Wildlife Expedition in South Africa

I did the wildlife research expedition in South Africa for 2 weeks. The first point I would like make is that 2 weeks is just not enough. Although I loved my time there and had some extraordinary experiences, I felt there was still so much more to see and learn. Of course, if 2 weeks is all you have, then I still highly recommend doing it. But if you have the chance to go for longer, grab it with both hands and don't look back.

On the first day after we arrived, we had our first reserve drive through the private animal reserve we were staying on. We got to simply observe for this, and to see the staff and other volunteers in action. The rest of the first week was a combination of training, lectures and more drives. Things are pretty fast paced so be ready to pick things up quickly as you go. Everyone on drive usually had a job to do so you will always be busy. The second week was more of the same, usually with a drive in the morning at about 5:30am (I know it sounds early), with another one in the afternoon at 3:00pm. These could be general research drives, or an animal or activity specific drive depending on the schedule.

As well as the daily drives, you will be assigned base duty one day a week. This is where you and your partner will clean the whole base and then make lunch and dinner for everyone. For those a little intimidated by the thought of cooking for so many (for me it was about 15-20 people), they have a step by step recipe book with specific meals scheduled each day. This means it’s really hard to go wrong even for the more culinary challenged (I include myself in this category).

I had some amazing encounters even in such a short time. I got to see all of the Big 5 except for a leopard - although I heard them more than once! Other highlights included a Sunday trip to Kruger National Park (arranged by the volunteers themselves), taking part in a mini obstacle course that was designed by one of the longterm interns and the braais (bbq) we had at the end of the week.

If I had any advice for you before you go, take a camera. I only had my phone and I really regretted not having something better to take pictures. The same goes for a pair of binoculars. Also, if you go to South Africa during their winter like I did (June), then take the hat and scarf. Also, layers are essential. You’ll need them for those early mornings and later evening drives because it really does get cold.

The bottom line for me? It was worth it.