Help rehabilitate all kinds of species of animals at the wildlife sanctuary and head off into the desert to contribute to research.
I volunteered at the wildlife sanctuary in Namibia, for a month in early summer 2018. The Mighty Roar had lots of information, I booked through them because they were professional and very approachable. Travelling to and from Namibia was very easy, I was met by a lovely member of staff when I arrived so I was never alone.
When we got to the reserve I was busy straight away! I went on a baboon walk after a short tour and dropping off my bags. There were probably 20 or so volunteers for the first few days I was there, but more and more people arrived over the 4 weeks, and there were around 55 when I left.
The activities during the week were varied and fun, a mixture of cleaning, feeding, research, and enrichment. I also volunteered at the Clever Cubs School for a week, a brilliant experience!
"Volunteering in Namibia was the best month of my life – I was so nervous to travel alone but it was the best thing I have ever done! I hope to return to Africa one day."
When we had free time we had the opportunity to go to town or to the lodge for a nice lunch and a dip in the pool! I went to the lodge, and it was AMAZING. Would highly recommend (although the pool was freezing).
The weather was interesting: freezing overnight (bring a sleeping bag!) but boiling when the sun was high.
I made so many friends from all over the world who I have kept in contact with on Facebook and Instagram.
The local team also have social media so you can follow them and see how your favourite animals are doing! Some members of staff who made the experience brilliant for me include the research team, Tanja and Burton, and one of the coordinators, Charlie. Everyone was very friendly though!
The accommodation was nicer than I was expecting (I was in a tent not a room), it was amazing to wake up to the African sun every morning.
Volunteering in Namibia was the best month of my life – I was so nervous to travel alone but it was the best thing I have ever done! I hope to return to Africa one day.
