Wildlife Photography Internship in South Africa

INTERN

CONSERVATION

Live and Work as a Conservation Photographer

Get hands-on with wildlife photography in South Africa’s Greater Kruger region. Photograph lions, elephants, rhinos, and more in their natural habitat, while learning how to capture images that tell real conservation stories.

As a wildlife photography intern, you’ll begin with an intensive four-week training phase designed to refine your technical ability, strengthen your storytelling approach, and deepen your understanding of ethical wildlife photography. From there, you’ll shift to producing purposeful visual content that supports conservation initiatives.

This is an immersive, skills-driven internship designed for aspiring photographers who want long-term exposure and meaningful creative responsibility.

Project highlights

  • Photograph Wildlife in a Big 5 Reserve

Capture lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in their natural habitat.

  • Create Content with Real Purpose

Produce images and media that support conservation awareness.

  • Receive Ongoing Mentorship

Learn from experienced photographers, with feedback and guidance throughout.

  • Build a Professional Portfolio

Come home with a high quality and varied collection of work.

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
Available: May – Oct
Duration:
8 Weeks+
Price From $6,450
This cost covers your accommodation, meals, project fees, transfers, 24/7 support and in-country orientation.

What You’ll Do as a Wildlife Photography Intern

This internship is divided into two clear phases: structured skill development, followed by applied conservation storytelling.

CONSERVATION

Phase One: Structured Photography Training

Your first four weeks focus on building technical mastery and ethical field awareness. Through a mix of theory sessions, guided game drives, editing workshops, and critique discussions, you’ll strengthen your understanding of:

  • Manual camera control and exposure
  • Composition and storytelling techniques
  • Wildlife behaviour and anticipating movement
  • Shooting in challenging light conditions
  • Ethical photography standards in conservation areas
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Life on Land | Climate Action
CONSERVATION

Phase Two: Applied Conservation Content Creation

Once you’ve established a strong foundation, the internship becomes more hands-on and responsibility-driven. You’ll begin producing visual content that supports real conservation objectives. This may include documenting species of interest for research records, capturing identification images that assist with monitoring efforts, or creating visual stories that communicate conservation challenges and successes. You may assist with:

  • Photographing key wildlife species for ID databases
  • Supporting research teams with clear documentation imagery
  • Developing short visual stories or video clips for awareness campaigns
  • Creating social media-ready conservation content
  • Building image libraries for African Impact and reserve partners
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Life on Land | Climate Action
CONSERVATION

Portfolio Development & Professional Growth

Throughout the internship, you’ll receive one-on-one mentorship focused on preparing you for future opportunities. This includes portfolio reviews, constructive critique sessions, and guidance on positioning yourself within the conservation photography industry. You’ll leave with:

  • A curated portfolio rooted in ethical wildlife photography
  • Field experience inside a Big 5 reserve
  • Insight into conservation communications workflows
  • Practical examples of content used in real-world contexts
U.N. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
Life on Land | Climate Action
What You'll Take Home

Why This Project Suits You

This is a hands-on wildlife photography internship designed for people who want to develop real skills while contributing to conservation. You’ll spend time in the field, learn from experienced professionals, and gain insight into how visual media supports wildlife protection. No prior professional experience? No problem! Curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn are all you need.

By the end of your stay, you’ll have:

Strengthened your technical wildlife photography skills in challenging field conditions

Gained extended experience photographing wildlife in a protected Big 5 reserve

Built a professional, conservation-focused portfolio

Learned how to create visual stories that support real conservation initiatives

Developed a deeper understanding of ethical wildlife photography and fieldwork practices

Example Weekly Schedule

Monday

Breakfast

05:00 – 05:30

Morning

05:30 – 10:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out on the game viewer for a session focused on wildlife, landscapes and light conditions. Interns receive guidance on camera settings, composition and ethical wildlife photography.

10:30 – 12.00 | Cataloguing & Editing

Take some time to download your images, catalogue them and go through some basic editing workflows.

