Enquire Now
Enquire

Wildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project in South Africa

Gain Skills in Conservation That Go Beyond Just Photography

Guided and tutored by a professional photographer, gain practical experience in wildlife photography while contributing to the conservation of South Africa’s wildlife. Using your new skills, you will support NGO’s and help raise awareness of environmental and conservation issues in the Greater Kruger Area. 

The photography program is a 4 – 12 week placement (with optional extension) which begins with an intensive induction from our on-site professional photographer. Under guidance and in the impressive setting of the Greater Kruger Region in South Africa, photographers have the opportunity to enhance their photographic skills, encounter some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and most importantly, contribute to on-going research, community and environmental initiatives. 

Read more about the impact you can make as a Wildlife Photography volunteer. 

Project Highlights

  • Develop your existing skills for the next step in your career with one on one guidance and mentorship from a professional wildlife photographer .
  • Improve and refine your camera skills and knowledge of photography with a focus on wildlife landscape, and night photography
  • Learn how to interact with nature responsibly and gain a deeper understanding of ethical wildlife photography and its role in conservation
  • Contribute to research by capturing photos that can be used for I.D. kits and monitoring the health of the animals and reserve
  • Embark on adventures through game reserves adjacent to the Kruger National Park as a part of your photographic experience
  • Learn how your new skills and photos can be used to make a difference through conservation support, marketing, and fundraising
  • Gain a competitive edge by getting practical experience in the field and encountering wild animals in their natural habitat
  • Immerse yourself in the African bush and famous experiences such as night drives and overnighting in an African Big 5 reserve
volunteer watching the sunset in South africa

Quick Facts

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

Hoedspruit Airport

Specific Start Dates

4 - 12 weeks

Impact: Wildlife Conservation

$3,895 – $9,030
Apply Now

Destination

wildlife photography volunteer taking pictures of elephants
pool at volunteer accommodation in Greater Kruger Area
intern bed in Greater Kruger Area
intern accommodation in Greater Kruger Area
Volunteers in Greater Kruger Area, south africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa
wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

The Greater Kruger Area encompasses over 20 private wildlife reserves on the west side of the world-renowned Kruger National Park in South Africa. These private reserves come together to create one big reserve. A significant contribution to wildlife conservation efforts, helping to protect and preserve one of the world’s last remaining wildlife strongholds.

The whole area comprises almost 5.5 million acres of unfenced land where animals roam freely across wild savannah. The Greater Kruger Area is a major hotspot for wildlife conservation and offers endless opportunities for wildlife encounters with iconic animals such as elephants, lions, rhinos, and wild dogs. Many of these animals are endangered or vulnerable.

You will be staying at Olifants River Camp in the heart of the African wilderness. It is a traditional bush lodge set in a big 5 reserve with all the facilities and furnishings you need for a comfortable and authentic stay in Africa.The team are passionate about environmental conservation and it is reflected in how the lodge is run. Recycling, sustainable use of resources, environmental education, and the use of locally grown produce and ethically sourced ingredients are all important aspects of life at Olifants River Camp.

The accommodation includes 7 large dorm rooms overlooking the Olifants River. All the rooms have air-con and bathrooms. Some of the facilities include a swimming pool, outdoor fire pit where we have braais (BBQs), all set in a great shared social space. 

We believe that the best way to learn about a people and a culture is through their food and food customs. Some examples of traditional South African meals our local chefs prepare for you as part of our delicious and nutritious menus include bobotie, a potjie, a Cape Malay-style curry or the experience and excitement of cooking on an open fire with a South African braai.

Braais (an African style BBQ) are one of our beloved traditions. However, although meat is the preferred braai food, just about anything can be thrown on a braai, so even vegetarians and vegans can experience this proudly South African tradition. Meals are provided 7 days a week at Olifants River Camp and we proudly cater for most dietary preferences.

At the lodge there is free WiFi to enable you to make contact with home through WhatsApp, Zoom etc. It is also easy to purchase a sim and add data credit to allow you to use your own phone to stay in touch.

Although South Africa has the usual 4 seasons, there are 2 distinct seasons in the Greater Kruger area. The climate in Kruger is generally considered to be subtropical with hot weather throughout the year. The dry winter season is generally considered he best time for wildlife viewing. Animals tend to congregate around the limited water sources and the vegetation isn’t so dense, meaning animals are easier to find and view! However, the landscape is more lush and beautiful during the rainy summer season and baby animals are aplenty!

Project Impact Areas

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Photographic Workshop

In the first week of this program, you will take part in an extensive workshop alongside our professional photographer. You will learn the basics, secrets, and highlights of photography, learn how to use your camera settings and what you need to focus on when taking pictures. You will get assignments to capture frames, colors, movement, portraits, and much more, all of which should teach you new techniques and make you a better photographer. Lastly, you will be taught how to edit your photographs in Adobe Lightroom – helping them stand out from the crowd. 

