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Impact:
Wildlife Photography
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Destination:
Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

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Duration:
4 Weeks+
Rates icon
Rates: From $1,040 per week
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SDG’s:
SDG 12 logoSDG 13 logoSDG 15 logo

Gain Skills in Conservation That Go Beyond Just Photography

Ready for an extraordinary wildlife photography adventure? Embark on a transformative journey where you’ll master the art of capturing Africa’s magic while contributing to vital conservation efforts. Immerse yourself in the guidance of a seasoned professional, unlocking the secrets of African wildlife photography.

Learn to anticipate fleeting moments, frame stunning compositions, and translate the raw beauty of nature into captivating images. This is more than just a photography volunteer program; it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, protecting the very creatures you immortalize through your lens.

You will receive an intensive induction from our on-site professional photographer, ensuring you gain the knowledge and skills to excel in this captivating field of wildlife conservation photography.

Project Highlights

Here are some top highlights from this project.

Project Destination

Immerse yourself in the untamed majesty of the Greater Kruger Area, a sprawling tapestry of over 20 private reserves seamlessly woven together. Bordering the iconic Kruger National Park, this vast landscape pulsates with life, serving as a sanctuary for an extraordinary array of threatened species – from the majestic lion to the powerful elephant, the humble giraffe to the endangered African wild dog.

The whole area comprises almost 5.5 million acres of unfenced land where animals roam freely across wild savannah. The Greater Kruger Area offers endless opportunities for wildlife encounters – the elephants might join you for dinner and just wait until you hear the hippos at night!

Project Impact Areas

Here’s how you will create significant impact through this Wildlife Photography Volunteer Project.

Important Logistics and Ground Support

Everything you need to know about this project in one place!

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Flights & Arrivals

Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) is your best bet, just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Kambaku II Camp. 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.

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Location

Immerse yourself in the Greater Kruger Area, a vast network of over 20 private reserves next to Kruger National Park. This 5.5 million-acre sanctuary teems with life, protecting species like lions, elephants, giraffes, and African wild dogs. Animals roam freely across the unfenced savannah, offering endless wildlife encounters – from elephants joining your dinner to the nighttime calls of hippos.

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Accommodation

You will be staying at Kambaku II Camp in the heart of the African wilderness. It is a traditional bush lodge with all the facilities and furnishings you need for a comfortable and authentic stay in Africa. The accommodation includes seven large dorm rooms overlooking the Olifants River. All the rooms have air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms. Some of the facilities include a swimming pool and outdoor fire pit where we have braais (BBQs), all set in a great shared social space.

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Meals

Meals are provided 7 days a week at Kambaku II Camp and can cater for any dietary requirements, with enough notice. Our local chefs prepare a variety of meals from delicious and nutritious menus including bobotie, a potjie and a Cape Malay-style curry. Experience the excitement of cooking on an open fire with a South African braai twice a week.

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Communication

Cellular signals can be variable. If you are purchasing a local, South African SIM Card, we would recommend using MTN as the service provider. WiFi is available throughout the lodge

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Climate

May to September (winter in the southern hemisphere) are the cooler months and temperatures can be chilly in the evenings and early mornings. Daytime temperatures are mild, usually between 22°C (71°F) to 25°C (77°F), and days can be clear and sunny or overcast. Night-time temperatures can drop to 6°C (43°F).

October to April (summer in the southern hemisphere) most days will be hot and humid. In the middle of summer, temperatures can often reach 34°C+ (93°F+), and the sun is strong.
Most days are clear and sunny, with heavy showers or thunderstorms in the early evenings. You will need a waterproof jacket.

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Staff

Meet Anique van der Kuil, our dynamic Photography Coordinator. With a Bachelor’s Degree in Creative Business under her belt, Anique brings a unique blend of creative thinking, writing prowess, and image capture expertise to our team.

Anique’s journey with African Impact began as a volunteer, where she immersed herself in both Wildlife Research and Photography at our Greater Kruger Base. This hands-on experience ignited her passion for conservation and visual storytelling.
A true digital native, Anique thrives in the fast-paced world of social media. She has a keen eye for analytics and stays ahead of the curve in this ever-evolving landscape. Her talent hasn’t gone unnoticed – her captivating content has been featured by industry giants BBC Earth and Canon South Africa.

Want to see the world through Anique’s lens? Follow her adventures on Instagram @capturedbyanique and witness her unique perspective on wildlife and conservation.

With Anique at the helm of our photography initiatives, we’re excited to showcase the beauty and importance of our work in ways that inspire and educate.

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Safety

Our qualified Field Guides are trained in wildlife encounters, have valid driver’s licenses and our vehicles are well-maintained. Our vehicles are all fitted with radios to ensure we always have contact with base camp. Our project is committed to safeguarding our volunteers, staff and the environment. Our team is trained in Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) competencies. The base is equipped with fire safety equipment, evacuation plans and has access to an ambulance service. Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) is provided for physical conservation work. Upon arrival, our staff will induct you on our policies, procedures, and code of conduct to ensure your safety and awareness.

