WELCOME TO
THE WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY INTERNSHIP
This Wildlife Photography Internship 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 internship brings purpose and creativity together.
Whether you're aiming for a career in photography or just passionate about wildlife, this is one of the most immersive wildlife photography opportunities 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.
HIGHLIGHTS AT the Wildlife Photography INTERNSHIP
Mentorship Meets the Wild
Learn directly from pros while staying at a comfortable lodge along the river. Surrounded by nature and close to Kruger National Park, it's the perfect base to grow your wildlife photography skills.
Photography for Conservation
Your work matters. Every image you take contributes to wildlife conservation - from educational materials for local schools to awareness campaigns for broader impact.
Workshops + Personal Projects
Start with structured workshops in wildlife, night, and macro photography, plus editing in Adobe Lightroom. Then dive into your own project, guided by your mentor.
Field-Based Wildlife Conservation
Use your images to create animal ID kits, monitor wildlife health, and support key conservation work. This is a Wildlife Photography Internship that goes beyond the lens.
Photography With a Purpose
Photos from the Wildlife Photography Internship contribute to conservation, fundraising, and marketing initiatives. Your skills become a force for protecting South Africa’s wildlife.
Grow Your Creative Confidence
This internship gives you the chance to create a meaningful collection of wildlife photography that reflects your growth, creativity, and passion - something you may choose to build on long after your time in the bush.
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In the first week of this internship with wildlife photography, you’ll engage in an immersive workshop led by a skilled professional wildlife photographer.
Explore the core principles, secrets, and highlights of wildlife photography while mastering your camera settings to capture stunning images.
Challenging assignments will encourage you to photograph diverse elements like frames, colours, movement, and portraits, introducing you to new techniques and enhancing your photography skills.
Additionally, you'll learn the art of editing your photos using Adobe Lightroom, ensuring your images truly stand out and captivate viewers.
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Explore the intricate world beneath our feet through macro photography. As a dedicated wildlife photography volunteer, you'll develop a keen eye for the smaller components of the wildlife environment and master the art of capturing their unique beauty. You'll be captivated by the often-overlooked creatures such as dung beetles, dragonflies, and numerous others, showcasing their extraordinary details through your lens.

Ethical photography in natural settings is crucial for any wildlife photographer. This program will educate you on animal behaviour, fostering a conservation-centric mindset in your photographic pursuits.
By learning to photograph responsibly, you'll positively impact wildlife conservation while producing awe-inspiring images that reflect the beauty of wildlife in their natural habitats.

Throughout your time in this wildlife photography internship, you’ll actively contribute to the broader conservation goals and objectives in the Greater Kruger region, while continuously honing your photography skills. You’ll gain a deep understanding of what it means to be a professional wildlife photographer, including editing and effectively utilising your photos. Through various activities, the tutor will guide you towards creating exceptional images, presenting them with context, and exploring opportunities for exposure. By the end of the four weeks, you'll be amazed by your remarkable progress.

As a vital part of the project's research initiatives, your wildlife photography will help gather essential animal identification data. By capturing sharp, detailed images of wildlife during game drives, you'll assist the research team in identifying individual animals, enabling them to monitor their health, movements, and behaviour. Your photographs will be crucial for updating identification databases that inform conservation-driven decisions in reserve management.

After an adventurous day of exploring and capturing wildlife through your lens, relax at the lodge, cool off in the pool, catch a movie, or enjoy a lively games night with other volunteers. From time to time, guides and staff will offer informative presentations, providing in-depth knowledge about the African landscape and its rich wildlife and local cultures. Dine on the picturesque deck, where you can enjoy a warm fire and roast marshmallows.
Activity Overview
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Kick off your Wildlife Photography Internship with a deep dive into the essentials. You’ll work closely with a seasoned wildlife photographer, learning how to master camera settings, compose striking shots, and build visual stories.
Each day features practical assignments focused on capturing color, movement, framing, and more. Editing skills come into play, too - you’ll work with Adobe Lightroom to bring your images to life.
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It’s not just the Big 5. You’ll explore the small wonders too - dung beetles, dragonflies, and all the tiny creatures that bring the bush to life. Macro photography builds patience, precision, and a deeper appreciation for nature’s details.

Learn how to approach photography with conservation at the core. Understand animal behavior, minimize disturbance, and create work that respects and reflects the wild. This focus on ethical wildlife photography in South Africa is a key part of what makes the experience so impactful.

This Wildlife Photography Internship blends creative learning with conservation action. Document life in the bush while gaining real experience in data collection, species ID, and ecological storytelling. Your mentor will help refine your portfolio while showing you how to pitch your work.

