IVHQ Victoria Falls - Exceeded All Expectations

I did this IVHQ Victoria Falls program as a semi-vacation from work and was expecting to have a relaxing, yet physically demanding experience at Nakavango - just a restful break from work. I thought 2 weeks was nowhere near enough time to truly connect with the local team and country - but I was wrong! I ended up connecting incredibly well with the reserve manager and gained a real understanding of the local people's conflicts with wildlife, and how that intertwines with national and international politics, trade, and economics. It was absolutely fascinating and the volunteering itself was incredibly rewarding. If felt amazing to be outside all day with such wonderful people and to be contributing my small part to the overall project. I studied environmental policy in college and work now for an environmental NGO, so this program was right up my alley and is a perfect jumping point for anyone interested in environmental justice, land/wildlife, and international relations issues. The animals are pretty spectacular as well!