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Excellent 4.86rating (26)
  • Life On Land

African Elephant Welfare Research

location
3 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 15 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Elephant Encounters : Walk alongside our herd, observe behaviour, and support daily care routines, connecting with these intelligent beings on their terms.
  • Real Research, Real Impact : Train in welfare and behavioural observation methods, assist with data collection, and contribute to one of Africa’s longest-running elephant studies.
  • Conservation in Action : Get hands-on with environmental projects like vegetation surveys, alien plant control, and Camera trap setups and collections, zebra and bird monitoring

Highlights

  • Elephant Encounters : Walk alongside our herd, observe behaviour, and support daily care routines, connecting with these intelligent beings on their terms.
  • Real Research, Real Impact : Train in welfare and behavioural observation methods, assist with data collection, and contribute to one of Africa’s longest-running elephant studies.
  • Conservation in Action : Get hands-on with environmental projects like vegetation surveys, alien plant control, and Camera trap setups and collections, zebra and bird monitoring
  • Community Connections: Help develop and deliver educational outreach to local schools, assist with community initiatives, and experience cultural exchange with purpose.
  • Shared Moments : Hikes and canoeing offer unforgettable exploratory memories together. Evenings offer time for games, local dinners, storytelling, reflecting, recharging, and connecting with our team.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 15+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Join our volunteer program, which offers those with a passion for elephants, the chance to contribute towards elephant husbandry, welfare, research and conservation!

    Why is our program important?

    AERU plays a crucial role in using research as a tool to guide elephant management on the Knysna Elephant Park. Our research investigates the behaviour and social dynamics of African elephants with one another, as well as their interactions with tourists. This important ...

    About the program

    Why is our program important?

    AERU plays a crucial role in using research as a tool to guide elephant management on the Knysna Elephant Park. Our research investigates the behaviour and social dynamics of African elephants with one another, as well as their interactions with tourists. This important work allows AERU to provide scientific insights and publish scientific papers that can benefit and improve elephant management in semi-captive and captive facilities around the world, developing the best operational practices that ensure their welfare is made the top priority. AERU's primary goal is to ensure the optimal physical, psychological, and social well-being of African elephants in semi-captive environments, helping them live healthy and enriched lives. 

    How are we helping? 

    AERU offers objective, data-driven insights, we advocate for enhanced welfare standards, providing crucial information that guides everything from daily care practices to long-term management strategies. 

    By choosing this program, you can contribute to our ongoing research while undoubtedly experiencing some of the most unforgettable moments of your life. Observing and working alongside the largest land mammal on Earth is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

    What is the volunteer experience?

    The elephant herd you will be working most closely with resides on Knysna Elephant Park (KEP). You will live on-site at KEP during your stay, fully immersed in a life among our elephants. We provide on-site training for our elephant research projects, as well as complimentary related tasks such as boma upkeep, conservation and rehabilitation projects, and environmental education work. 

    By the end of your stay, you will have learned a significant amount about elephant biology, social dynamics, behaviour, husbandry, and welfare, and how research practices are conducted, and most likely will have fallen in love with our herd ! You will also have gained a broader understanding of their crucial role in the natural environment and the aspects involved in keeping them happy and healthy. 


    Activities

    Here is a non-exhaustive list of activities that will be offered during your stay:

    Internal activities

    • Elephant Research -> Field observations of the herd, and evening/night observations in the camp.
    • Collecting dung -> Processing samples and lab work
    • Environmental Enrichments -> Assisting with Elephant food 
    • Making AERU crafts -> Raising funds for research.
    • Maintenance -> Cleaning out elephant camps and conservation ecology project support
    • Data entry of field work into the computer system.
    • more...

    External activities

    • Community Outreach -> Fixing the people's problems in Conservation
    • Volunteer Programme Exchanges -> Expanding conservation perspectives
    • Environmental Education -> Visiting  local schools, building the future from the grassroots
    • Beach Cleanups -> Protecting our coastlines
    • Adventure Activities -> Learning while exploring
    • South African Braais -> Experience local culture and cuisine at special locations
    • more...

    Please note: the activities offered may be influenced by the weather, the number of volunteers present on site, or any other factors beyond our control; working with animals can sometimes be unpredictable.


