WELCOME TO
SANWILD BIG FIVE CONSERVATION SANCTUARY
Embark on a journey where wildlife conservation meets luxury. Take part in rescue, rehabilitation, and hands-on conservation efforts while experiencing the beauty of the South African wilderness at SanWild Sanctuary, home to the iconic Big Five.
This sanctuary is a vital conservation site dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating at-risk wildlife, including those affected by human-wildlife conflict. For over two decades, SanWild has been at the forefront of conservation, providing a safe haven and rehabilitation center for countless species.
As a volunteer at the big five conservation sanctuary, you will play an essential role in this mission—helping to care for, rehabilitate, and, when possible, release rescued wildlife. Animals that cannot return to the wild are provided with a habitat that closely reflects their natural environment. Your experience will include a range of hands-on conservation activities, from caring for rescued animals to assisting with anti-poaching efforts and monitoring species such as cheetahs, rhinos, and elephants. Each day brings new challenges and meaningful learning opportunities.
After a fulfilling day, relax in a luxurious lodge that combines comfort and elegance with the spirit of the wild.
Why Book This Wildlife Conservation Experience Through Lost Adventures?
With 15+ years of experience in wildlife conservation and travel in Africa, we provide expert advice, seamless support, and added security. If anything goes wrong, Lost Adventures will be on your side every step of the way, ensuring you’re protected with our extended liability insurance and network.
With no planning fees and more security, you can embrace the adventure with confidence, knowing we’ve got your back.
HIGHLIGHTS AT THE BIG FIVE CONSERVATION SANCTUARY
Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre
The SanWild Rehabilitation Centre cares for injured and orphaned wildlife, with the aim of releasing them back into the wild. Volunteers help with feeding, cleaning, and occasional rescues or vet support. To prevent human imprinting, the Centre is closed to the public and no physical contact with animals is allowed.
Engage in core conservation initiatives
You'll be involved in core conservation initiatives, including supporting the Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre, contributing to large predator sanctuaries, assisting with elephant management, and helping with the Wildlife Gene Exchange Program to enhance genetic diversity.
species monitoring & protection
You'll assist with species monitoring by tracking cheetahs, rhinos, and elephants, while also taking part in counter-poaching patrols to help protect wildlife.
Predator Sanctuaries for Lions & Hyenas
SanWild’s Large Predator Sanctuaries care for lions and hyenas rescued from zoos, circuses, and hunting farms. Unable to return to the wild, they live in spacious, natural enclosures. Staff and volunteers assist with feeding, cleaning, and occasional vet care.
Rhino Conservation Project
SanWild’s Rhino Conservation Project combats poaching with 24/7 monitoring, dehorning, and advanced perimeter alarms—resulting in a 95% drop in poaching attempts since 2020. Volunteers support the team with fence patrols, rhino tracking, dehorning procedures, and monitoring cameras in the operations room.
immersive african experiences
You'll take part in traditional African experiences like game drives, sundowners, and braais, while enjoying luxury accommodations that blend 5-star comfort with a deep connection to nature.

Participating in regular game drives not only promises unforgettable experiences with diverse wildlife but also significantly contributes to the project's understanding of the reserve's inhabitants. By assisting the dedicated team, you'll play a crucial role in collecting valuable information on various species' social dynamics, dietary patterns, and other essential ecological aspects. These game drives enable the project to monitor and track the animals' behaviors, movements, and population trends. In turn, this information helps to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem within the reserve. The data collected during these drives is instrumental for the project team in making well-informed management decisions, such as the potential relocation or introduction of certain species to maintain biodiversity and the overall well-being of the reserve.

Volunteers play a significant role in restoring the reserve to its original, unspoiled state by assisting in the removal of non-native plants introduced by former landowners. By contributing to the restoration of the area's natural biodiversity, you'll actively support the preservation of native food sources for herbivores, safeguarding vital water resources, and minimising the risk of wildfires. Additionally, you'll aid in dismantling old constructions and fences that could potentially endanger the wildlife living in the reserve. This collaborative effort ensures the protection and sustainability of the reserve's ecosystem, benefiting both the flora and fauna that call it home.

