Immerse Yourself in Conservation & Adventure
SCOUT RANGER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Nestled within the breathtaking bushvelds of South Africa, the 3,000-hectare SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve is a haven for the country’s most vulnerable, forgotten, and displaced wildlife. Draped in orange-hued skies and surrounded by iconic wildlife, this sanctuary offers an extraordinary blend of comfort, conservation, and wilderness adventure.
Founded in 1998 by renowned conservationist Louise Joubert, SanWild emerged as a refuge for animals rescued from exploitation. Under Louise’s enduring legacy, the sanctuary continues to thrive as a beacon of hope for wildlife, hosting initiatives like the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, Large Predator Sanctuaries, and the Wildlife Gene Exchange Program.
SANWILD SCOUT RANGER VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
BEFORE YOU BOOK
WHAT TO EXPECT
SECURE YOUR SPOT
BEFORE YOU BOOK
A Hands-Off Approach at SanWild
At SanWild, we focus on providing a safe and supportive environment for all the animals in our care, with an emphasis on rehabilitation and eventual release whenever possible. We have our own dedicated release site on 3,000 hectares of protected land, where animals can safely return to the wild. This approach allows us to treat each animal with the utmost respect, ensuring their rehabilitation is as close to natural conditions as possible.
In line with our strict rehabilitation policies, we minimize direct human interaction with animals in the later stages of their rehabilitation process. For example, animals in the final phase of release will not be interacted with in order to ensure the best chance of thriving in the wild.
As a volunteer, you will have the opportunity to observe and contribute to the animals’ rehabilitation in a way that respects their needs and prioritises their well-being. You can assist with daily monitoring, feeding and enclosure cleaning—tasks that have a direct and immediate impact on the animals’ quality of life. Please note ; Interactions with animals are not guaranteed.
Our Policies
To volunteer at SanWild, you are required to complete an Enrollment Form. Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive an Information Sheet and an Indemnity Contract. The Indemnity Contract is a crucial document that waives our liability for any accidents or injuries that may occur during your stay, ensuring compliance with health, safety, and insurance protocols. Additionally, you will need to provide details about any medications, allergies, or mental health concerns and ensure you have comprehensive insurance coverage throughout your time with us.
Upon arrival, you will also receive an induction designed to familiarize you with all health and safety measures, as well as the general rules and regulations of the sanctuary.
What You Should Expect
Each evening, your volunteer coordinator will share an engaging overview of the next day’s exciting activities and responsibilities, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the adventures ahead. Given the ever-changing dynamics of sanctuary life, some adjustments to the schedule may be necessary, but rest assured, any updates will be communicated promptly to keep you informed and ready to make a meaningful impact!
An example of a volunteer day could include: (Please note this is based on an example and can change)
Early Morning: Start your day by immersing yourself in the wild as you assist with feeding and observing the animals in their natural habitat. Join our team for perimeter checks, ensuring the sanctuary is secure and free from any potential breaches. The fresh morning air and wildlife sounds will make every moment unforgettable.
Midday: Dive into essential conservation work by helping check watering cribs or maintaining animal enclosures. This is a hands-on opportunity to make a direct impact on the well-being of the animals and the sanctuary’s infrastructure.
Afternoon: Get ready to dive into an exciting team project! Whether you’re repairing fences to protect our wildlife, clearing invasive bush, sweeping for snares, patrolling to ensure security, or restoring essential habitats, every task plays a critical role in preserving the sanctuary’s fragile ecosystem. The chosen projects will be discussed with the group the evening before, ensuring everyone is prepared and motivated to make a real difference!
Evening: Wind down with a moment of reflection and relaxation as you gather with fellow volunteers for group discussions or educational sessions. Share your experiences and insights, and deepen your connection to conservation. On select evenings, you’ll embark on thrilling night drives to witness the wild come to life under the stars.
On selected days, we organize early morning or late afternoon game drives, offering you the opportunity to witness the stunning wildlife of the sanctuary. Sundowners at our scenic lookout point provide a perfect chance to relax and soak in the beauty of the reserve.
While the schedule may vary, volunteers might participate in exciting additional conservation activities such as:
- Assisting with the dehorning of rhinos for anti-poaching efforts.
- Supporting veterinarians during procedures on various animals, whether in large predator enclosures or across the sanctuary.
- Replacing or fitting tracking collars on rhinos, elephants, or cheetahs.
- Helping with animal translocations and rescues as needed.
Please note that these activities are not pre-scheduled and depend on factors like weather conditions, animal health needs, or the urgency of a rescue or translocation. Flexibility is key, as our priorities shift to address the immediate welfare of the animals and the sanctuary.
Meals & Drinks
Meals are included in your stay, consisting of early breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. On weekdays, breakfast is served at 7:00 AM, and on weekends, at 8:00 AM. Lunch is around noon, and dinner is typically served at 7:00 PM, though these times may vary depending on the day’s activities. All meals are usually enjoyed at the lodge in the dining room area or on the patio overlooking the watering hole. On selected days, dinner will be served in the bush at the bush barbecue, offering a unique outdoor dining experience.
Drinks are not included in your rate but are available for purchase at the lodge. We operate on a tab system, and we kindly request that all bar tabs be settled by Sunday evening. There is a water fountain at the lodge where you can refill your bottle free of charge. Should you have any questions regarding meals, drinks, or anything else, our staff is always available to assist you.
As a volunteer, you will directly engage in diverse conservation activities and research projects. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a tangible impact. Some of the key activities include:
Rescue & Rehabilitation:
Care for orphaned and injured animals by preparing food, feeding, and cleaning enclosures. Participate in rescues, translocations, and veterinary care if & when needed. Witness the transformation of vulnerable wildlife as they recover and regain their strength.