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Practical Volunteering

Your remaining time on this project will be spent contributing to our wider aims and objectives here in the Greater Kruger, continuing to develop and grow your photographic skills the entire time. We aim to give you a realistic idea of what it is to be a professional photographer which includes editing and learning how best to use your photographs. Through the different activities identified in the next couple of tabs, we’ll take pride in teaching you how to create National Geographic-level photographs, how to present them in context, and how to seek out opportunities for exposure. You will have assignments to complete and at the end of the four weeks, will be astonished by the end result. 

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Photographers In Action

Working in conjunction with our research department, photographers will assist the research team in collecting animal identification information. By taking clear and concise photographs of the wildlife we encounter on game drives, the research team is able to identify the individuals and report back on their health, movements, and behavior. These photographs are key for reserve management as they feed into identification databases that are consulted when making conservation-led decisions

Use your camera to transport people into the world beneath their feet with Macro Photography. As a photography volunteer, you’ll develop your understanding and appreciation of the smaller aspects of the wildlife environment and learn how to best portray their immense beauty. You will soon be in awe of the amazing creatures we so often overlook, such as the dung beetle, the dragonflies, and many more.

It is very important as a wildlife photographer to work in an ethical manner when photographing animals in their natural environment. Therefore, we will teach you about animal behavior and help you become more conservation-minded in your approach to photography. Understanding how to be a photographer in this context ensures the best possible impact on wildlife conservation, as well as provides you with stunning imagery.

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Photographic Workshop

In the first week of this program, you will take part in an extensive workshop alongside our professional photographer. You will learn the basics, secrets, and highlights of photography, learn how to use your camera settings and what you need to focus on when taking pictures. You will get assignments to capture frames, colors, movement, portraits, and much more, all of which should teach you new techniques and make you a better photographer. Lastly, you will be taught how to edit your photographs in Adobe Lightroom – helping them stand out from the crowd. 

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Practical Volunteering

Your remaining time on this project will be spent contributing to our wider aims and objectives here in the Greater Kruger, continuing to develop and grow your photographic skills the entire time. We aim to give you a realistic idea of what it is to be a professional photographer which includes editing and learning how best to use your photographs. Through the different activities identified in the next couple of tabs, we’ll take pride in teaching you how to create National Geographic-level photographs, how to present them in context, and how to seek out opportunities for exposure. You will have assignments to complete and at the end of the four weeks, will be astonished by the end result. 

wildlife-photography-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

Photographers In Action

Working in conjunction with our research department, photographers will assist the research team in collecting animal identification information. By taking clear and concise photographs of the wildlife we encounter on game drives, the research team is able to identify the individuals and report back on their health, movements, and behavior. These photographs are key for reserve management as they feed into identification databases that are consulted when making conservation-led decisions

Use your camera to transport people into the world beneath their feet with Macro Photography. As a photography volunteer, you’ll develop your understanding and appreciation of the smaller aspects of the wildlife environment and learn how to best portray their immense beauty. You will soon be in awe of the amazing creatures we so often overlook, such as the dung beetle, the dragonflies, and many more.

It is very important as a wildlife photographer to work in an ethical manner when photographing animals in their natural environment. Therefore, we will teach you about animal behavior and help you become more conservation-minded in your approach to photography. Understanding how to be a photographer in this context ensures the best possible impact on wildlife conservation, as well as provides you with stunning imagery.

Other Activities

Volunteering documenting wildlife during a wildlife photography excursion

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

With the world-famous Kruger National Park right on our doorstep, going on safari will be at the top of your list of things to do during your volunteer stay in South Africa. It is the largest game reserve in South Africa, and by far, the best.

Mountains, savannahs, rivers, and tropical forests make up the landscape of Kruger National Park. The Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo – are the most well-known residents. But hundreds of other animals call the Kruger National Park home, so keep your camera ready!

Five volunteers standing on a large rock and posing for a group photo

EXPLORE THE PANORAMA ROUTE

The Panorama Route is a must-do during your time in South Africa. A weekend road trip along the Panorama Route gives you a chance to explore its wonders, including the spectacular Blyde River Canyon. It is the third-largest canyon on Earth. Two of the best ways to experience the canyon is on a white river rafting trip or microlight flight. If you prefer to keep your feet on the ground, Three Rondavels and God’s Window are the best viewpoints.

Waterfall chasing is another highlight of the Panorama Route. The most impressive waterfalls are Berlin Falls, Lisbon Falls, and Lone Creek Falls.

Happy volunteer smiling whilst ziplining in a forest.

MAGOEBASKLOOF ACTIVITIES

Discover a magical place where mountain meets river and numerous adventure activities abound. This lush mountainous area is known as the ‘Land of the Silver Mist’ and is a stunning location to refresh your soul. Choose between a canopy tour, tubing, abseiling, biking, hiking or kloofing. Looking for something a little more relaxed? Enjoy a picnic at Debengeni Falls or head over to Zwakala Brewery for food and drinks.