By using camera traps, Shamwari can consistently monitor the reserve's wildlife, gaining a deeper understanding of the habits and patterns of nocturnal and elusive animals. These continuous observations provide valuable insights that contribute to the overall knowledge of the reserve's inhabitants. For certain high-profile species, such as cheetahs, remote tracking methods like telemetry are employed. This advanced tracking technology is especially useful in managing the interactions between wildlife and livestock on adjacent properties. By monitoring the movements of these predators, Shamwari can take proactive measures to prevent conflicts and protect both the wildlife and the domesticated animals in the surrounding areas. Annual game counts are conducted to determine the reserve's carrying capacity. These counts assist in making decisions about predator-to-prey ratios and the movement of animals on or off the reserve.

The Born Free Foundation has gained a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional work in tackling and spreading awareness about the awful treatment faced by wild animals in captivity across the globe. At the heart of Shamwari Game Reserve, you'll find the foundation's sanctuary and educational center, which provides a home for rescued lions and leopards that cannot be returned to their natural habitats. By participating in this behind-the-scenes tour, you'll have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the sanctuary's daily operations and the level of care given to these majestic animals. This rewarding experience not only furthers the Born Free Foundation's mission but also educates you on the significance of wildlife conservation, fostering a deeper connection with the natural world.

The Shamwari Animal Rehabilitation Centre was created with the purpose of assisting in the recovery of injured wildlife found within the reserve and its neighboring areas. As a volunteer, you'll have the opportunity to join a tour of the center, during which you'll gain a deeper understanding of the entire process involved in rehabilitating injured animals, from the moment of their rescue until their ultimate release back into the wild. There may also be occasions where you are invited to support the veterinary nursing team or the vet, however, please note that such opportunities are not guaranteed and depend on the specific needs at the time. Regardless, your time spent volunteering will provide you with valuable insights into wildlife rehabilitation and the ongoing efforts to preserve these precious creatures.

During weekends, you typically have free time to explore and participate in a range of activities outside the reserve together with your fellow volunteers. The Shamwari team is more than happy to provide guidance and information on reputable local adventure and leisure providers, ensuring you have access to top-quality off-site experiences. These activities span from immersive cultural tours to exhilarating adventures such as canoeing, quad biking, horseback riding along the beach, and various coastal and marine excursions. It's important to note that these off-site activities are optional and come at your own expense, allowing you to tailor your weekend experiences to suit your personal interests and preferences.

At Shamwari, the research projects you will have the opportunity to be involved in are often carried out in partnership with a diverse range of research and academic institutions, both from South Africa and around the world. These fascinating initiatives encompass an extensive variety of topics, such as examining the reproductive patterns of elephants, collecting valuable data on elusive and lesser-known species like the brown hyena, and many other intriguing subjects. The primary goal of these research efforts is to enhance the team's understanding of these extraordinary animals, as this knowledge is crucial for devising more effective conservation methods and ensuring the protection of their natural habitats. By delving deeper into the distinct behaviours, requirements, and obstacles encountered by each species, the team is better equipped to create customised conservation strategies that address the specific needs of these animals.

While participating in the Shamwari project, you will have the opportunity to connect with neighboring communities and assist with the dedicated Shamwari team to promote the importance of safeguarding wildlife and emphasising the crucial role of conserving natural habitats within Shamwari and the adjacent areas. Your involvement can span various initiatives aimed at improving local living conditions and environmental sustainability. These may include creating and tending to vegetable gardens that promote self-sufficiency, engaging in inventive recycling projects to reduce waste and pollution, refreshing learning spaces by applying new coats of paint to classrooms, or building enjoyable and safe play areas such as jungle gyms for the community's children. These combined efforts contribute to a greater understanding and appreciation of the interdependence between humans and the natural world.

Throughout your stay at the project, you will have the chance to engage in a wide range of thrilling activities, and the longer your visit, the more diverse and enriching experiences you may encounter! These activities may include assisting with wildlife capture and relocation efforts, embarking on guided nature walks to learn more about the local flora and fauna, participating in memorable sleep-outs under the stars within the reserve, supporting the dedicated anti-poaching team during their vital patrols, and even lending a hand with essential veterinary tasks to ensure the well-being of the animals. Your days will be filled with adventure and purposeful work, as you contribute to the ongoing efforts of preserving the natural environment and its inhabitants. With a variety of tasks and experiences, you can expect to be fully immersed and constantly occupied during your time at this dynamic and action-packed game reserve.
Activity Overview

The sanctuary's Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre is dedicated to supporting iconic African wildlife impacted by human-wildlife conflict. It offers refuge and care to injured, orphaned, and traumatized animals, with the goal of rehabilitating and releasing them back into the wild. For those unable to return to their natural habitats due to severe injuries or habituation, the sanctuary provides a permanent, nature-inspired home where they can live in an environment that supports their natural behaviors.
As a volunteer, you’ll assist with food preparation, feeding, and cleaning enclosures, and may also participate in rescues, releases, and veterinary procedures, giving vulnerable animals a second chance at life.