Lunch

12:00 – 13:00

Afternoon

13:00 – 14:00 | Skills Development

Participate in a photography education and skills development workshop, that’s goes more in depth than the volunteer groups. Topics would include exposure triangle, composition, storytelling through images, file management and editing basics.

14:00 – 15:00 | Free Time

Free time to relax at the base before heading out for the afternoon session.

15:00 – 18:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head back out on the game viewer for your afternoon field session. The focus is on behaviour, movement and environmental storytelling. Interns are encouraged to build a structured image set.

Dinner

18:30 – 19:00

Evening

19:00 – 20:00 | Activity Night

Settle in with your fellow volunteers for a fire-pit discussion or fun image reviews and a critique session.

20:00 | Free Time

Tuesday

Breakfast

05:00 – 05:30

Morning

05:30 – 10:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out on the game viewer for a session focused on bird photography, macro or habitat-focused imagery – depending on weather conditions.

10:30 – 12.00 | Cataloguing & Editing

Take some time to download your images, catalogue them and go through some basic editing workflows.

Lunch

12:00 – 13:00

Afternoon

13:00 – 14:00 | Skills Development

Participate in a photography education and skills development workshop. Topics would include lighting, colour theory and basic Lightroom workflows.

14:00 – 18:30 | Free Time

Free time to relax at the base, or participate in optional editing or mentoring sessions.

Dinner

18:30 – 19:00

Evening

19:00 – 21:30 | Night Photography Session

Improve your night time photography skills with focus on low-light techniques, spotlight etiquette and ethical nocturnal photography.

Wednesday

Breakfast

05:00 – 05:30

Morning

05:30 – 10:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out on the game viewer for a session focused on wildlife behaviour and tracking stories through imagery.

10:30 – 12.00 | Cataloguing & Editing

Take some time to download your images, catalogue them and go through some basic editing workflows.

Lunch

12:00 – 13:00

Afternoon

13:00 – 14:00 | Skills Development

Participate in a photography education and skills development workshop. Topics would include story boarding, sequencing images and conservation storytelling. Interns are working on long-term story telling projects.

14:00 – 15:00 | Free Time

Free time to relax at the base, or participate in optional editing or mentoring sessions.

15:00 – 18:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out in the game viewer for your afternoon session in the field. The focus is typically on landscape, conservation work or community-centered imagery.

Dinner

18:30 – 19:00

Evening

19:00 – 20:00 | Free Time

Enjoy some down time at the base and swap stories with your fellow volunteers before heading to bed.

Thursday

Breakfast

05:00 – 05:30

Morning

05:30 – 10:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out on the game viewer for a session focused on documenting research activities, habitat restoration or conservation operations.

10:30 – 12.00 | Cataloguing & Editing

Take some time to download your images, catalogue them and go through some basic editing workflows.

Lunch

12:00 – 13:00

Afternoon

13:00 – 14:00 | Skills Development

Participate in a photography education and skills development workshop. Topics would include ethics, caption writing and use of imagery in conservation marketing.

14:00 – 15:00 | Free Time

Free time to relax at the base, or participate in optional editing or mentoring sessions.

15:00 – 18:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head back out in the game viewer for your afternoon portfolio-focused shooting session in the field, capturing some great shots to build out your portfolio.

Dinner

18:30 – 19:00

Evening

19:00 – 20:00 | Free Time

Enjoy some down time at the base and swap stories with your fellow volunteers before heading to bed.

Friday

Breakfast

05:00 – 05:30

Morning

05:30 – 10:00 | Photographic Field Session

Head out on the game viewer for your final field session of the week.

10:30 – 12.00 | Image Selection & Portfolio Review

Interns select images for their portfolio and review their portfolios with other interns and the photography coordinator.

Lunch

12:00 – 13:00

Afternoon

13:00 | Town Trip

Volunteers depart for the weekly trip to town, where you have the opportunity to visit the local stores. Volunteers staying at the base will return for dinner, volunteers spending the weekend out on weekend activities will head off on their adventures from town.

Dinner

18:30 – 19:00

Evening

19:00 – 20:00 | Free Time

Enjoy some down time at the base and swap stories with your fellow volunteers before heading to bed.

