Welcome to
big five & wildlife conservation
This is not your average volunteer program. Based in South Africa’s Greater Kruger Area – a wild, high-impact conservation landscape bordering the famous Kruger National Park – this big 5 wildlife experience places you at the heart of real efforts to protect some of the planet’s most extraordinary animals.
You’ll work alongside expert field guides, wildlife researchers, and conservation teams on daily game drives and bush-based activities that focus on monitoring and protecting elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and more. Each day is a blend of learning and contribution – from tracking animals in the field to feeding data into reserve-wide wildlife protection strategies.
You’ll also help support physical conservation tasks and anti-poaching work while staying at a comfortable volunteer house with fellow nature lovers from around the world. With every sunrise and sunset, you’ll feel more connected to the land, the people, and the mission of big 5 wildlife volunteer work.
Whether you're just beginning your conservation journey or returning for another big 5 wildlife experience, you'll find this experience both impactful and unforgettable.
Why Book This Wildlife Conservation Experience Through Lost Adventures
With over 15 years of experience in African travel and conservation - including as co-founder of the Modisa Wildlife Project in Botswana - Lost Adventures offers expert guidance, trusted support, and extended liability cover. There are no added fees, and if anything doesn’t go as planned, we’ve got your back.
HIGHLIGHTS AT THE BIG FIVE AND WILDLIFE RESEARCH
Safari with Purpose
Head into the wild each day in search of iconic species while supporting real research efforts. These aren’t ordinary drives – they’re immersive field sessions led by seasoned guides with deep local knowledge of big 5 wildlife.
Your Data Drives Change
Use CyberTracker software to log your sightings and help conservation teams monitor big 5 wildlife trends. This data shapes long-term protection strategies and supports reserve-wide decision-making across all big 5 wildlife experiences.
Wild Days and Campfire Nights
Start your mornings with coffee as the bush wakes up around you, and end your evenings gathered around the fire. With shared meals, laughter, and story swaps, camp life is a core part of your big 5 wildlife volunteer journey.
Learn to Read the Wild
From tracks and patterns to animal behavior and ecosystem dynamics, you’ll develop the field skills to interpret the bush like a local guide – and understand the deeper story behind every big 5 wildlife experience.
Get Hands On for the Wild
Take part in essential fieldwork like removing snares and clearing invasive plants. It’s hands-on conservation you can see and feel as a big 5 wildlife volunteer – and a core part of your big 5 wildlife experience.
A Crew That Gets It
Share your days with fellow conservation-minded volunteers and passionate staff. It’s a global team connected by purpose – and by a powerful big 5 wildlife experience.

Embark on an unforgettable journey by participating in wildlife volunteering in South Africa, where you'll venture deep into the African wilderness on daily safari drives. Seek out the iconic Big Five species and other remarkable African wildlife while contributing to vital wildlife conservation efforts. Your observations and efforts as a volunteer play a pivotal role in shaping effective strategies aimed at safeguarding endangered and vulnerable species across Africa. Experience the wonders of the African bush and explore stunning reserves in South Africa's Greater Kruger Park area.

Physical conservation work forms an integral part of our wildlife volunteering program in South Africa, offering you numerous opportunities to actively contribute to preserving the African bush and its inhabitants. From removing snares to eradicating invasive species, your hands-on efforts are essential for ensuring the continued survival of wildlife and the overall success of wildlife conservation initiatives within the Greater Kruger area. By restoring the land to a healthy habitat, we enable wildlife to thrive once again. Our program accommodates all volunteers, ensuring everyone can participate and make a meaningful contribution.

As part of your wildlife volunteering experience in South Africa, you'll work alongside our seasoned team of wildlife conservation research specialists. Assist in compiling data on wild animal sightings into comprehensive reports, maps, and up-to-date profiles (ID kits) that inform wildlife conservation strategies. Learn various techniques, such as analyzing whisker patterns, scars, and ear notches, to identify and distinguish individual animals. These research sessions will familiarize you with data collection and compilation methods used within the reserve and the broader Kruger National Park region. This invaluable data enables conservationists and field guides to monitor wildlife movements and overall health for years to come, ensuring their long-term well-being.

Following an action-packed day of exploration and effort, retreat to the lodge and unwind poolside, catch a movie, or engage in a friendly games night with fellow volunteers. On occasion, guides and staff members host informative presentations, offering you further opportunities to discover the intriguing African landscape and its varied residents, encompassing both wildlife and people. Relish your dinner on the scenic deck, with a comforting fire to set the mood—often followed by marshmallow roasting! You can also enjoy participating in entertaining fundraising events such as trivia and game nights.
Activity Overview

Daily safari drives are the heartbeat of your big 5 wildlife experience. Heading out at dawn and dusk, you’ll track Africa’s most iconic wildlife across a range of habitats – from open savanna to dense bushveld.
Each outing serves as a research opportunity, where you’ll log sightings, collect behavioral data, and observe animal movement patterns. These insights help conservationists make data-backed decisions to support anti-poaching patrols and preserve healthy big 5 wildlife populations.