The sanctuary is home to large predators such as lions and spotted hyenas, rescued from lion-hunting farms, neglected zoos, and circuses across the globe. Due to the loss of their survival instincts and natural fear of humans, these animals cannot be released into the wild. Instead, they live in expansive, natural enclosures that replicate their wild environment.
As a volunteer, you’ll play a key role in their care by assisting with feeding, maintaining clean enclosures, and supporting their veterinary needs. This opportunity offers a rare chance to work closely with these majestic creatures, gaining firsthand experience in the dedication required to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect animals that were once exploited for entertainment.

The SanWild Cheetah Project plays a pivotal role in a national breeding program aimed at conserving wild, free-range cheetahs, whose populations are rapidly declining despite their "vulnerable" status on the IUCN Red List. At the sanctuary, cheetahs are tracked and monitored using radio collars, contributing to vital research on their behaviors and conservation needs.
The project collaborates with other sanctuaries to ensure the cheetah population's survival and has actively participated in reintroducing cheetahs to Malawi. Volunteers are involved in weekly tracking, observing cheetah behaviors such as hunting habits, mating, and births. There is also the rare opportunity to witness cubs learning essential survival skills from their mothers, providing a unique and rewarding conservation experience.

In 2006, the sanctuary rescued an elephant herd from a former game reserve and developed a comprehensive Environmental Impact Study and Elephant Management Plan to ensure their well-being. Covering 3,000 hectares, the sanctuary can support up to 16 elephants, with 13 currently residing there.
Volunteers play a key role in monitoring the herd, managing population control through contraception for females, and assisting with habitat protection efforts, such as installing electric fences and wire mesh to protect vulnerable trees. They may also be involved in innovative strategies, like using beehives and granite pyramids to deter elephants from sensitive areas, as well as replanting endangered tree species. This position offers valuable, hands-on experience in conservation and reserve management, all while working closely with these majestic animals.

To protect its rhinos, the SanWild Sanctuary utilizes a high-risk/low-reward strategy against poachers, featuring a state-of-the-art 24/7 fencing system that is closely monitored and patrolled daily. The sanctuary also dehorns its rhinos, which has led to a more than 95% reduction in poaching incidents since 2020.
Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting Game Rangers by assisting with fence patrols, tracking rhinos on foot, and helping in the operations room. While volunteers are not permitted to participate in direct poaching pursuits, they are integral to the monitoring process, helping to oversee cameras and dispatch rangers from the control room. This hands-on involvement is vital to the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts to protect rhinos from poaching.

Gene exchange programs are essential for preserving genetic diversity in South African wildlife, given the limited free-range wilderness areas outside of regions like Kruger National Park. As a volunteer, you may assist with the capture, translocation, and release of animals between reserves and sanctuaries, helping to prevent inbreeding and support the long-term sustainability of wildlife populations.

The Habitat Rehabilitation Project focuses on restoring the sanctuary’s land, which was overgrazed when it was used as a cattle ranch. Volunteers play an essential role in clearing invasive sickle bush, treating stumps, creating seed traps, and planting grass and tree seedlings. This initiative aims to reintroduce endangered plant species, transforming the area into a thriving, biodiverse habitat that supports the local wildlife.

Volunteers join counter-poaching patrols across the sanctuary and nearby reserves, helping to track intruders and remove snares. They can also visit the Down to the Wire workshop, where removed snares are turned into jewelry - a meaningful reminder of their impact. These patrols play a crucial role in protecting wildlife.