Project Location

Greater Kruger, South Africa

Life in the Greater Kruger Landscape

This project is set within a private game reserve within the Greater Kruger region of South Africa, one of the most well-known wildlife conservation areas in the world. And as a volunteer, you’re not just visiting, you’re living and working within the same landscape, waking up each day surrounded by protected wilderness. Mornings begin early, often before the heat of the day sets in. Evenings wind down around the fire, with wildlife sounds carrying through the darkness. There are no crowds or tour buses: just a small camp, a research team, and thousands of hectares of protected land around you. Plus, living here means wildlife sightings are part of everyday life. You might see elephants near camp or hear lions at night.

Being based in this region also means you’re within reach of some of South Africa’s most iconic attractions. During your time off, there are some great optional activities, such as:

  • Visiting Kruger National Park for additional game drives
  • Exploring the Panorama Route and its scenic viewpoints
  • Cultural visits to nearby communities
  • Guided bush walks or wildlife excursions
  • Relaxing in a nearby regional town

Accommodation

Your Volunteer Home in the Kruger Area

You’ll stay in a rustic research camp located inside the reserve itself, meaning you’re fully immersed in the landscape from the moment you wake up. Accommodation is simple and practical, designed for fieldwork rather than luxury, but comfortable enough to relax after long days outdoors. You’ll share dorm-style rooms in traditional African huts or safari tents, creating a strong sense of team life and shared experience. Please note images are renderings, camp is under construction.

The camp offers several communal areas, including a boma (outdoor fire area) where evenings are often spent together. Living here means early mornings, wildlife sounds at night, and a real sense of being part of a working reserve.

Meals are simple, hearty, and designed to fuel active days in the bush. Most dishes are traditional South African in style, often prepared over an open fire or in the camp kitchen and shared together as a group. Expect filling, home-style meals that prioritise energy and practicality over presentation; the kind of food that tastes even better after a morning spent tracking wildlife. Breakfast is usually light and quick before heading into the field, while lunches and dinners are more substantial. Evenings often centre around the boma, where cooking and eating become part of the social rhythm of camp life. Fresh produce is sourced locally when available, and dietary requirements such as vegetarian and vegan options can be accommodated with advance notice.

You’ll be guided by an experienced team of conservation professionals, field guides, and reserve staff who oversee research, habitat management, and wildlife protection. They bring practical knowledge of predator ecology, elephant behaviour, bush safety, and ecosystem management, and they’ll train you in the skills you need to contribute effectively. From your first day, the team will provide an in-depth orientation covering field protocols, data collection methods, and safety procedures. Throughout your stay, they’ll supervise activities, answer questions, and help you understand the bigger conservation picture behind each task.

Due to the reserve’s remote location within the Greater Kruger landscape, connectivity is limited. Phone signal can be intermittent depending on your network provider, and WiFi is not guaranteed at camp. Many volunteers see this as part of the experience – a chance to step away from constant notifications and fully immerse themselves in life in the bush. Electricity is typically solar-powered or generator-supported, which means power availability may follow certain schedules. Charging points are available, but bringing a power bank is strongly recommended. Before arrival, you’ll receive clear guidance on what to expect regarding connectivity, along with emergency contact details that can be shared with family at home.

Needless to say, your safety is a priority at all times. On arrival, you’ll receive a detailed bush safety induction covering wildlife awareness, safe distances, emergency procedures, and behaviour protocols in the presence of large animals. All field activities are supervised by trained conservation staff and experienced field guides. As a volunteer, you’re never expected to operate independently in areas where wildlife is present. Clear communication systems are in place, and staff are trained in emergency response and first aid. Anti-poaching operations involving enforcement are conducted only by professional rangers. Your role supports conservation efforts within a structured and carefully managed environment designed to prioritise both volunteer and wildlife safety.