Recent Volunteer Reviews

“I gained new friends and a lot of wonderful photographs. I received so much photographic knowledge and experience. All of the photography instruction was great and both professional photographers we worked with are wonderful. I really like that the program allows us to work with more than one photographic instructor to help us form our own style and opinions.”
Grace Mcleod, USAWILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY & CONSERVATION
“It was a privilege being exposed to the quality of the guides. Their knowledge is amazing. The photography course stretched me daily as I’m a new aspiring photographer. These guys have a strong work ethic, they are driven and motivated to make, as the name implies, an impact. Their programs are really well planned and so is the organizational day to day living around the lodge. Highly professional.”
Yvette Cherry. USAWILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY & CONSERVATION
“The experience I have had with African Impact and specifically the Wildlife Photography project has been amazing! I have learned a lot, not only photography wise from two very experience wildlife photographers, but also animal- and bush wise from all the guides you are on game drive with. Furthermore, the accommodation and food is amazing and the most important part, you feel very at home with the African Impact family. You will definitely not regret it!”
Lenna van der WeijWILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY & CONSERVATION
Previous
Next

Dates & Rates

Select your Start Date
1 Oct 2023 29 Oct 2023 26 Nov 2023 24 Dec 2023 21 Jan 2024 18 Feb 2024 17 Mar 2024 14 Apr 2024 12 May 2024 9 Jun 2024 7 Jul 2024 4 Aug 2024 1 Sep 2024 29 Sep 2024 27 Oct 2024 24 Nov 2024 22 Dec 2024
Select your Duration
4 weeks $3895
5 weeks $4395
6 weeks $4895
7 weeks $5395
8 weeks $5895
9 weeks $6395
10 weeks $6895
11 weeks $7395
12 weeks $7895
4 weeks $5030
5 weeks $5530
6 weeks $6030
7 weeks $6530
8 weeks $7030
9 weeks $7530
10 weeks $8030
11 weeks $8530
12 weeks $9030
Personal Information

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
Please tick the box to agree to communicate with us*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
kruger-wildlife-photography-internship-african-impact

Project Fee Includes:

  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Accommodation throughout your stay
  • 3 delicious meals a day
  • Transport to and from project
  • 24/7 support from experienced international and local staff
  • Full orientation to ensure you contribute responsibly
  • Project equipment and resources

Project Fee Excludes:

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Visa-related costs
  • Weekend trips or tours not on the itinerary
  • Snacks, soft drinks, gifts, and souvenirs
  • Mandatory contribution of US$25 that is donated to the African Impact Sustainability Fund

Related Projects

Medical and Hospice Support in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Healthcare
The ideal project for those Pre-Med looking for real life experience. Our Cape Town Medical project is what you are looking for.
$2,450 – $5,150
Learn More
kruger-wildlife-photography-internship-african-impact

Wildlife Photography Internship in South Africa

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Wildlife Photography
Join us in the Greater Kruger Area in South Africa, and be guided by a professional wildlife photographer and other budding photographers on this internship to gain practical experience in
$5,995 – $7,995
Learn More
Group standing together with beautiful background of the ocean.

Facilitated Wildlife Research Internship in South Africa

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Wildlife Conservation
Join our research team in the Greater Kruger Area, in South Africa, and gain professional experience in a conservation-driven research initiative and wildlife internship.
$5,795 – $7,795
Learn More
Young group of children pose for a photo after sports match.

Sports Coaching Volunteer Project in Cape Town

Cape Town, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Sports Development
Provide much-needed sports coaching to children in Cape Town’s townships. Physical education brings many health benefits, helps kids develop important teamwork skills, but sports opportunities are limited so requires a
$1,495 – $5,150
Learn More
wildlife-veterinary-assistance-south-africa-volunteer-african-impact (7)

Wildlife Veterinary Program in South Africa

Garden Route, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Animal Care
Join our Wildlife Veterinary Assistance volunteer project in South Africa, and get hands-on, incomparable experience in all facets of wildlife capture and wildlife veterinary procedures, situated on the beautiful Garden
R59,778
Learn More
african-big-5-wildlife-conservation-volunteer-south-africa

African Big 5 Volunteering Project in South Africa

Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
Specific Start Dates
Impact: Wildlife Conservation
Join African Impact’s most popular volunteer project, the African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation project, in the Greater Kruger Area, and assist our expert field guides and research team in various
$2,695 – $8,555
Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

Embarking on a wildlife photography volunteer program is an incredible way to refine your wildlife photography skills while positively impacting local conservation efforts. We’ll take you into the heart of the African bush, in the best light, at the perfect times of the day to ensure you capture the most incredible photographs possible. Working with our research team, you will then add a selection of your pictures to conservation databases that can help inform wildlife conservation decisions and fundraise for local wildlife non-profit organisations.

You’ll be volunteering in South Africa’s Greater Kruger Area, a sprawling expanse of over 20 private game reserves. Sharing a fenceless border with the Kruger National Park, The Greater Kruger Area hosts the same iconic beauty and African wildlife that the neighbouring national park is world-renowned for, but without the crowds. On this volunteer conservation project, you’ll be swept away in the exclusive and unforgettable wildlife encounters that only lucky travellers in the area get to experience.

Yes! Keep reading this page to learn more about our Wildlife Photography and Conservation Volunteer Project in the Greater Kruger Area. If you’re looking to take your professional skills to the next level, consider our Wildlife Photography Internship in South Africa!