Each photo taken during the internship supports animal tracking and reserve management. From game drives to ID kits, your work helps researchers track health and movement patterns of key species.

Evenings are for relaxing by the pool, enjoying a film, or joining games night. Learn more through talks by local guides, then unwind on the deck with a fire and marshmallows under the stars.
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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 7 large dorm rooms, each with beautiful views of the Olifants River. The rooms are separated by gender, and up to 6 volunteers can stay in each room. Every room has air conditioning and a private bathroom for your comfort. Is it possible to book a single accommodation at an extra cost depending on availability.
Meals
The project provides three daily meals, catering to various dietary preferences such as vegetarian, vegan, and lactose or wheat-free options. Please indicate any special requirements on your booking form. You're welcome to use the volunteer fridge for personal groceries, snacks, or drinks, and enjoy a selection of fresh fruits for your well-being.
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 photography 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-siteProject Coordinators, are available 24/7 to tend to the needs of all travelers.
Communication
The camp offers complimentary WiFi, allowing you to connect with your friends and family via WhatsApp, Zoom, etc. You can also easily buy a SIM card and add data credit to use your own phone. However, please be aware that due to the camp's location in the African bush, WiFi might occasionally be slow or inconsistent.
Laundry
Laundry facilities are available on-site at a fee of 150 South African Rand (ZAR) per bag.
Shops
Small consumables, such as soft drinks, chocolates, and chips, are available on-site.
Dates
The project currently offers one start date per month. To inquire about the availability of Wildlife Photography Internship, please feel free to contact us.
Number of Volunteers
Max 12
Prices (2025) Per Person Sharing
8 weeks - 5,335 Euro
9 weeks - 5,720 Euro
10 weeks - 6,105 Euro
11 weeks - 6,490 Euro
12 weeks - 6,875 Euro
The Price Includes:
Accommodation throughout your stay
3 meals a day cooked by the local chef
Scheduled airport pick-up (Sunday)
24/7 support
Guidance and support throughout from the on-site professional photographer
The Price Does Not Include:
Camera equipment and laptop
Flights
Travel insurance
Visa-related costs
Weekend trips or tours before/during/after your program
Snacks, soft drinks, gifts, and souvenirs
Contribution of 25 Euro that is donated to the project’s Sustainability Fund
Booking Form & Additional Information
Once you have decided to volunteer for the Wildlife Photography Internship, we will send you a booking form that you need to complete with your personal information, contact details, medical history, and travel arrangements.If you are over the age of 60, you will need to provide a signed letter from your physician confirming your ability to participate in the program. Along with the booking form, you will also receive additional information, including a packing list and general guidelines from the project.
Police Clearance & Background Check
To join the Wildlife Photography Internship, you’ll need to submit a valid police clearance or background check (in English) dated within six months of your start date.
You can get this through your local police station. If you're booking well in advance, we recommend applying closer to your departure.
Location
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. Nestled far from urban lights and adjacent to the world-famous Kruger National Park, you'll be in an ideal spot to photograph majestic African elephants, elusive predators, vibrant birds, peculiar insects, and the awe-inspiring celestial canvas overhead. The Greater Kruger Area presents a dreamlike setting for wildlife photographers eager to capture the astonishing beauty of the African wilderness.
Climate & Seasons
The Kruger area in South Africa experiences a subtropical climate, characterised 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, theKruger area's climate varies from hot and humid summers with higher rainfall tocooler, drier winters, providing different experiences and opportunities for visitors throughout the year.
Climate & Seasons
The dry season, from June to October, is excellent for game viewing, while the wet season offers lush green landscapes and the opportunity to see the migration.
During the long rains season from March to May, temperatures range from about 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day and 14-18°C (57-64°F) at night.
The dry season from June to October is cooler, with temperatures ranging from about 20-28°C (68-82°F) during the day and 11-15°C (52-59°F) at night.
The short rains season from November to December has temperatures ranging from about 24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day and 12-16°C (54-61°F) at night. It's important to note that these temperatures are just averages and may vary depending on the exact location and elevation within the Maasai Mara. Additionally, weather patterns and temperatures can fluctuate from year to year.
It's important to note that these temperatures are just averages and may vary depending on the exact location and elevation within the Maasai Mara. Additionally, weather patterns and temperatures can fluctuate from year to year.
This guide will provide you with essential information for a smooth journey to and from the Wildlife Photography Internship in South Africa, including details on flights, transportation, vaccinations, visas, and travel insurance.
Flight Itenerary
Please plan to arrive at Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) on a Sunday, marking the start of your placement. The airport is roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kambaku Camp, allowing you to arrive at any time on that day. Your placement will also end on a Sunday, and you're free to depart at your convenience on that day.
