welfare, volunteers will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of wildlife conservation. This immersive experience provides a unique opportunity to learn firsthand about animal behavior and conservation practices in the African wilderness.
Volunteers will engage in various tasks aimed at wildlife care and conservation, including food preparation and feeding of small animals and carnivores, as well as providing intensive care for juvenile wildlife. Additionally, volunteers will participate in project work such as building camps, maintaining facilities, and assisting with various sanctuary projects.
Monitoring of high-profile species on the reserve, spoor tracking of reserve animals, and focused research activities like analyzing camera traps and GPS data will also be part of the volunteer experience. Other activities include game counts on horseback, attending conflict calls if needed, wildlife tracking, maintaining camera traps, hiking, environmental rehabilitation efforts such as wire braiding, and participation in research presentations. Additionally, volunteers may contribute to forest conservation revegetation projects to further support environmental rehabilitation efforts.
Skills and Qualifications:
No specific skills or qualifications are required to join the wildlife conservation volunteer program in Namibia. All we ask is that volunteers have a passion for working with animals and an interest in wildlife conservation. While those with animal work or veterinary experience may be able to provide additional assistance in certain areas, there are opportunities for everyone to contribute positively to the lives of the animals. Volunteers must be a minimum of 18 years old to participate in the program.
As someone who is passionate about helping volunteering as a wildlife conservationist everyday will be unique and rewarding. Working with animals requires a flexible schedule as some animals may require care early in the morning and at night. You will be placed in groups on a rotating schedule and required to perform two activities per day.
You will be given your daily duties every evening before so you can organize your daily schedule around your tasks. You will have Saturday and Sunday off to explore everything you want around your project destination.
Program Dates and Fees
Our volunteer programs in Namibia start on Sundays each week, so we request that you arrive the day before, on Saturday.
Our Fees
Since 2006, IFRE has been the most trusted and respected volunteer abroad organization in the world, and also the most affordable. We’re dedicated to providing the highest quality volunteer programs at the lowest fees, which make it possible for everyone, especially students, to volunteer internationally and make a positive impact in the lives of others.
We believe in 100% transparency. Rest assured; we never use middlemen. Your one-time registration fee of $299 covers our administrative costs. The low weekly fee is paid in the host country directly to your host family and project (via country coordinator), and includes housing, food, and minor expenses. IFRE is a non-profit organization, so your program fees are tax deductible.
Volunteer Program Fee (US$)
| Duration | All Projects |
|---|---|
| 1 week | - |
| 2 Weeks | $1,096 |
| 3 Weeks | $1,644 |
| 4 Weeks | $2,192 |
| 5 Weeks | $2,740 |
| 6 Weeks | $3,288 |
| 7 Weeks | $3,727 |
| 8 Weeks | $4,067 |
| 9 Weeks | $4,431 |
| 10 Weeks | $4,765 |
| 11 Weeks | $5,155 |
| 12 Weeks | $5,529 |
Comprehensive Travel Insurance $3.49/day ( below 28 years) and $4.49/day ( above 28 years) »
Program Fees Cover:
- Accommodation (host family)
- Food (only breakfast and dinnery)
- Airport Pick up/Transfer
- Program Orientation
- In-country support
- Personalized project
- Pre-departure information
- Certificate of completion
- Fundraising ideas and letters
- Discount for returning volunteers
Program Fees Exclude:
- Visas
- Airfare
- Personal expenses on soft drinks and foods
- Daily transportation
- Airport return transfer
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Accommodation and Meal
IFRE ensures volunteers in Namibia have secure, clean, and comfortable accommodations, paired with suitable meal options. At the Wildlife Sanctuary, accommodation consists of twin or triple share tents with provided beds and bedding, alongside communal shower and toilet facilities powered by solar energy. Electrical sockets are available in communal areas. Volunteers receive three daily meals, tailored to most dietary needs, and access amenities like laundry service, pool facilities, and gym sessions.
A bar/shop provides snacks, drinks, and essentials, including free Wi-Fi and cell phone credit. In Kanaan, volunteers are housed in twin or quadruple share rooms, while at Harnas, they stay in triple share cabins with provided linen and towels, three daily meals, and access to laundry service, a pool, and a bar/shop. Electricity is solar-powered at Harnas, with limited availability for high-energy devices, although cell phone reception and Wi-Fi remain accessible.
Free Time and Weekends:
Volunteers in Namibia often dream of visiting Africa for years, balancing their noble efforts to make a difference with a desire to explore the stunning wildlife and scenery. IFRE ensures volunteers have significant free time, averaging 4-5 hours of work per day from Monday to Friday. With evenings and weekends free, volunteers can pursue their dreams of an African vacation, with local staff available to assist in arranging travel plans. This allows volunteers to immerse themselves in Namibia's beauty and create unforgettable experiences.
Safety and In Country Support
IFRE prioritizes volunteer safety above all else in Namibia, providing comprehensive support from pre-trip arrangements to in-country assistance. With reliable travel insurance, airport pick-up, and continuous guidance from experienced staff, volunteers can rest assured of a secure environment. Upon arrival, volunteers are supported by mature and knowledgeable in-country staff, led by the coordinator, who assists with various arrangements including project placement, accommodations, and orientation. Regular check-ins ensure volunteer well-being and progress throughout their experience.
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Volunteering in Namibia: FAQs
Arrival And Departure
You'll land at Windhoek Hosea Kutako Airport (WHK) in Namibia. A local representative from IFRE will be present at the airport to greet and assist you. It's essential to provide us with accurate flight details to ensure timely pick-up upon your arrival. In case of flight delays or missed connections, please notify us promptly so that we can make alternative arrangements for your pick-up. Please note that IFRE does not provide airport departure services once your project duration has concluded.
Visas
To enter and volunteer in Namibia, obtaining a tourist visa is necessary unless you're from a visa-exempt country. The requirements and application process for a tourist visa may differ depending on your nationality. It's crucial to consult the nearest Namibian embassy or consulate for the latest information on visa requirements and application procedures. Typically, you'll be required to complete an application form and provide a valid passport with a minimum of six months' validity.
Vaccinations
To work in our Namibia volunteering program, you will need some vaccination. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies and tetanus.
For further readings:
Safety tips for your volunteer abroad trip
Why volunteer in wildlife conservation program in Namibia?
Make a Tangible Impact: Volunteering in a wildlife conservation program in Namibia allows you to directly contribute to the protection and rehabilitation of endangered species. By assisting with tasks such as animal care, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching efforts, you play a vital role in safeguarding Namibia's diverse wildlife for future generations.
Gain Hands-On Experience: This program offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience working with African wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether it's feeding orphaned animals, monitoring wildlife populations, or participating in research activities, volunteers develop valuable skills and insights into wildlife conservation practices.
Immerse Yourself in Nature: Namibia is renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant biodiversity. Volunteering in a wildlife conservation program allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Namibian wilderness.
Make Lifelong Connections: Volunteering in Namibia provides an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals from around the world who share your passion for wildlife conservation. Whether working alongside local staff or bonding with fellow volunteers, you'll forge meaningful connections and create memories that last a lifetime.
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