Beyond the thrill of the safari, you’ll contribute to practical conservation work in the Greater Kruger landscape. This includes removing harmful wire snares, clearing invasive plant species, and helping restore vital animal corridors.
These physical tasks are essential to keeping the ecosystem healthy and functional, allowing big 5 wildlife to move, hunt, and breed naturally. You’ll also learn how this work connects to broader issues like biodiversity and climate resilience – and why it matters to every big 5 wildlife volunteer.

This is where the science happens. You’ll support the research team by helping build and update ID kits for key species, using distinguishing features like scars, ear notches, and whisker spots. Sightings are logged using CyberTracker software – a tool used by professionals throughout the region – and contribute to a wider reserve management plan.
You’ll gain exposure to field-based monitoring, understand predator-prey relationships, and build the skills to recognize patterns in big 5 wildlife health and movement – a cornerstone of every meaningful big 5 wildlife experience.

When you're not out in the field, life back at the volunteer house is relaxed and social. The lodge-style base has a pool, shaded deck, and common areas for shared meals, film nights, and spontaneous wildlife chats. In the evenings, gather around the fire for stargazing, marshmallow roasting, or bush-themed quizzes.
Staff and guest speakers occasionally host informal talks on local ecology and the importance of community engagement in big 5 wildlife conservation. These sessions help round out the full big 5 wildlife volunteer experience, offering both insight and inspiration.

Your time off is a chance to explore beyond the reserve. Saturdays and Sundays offer optional excursions to some of the region’s most scenic and adventurous spots.
You might visit the breathtaking viewpoints of Blyde River Canyon, head out on a guided safari in Kruger National Park, or choose from thrilling activities like microlight flights, white-water rafting, or extreme hiking.
These off-site adventures add even more excitement to your big 5 wildlife experience – just note they’re at your own cost and arranged locally.

