WELCOME TO
KARIEGA BIG FIVE CONSERVATION
Step into a world where conservation meets adventure at Kariega Big Five Conservation, nestled within close reach of South Africa's captivating coastline. Engage in the ultimate Big Five adventure, contributing to important wildlife monitoring and community initiatives, all set against the backdrop of Africa's breathtaking landscapes.
Why Choose the Kariega Conservation Experience?
- Tangible Impact in Wildlife Conservation:
Dive into hands-on conservation work at Kariega. From monitoring majestic elephants and rhinos to contributing to vital research through camera trap data, your efforts play a crucial role in the reserve’s ecological well-being. - Diverse Activities for a Holistic Experience:
Kariega’s program goes beyond wildlife. Engage in habitat management, support anti-poaching efforts, and participate in enriching community outreach, offering a comprehensive insight into conservation. - Adventure and Learning Combined:
Experience educational bush walks, thrilling game drives, and unique bush sleep-outs. Kariega is not just a destination; it's a place of learning, discovery, and active environmental stewardship. - Weekend Adventures Near the Coast:
Your workweek is filled with conservation efforts, while weekends offer a chance to explore. Just a short journey from the Indian Ocean, discover the region's stunning beaches and local attractions. - Commitment to Conservation and Community:
Kariega stands as a beacon of effective wildlife conservation and community involvement, making it an ideal location for those passionate about making a meaningful difference.
Join Kariega Big Five Conservation
For those eager to immerse themselves in wildlife conservation, Kariega Big Five Conservation offers a comprehensive and enriching experience where you'll not only contribute to critical conservation efforts but also gain a profound understanding of wildlife management and community development. Get in touch with us to start your extraordinary adventure in South Africa.
More insights
Discover Kariega Big Five Conservation: A Unique Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled in the picturesque Eastern Cape, the Kariega Big Five Conservation project invites volunteers to a majestic 11,000-hectare wildlife oasis. This reserve is a sanctuary for the famed 'Big5', flourishing in an environment nurtured by the Bushman and Kariega Rivers.
Conservation Efforts Amidst Natural Beauty
Since its founding in 1989, the project has been at the forefront of wildlife preservation, with the reserve's untouched landscapes offering a natural habitat for diverse species. However, the increasing challenges of poaching and environmental pressures have intensified the need for proactive conservation strategies to protect key species like rhinos and elephants.
Volunteering with Impact: Beyond the Safari Experience
Volunteers at Kariega Big Five Conservation immerse themselves in an experience that transcends the typical safari. As 'assistant conservation managers', they engage in a variety of crucial tasks, from game capture, including lions and buffalo, to monitoring elephant populations and aiding in necessary animal relocations.
Making a Difference in Wildlife Preservation
A volunteer journey at Kariega Big Five Conservation is not just about witnessing the beauty of African wildlife; it's about actively contributing to their survival and well-being. This project offers a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of South Africa’s wildlife species and experience a new dimension of the classic African adventure.
QUICK FACTS
GENERAL
- Up to 16 volunteers, 2-12 weeks, starting each Monday.
- Minimum age: 18
TRAVEL AND TRANSFERS
- Arrive at Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) on Monday, 09:00-14:30. Departures after 12:30 on Monday.
- Transfer between Port Elizabeth Airport and Kariega: 25 Euro/way, payable directly.
MEALS & MORE
- Meal ingredients provided; volunteers cook in teams. Free water, coffee, and tea.
- Cell service available; purchase local SIM/data at the airport. Free but limited Wi-Fi at Volunteer house.
ADDITIONAL ADVENTURES
- Weekends free: Explore the Garden Route, beach horseback riding, skydiving, and more.
Activity Overview
dive into the details
Accomodation
Volunteers stay in a renovated, comfortably furnished house within the reserve. The volunteer house provides a cozy and functional living space. Accommodations include five bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom. Four of these rooms are double occupancy, and one can accommodate three people. You will share your room and bathroom with fellow volunteers. Bedding is provided, so there's no need to bring your own. The house boasts several amenities, including a pool table, a TV lounge for relaxation, a fully equipped kitchen for meal preparations, a plunge pool for unwinding, and a 'braai' (BBQ) area for social gatherings.
Meals
All ingredients necessary for three basic meals daily are provided to volunteers. You'll be part of a cooking team, and together you will prepare meals in the house. Responsibility for kitchen cleanliness, including washing up, is shared among all volunteers. If you desire additional ingredients not available at the house, you can purchase them during town trips at your own expense. We cater to general and vegetarian dietary needs. However, if you have specific dietary requirements, such as gluten or dairy intolerance, you'll need to purchase your specialized products, like gluten-free bread or soy milk, which are readily available at local supermarkets.
Communication
The volunteer house offers free but limited Wi-Fi. You can bring your phones, laptops, or tablets for internet access, but please be mindful of usage, as data is limited. The Wi-Fi is suitable for browsing but not for downloading, video Skype calls, or streaming videos. Communication through emails, Facebook, and blogging is possible on your devices. The reserve has phone reception; however, check with your service provider for costs, or consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport for convenience.
Laundry
The program's cleaning staff will take care of all your laundry needs using theon-site washing machines. However, please be aware that the project cannot beheld responsible for any damages to clothing due to factors like hard water, color runs, shrinkage, or the effects of chemical cleaners.
Shops
On weekends, you and your fellow volunteers can explore the nearby beach sidevillage, offering a chance to shop, dine out, and enjoy the beach. Currently, the taxi fare between the reserve and the nearest town, Kenton On Sea, is approximately R200 per person.
