Wildlife Conservation through photography

South Africa
4 - 12 weeks
3,645 - 6,445 Euro

Join a purpose-driven wildlife photography volunteer program in South Africa’s Greater Kruger. Learn from professionals, support conservation, and grow your skills in one of Africa’s most iconic wild landscapes.

WELCOME TO
WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY & CONSERVATION

This photography conservation experience in South Africa is designed for aspiring photographers ready to grow their skills while supporting real conservation. Set in the Greater Kruger Area, you’ll work with a professional wildlife photographer to capture meaningful images and explore the role of photography in research, education, and awareness.

You’ll be part of a team guided by an experienced photography mentor - receiving feedback, refining your approach, and learning to photograph wildlife ethically and effectively. From documenting key species to contributing to conservation campaigns, this program brings purpose and creativity together.

Whether you're aiming to improve your photography or just passionate about wildlife, this is one of the most immersive wildlife photography volunteering experiences in South Africa.

Why Book This Wildlife Photography 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.

Enquire
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Number of participants

Up to 14 volunteers

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Duration

4-12 weeks

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Start date

1-2 starts/month (Sundays).

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Age requirements

Minimum age: 18.

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Arrival/deparure

Arrive/depart via Hoedspruit airport (HDS), South Africa, Sundays any time.

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Transfer

1.5-hour road transfer from Hoedspruit Airport to project (return) included in price.

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Additional adventures

Explore on weekends: Safari in Kruger Park, panoramic road trips, quad biking, and more.

HIGHLIGHTS AT THE Wildlife Photography & CONSERVATION

Perfect Your Wildlife Photography

Capture South Africa’s wildlife in action, from elusive predators to detailed macro moments. Learn techniques to shoot with purpose, story, and sensitivity in the Greater Kruger Area.

Support Real Conservation Work

Your images will contribute to a live photographic database used in animal identification and wildlife monitoring - making photography a tool for impact.

In-Depth Wildlife Photography Training

Daily workshops and guided assignments focus on wildlife photography, post-processing in Lightroom, and field ethics. It’s immersive, detailed, and tailored for impact.

Document Africa's Iconic Species

Photograph elephants, lions, leopards, and more while supporting field teams with species tracking, health assessments, and reserve monitoring activities.

Strengthen Wildlife Conservation Initiatives

Your shots hold power. Whether in wildlife conservation campaigns or promotional endeavours, your images help tell the story of nature’s beauty - and why it’s worth protecting.

Live and Learn in the Wild

Stay at a relaxed, riverside lodge near Kruger National Park. Evenings bring presentations, game nights, and fireside storytelling under the stars.

Hyenas at the Wildlife Photograhy & Conservation project next Kruger National Park in South Africa.

Volunteers will participate in detailed monitoring activities that are essential for the conservation of the Kalahari's wildlife. Observe, document, and contribute to the protection of various species, including lions, leopards, and other native animals.

This direct involvement provides valuable data for conservation research and offers an in-depth understanding of the animals' behavior, habits, and needs in this unique ecosystem.

Volunteers at Modisa Wildlife Project will participate in comprehensive educational sessions that offer insights into the challenges and strategies of wildlife conservation in the Kalahari.

These interactive sessions cover a range of topics, including the impact of climate on wildlife, sustainable conservation practices, and effective wildlife management. They are designed to provide a broad understanding of the ecosystem and the complexities of conserving wildlife in a desert environment.

Scenic photography at the wildlife photography course in South Africa.

Practicing ethical wildlife photography when capturing animals in their natural surroundings is vital for any wildlife photographer. The program will teach you about animal behaviour, fostering a conservation-focused mindset in your photographic endeavours. By understanding how to photograph responsibly in this setting, you'll make a positive impact on wildlife conservation while creating awe-inspiring images.

Volunteer taking photos of elephant at the Wildlife Photography and Conservation project in South Africa.

Modisa offers unique opportunities to observe and interact with the wildlife of the Kalahari, including special encounters with animals like Sirga the lioness. Observe these animals in their natural habitat, gain insights into their behaviors, and learn about the conservation efforts that support their survival. These experiences provide a deeper connection with the wildlife and a better understanding of their place in the ecosystem.

Group photos of all the volunteers at the wildlife conservation project in South Africa

As an active volunteer in the project's research initiatives, your wildlife photography will aid in collecting crucial animal identification data. By taking sharp, detailed images of wildlife during game drives, you'll support the research team in recognising individual animals, enabling them to monitor their health, movements, and behaviour. Your photographs will be invaluable for updating identification databases that shape wildlife conservation-driven decisions in reserve management.

Volunteers taking photos of an elephant at the wildlife photography & Conservation course in South Africa.

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

Wildlife Photography Workshops
Macro Wildlife Photography
Responsible Wildlife Photography
Hands-on Volunteering in Wildlife Conservation
Contributing to Wildlife Conservation
Down Time & Community
Lion posing at the Big Five and Wildlife Research project in South Africa.

Why we love  Wildlife Photography & Conservation

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Learn from a Pro in the Field

You’ll be working with an experienced wildlife photographer who knows how to turn a camera into a conservation tool. It’s a rare chance to build both technical and purposeful skills in a truly wild setting.

Creative Growth in Wild Places

From guided workshops to self-led assignments, this project challenges you to see differently, shoot with intention, and build a wildlife photography portfolio that reflects your growth.

Photography That Inspires Action

We love how your images can directly support conservation - whether in databases, marketing, or awareness campaigns. It’s a reminder that creativity can make a difference.

Be Part of a Purpose-Driven Team

You’ll work alongside passionate volunteers and conservation professionals who share a commitment to protecting wildlife. It’s a focused and rewarding environment that encourages growth, connection, and creativity.

Make an enquiry for

Wildlife Photography & Conservation

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.

Thank you for getting in touch with us!

We aim to respond within 2 business days. Please check your inbox and SPAM folder for our message. If you don't receive a response within this time frame, feel free to reach out directly at travel@lostadventures.com.
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