    What about the team? 

    On site, you will meet our friendly qualified team ! Our mission is for our volunteers to leave with useful new knowledge about elephants and wildlife conservation, but most importantly, with unforgettable memories and an appreciation for elephants.

    We are a small team of 6 - 7 from a variety of different backgrounds (English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, French, Danish, Swazi...). We each have our own specialties, providing you with a broad spectrum of research and conservation insights!

    Many of our AERU team live on site at KEP accommodations (Bunkhouse and Mainhouse). It is important for us that volunteers feel embraced as part of our herd as they are typically far from their homes. A simple message in the WhatsApp group, and one of our friendly staff will be there to assist you when needed

    Where the volunteers are living? 

    All our volunteers are living with the staff, between the two accommodations on site (in the park). So yes, you will be sleeping next to elephants ! Security guard patrols are conducted in the area throughout the night to ensure the safety of both the elephants and the staff on site (reassuring safety measures for our volunteers).

    The park is located on the Garden Route, offering many activities to enjoy, as well as breath-taking natural areas to explore.

    What to bring ?

    AERU is providing the uniform (2 AERU T-shirts and 1 cap). You have to bring your own trousers/shorts (khaki, brown, green or dark), good shoes (hiking boots or durable trainers) for walking in the field and an all-weather coat/ jacket for chilly and rainy days.

    Here is a list of what you should bring:

    • Towels
    • Latex gloves (for dung collection)
    • Insect repellent
    • Sunscreen (SPF 50 or more)
    • Warm fleece jacket (can be windy sometimes)
    • South African plug adapters (3 round pins)
    • Evening entertainment: Books, games, music etc...
    • Swim suite (to enjoy the beach over the weekend)
    Optional
    • Torch/Flashlight
    • Water bottle
    • Camera and binoculars
    • Personal First Aid Kit
    • Any donations for community projects (stationary/toys/balls)

    A shopping trip is scheduled every Friday for weekly groceries, so if you forget something essential, don’t worry!

    Typical day

    You will be working from Monday to Friday (7:00 to 17:00 in average) with our team.

    Here are two examples of typical days:

    Monday 

    7:00/8:30 = Dung walk

    8:30/10:00 = Observation shift

    10:00/11:30 = Lab work

    11:30/13:00 = Lunch

    13:00/14:30 = Observation shift

    14:30/16:00 = Elephant enrichment in camp

    16:00/17

    Typical day

    You will be working from Monday to Friday (7:00 to 17:00 in average) with our team.

    Here are two examples of typical days:

    Monday 

    7:00/8:30 = Dung walk

    8:30/10:00 = Observation shift

    10:00/11:30 = Lab work

    11:30/13:00 = Lunch

    13:00/14:30 = Observation shift

    14:30/16:00 = Elephant enrichment in camp

    16:00/17:00 = Creative session (crafts)


    Friday

    8:30 / 10:30 = Zebras health check

    10:30/11:30 = Environmental Education 

    11:30/13:00 = Grocery Shopping Trip

    13:00/16:00 = South African Braai Experience


    Please note that these two days are just examples, and some activities and their timings may differ from these examples.

    Free-time activities

    Our program is located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offering the vast natural and world renowned beauty of the Garden Route in all its splendour. During your free time and off days, you can visit some of the wonderful facilities near by the park, go for a hike among the mystical forests or ...

    Free-time activities

    Our program is located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offering the vast natural and world renowned beauty of the Garden Route in all its splendour. During your free time and off days, you can visit some of the wonderful facilities near by the park, go for a hike among the mystical forests or vast coastlines, go for surf or swim in the ocean,  zipline through massive gorges or even go bungee jumping!

    With seasonal whale and dolphin activity, the surrounds of Plettenberg Bay offer some special marine life too. There are also many nearby animal facilities, only a short drive away, making this location an animals lovers delight. For those with a more relaxed temperament, our programme is situated nearby a lovely vineyard, an ideal location to enjoy wine tasting and fine food.

    Upon your arrival, we will provide you with a welcome booklet, which highlights a number of activities along the Garden Route. For additional information or advice on what to do, our friendly and experienced team are always happy to help.