Accommodation

You’ll stay in a rustic research camp located inside the reserve itself, meaning you’re fully immersed in the landscape from the moment you wake up. Accommodation is simple and practical, designed for fieldwork rather than luxury, but comfortable enough to relax after long days outdoors. You’ll share dorm-style rooms in traditional African huts or safari tents, creating a strong sense of team life and shared experience. Please note images are renderings, camp is under construction.

The camp offers several communal areas, including a boma (outdoor fire area) where evenings are often spent together. Living here means early mornings, wildlife sounds at night, and a real sense of being part of a working reserve.

The Meals

Meals are simple, hearty, and designed to fuel active days in the bush. Most dishes are traditional South African in style, often prepared over an open fire or in the camp kitchen and shared together as a group. Expect filling, home-style meals that prioritise energy and practicality over presentation; the kind of food that tastes even better after a morning spent tracking wildlife. Breakfast is usually light and quick before heading into the field, while lunches and dinners are more substantial. Evenings often centre around the boma, where cooking and eating become part of the social rhythm of camp life. Fresh produce is sourced locally when available, and dietary requirements such as vegetarian and vegan options can be accommodated with advance notice.

Support Team

You’ll be guided by an experienced team of conservation professionals, field guides, and reserve staff who oversee research, habitat management, and wildlife protection. They bring practical knowledge of predator ecology, elephant behaviour, bush safety, and ecosystem management, and they’ll train you in the skills you need to contribute effectively. From your first day, the team will provide an in-depth orientation covering field protocols, data collection methods, and safety procedures. Throughout your stay, they’ll supervise activities, answer questions, and help you understand the bigger conservation picture behind each task.

Safety

Needless to say, your safety is a priority at all times. On arrival, you’ll receive a detailed bush safety induction covering wildlife awareness, safe distances, emergency procedures, and behaviour protocols in the presence of large animals. All field activities are supervised by trained conservation staff and experienced field guides. As a volunteer, you’re never expected to operate independently in areas where wildlife is present. Clear communication systems are in place, and staff are trained in emergency response and first aid. Anti-poaching operations involving enforcement are conducted only by professional rangers. Your role supports conservation efforts within a structured and carefully managed environment designed to prioritise both volunteer and wildlife safety.

Connectivity

Due to the reserve’s remote location within the Greater Kruger landscape, connectivity is limited. Phone signal can be intermittent depending on your network provider, and WiFi is not guaranteed at camp. Many volunteers see this as part of the experience – a chance to step away from constant notifications and fully immerse themselves in life in the bush. Electricity is typically solar-powered or generator-supported, which means power availability may follow certain schedules. Charging points are available, but bringing a power bank is strongly recommended. Before arrival, you’ll receive clear guidance on what to expect regarding connectivity, along with emergency contact details that can be shared with family at home.

...this internship gave me real opportunities...

“Overall I really enjoyed my time with African Impact. Being a college student, I feel as though this internship gave me real opportunities to photograph a different genre than I am used to and helped me expand my knowledge of not only my camera and editing, but also the industry of photography as a whole. I would recommend this program to anyone just starting out with wildlife photography or anyone who wants to learn a different style of photography. The people and connections you find here are also a major bonus of the experience. I have made friends from all over the world and am planning to travel with them in the coming years.”

Molly Eanes, 21, USA

...one of the most unique experiences of my life...

“Doing my photography internship with African Impact in Africa has honestly been one of the most unique experiences of my life. From day one I felt excited, challenged, and inspired. It wasn’t just about improving my camera skills , it was about discovering new perspectives, meeting amazing people, and being part of something bigger than myself. When it comes to photography, I learned so much more than I expected. I got hands-on practice in shooting wildlife, working with natural light, and capturing fast-moving animals. The team gave me great feedback and tips that really helped me grow in both confidence and creativity. I’d recommend it to anyone with a passion for photography, wildlife, and adventure!”