Our favourite weekend activities in the Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

The Greater Kruger Area offers an abundance of weekend activities for wildlife and conservation participants. From picturesque scenes of the Drakensberg Escarpment, waterfalls, and canyons, to informative conservation-based initiatives and trips to the town of Hoedspruit – there’s something for every participant to enjoy.

How to Apply

Choose a destination in Africa and a project then enquire to ask any questions.

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Connect with our advisors who can answer any questions you have.

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Once you are ready, head to our booking form, secure your place with a small deposit.

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Get ready to volunteer or intern abroad. Our team will support you at every step!

Project Enquiry

After completing the below project enquiry form, one of our Destination Specialists will get in touch to discuss your volunteer experience and any questions you may have. When you are ready to book, we can send you a booking form or you can book directly from this page too.

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STEP 1 - Personal Information

Let's collect some basic information to get started.

STEP 2 - When do you want to Volunteer or Intern?

Give us an idea of your travel plans, you can also choose ‘I’m not sure yet’ if you aren't sure about your preferred start dates.

STEP 3 - How long do you want to Volunteer or Intern for?

Select your preferred duration.
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By opting in to SMS and WhatsApp communication, you give consent to receive text messages from African Impact that will assist in booking your placement. You can opt-out at any time by texting STOP.
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Project Booking

Please complete the details below in order for us to provisionally hold a space on your preferred project. A deposit will be required to secure your position. By submitting these details you agree to our Terms and Conditions.

PRICE

Your weekly cost will reduce if you stay for longer than 2 weeks, book with a friend or are a return volunteer.

Start day: Once per month

PROJECT FEE INCLUDES

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

PROJECT FEE EXCLUDES

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

PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS

Our minimum age for this volunteer project is 16 years of age. Parental consent is required before arrival for those aged 16 and 17. We can also accept 15 years of age if travelling with a parent, but other adult companions it will need to be discussed ahead of time.

DO YOU NEED SUPPORT?

Our experienced African Impact team is here to support you.

Recent Reviews

Steve Bredthauer, 72, USAWildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

I greatly enjoyed my time as a photographer with African Impact. There were numerous morning, afternoon, and evening game drives that gave me ample opportunities for wildlife and bird photography. There was also chances with the research team for camera traps and conservation efforts. Free time on weekends allowed me to make trips to Kruger National Park. This program is highly recommended.

Caterina Vagge, 21, ItalyWildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

This program was a life-changing experience for me. I was able to get to see animals I always saw on screen, how they live and interact with other animals and nature in general. I met amazing people and amazing guides who shared their knowledge with us, teaching us everything about wild animals and environment. We had the weekends to do some amazing trips, like going to Kruger National park and much more. All the staff are amazing, they work all day to make this the best experience anyone could have.

Alex Taylor, 32, UKWildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

The photography course with African Impact exceeded all my expectations. It was well run and organised, catering to all skill levels. I came as just a hobbyist photographer and have developed my photography and editing so much in my time here. Outside of game drives our time was spent on assignments, editing photos and assisting the research group in the identification of animals through our photos and physical conservation. The accommodation was comfortable and tidy and included a community room to get your head down. All in all I would recommend this project to anyone with an interest in wildlife conservation who also wants to focus on their photography.

Ian Wright, 38, New MexicoWildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

I absolutely loved my time with African Impact. I genuinely believe in their mission, and think they are doing an incredible job carrying it out. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and good at what they do. Their love and passion for wildlife is beyond inspiring. They also make sure to help your experience there to be as amazing as possible. I couldn't possibly say enough nice things about the wonderful people who run this amazing program. I absolutely would go back and spend more time here. I felt my time in the Greater Kruger with African Impact was absolutely life changing.

Nektaria Kleopoulos, 24, USAWildlife Photography & Conservation Volunteer Project, South Africa

Overall, it was a fantastic experience. The team was incredibly supportive and responsive to all our needs. Although the living situation involved sharing a room with five other girls, we managed it well. The wildlife was truly incredible, and I had the opportunity to witness the entire Big 5.

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!

How does my photography contribute to conservation efforts?

Our wildlife photography volunteer program often partners with research institutions or conservation NGOs, which means your photos may be used for various purposes, such as monitoring animal populations, documenting specific behaviors, raising awareness about threats, or contributing to educational materials. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of conservation challenges while playing your part in protecting Africa’s precious wildlife.

Will I benefit from this project if I am an established photographer?

You may go through some of the basics of wildlife photography on this project, however, we offer unique skills development, such as macrophotography and atrological photography. If you consider yourself establish and are looking to work on a specific project, you can view our Wildlife Photography Internship here

How do the volunteer and internship programs differ?

Our internships are essentially an extension of our volunteer projects, offering Interns the opportunity to form part of our team from week 4. They will assist our team in leading projects, receive individual mentorship from our team and have the opportunity to work on their own projects under the guidance of our Photography Coordinator.