Set within a diverse South African landscape, the programme combines hands-on field experience with responsible conservation, giving interns the opportunity to develop practical skills while contributing to long-term wildlife and habitat protection.
Discover rural Namibia through a medical internship rooted in learning, service and cultural connection.
Located in the famous Kruger National park near Johannesburg, South Africa, the focus of this project revolves around the primary species in African wildlife conservation; Elephants, Lions, Hyenas and Leopards. The project linked with breeding initiatives comprising of Buffalo, Livingston Eland and Nyala to support the preservation of the species. A large part of the conservation focus is on habitats and the integral role they play in the monitoring process.
The reserve is a vast nature reserve, home to the Big Five and many more, spanning over an area of 25,000 hectares and sitting in the Lowveld area, the home of nature conservation in South Africa.
The qualified rangers conduct the monitoring of the animals by foot, truck or from hides at the waterhole. They do this twice a day; early morning and in the afternoon. These times coincide with the increased activity of the specific animals that are being monitored. Here, the work is vital for accurate management of the animals within the reserve. The data collected is also made available to students and researchers that they host, as well as several national conservation projects, including the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT).
Your Big 5 Internship in South Africa is designed to give you practical exposure to wildlife conservation, field research and ecosystem management in a real reserve environment. Your exact activities will depend on current conservation priorities, wildlife movements, seasonal conditions and the needs of the project team.
Interns work alongside experienced conservation staff and gain insight into the day-to-day work involved in protecting wildlife, monitoring populations and managing natural habitats. Activities vary according to conservation priorities and conditions on the reserve.
Assist with tracking, observing and recording wildlife activity and behaviour.
Help collect field data that contributes to ongoing wildlife and ecological research.
Develop practical skills in spoor identification, animal signs, field observation and habitat awareness.
Take part in activities that support healthy ecosystems and sustainable reserve management.
Support practical projects such as camera monitoring, species surveys, invasive plant management and other priority tasks.
All work is carried out under the guidance of experienced conservation professionals and with the welfare of wildlife as the first priority.