Dates
The program starts and ends on Mondays, with options to book from 2 to 12 weeks. Please note, the program will be closed for Christmas starting from December 9th, 2024 (last departure day).
Number of Volunteers
Up to 10 persons
Prices (2024) Per Person Sharing
2 weeks – 1,100 Euro
3 weeks – 1,650 Euro
4 weeks – 2,200 Euro
Additional weeks – 550 Euro per week
+ Airport transfer between Port Elizabeth Airport and Kariega – 500 rand/way (around 25 euro)
The Price Includes:
Accommodation at Kariega
3 meals a day
Juice, tea and coffee
Wi-Fi at the volunteer house
Laundry service
Support and guidance throughout your stay
The Price Does Not Include:
All flights
Travel insurance
Airport transfers between Port Elizabethort and Kariega
Soft and alcoholic beverages, snacks etc
Personal items
Just a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) in South Africa lies the Kariega Big Five Conservation area, a gateway to the thrilling adventures of the Eastern Cape. Situated along the picturesque Garden Route, the region offers a variety of exciting activities, from horseback riding and surfing to canoeing and bungee jumping.
Climate & Seasons
The Eastern Cape province is known for its diverse climate, generally characterized by mild to warm conditions and cooler temperatures at higher altitudes.
Summertime (December to February): Experience hot, humid days along the coast and warm weather inland during the summer months. Daytime temperatures average 25-30°C (77-86°F), cooling to 17-20°C (63-68°F) at night, depending on the location.
Autumn Season (March to May): Autumn brings mild temperatures and occasional rainfall. The average daytime temperature ranges between 22-25°C (72-77°F), with cooler nights at 11-14°C (52-57°F). Wintertime (June to August): The winter months are cooler, with occasional rainfall. Daytime highs are around 18-21°C (64-70°F), and nighttime lows vary from 5-8°C (41-46°F), influenced by location and altitude.
Springtime (September to November): Spring is characterized by mild temperatures and sporadic winds. Expect daytime highs of 22-25°C(72-77°F) and night temperatures around 10-13°C (50-55°F).
Travelers to the Eastern Cape should be prepared for a range of weather conditions, from mild winters to warm summers, with the possibility of wind and rain during autumn and winter. Being equipped for these variations ensures a comfortable and enjoyable visit to this diverse and beautiful region.
This guide will provide you with essential information for a smooth journey to and from Kariega Big Five Conservation, including details on flights, transportation, vaccinations, visas, and travel insurance.
Flight Itenerary
Flights to Kariega should be scheduled to arrive at Port Elizabeth between 09:00 – 15:00. Choosing a mid-day flight, especially one between 12:00 and 13:00, is optimal for arranging shared transfers and minimizing your wait at the airport. When planning your departure, aim to book a flight leaving after 12:30 on Monday to ensure a smooth transition from the reserve to the airport.
Airport Transfer
Transfers from Port Elizabeth airport to Kariega are timed to depart between 13:00 and 14:30 on Mondays. For your return journey, the transfer from Kariega leaves between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, arriving at the airport around 10:30/11:30 AM. It's recommended to book return flights with departures scheduled between 12:30 and 15:30 on Monday.
Vaccinations
We strongly advise you to consult your doctor to ensure you have the appropriate vaccinations for your trip. The Eastern Cape district, where Kariega Big Five Conservation is located, is a malaria-free area. Here are some of the most common vaccinations recommended for travel to South Africa:
Hepatitis A: Recommended for all travelers to South Africa, regardless of the length of stay or their planned activities.
Typhoid: Recommended for all travelers to South Africa.
Yellow fever: Required for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Rabies: Recommended for travelers who plan to spend a significant amount of time outdoors or work with animals.
Tetanus: Recommended for all travelers.
Visa Information
When arriving in South Africa, visitors from most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, are automatically granted a tourist visa, valid for up to 90 days. Please ensure your passport has at least 2 blank pages for immigration use and remains valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your arrival date. To confirm if your country qualifies for the visa exemption, consult the South African government's list of exempt countries at: http://www.dha.gov.za/index.php/countries-exempt-from-sa-visas.
Travel Insurance
Valid travel insurance is mandatory for the entire duration of your trip. The insurance should cover all costs associated with emergencies or incidents, such as air rescue, hospital or medical costs, and flights. Contact your local travel insurance agent or consider our recommendation, World Nomads at https://www.worldnomads.com/.
Credit Card & Cash
It's recommended to bring some cash in South African Rand, particularly in smaller denominations, for on-site purchases like snacks and soft drinks. You'll have the opportunity to withdraw cash during weekly town visits. Credit cards can also be used in town.
"I have had an amazing experience. I have learned so much more thananticipated outside of wildlife photography. My workflow and editing skills haveincreased as well as learning macro and portrait photography. This is anexperience I will never forget."
-Stacey, USA
WHY we love it
Dive into the heart of conservation with hands-on activities like monitoring iconic African elephants and rhinos, contributing to vital research that aids in the preservation of these majestic creatures and their habitat.
Beyond wildlife, embrace a holistic conservation effort through engaging community outreach, teaching basic English to local children, and participating in environmental restoration, making a tangible difference in both ecological and human communities
Experience the raw beauty of South Africa's wilderness with unique adventures such as bush walks, game drives, and unforgettable sleepouts under the stars, enriching your connection to nature and wildlife.
Located a stone's throw from the breathtaking Indian Ocean coastline, Kariega offers a perfect blend of conservation work and leisure, allowing for weekend explorations of endless sand dunes and serene beaches, creating a truly rounded and memorable experience.
MAKE AN ENQUIRY FOR
Kariega Big Five 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.