Book the adventure of a lifetime!

UmPhafa Private Nature Reserve offers a number of placements to people who have a passion and an interest to learn about African Wildlife. Whether you are studying some form of Nature Conservation or would just like to have the experience of a lifetime our internships are for you..

This will be so much more than the typical safari experience and as an assistant to UmPhafa’s management, participants will have a fun, interesting, exciting and, overall, valuable time by playing a crucial role in the operation of the reserve by helping to collect vital data necessary to make key management decisions. This in itself is much more fulfilling than simply visiting Africa as a tourist and volunteers will have the satisfaction of being close to the animals and knowing that their contribution is having a direct influence on the wellbeing of the fauna of UmPhafa Reserve.

This is an opportunity to gain creditable work experience in the field and learn new skills from qualified staff members over a wide range of aspects involved in the running of a reserve. Days will be varied with duties including behavioural observations on game species which often involves stalking species through the bush at close quarters!! Participants will also be aiding with the other current research projects such as small mammal trapping and camera trapping of elusive nocturnal species providing an exceptional chance to learn crucial survey techniques as well as gaining a greater appreciation of African animals and habitats. Depending on the time of the year there may even be the chance to see animals released onto the reserve and take part in game capture!!

Vegetation surveys and assessments comprise an important element and research assistants will learn the importance of particular plant species, their traditional/medicinal uses, and vital nutritional information of the various herbivorous species. Some general maintenance of the reserve’s roads, fences and structures is also often necessary and assistance will be required in the construction of hides and research camps.

There are several other reserves nearby including a ‘big 5’ game park which there will be the opportunity to visit as well as the chance to visit the famous Drakensburg Mountains.