We invite you to come and experience Africa and her diverse wildlife. This family run project is nestled deep in the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve, an area of pristine wilderness, where animals and birdlife are prolific. The Tamboti Volunteer Project introduces you to African wildlife and conservation.

As a volunteer you will get to meet black rhinos and white lions face to face! Learn about wildlife in the bush and make a contribution to conserve habitats and species, as well as taking with you many experiences and an intimate knowledge of African ecology.

As well as Workshops, Biological monitoring, Reserve management and Excursions, the Volunteer Program also features:

An introduction to conservation in Southern Africa – useful for those who wish to pursue a conservation orientated career, and very interesting for everyone else.
Wildlife viewing – both during the day and night from hides or during game drives.
Animal and bird ecology and behaviour – in depth knowledge about African animals and birds. You will leave knowing much about the African wildlife. Including the identification, ecology and life structure of most predators and antelopes.
Bird survey work – you will become familiar with identifying the common birds on the reserve by sight and sound.
Biodiversity of the Waterberg – recording of fauna and flora species, from grass species to the most amazing species of reptiles, amphibians and insects.
Learn to read spoor and tracks of game as well as ‘bush safety’.
Wilderness camping - camp out under the stars learn how to set up a bush camp and learn a little about astronomy, and if you are lucky lie back and listen to leopards roaring!
Habitat restoration/alien invasion control – removal and control of sicklebush, flannel weed, silver clusterleaf, as well as other problem plants. Habitat work to encourage diversity of different habitats on the reserve.
Reserve maintenance – erosion prevention, road maintenance, fence checking, waterhole creation/ maintenance, removal of cattle wire, hide maintenance/ creation, nest box creation.

Occasionally there is the possibility to assist in functions at the lodge, or even with care and rehab of wild animals (in the past we have had to tend to bushbabies, kudu, egyptian geese, African harrier hawk and ostrich).

Excursions
We have included a number of excursions as part of the volunteer project, as we believe that it is important for volunteers to see and experience the majestic beauty of the African Waterberg, its wildlife, landscapes and ancient heritage. Some example trips are; Rhinoland 'Big five' safari, Touchstone Ranch 'Big five' safari, Marakele National Park, D'Nyala National Reserve, Lapalala Wilderness, Guided Walk with San bushmen, Mara pong Cultural Women’s Group and town trips.

We aim to organise one or two excursions per week and will take into account group preferences.

What's included?

• Johannesburg Airport collection and drop-off.
• Overnight accommodation in Johannesburg.
• Return transfers between Johannesburg and the Reserve.
• A comprehensive welcome brief from a member of the project team.
• Accommodation at the Reserve.
• All meals for the duration of your project.
• All workshops and activities.
• All excursions.
• All transport/transfers in and around the Reserve.
• Equipment and consumables.
• An attractive certificate recognising your contribution to the Tamboti Conservation Project.
• A reference for inclusion with your CV.

If you are adding the optional Cape Town Week, the following will also be included:

• Cape Town Airport collection and drop-off.
• A Welcome Pack complete with many useful items that will help you settle in, and an opportunity to let your family or friends know you have arrived safely.
• An embroidered AVIVA Fleece.
• 8 nights’ accommodation at AVIVA House in Cape Town with self-service breakfasts (7 nights before your project and 1 night when you return to Cape Town after your project).
• A full-day Peninsula Tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon's Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
• A half-day Cultural Tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africa’s recent political history before and after Apartheid, includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africa’s second largest township after Soweto.
• A full-day tour to the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch regions. Wine tastings and lunch included.
• Our booking service for all attractions and events.
• Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.
• Return flights between Cape Town and Johannesburg to join your project.
• If required, extra nights can be added to your stay to meet your flight dates for only R120 per night. This may help you to take advantage of any cheaper flights that arrive in Johannesburg (or Cape Town) before your planned arrival date.