On this program, spend your time between two prominent conservation hubs in Limpopo, South Africa, where you will acquire a diverse range of skills on a six month internship in the bushveld
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Travel to South Africa to contribute towards wildlife conservation initiatives, while learning about the best practice of field guiding. Conduct scientific research, assist in habitat restoration and record the movements of savannah animals such as hyenas, lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos in the Limpopo province.
Monday - Friday
All year round with set start dates
On this six month internship, you will spend your first segment (three months) of the program on the Mahlahla campus at Bushwise Field Guides, learning about various scientific field research techniques, gaining practical skills related to becoming a well-rounded field biologist, and immersing yourself in the unique cultural landscape.
Tasks that you might be involved in include learning more about safety in the field, how to set up a camp, along with its management and logistics, as well as animal behaviour related to safety and data collection.
Then you will make the short journey to Karongwe campus, kicking off an entirely new segment, where you will have the opportunity to apply some of the skills you have acquired from the first module in a more practical way, while also learning about interesting conservation topics such as habit restoration, spending time tracking wild animals, studying their behaviour as well as possibly contributing to relevant community outreach programmes in the region. Tasks that you might be involved in include engaging with bio-surveying techniques, participating in various environmental education initiatives and taking part in one-on-one mentorship sessions from an internship coordinator.
Mahlahla Highlights include;
Karongwe Highlights
In your free time, visit the famous Kruger National Park, only an hour away from where we are based or visit the nearby Drakensberg Mountains where awe inspiring vistas are offered over the Blythe River Canyon.
Mixed Dorms
Accommodation is in shared rooms with shared bathroom facilities at the field station with 2 people per room. We try and keep these same sex but on the odd occasion you may need to share with someone from the opposite sex when there are odd numbers, this will be communicated with you in advance. There is hot water available for showers. Flush toilet facilities are available, and participants share general cleaning duties around base and are responsible for their own rooms.
During you 3 months with Bushwise, meals are prepared for you by our catering team. Food is generally western style with some cooked in the traditional local style. Breakfast could be cereal, porridge, fresh fruit, pancakes, etc., lunch is sandwiches, pasta and sauce, etc. and a typical evening meal may include rice, mielie pap, meat, fresh veg, etc. During your 3 months in Karongwe, you will take it turns to make meals with fellow volunteers
Participants typically use mobile date, internet is available but unreliable at times.
Participants typically use mobile phones to keep in touch, with limited access to internet. MTN South Africa and Vodacom are the service providers that covers both bases. Check with your home service provider that they have roaming agreements with MTN or Vodacom. SIM cards and starter packs/ airtime are easily available on the weekly town trips for less than R5.00, but will require a passport for registration purposes. WiFi is available on base.
The nearest emergency medical hospital is located in Tzaneen, about an hour’s and twenty minutes drive from base. All staff are trained in Emergency First Response. Detailed Risk assessments are part of training, as are the Emergency Action Plans, including regular drills to ensure familiarity by all.
Provided, please inquire for more information
English
Passport, Criminal Background check, Medical form
Medical form to be signed off by doctor if you have any illnesses to declare
Must apply for a STUDY visa
Kit list will be sent at time of booking
Once you have confirmed your spot on this program, you will be allocated to a dedicated program expert who will assist you as you prepare for your program.
Highly skilled staff in field to facilitate program & conduct training
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