Overview

This programme offers you a rare opportunity to actively participate in significant conservation projects across various ecosystems. Set amidst the stunning landscapes of Plettenberg Bay, you’ll lay the groundwork for hands-on conservation research in this extraordinary setting. From the coast and the sea to forested conservation areas, you’ll immerse yourself in a world of exciting tasks focused on preserving biodiversity and collaborating with local communities. Learn more.

Details

The programme is tailored to your learning goals, giving you the chance to gain valuable experience in scientific research, data collection, and conservation. At the same time, you’ll explore the region’s beauty – whether hiking through picturesque landscapes or snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.

As an intern, you will be involved in various research projects that support the conservation of South Africa’s unique ecosystems. Your tasks will include data collection in marine, coastal, river & estuaries, forest & fynbos areas, and urban areas as well as wildlife monitoring in those areas.

You will work with camera traps, identify plants, conduct water analyses, and actively participate in projects that raise conservation awareness in local communities.

Each week offers you a new focus, giving you the opportunity to delve deep into different areas of research and learn practical skills. The tasks are done on foot as well as with vehicles, boats, and kayaks – always focussing on data collection and research. Your time will be filled with many different tasks in different ecosystems.

But this internship goes beyond conservation work – it’s also a profound opportunity for personal growth. You’ll learn to adapt to the ever-changing conditions of nature, thereby strengthening your resilience and flexibility. During the programme, you can expect a varied mix of field research, theoretical training, and implementation of your own projects, all under the guidance of experienced mentors based in South Africa.

Accommodation & Meals

Your accommodation is situated in Nature’s Valley, a small, picturesque residential area surrounded by the majestic Tsitsikamma National Park mountains.

The house is a charming three-bedroom wooden property with a fully furnished open-plan kitchen, lounge, and dining area. Rooms are typically shared, with a maximum of two people per room. The property includes a lovely, covered patio, a spacious garden, and a designated area for braai (BBQ).

There is a laundry room with a washing machine and dryer – washing powder will be provided. The house is equipped with internet and Wi-Fi, but there is no landline. The office is just a three-minute walk away, and the beach entrances and hiking trails are also within easy walking distance.

Meals and drinks are not provided and will need to be purchased at your own expense. Once a week, your team will take you to a grocery store to restock your supplies for the upcoming week. The house features a fully equipped kitchen where you can prepare your own meals and store your groceries in the fridge and cupboards.

Services, Dates, Cost

Services:

Included:

  • Placement in the programme
  • Assistance with travel arrangements
  • Assistance with selecting travel insurance
  • Assistance with booking flights
  • Risk coverage certificate
  • Pre-departure information pack
  • Accommodation during the programme
  • Drinking water
  • Training during the programme
  • Programme-related equipment
  • Learning material
  • English-speaking support by long-term experienced staff
  • 24/7 support throughout the programme
  • Certificate

Not Included:

  • Flights
  • Airport pick up and drop off
  • Visa fees
  • All meals during the programme
  • Personal expenses and optional excursions
  • Accommodation outside programme hours

Dates:

Volunteers are able to join anytime of the year under the condition that the programme co-ordinators have approved the requested dates.

Fees:

  • Fees (2024):
    • 8 Weeks: €1950.00 EUROS
    • 10 Weeks: €2400.00 EUROS
    • 12 Weeks: €2850.00 EUROS
  • Fees (2025):
    • 8 Weeks: Not Yet Received
    • 10 Weeks:
    • 12 Weeks:

Find out more and apply here