dive into the details
Accommodation
At the Kambaku Camp, you'll enjoy comfortable accommodations in the heart of the wild African landscape. The camp has seven large dorm rooms, each with beautiful views of the Olifants River. The rooms are separated by gender, and up to 6 people can stay in each room. Every room has air conditioning and a private bathroom for your comfort.
Communal Facilities
During your stay at the camp, you can enjoy a variety of facilities, such as a swimming pool for relaxation, an outdoor fire pit great for BBQs, comfortable lounges to unwind, and friendly social areas to connect with your fellow wildlife research volunteers. There is also a small store on-site where you can buy snacks and basic toiletries when needed.At all times, the kitchen, housekeeping, maintenance, and guide teams, alongside the on-site Project Coordinators, are available 24/7 to tend to the needs of all travelers.
Meals
The project offers three meals a day, seven days a week, and they strive to accommodate most dietary preferences, including those of vegetarians, vegans, and individuals requiring lactose or wheat-free options. Please make sure to indicate any special dietary requirements in your booking form. You are also welcome to use the volunteer fridge to store your own groceries, snacks, or drinks, and we provide a variety of fresh fruits for your health and enjoyment.
Communication
Although WiFi is accessible throughout the lodge, please note that due to the remote location in the bush, it may be slow and unreliable.
Laundry
A laundry service is offered on-site for a small fee of 150 South African Rand (ZAR) per bag.
Dates
To inquire about the availability of the Big Five & Wildlife Research, please feel free to contact us. The project currently offers two to 4 start dates per month.
Prices (2025) Per Person Sharing
2 weeks - 2,695 Euro
3 weeks - 3,045 Euro
4 weeks - 3,395 Euro
5 weeks - 3,745 Euro
6 weeks - 4,095 Euro
7 weeks - 4,445 Euro
8 weeks - 4,785 Euro
9 weeks - 5,145 Euro
10 weeks - 5,495 Euro
11 weeks - 5,845 Euro
12 weeks - 6,195 Euro
The Price Includes:
Accommodation throughout your stay
3 delicious meals
All activities during work days
Support and guidance throughout your stay
The Price Does Not Include:
Flights
Travel insurance
Visa-related costs
Weekend trips or tours before/during/after your program
Snacks, soft drinks, gifts, and souvenirs
Mandatory contribution of 25 Euro that is donated to the project’s Sustainability Fund
Booking form and additional information
Once you decide to volunteer with the Big Five & Wildlife Research program, we will send you a booking form to fill out. This form will ask for your personal information, contact details, medical history, and travel plans. For those over 60, a physician's letter confirming fitness to participate in the program is required. Along with the booking form, you'll receive a packing list and general project guidelines to help you prepare for your experience.
Police clearance and background checks
As you will be working with children and vulnerable communities during your project, providing a Police Clearance Certificate is required. This certificate plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of the communities you will be interacting with. To obtain the certificate, you can visit your local police station and please ensure that you acquire an English version. It is important to note that failure to provide this certificate will make you ineligible to participate in the program. Additionally, the certificate must be obtained no more than six months prior to the start of your placement. If you are booking in advance, we suggest obtaining the certificate closer to your departure date for accuracy.
Location
You will be staying at the Kambaku Camp which is located at the Greater Kruger Area. The Greater Kruger Area encompasses approximately 20 private game reserves located west of South Africa's Kruger National Park. In recent years, fences between these reserves and the park have been removed, allowing wildlife to wander more freely across the vast terrain. Spanning over 5.5 million acres, this untamed African wilderness is a haven for nature lovers.
Climate & Seasons
The Kruger area in South Africa experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by hot and humid summers and mild to cool, dry winters. The region's seasons can be divided into two primary periods: the wet season and the dry season.
- Wet season (Summer): The wet season occurs between October and April, with the highest rainfall typically falling between December and February. During this period, temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) to 33°C (91°F) or higher. The humidity can make the weather feel even hotter. The summer months also bring lush green vegetation and the arrival of migratory bird species, making it an excellent time for birdwatching.
- Dry season (Winter): The dry season extends from May to September, with little to no rainfall. Temperatures during this period can range from 8°C (46°F) in the early mornings and evenings to 26°C (79°F) during the daytime. The cooler, drier climate makes it more comfortable for game drives, and because the vegetation is less dense, it's often easier to spot wildlife. Additionally, as water sources become scarce, animals tend to congregate around remaining waterholes, offering more predictable wildlife encounters.
In summary, the Kruger area's climate varies from hot and humid summers with higher rainfall to cooler, drier winters, providing different experiences and opportunities for visitors throughout the year.
Flight Itenerary
The Big Five & Wildlife Research operates from Sunday to Sunday and you should arrive and depart from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS).
Arrival
Plan to arrive at Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) on a Sunday, which is the beginning of your placement. The airport is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Kambaku Camp, so you can arrive anytime on that Sunday. Your placement will end on a Sunday as well, and you can depart at any time on that day.
Departure
Since the project is just a short drive from the airport, you can choose to leave at any time on the final Sunday of your placement.
Connecting flights in Johannesburg at O.R Tambo International Airport (JNB)
Most flights to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) will require a connection at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. If this is your first point of entry, you will need to:
- Clear passport control
- Retrieve your luggage and go through customs
For your connecting flights, follow these steps
- Check your baggage at the fast track bag drop
- Head to Terminal B by following signs for domestic flights
- Proceed through security and find your boarding gate
If you require assistance, don't hesitate to ask for help at the information desks located throughout the airport. Be sure to allow ample time between flights. Most airlines recommend a minimum of 90 minutes for connecting flights.
Transfers
The scheduled airport transfers to and from the Big Five & Wildlife Research are included in the project fee. These transfers are arranged to and from Hoedspruit Airport on Sundays.
Visa information
Upon arrival in South Africa, tourists from most countries are granted a 90-day visa automatically. To confirm whether this applies to your country, you can refer to the list of exempt countries provided by the government here.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance covering emergencies, delays, medical expenses, and evacuation is mandatory. Please check with your current insurance company or credit card issuer for advice and guidance.
Vaccinations
It is highly recommended that you consult with your doctor to ensure that you have the necessary vaccinations for your upcoming trip. Some of the most commonly recommended vaccinations for travel to South Africa include:
Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers to South Africa, regardless of the length of stay or their planned activities.
Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers to South Africa.
Yellow fever: Required for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies: Recommended for travelers who plan to spend a lot of time outdoors or work with animals.
Tetanus: Recommended for all travellers
Located in a low-risk malaria zone, the Kruger National Park carries a small risk of malaria during the rainy summer months (October to April). It is recommended that you consult with a medical professional regarding antimalarial medication options.
Credit Card & Cash
The official currency of South Africa is the Rand (ZAR). You can withdraw cash either at the airport or an ATM in Hoedspruit, the main town in the area. Additionally, there is a Bureau de Change in Hoedspruit that can exchange most currencies into Rands. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most shops and restaurants. However, do note that American Express cards are generally not accepted in South Africa. You can also pay with PayPal at the project, but it is recommended that you bring cash as well.
"AMAZING EXPERIENCE
I had the most amazing experience volunteering with The Big 5 & Wildlife Research. (...) Everything we did had an impact and made me feel like I was making a difference. I like how the project wasn't just focused on research but on other things that impact conservation such as invasive plant removal, community work, and snare sweeps. I can't wait to share this experience with other people and to come back again!"
-Jordyn Bauer, USA
"GREATEST EXPERENCE YET
If I could click more stars than just 5 I totally would. I am from the U.S and was looking for a program in wildlife conservation that would give me experience in the field and in a classroom setting. I wanted nothing more but to learn everything I could. I looked for months at my financial budget and all different types of programs all over the world. I ran into programs that seemed just hungry for my money over caring for my interests and experience, UNTIL I found Lost Adventures.
I remember emailing Mikkel for more information because this was a huge financial investment for me and I have also never traveled alone before as a female, never mind jumping straight into South Africa! Mikkel was so understanding and patient and informative. Quick to respond to every question I had and more. He went so above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable and content with my experience and what I was doing. Even checking in mid program.
I did a 10 week program in the Greater Kruger area of South Africa on Wildlife Research and Conservation. It was amazing. I honestly thought I’d move there and never return to the states. The people I met were incredible welcoming and friendly. I made life long friends. I experienced hands on knowledge and this paved a path for me to go home and start a college degree in wildlife biology.
I am incredibly thankful and grateful for my experience through Lost Adventures. I would highly recommend and I would do this again and again and again. Thank you Mikkel so much for your kindness !!!"
-MARIA NOYOLA, USA
Embark on an unforgettable journey with expert field guides and researchers
Embark on an unforgettable journey with a team of expert field guides and researchers on exhilarating safari drives through South Africa's renowned game reserves, where you'll observe and study the majestic African 'Big 5' - lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. These awe-inspiring, yet vulnerable and endangered animals need our help, and the invaluable data you gather during your adventure will significantly aid local wildlife organizations in their ongoing conservation and protection efforts. While residing in a charming lodge nestled within this captivating wildlife sanctuary, you'll not only make a tangible impact on conservation but also broaden your understanding of the challenges confronting Africa's precious animal kingdom.
Highlights of the volunteer project:
- Dive deep into the wilderness, studying Africa's iconic 'Big 5': Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Leopards, and Buffalo.
- Gather data to aid wildlife conservation efforts against threats like poaching and habitat destruction.
- Observe and record the activities of elephant herds and lion prides in the vast African landscape.
- Experience the nocturnal life, especially leopards, during captivating moonlit drives.
- During off days: Visit the stunning Blyde River Canyon. Take a safari adventure in Kruger National Park. Delve into the unique culture of Eswatini's locals.
- Live in the renowned Greater Kruger Area, in a secluded volunteer lodge amidst nature's embrace.
- Contribute by helping remove invasive plants and participating in anti-poaching snare sweeps.
Experience the picturesque Greater Kruger area of South Africa
This exceptional project is located in the picturesque Greater Kruger Area of South Africa, a region celebrated for its mesmerizing landscapes and frequent sightings of the iconic 'Big 5' (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos). While these magnificent creatures are now commonly considered the ultimate safari must-see, they were originally deemed the five most dangerous animals to hunt on foot. The Greater Kruger Area has gained global recognition for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding these species and preserving their natural habitats.
Become a dedicated research volunteer and make a lasting impact
As a dedicated research volunteer, you'll play an active role in monitoring the area's wild 'Big 5' populations and contribute to essential conservation initiatives that align with the long-term goals of world-renowned wildlife trusts and foundations. For those seeking a perfect blend of awe-inspiring nature, wildlife encounters, educational opportunities, and thrilling adventures, this project offers an experience of a lifetime!
Looking for more wildlife volunteer projects in Africa? Explore our other volunteer programs, including the Rhino & Elephant Conservation Project in Zimbabwe, Big Cat & Elephant Research in Kenya, Shamwari Conservation Experience in South Africa, or the Modisa Wildlife Project in Botswana.

Why we love THe Big Five WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
This is more than just a volunteer program in South Africa – it’s your chance to live the rhythm of the wild, learn from real conservationists, and make your mark in one of Africa’s most iconic big 5 wildlife experiences.
Up Close with the Icons
Track elephants, lions, and leopards on daily game drives through untamed bushveld. Every sighting helps tell the bigger story of big 5 wildlife conservation in action and adds to your growing knowledge as a big 5 wildlife volunteer.

Greater Kruger at Its Wildest
Wake up to the sounds of the bush and explore landscapes few get to see this way. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll be fully immersed in a true big 5 wildlife experience.
Conservation That Counts
From removing snares to restoring habitats, you won’t just observe – you’ll actively protect. Your time in the field leaves a lasting impact as a big 5 wildlife volunteer.
Learn, Live, and Share the Story
Make a tangible impact on conservation and broaden your understanding of the challenges confronting Africa's precious animal kingdom by becoming a dedicated research volunteer.
Make an enquiry for
Big Five & Wildlife Research
Once we receive your enquiry, we will swiftly check for availability and aim to get back to you within 2 business days. Please note that sending this enquiry does not create any obligations for you.