Large Predator Care
Assist in caring for lions, hyenas, and other predators rescued from hunting farms and circuses. Help ensure they receive proper nutrition, clean enclosures, and medical assistance if & when needed.
Cheetah Monitoring
Track and monitor cheetahs as part of a national breeding program. Note their hunting patterns, mating behaviours, and other activities, contributing to crucial research.
Rhino Protection
Work alongside Game Rangers to patrol fences, monitor rhinos on foot, and assist with security operations. The sanctuary’s proactive measures, like dehorning and high-tech fencing and cameras, have significantly reduced poaching incidents.
Elephant Management
Support efforts to manage the resident elephant herd, including habitat protection, contraception measures, and monitoring behaviours. Participate in innovative conservation strategies to protect endangered tree species.
Habitat Restoration
Help reverse decades of environmental degradation by planting trees, creating seed traps, and cutting back invasive species to restore the sanctuary’s ecosystem.
Counter-Poaching Patrols:
Join patrols to remove snares and prevent poaching. Take part in workshops, such as crafting jewellery from recovered snares at Down to the Wire in Hoedspruit, to leave with a unique and meaningful souvenir. (subject to availability)
Our Expectations From You
We do not require formal qualifications, but we do seek individuals who are passionate about nature, have a positive personality, eager to make a positive impact, and committed to the work at hand. Here are some expectations for all volunteers:
- Language Proficiency: Volunteers must have a good command of English, as it is the primary language for communication at SanWild.
- Empathy: A compassionate and understanding attitude is crucial for building positive relationships with both the staff and the animals under our care.
- Strong Work Ethic: Volunteers are expected to actively contribute and engage in meaningful tasks. This is not just a vacation but an opportunity to make a real difference in wildlife conservation.
- Professionalism: SanWild is a working environment, and volunteers are expected to conduct themselves appropriately and respectfully at all times.
- Safety First: Adhering to SanWild’s safety protocols is non-negotiable. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of volunteers, staff, and wildlife.
- Clear Communication: Open communication is key. Share your preferences, dislikes, or any concerns with the team to help us provide the best experience and support possible.
- Conflict Resolution: If you have an issue with a fellow volunteer or staff member, please contact your volunteer coordinator first. We are here to help resolve conflicts in a fair and respectful manner to ensure the experience remains positive for everyone.
- Avoid keeping concerns to yourself—chat with us so we can address and resolve the issue together.
- We understand that working in a diverse group can sometimes be challenging, as everyone has their own likes and dislikes. Stay open-minded and respectful of others’ differences.
- Please do not attempt to influence other volunteers negatively if you have personal differences with someone. Remember, we are all here for the same goal: our shared love for animal conservation. Let’s focus on that.
- You will also need to respect the regulations set by our governing bodies, such as the NSPCA and LEDET (Nature Conservation). Non-compliance can result in serious consequences.
About You
Age
You must be at least 18 years old to volunteer at SanWild, as required for indemnity and insurance purposes. There is no maximum age limit, but we may need to assess your physical health if you are over 60 to ensure that SanWild is the right fit for you.
Physical Health
You must be free of contagious diseases and physically capable of participating in activities like carrying food, cleaning enclosures, climbing stairs and walking on uneven terrain. While the Lodge is situated on a hilly landscape, we accommodate volunteers of various ages and fitness levels. If needed, we can adjust your schedule to match your capabilities.
Psychological Health
Volunteering at SanWild can be an emotionally fulfilling experience, but it can also be challenging, particularly due to the remote location and the nature of wildlife rehabilitation. If you are prone to anxiety or depression, please let us know so we can better manage your time and experience. If you are taking any medication, make sure to bring an adequate supply for the duration of your stay, and consult your doctor before traveling.
Health & Safety
Before volunteering, you must ensure that your vaccinations are up to date, including tetanus, TB (BCG), and any others recommended by your doctor. We also suggest speaking with your healthcare provider about vaccinations for rabies, hepatitis, and malaria, especially if you are visiting during the summer months. Although malaria is rare in the region, we take precautions such as using insect repellent and mosquito nets.
Live the African Experience
While contributing to wildlife conservation, you’ll also enjoy scheduled authentic African traditions, including but not limited to:
- Game drives through the reserve
- Sundowners overlooking the bushveld
- Evening braais (barbecues) under the stars
- Comfortable accommodations at our scenic lodge
- During your free time, immerse yourself in local attractions like hot air ballooning, scenic hiking trails, or a visit to the iconic Leydsdorp Giant Baobab Tree. On the sanctuary grounds, you can explore the fascinating Elephant Graveyard and historic gold mines.
- For day trips, we collaborate with Sable Tours & Trophy Tours. We’ll provide their contact information and assist you as needed. The agents from Sable & Trophy Tours are highly experienced and more than willing to ensure you enjoy seamless, memorable adventures. Please note that day trips outside of SanWild are at your own expense and payment is made directly to the tour companies.
- For any overnight trips to destinations outside of SanWild, you can contact Narinda from Enchanted Safaris. We will provide their details to you upon your arrival.
Accommodation
At SanWild, we ensure your stay is comfortable, allowing you to recharge after a day of meaningful conservation work. We offer two types of Safari tent accommodations to suit your preferences:
Standard Comfort Safari Tents: These cozy, shared tents are designed for a maximum of two volunteers. They provide the perfect balance of simplicity and comfort, complete with essential amenities to ensure a restful night’s sleep amidst the tranquil sounds of the bush.
Upgraded Safari Tents: For those seeking a bit more space and comfort, our upgraded Safari tents are available for an additional fee. These larger tents offer enhanced amenities, such as private en-suite bathrooms, plush bedding, and a small lounge area. Ideal for single occupancy or couples, these tents provide a serene retreat where you can relax and immerse yourself in the surrounding wilderness.
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