25 Photos That Capture Wildlife Volunteering in South Africa

Every year, International Volunteer Day reminds us of the countless individuals who choose to give their time, passion, and energy to something bigger than themselves. At Wildlife ACT, volunteers are an essential part of our mission to save Africa’s endangered and priority species.

Let this visual blog take you on a volunteer journey into the field - from dawn wakeups to vital monitoring work, fun moments in camp, and the camaraderie from spending time with likeminded individuals who care about supporting real conservation impact. These photos show what volunteering with Wildlife ACT looks like: authentic, hands-on, challenging, but immensely rewarding.

25 Photos That Capture the Volunteer Experience

Volunteer Induction Session

Wildlife ACT volunteers attending an induction presentation at the start of their programme — Photo: Chantelle Melzer

Every volunteer cycle begins with an introduction session - a chance to meet your field monitors, fellow volunteers, and learn what to expect. A short presentation outlines the reserve, species monitored, safety guidelines, and daily responsibilities.

Dawn Patrol

Volunteers departing camp before sunrise for early morning wildlife monitoring

The day often starts in the dark. Volunteers head out before sunrise - because wildlife monitoring begins long before the world wakes up.

First Light Over the Reserve

Golden sunrise over a South African wildlife reserve seen during morning patrol.

The landscapes volunteers work in are vast and breathtaking. Every morning offers a new reminder of why this work matters.

Tracking Collared Wildlife

using VHF telemetry equipment to track a collared animal in the reserve — Photo: Chantelle Melzer

Using VHF telemetry, volunteers help locate collared animals across the reserve, a skill they learn on the job!

Recording Critical Data

Volunteer recording GPS coordinates and behavioural data during a wildlife sighting — Photo: Coenraad Berrange

Every sighting counts. Volunteers record behaviour, location, and tracks to support species management and conservation planning. Volunteers also help with creating species ID kits.

Setting Up Camera Traps

A person holding the camera trap housing that protects the camera inside — Photo: Chantelle Melzer

Camera traps help us learn about elusive animals that seldom show themselves. Volunteers help set up and maintain them.

Learning Field Skills

Volunteers examine and photograph animal dung in the South African bush — Photo: Estelle Corade

A wildlife monitor guides a volunteer in using VHF telemetry to track wildlife — Photo: Sandra Parmee

From identifying tracks to understanding behaviour patterns, volunteers gain hands-on ecological knowledge every day. Your monitors have a wealth of wisdom to share, and perhaps even a funny bush tale or two.

A Coffee (and Rusk) Break

At some point in the morning it's essential to stop for some nourishment, whether that’s coffee, tea, or hot chocolate - and almost certainly a delicious rusk or two as well.

Wildlife Encounters

Nothing beats the magic of spotting wildlife during monitoring drives - from Elephants in the distance to antelope grazing peacefully, as well as the occasional special sighting. These moments are the reward for patience and early mornings. Take a look at some spectacular photos snapped by Wildlife ACT volunteers.

A special sighting of African Wild Dogs, captured from the monitoring vehicle during patrol — Photo: Estelle Corade

Photo: Wildlife ACT volunteer, Zoe Phillips

Photo: Wildlife ACT volunteer, Brandie Wettstein

Downtime at Camp

Our volunteer camps are based inside protected areas, surrounded by nature and infused with peace and tranquility. Reading in hammocks, chatting on the deck, or watching animals from camp - these slow moments are part of the magic too.

A favourite spot to chill at the iMfolozi volunteer camp, known as Mbuzane, is a viewpoint dubbed 'the Rock'. Photo: Brandie Wettstein

Plenty of wildlife can be seen in and around the volunteer camps, like this golden-tailed woodpecker, captured by volunteer Brandie Wettstein.

Camp Maintenance

Some volunteers like to get their hands dirty and help us maintain our simple but comfortable camps, which is always greatly appreciated. From mending fences, washing vehicles, or just general maintenance, there’s always something to do!

A group of ambitious volunteers recently took on some landscaping work at our camp at Manyoni Private Game Reserve. Photo: Brandie Wettstein

Team Camaraderie

It’s the people who make the experience. Volunteers arrive as strangers and leave as friends, bonded by long days, shared goals, and unforgettable moments. Volunteers celebrate birthdays and other milestones, and create lasting memories.

Nothing Beats a Zululand Sunset

Perhaps followed by a braai under the stars!

Ready to Make Your Own Impact?

Behind every conservation success story are the hands and hearts of people who choose to get involved. Wildlife ACT volunteers directly support endangered species conservation every single day - and you can be part of this ongoing work.

Join a Wildlife ACT volunteer program in South Africa. Experience the bush, learn new skills, and make a real impact. Apply here: https://www.wildlifeact.com/wildlife-volunteer-application-form