WELCOME TO
THE RHINO & ELEPHANT CONSERVATION PROJECT
Join a hands-on conservation project in one of Zimbabwe’s most remarkable private reserves. Spanning 4,000 hectares, this family-run sanctuary has been dedicated to restoring native wildlife since the 1950s. Originally a cattle farm, it now provides a crucial refuge for black rhinos, elephants, and other species under threat.
As a volunteer, you’ll play an active role in rhino and elephant conservation—helping with feeding, monitoring, and habitat management. You'll also engage in anti-poaching initiatives, assist with research, and experience unique activities like target practice with rangers and breakfast with elephants.
The reserve is renowned for its successful black rhino breeding and release programs, playing a key role in safeguarding this critically endangered species. In addition to rhinos, you’ll help care for rescued elephants and contribute to habitat restoration efforts that support a thriving ecosystem.
This immersive experience offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at conservation in action while making a direct impact on the future of Zimbabwe’s wildlife.
Up to 24 volunteers
1-12 weeks
Starts every Monday.
Minimum age: 18.
Families with children from 5 years welcome for volunteering
Arrive at Harare Airport (HRE) before 13:00 Monday for pick-up. Depart after 12:00 Monday.
1.5-hour transfer from Harare Airport to project (return) included in price
Limited Wi-Fi; local SIM/data recommended, available at Harare Airport.
Why Choose the Rhino & Elephant Conservation Experience?
Rich Biodiversity
Spread across 4,000 hectares, expect a diverse array of species, from giraffe sand elephants to the iconic black and white rhinos.
Travers Family Commitment
Three generations dedicated to sustainable wildlife practices, with tales like Judy Travers' renowned rhino rescue.
Transformative Volunteering
Limited volunteer groups promise intimate wildlife interactions, offering deep insights into Africa's vibrant ecosystem.
Diverse Conservation Activities
Engage in a plethora of initiatives, from hands-on animal sessions to community education and vital research projects.
Witness Direct Impact
Participate and see firsthand the positive influence of your efforts on the conservancy and surrounding communities.
As a volunteer, you'll play a crucial role in monitoring rhino behavior to identify patterns and gain a better understanding of these elusive animals in the wild. Your research will help predict rhino responses to various stimuli and inform the conservancy's rhino population and habitat management strategies. You'll also observe feeding patterns to prevent over-grazing and over-browsing, plan rhino movements, and determine any necessary dietary supplements for the animals. By learning to use telemetry sets and recognizing rhino tracks and signs, you'll contribute to enhancing rhino management techniques worldwide.
As a volunteer, you'll join snare sweeps to collect snares and traps, minimizing small animal poaching and supporting the anti-poaching unit's mission to protect larger animals. Weekly horse rides help monitor the herd and patrol boundaries. Experience weapons training with scouts and the anti-poaching unit using paintball guns simulating FN rifles. Engage in drills and meet the K-9 anti-poaching unit and Murwi, a highly trained Dutch Shepherd, to learn from their expertise.
At the Rhino & Elephant Conservation, the focus is on providing elephants with a life that closely resembles their natural habitat. These awe-inspiring animals serve as ambassadors for their species, playing a vital role in community education about conservation. As a volunteer, you'll help monitor feeding patterns, repair any conservancy damage caused by elephants, and enjoy memorable walks with them in the mornings or evenings. Learn from their skilled handlers about the challenges elephants face and the ongoing efforts to protect them.
Take an active role in the day-to-day management of the conservancy, ensuring the well-being of its diverse wildlife and maintaining the integrity of their habitat. Your involvement in these essential tasks supports the project's long-term sustainability and success.
At the Rhino & Elephant Conservation, approximately 500 people live or work in various areas such as the conservancy, lodge, volunteer program, and farm, including staff members and their families. The project supports nearby primary and secondary schools by sponsoring building projects, enhancing conservation education, and assisting with extracurricular activities like sports and school conservation clubs. The conservancy also aids the local Idube Clinic through medicine provision and financial donations.
During your free time at Rhino & Elephant Conservation, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a variety of leisure activities, including fishing, canoeing, horseback riding, and hiking. Imire can also arrange weekend trips to Mutemwa Mountain or Markwe Caves, and you can visit the project's lodge for a delicious meal. The team at the project will happily assist with suggestions and reservations.
Activity Overview
dive into the details
Why we love it
rhinos and elephants
Become an integral part of groundbreaking conservation work, where your daily activities directly contribute to the care and protection of endangered rhinos and elephants, offering a hands-on experience that not only benefits the wildlife but also enriches your understanding of these majestic creatures.
Zimbabwe's natural beauty
Immerse yourself in the heart of Zimbabwe's natural beauty, engaging in a family-run project that combines the thrill of anti-poaching efforts and wildlife management with the warmth and legacy of a committed conservation family, making each moment spent on the reserve deeply personal and impactful.
feeding rhinos and elephants
Experience a diverse array of conservation activities, from monitoring and feeding rhinos and elephants to participating in anti-poaching patrols and habitat restoration, ensuring that your volunteer work is varied, educational, and crucial to the ongoing success of the project.
Make a tangible impact
Extend your impact beyond wildlife by engaging with the local community through education and cultural exchange, fostering a deeper connection between conservation efforts and the people who live alongside these iconic species, ensuring a holistic approach to preserving Zimbabwe's natural heritage.
Make an enquiry for
Rhino & Elephant 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.