SanWild is home to an elephant graveyard and historic hand-dug gold mines dating back over 130 years - just some of the remarkable sites guests can explore during their stay. The surrounding region also offers access to some of South Africa’s top attractions.
Weekends are open for volunteers to relax at camp or head out and explore. Whether unwinding by the pool or continuing research in the field, the time is theirs to enjoy.
The team at SanWild is happy to assist with arranging day trips or overnight excursions on weekends, including transport. These are not included in the programme fee, so should be budgeted for separately.

dive into the details
Accomodation
Volunteers stay in two-bedded safari tents with en-suite bathrooms, allocated on a same-sex basis unless booking as a couple. Daily cleaning services are provided.
For added comfort, volunteers can upgrade to a Deluxe safari tent with an open-plan bathroom, bar fridge, coffee station, and plush furnishings for an additional 60 Euro per person per night (subject to availability). The Deluxe tent is ideal for couples or those seeking extra privacy and luxury.
Communal Facilities
Volunteers have access to a lounge, bar, dining room, fire-pit (lapa), pool, and a wooden deck overlooking a watering hole visited by wildlife. Laundry service, Wi-Fi, and complimentary coffee and tea are included, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Laundry
A laundry service is included with your accommodation for your convenience.
Meals
Volunteers enjoy three daily meals prepared by lodge staff, with opportunities to experience bush braais and traditional South African cuisine. Meals are served in the dining hall or on the deck overlooking the watering hole, accompanied by the sounds of roaring lions. Dietary requirements can be accommodated, though gluten-free and vegan options may be limited due to local availability.
Communication
Good Wi-Fi and mobile phone access are available at the lodge, ensuring you can stay connected during your stay.
Electricity
South Africa has experienced load shedding since 2007, where electricity demand exceeds supply, leading to planned power interruptions. These outages usually last around 2 hours, though they can extend up to 6 hours. While citizens receive a 24-hour notice for the outage schedule, it's recommended that volunteers bring power banks, as the schedule may vary depending on the project location.
Dates
The program starts and ends on Mondays, with options to book from 1 to 12 weeks.
Number of Volunteers
Up to 12
Prices (2025) per person sharing
1 week - 1,750 Euro
2 weeks - 2,240 Euro
3 weeks - 3,360 Euro
4 weeks - 4,480 Euro
5+ weeks - Please enquire.
Upgrade to Deluxe tent = 60 Euro per person sharing per night (subject to availability)
The Price Includes
Shared accommodation in Comfort or Deluxe safari tents
3 meals a day
Activities
Airport pick-up and drop-off (from Hoedspruit airport exclusively on Mondays)
Tea and coffee
Laundry and cleaning service
Sanctuary fees and permits
Field experience with professional game rangers
Full orientation
24/7 support
All necessary project equipment, materials, and training
A donation to the project
The Price Does Not Include
Flights
Optional courses on request
Extra local excursions
International and domestic airport taxes
Medical and travel insurance
Personal items and toiletries
Visa costs (where necessary)
Alcoholic and soft beverages, and snacks
Bottled water
Gratuities
Drinks can be purchased at the bar in the main building. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Apple Pay are accepted.
Location
Set within 3,000 hectares of South African bushveld, SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve is a refuge for vulnerable and displaced wildlife. Combining luxury safari experiences with meaningful conservation, it offers a unique opportunity to engage with nature.
Founded in 1998 by the late conservationist Louise Joubert, SanWild grew from a small plot into a vital sanctuary. Driven by a commitment to ethical wildlife protection, Louise established the SanWild Wildlife Trust to rehabilitate animals for release whenever possible, while providing lifelong care in a natural environment for those unable to return to the wild.
Climate & Seasons
Early September to November (Baby Season): This period is characterized by heavy rainfall and denser vegetation, making wildlife a bit more challenging to spot. However, it is also a time of new beginnings, as the sanctuary sees an influx of orphaned or abandoned animals arriving in the wake of the wild's new arrivals.
Early December to Late February: The hottest time of the year, with temperatures reaching highs of around 33°C (91°F) and lows of about 19°C (66°F). This is also the wettest period, though rain typically comes in the form of quick thunderstorms.
Early March to Late May: Considered one of the most comfortable times of the year for volunteering, with daytime temperatures averaging around 29°C (84°F) and dropping to around 13°C (55°F) in the evenings. This period is generally dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Early June to Late August (Winter): Winter in the region offers daytime temperatures ranging between 26-28°C (78-82°F) with cooler evenings, dropping to around 11°C (52°F). This is the driest time of the year, perfect for wildlife viewing and additional excursions.
This guide will provide you with essential information for a smooth journey to and from SanWild Big Five Conservation Sanctuary in South Africa, including details on flights, transportation, vaccinations, visas, and travel insurance.
Flight Itinerary
For volunteers joining the shared transfer to Sanwild book your flight to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) to arrive in the early afternoon on Mondays. When leaving SanWild your departure flight should be booked with departure after 10 am.
