Protecting Giants: Elephant Volunteering in the Okavango Delta

The project

Join the only volunteer program involved in genuine long-term data collection in the Okavango region. Home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations and the highest concentration of African wild dogs, the Okavango is a truly awe-inspiring ecosystem and should be on every nature lover’s bucket list. Volunteering is your chance to explore the area in a meaningful way. You’ll assist with daily monitoring efforts, collecting data on the movement and behaviour of predators and herbivores, and learning bushcraft skills such as tracking along the way!

What to expect?

Wake up with sunrise and join your team of expert Botswanan trackers, headed up by a leading lion ecologist and PhD researcher. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll embark on your daily research drive through the bush. You’ll experience the wilderness from a unique perspective, monitoring the presence and movement of lions, giraffes, elephants, African wild dogs, hippos, crocodiles, globally threatened bird species, and even more.

Along the journey, you’ll learn essential field and bushcraft skills, giving you hands-on experience in real conservation work. This includes learning how to identify wildlife tracks and utilising GPS equipment to gather data on animal sightings and their habitats.

To support the local community, volunteers have the opportunity to join a Mokoro trip — gliding through the waterways in a traditional dugout canoe — owned and run by the Khwai community.

After a day in the wilderness, you’ll return to your base camp to relax by a warm fire and enjoy a hearty meal. Camping under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the bush, is an unforgettable experience, and one that will stay with you forever.

Who can be a wildlife volunteer?

This volunteer project is open to anybody, and we welcome travellers from all walks of life. The project doesn’t require any prior experience or knowledge, just enthusiasm and curiosity.

As a volunteer, you’ll receive:

• Access to 24/7 support from our in-country team
• All of your in-country transport, accommodation, and food
• A personal consultation with our conservation team to answer any questions

What makes us different to other companies?

• We are southern Africa’s original conservation travel company, made up of qualified zoologists and conservationists.
• Every traveller of ours receives personal guidance before they book to ensure we find the right experience for their goals and passions.
• We work with a range of real partner projects, offering hands-on experience and meaningful work, so you know your efforts are truly making a difference.
• We offer 24/7 in-country support. We will meet you when you arrive, see you safely onto your flight home, and throughout your trip we are always available if you need assistance or just want a chat.
• Your trip is financially protected through ABTA or ATOL, giving you full peace of mind when booking with us that your money is safe.