Demi Rijsdijk, 22, Netherlands

Project gallery

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gallery - conservation research
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gallery - jeep
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gallery - research area
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Gallery - Photographers on drive
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Gallery - Macro butterfly
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Gallery - Giraffe
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gallery - chill are
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Active Participation
Active Participation
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Gallery - Lesser Bushbaby
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Pricing

Rates

USDGBPEURAUD
DurationProgram Fee
8 weeks$6,450 ($807 per week)
10 weeks$8,150 ($815 per week)
12 weeks$9,850 ($821 per week)
8 weeks£5,160 (£645 per week)
10 weeks£6,520 (£652 per week)
12 weeks£7,880 (£657 per week)
8 weeks€5,934 (€742 per week)
10 weeks€7,498 (€750 per week)
12 weeks€9,850 (€821 per week)
8 weeks$9,546 ($1,194 per week)
10 weeks$12,062 ($1,207 per week)
12 weeks$14,578 ($1,215 per week)
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Inclusions

  • African Impact bush style accommodation
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Sun)
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • All project transport, equipment and resources
  • Support from experienced local and international African Impact staff
  • Full orientation for responsible project contribution

Exclusions

Price excludes personal camera equipment, flights, visas, insurance, weekend tours and personal expenses.

Requirements

  • The minimum age to join this project is 18 years old
  • The minimum stay for this project is 2 weeks

Flights & Arrivals

You should arrive to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), which is about 2 hours from our camp in Mtimkulu Game Reserve. Arrive anytime on the Sunday that your placement begins and depart anytime on the Sunday it ends. We’ll be there to greet you! Look for the African Impact sign and a friendly face ready to welcome you. If you are arriving from somewhere other than Hoedspruit, our partner shuttle company offers African Impact volunteers a discount when booking with a promo code. Please request this from your Destination Specialist.

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Volunteering in Africa means travelling with purpose- joining meaningful community or conservation projects, where you pay to cover your stay and project costs, turning your trip into an immersive, impactful experience rather than a traditional holiday.

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Project faqs

What Kind Of Wildlife Will I Be Photographing?

The Greater Kruger Area boasts incredible biodiversity, including the African Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino, and buffalo), plus diverse antelope, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, giraffe, zebra, and countless bird species. Your specific encounters will depend on the season, location, and luck, but rest assured, you’ll have ample opportunities to capture magnificent wildlife moments as a wildlife photography volunteer.

Will I Be Able To Photograph The Big 5 At This Project?

Whilst there is evidence of the African Big 5 (lion, elephant, leopard, rhino and buffalo) all around us, we cannot guarantee that you will see them all. Our project is based in a wilderness area where animals roam freely and do as they please, however, the Olifants River in front of our base attracts plenty of elephants, hippos, crocodiles and a multitude of bird species.

Do I Need Prior Photography Experience?

Absolutely not! Our wildlife photography program welcomes enthusiasts at all levels, especially those driven by a passion to learn and capture the magic of Africa’s wildlife. Our expert guides will provide comprehensive training and mentorship, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to transform your passion into stunning images. So, whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting your journey, a true photography adventure awaits!

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Our favourite weekend activities in the Kruger Area

Head out on a Kruger safari, explore the epic viewpoints of the Panorama Route at Blyde River Canyon, visit conservation initiatives like Down To The Wire or Rhino Revolution, or add a thrill with quad biking and adventure activities at Magoebaskloof!

Magoebaskloof Adventures

Enjoy an action‑packed day with ziplining, river tubing, cliff abseiling, hiking, biking, and thrilling kloofing adventures, perfect for adrenaline lovers seeking unforgettable outdoor fun.

Blyde River Canyon

Experience thrilling white‑water rafting, soar on a gorge swing, or enjoy an unforgettable microlight flight offering breath-taking views over the canyon’s dramatic landscape.

Explore Kruger

Discover this renowned game reserve’s breath-taking landscapes, rich with wildlife, offering unforgettable sightings and an immersive experience in one of Africa’s most iconic natural havens.

Down To The Wire

Learn how wire snares are transformed into meaningful jewellery, attend an inspiring talk, and craft your own piece while supporting a powerful conservation initiative.

Rhino Revolution

This organisation rescues, rehabilitates, and releases orphaned rhino calves affected by poaching, offering vital care and giving these vulnerable animals a second chance at life.

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