Airport Transfer
SanWild arranges shared transfers to and from the airport, taking approximately 1 hour. The transfers are included in your project fee if you arrive/depart on Mondays.
Vaccinations
To ensure your health and safety during your trip to South Africa, it’s important to consult with your doctor regarding the necessary vaccinations. Common vaccinations recommended for travel to South Africa include:
- Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers, regardless of the duration of stay or planned activities.
- Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers.
- Yellow Fever: Mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
- Rabies: Recommended for travelers planning to spend an extended period outdoors or work with animals. This is optional but not compulsory.
- Tetanus: Recommended for all travelers.
Please note that the project is located in a low-risk malaria zone. We recommend discussing antimalarial medication options and recommendations with your healthcare provider. Additionally, if needed, a tetanus booster may be advisable.
Visa Information
Most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and the majority of EU nations, do not require a visa to enter South Africa and are granted entry for up to 90 days upon arrival. To enter, you must have a passport with at least 2 blank pages for immigration officials and it must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance that covers the entire duration of your trip is mandatory. The insurance should include coverage for emergencies and incidents, such as air rescue, hospital or medical costs, and flights. You can check whether you need a visa prior to your arrival here.
We recommend contacting your local travel insurance agent for the best coverage, or you may consider our recommended provider, World Nomads.
Credit Card & Cash
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Apple Pay are accepted at SanWild.
“BUSH PARADISE!
Volunteering at SanWild has been the most amazing time! It is such a great way of experiencing the bush, wildlife and a great way to learn so much more about the Beauty Of the African bush! SanWild has everything and more I can dream of! Facilities, surroundings, adventures and most important to me: great people! I can’t wait to get there again!“
-KATHARINA WALTHER, GERMANY
“THE ABSOLUTE BEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE
Booked it for 2 weeks and extended 2 more. If you are looking to immerse yourself in your experience with wildlife this is absolutely the trip you want. I learned so much because it was hands on. I was able to feed baby zebras, help with finding snares, getting in vehicles to ride the reserve and check animals and spending each morning and evening watching tons of animals at the watering hole. The accommodations and food are wonderful and you are surrounded by wildlife the whole time . All of the people were so incredibly nice, they made you feel like family. I still communicate with them. This truly is a once in a lifetime experience. I guarantee you that you will not find any better.“
-PEG SHANNON, USA
“AMAZING SANCTUARY
I've been a steady volunteer and regular visitor to SanWild over the years, from the very start way back in 2004. I've seen numerous animals rehabilitated and released back into the wild - some of them actually still on the property! Helping out with everything from cleaning bomas to bottle feeding impalas and clearing invasive plants, you get to see all aspects of running a wildlife sanctuary. The newish site the camp is now on is beautiful with views of the Drakenberg range in the background. Sights worth visiting while there include the Panorama Route and of course Kruger National Park, but you'll get plenty of close animal encounters withing the sanctuary itself. Highly recommended!“
-ANN ORRSTEN, SWEDEN
“AMAZING EXPERIENCES IN THE WILD AT SANWILD
It was a great experience that will be remembered forever and i would definitely love to go back. It was a great way to interact with the animals and show how much they are cared for. I really loved the fact that we had a chance to positively affect the animals with our help. SanWild provided all the necessary care and tools that we needed for an amazing experience and they made it very special.“
-CLAUDIA PICOLO, GERMANY

Why we love it
Immersive Wildlife Conservation Experience
SanWild Sanctuary offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage in hands-on wildlife conservation while enjoying the luxury of a top-tier safari destination. Working closely with endangered species and participating in rescue and rehabilitation efforts made our experience truly rewarding.
Breathtaking South African Bushveld
The stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity at SanWild Sanctuary, located in the heart of the South African bushveld, left us in awe. Home to diverse wildlife, including the 'Big 5', it provided unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Comprehensive Volunteer Activities
The variety of activities, from feeding and caring for rescued animals to participating in anti-poaching patrols and habitat rehabilitation projects, kept every day exciting. Each day brought new learning opportunities and a chance to make a tangible impact.
Educational and Personal Growth
The extensive training from experienced conservationists and field guides wasinvaluable. We gained a deeper understanding of wildlife behavior and ecosystemmanagement, fostering personal growth and a profound appreciation forenvironmental conservation.
Make an enquiry for
SanWild Sanctuary
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.