    For those who prefer to spend their free time on site, you can go for early morning sunrise/set strolls or a morning/evening run (while the elephants are resting in their night camp or boma) and enjoy the stunning mountainous landscapes surrounding the park. You can also enjoy meals and drinks at our on-site restaurant and browse our curio store full of local elephant crafts. By far the most popular thing to do on site is to go visit our elephants in the field for a more relaxed visit together !

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 15 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 15 years old on the program start date.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    - You should be physically fit. A large part of the program involves walking over rough terrain - Enthusiasm, dedication, and willing to get involved with anything, and of course, have a love of wildlife and elephants. - Be at least 18 years of age; Applicants older than 15 years with parental consent may be considered

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 07:00 - 17:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Included:
    • Accommodation at the Bunkhouse
    • Volunteer training for all aspects of work.
    • Arrival/ departure transfers on arrival dates (12:00pm - 3:00pm)
    • AERU uniform- a high quality fleece jacket, 2 volunteer T-shirts and a cape
    • A South African “braai” experience!
    • Trip to Plettenberg Game Reserve to meet Harry’s herd.
    • Weekly trips into town for personal shopping
    Excluded: 
    • Flights 
    • Travel and Medical Insurance
    • Food and drinks 
    • Transports (extra fees - R2200)

    Tariff explanation: from week 5 to week 8 you have a 25% discount on the initial price and from week 8 to week 12 another 15% off (discount already calculated on these prices).

    Airport Pickup at George Airport

    Arrivals:
    • Airport pickups are only from 12:00 to 15:00 pm on arrival days.
    • Someone from the team will be there, waiting for you with an "AERU" card ! 
    Arrivals after 15:00, or missed flights must contact AERU so that a taxi transfer can be arranged (at your own cost)
    Departures:
    • Departing flights must be arranged for the Monday leaving, 13:00 onwards for all volunteers taking an AERU departure to the airport.
    • For departure flights earlier than 13:00, taxi transfers will to be arranged (at own cost).

    Accommodation

    AERU volunteers live onsite at the Knysna Elephant Park Bunkhouse. Many members of staff also live within the park, which is a safe
    secure premises.

    • There are five rooms with on suite bathrooms. Each room has 2-3 beds, with bedding provided. Sharing rooms may be required depending on bookings.
    • The bunkhouse has a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and a lounge with library, television and Wi-Fi.
    • On site laundry room at the Main house annex and requires the purchase of tokens.
    • The Bunkhouse deck and braai (fire) area are a perfect spot to enjoy outdoors.
    • Volunteers staying four weeks or more receive a complimentary night in the elephant lodge!

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is George Airport (GRJ) in George. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    For a 3 weeks to 12 weeks program = ARRIVALS ANY SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

    • Arrival Sunday:
            - Pick-up at George Airport (at you own cost but can be arranged by our volunteer team)
            - Grocery Shopping 
            - Check in at Bunkhouse
    • Monday-Friday: Volunteer Work
    • Weekend: Free Time


    Details on arrivals:

    All international flights arrive in/ depart from Johannesburg or Cape Town and must travel to/from George.

    For arrival/departures to our base at the Knysna Elephant Park, from the George Airport (more or less 1h30 driving), taxi transfers can be arranged for you (at your own cost).  

    All taxi transfers require cash available to pay the driver upon pick up/drop off (about R1100/62$/58€ one way). If you want this amount to be added to your program fees, please discuss it with our volunteer team once your deposit payment has been made.


    Bus travel to Plettenberg Bay is an alternative option of travel. Although more cost friendly, the journey is lengthy. From Cape Town it is about 8 hours and Johannesburg it is about 15 hours. We can arrange to pick you up at the Plettenberg bus station (organise that with your correspondent at AERU in advance). 


    • Departures on Sunday

    Departing flights need to be arranged anywhere along the departing weekend (typically Sundays), taxi transfers can be arranged (at own cost).

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $570 per week 3 - 12 weeks Age 15 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    3 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.86
    ・
    26 reviews

    Volunteer photos

    Location

    Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Plettenberg Bay

    Meet your project coordinator

    Jarrett
    26
    reviews
    4.86
    Excellent
    2009
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    Spoken languages: French, Afrikaans, English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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