Airport Transfer
The scheduled airport transfers to and from the Wildlife Photography Internship project are included in the project fee. These transfers are arranged to and from Hoedspruit Airport on Sundays.
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 arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies: Recommended for travelers who plan to spend a significant amount of time outdoors or work with animals.
Tetanus: Recommended for all travelers.
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.
Visa Information
When arriving in South Africa, visitors from most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada,Australia, and most EU nations, are automatically granted a tourist visa, valid for up to 90 days. Please ensure your passport has at least 2 blank pages for immigration use and remains valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your arrival date. To confirm if your country qualifies for the visa exemption, consult the South African government's list of exempt countries 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.
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 deChange 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.
" have had an amazing experience. I have learned so much more than anticipated outside of wildlife photography. My workflow and editing skills have increased as well as learning macro and portrait photography. This is an experience I will never forget."
-Stacey, USA
Wildlife photography in South Africa's Greater Kruger Area
Immerse yourself in the exceptional experience of refining your wildlife photography skills within the breathtaking scenery of South Africa's renowned Big Five Greater Kruger Area. Capture remarkable close-up shots of amazing wildlife while aiding important wildlife conservation research and contributing to a significant photographic database. This crucial database serves as a powerful educational tool in local schools, inspiring the next generation to appreciate nature's beauty and understand the importance of wildlife conservation.
Highlights of the Wildlife Photography Internship
- Work with a professional wildlife photographer to improve your photography skills.
- Create a collection that showcases your expertise in wildlife and specialised photography.
- Use your wildlife photography skills to raise awareness about nature protection and other key issues.
- Learn about planning, shooting, and editing photos from start to finish.
- Collaborate with wildlife specialists, local residents, and other volunteers.
- Stay in a scenic part of South Africa, close to the Kruger National Park.
Your adventure as a wildlife volunteer photographer
The first four weeks begin with a comprehensive wildlife photography course, featuring a week of detailed workshops and engaging tasks led by an experienced professional wildlife photographer. Learn the fundamentals, tricks, and highlights of wildlife photography, master your camera settings, and acquire techniques for capturing stunning shots, with a special emphasis on wildlife, landscape, and night photography – and learn to edit them using Adobe Lightroom. After the initial four weeks, the internship starts with a personalized project in collaboration with your mentor, enabling you to take your skills to the next level. You'll receive full support from the team of experienced photographers, including weekly meetings with your mentor, constructive feedback sessions, and various other resources to help you succeed.help you succeed.
Contribute to wildlife conservation and encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife
Explore the breathtaking Greater Kruger Region on guided tours, sharpen your photographic skills, encounter some of Africa's most iconic wildlife, and contribute to essential wildlife conservation efforts, community projects, and environmental initiatives. By capturing photos that aid in vital research, you'll help create identification kits and monitor the health of animals and the reserve, all while immersing yourself in the diverse African wilderness.
Make a difference in conservation with your wildlife photography skills and photos
Utilize your newfound photography skills and captivating images to support crucial conservation, marketing, and fundraising efforts, all contributing to the preservation of South Africa's breathtaking wildlife. If you're passionate about capturing stunning wildlife photos, participating in wildlife volunteering opportunities in South Africa, and experiencing an unforgettable wildlife adventure, this project is perfect for you.
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Why we love wildlife photography internship
It’s the Real Deal
This Wildlife Photography Internship stands out for its realness. You’re not just observing wildlife - you’re out there learning how to photograph it responsibly, understanding the role images play in conservation, and gaining meaningful insights from an experienced mentor.
Wild Places, Personal Impact
We love that it’s immersive but approachable. The Greater Kruger is one of the most iconic wildlife regions in Africa, and this internship gives you the chance to explore it with purpose. It’s an ideal blend of creative growth and conservation, designed to leave you feeling inspired, challenged, and part of something bigger.
Creative Growth, at Your Pace
There’s space to grow – technically and creatively. With expert support and a flexible learning environment, you’ll sharpen your eye, build your portfolio, and gain confidence behind the lens. Whether you’re a beginner or on your way to pro, this experience meets you where you are and helps you level up.
Connection That Lasts
Most of all, this experience connects people – with nature, with conservation, and with each other. You’ll share fireside chats, early morning drives, and shared wins in the field. It’s the kind of place where purpose builds friendships, and from our own experience, those connections last long after the trip ends.
Make an enquiry for
Internship with Wildlife Photography
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.