This is the ultimate experience or apprenticeship for veterinary, biology, zoology or ecology students. Shamwari is a world famous game reserve so if you want an awe-inspiring, life-changing, behind-the-scenes experience, helping with the running of arguably the best game reserve in South Africa, then Shamwari is for you!

Shamwari Game Reserve offers the ultimate gap year voluntary work experience in Africa. Shamwari, meaning "my friend", is the Southern-most premier Big 5 private game reserve in South Africa. Forming an extension to the Garden Route, the 25 000 hectare reserve boasts five eco-systems and dates back to when game roamed wild and free in the Eastern Cape. Set-up in 1990, the reserve has flourished over the past 18 years and is now a fully compatible eco system that is home to an abundance of wildlife.

As a conservation volunteer at Shamwari you will have the chance to assist with many on-going short and long term projects. As your placement will only be a relatively short time in regards to many projects there is no guarantee that you will be involved in all during your placement.

Conservation at Shamwari is about the management, development and rehabilitation of the environment to create a sustainable ecosystem through the implementation of fundamental conservation principals. The conservation department at Shamwari has a highly effective team including a qualified wildlife veterinarian, ecologist and environmentalist. The Wildlife Department also boasts a breeding centre, an education centre and an anti-poaching unit. To ensure the lasting sustainability of the reserve as an ecosystem rich in biodiversity, the ecology department strives to protect and where necessary to improve the environment.

The reserve is constantly monitoring and introducing game throughout the year, making Shamwari Game Reserve one of our most exciting options for your volunteer placement. As a conservation volunteer you will assist in the ongoing conservation projects found on the reserve, dedicated coordinators will guide you through your placement as you get heavily involved in various aspects of the reserves projects.

• Game Monitoring / Counts


• Community Project - C.A.R.E


• General Reserve Maintenance


• Wilderness Experience - Camping out under the stars in the wilderness area (Weather dependent)


• Shooting and APU (additional cost)


• Orientation of camps and facts


• Fence, wire and rubbish clearing


• Fence Patrol


• Survival Sleep out


• Road Maintenance and Bush Clearing


• Rock packing along fence lines


• Updating data and information on to computer


• Game Counts

As part of your placement there may also be the opportunity to help and assist at the Born Free Foundation’s Big Cat sanctuary situated within the Reserve. It is the mission of both The Born Free Foundation and Shamwari Game Reserve to promote the conservation of species and the protection of habitat while maintaining a humane and compassionate approach to the welfare of animals. Over the years the Born Free Foundation has been able to rescue several big cats from situations where they are in serious danger, and provide them with excellent life time care.

As a conservation volunteer you may be involved with the feeding of these big cats as well as the maintenance of their enclosures.

0845 344 7511

Worldwide Experience offers volunteers a unique conservation opportunity to work on some of Southern Africa's premier private game reserves or leading marine ocean research projects. A conservation placement is the ultimate life changing experience gives you the chance to give something back and make a difference to the natural environment.