from 1,241€

Excellent 4.8rating (13)

African Elephant Welfare Research

location
3 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 15 - 50+

rating  Excellent 4.8  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World

Highlights

  • Observation: Shifts during the day in a stunning landscape monitoring elephants up close; night time observation of behaviour and sleeping activity, where you may see them laying down to sleep!
  • Dung walk: Twice a week, we collect dung samples for laboratory processing and analysis. Join us during elephant breakfast and the morning walk as we look for some poop!
  • Nursery projects: Help the team fight against alien invasive vegetation and take care of our baby plants—a great way to get some exercise!
  • Creative time: A lovely way to end your day! Be creative and make AERU crafts to raise funds for our research.
  • Community projects: Different projects aimed at helping local communities (education, construction, cleaning, creation, and providing a helping hand to other local associations).

Especially good for

Age 15+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Join our volunteer program, which offers those with a passion for elephants, the chance to contribute towards elephant husbandry, welfare, research and conservation!

Why is our program important?

AERU plays a crucial role in using research as a tool to guide elephant management on the Knysna Elephant Park. Our research investigates the behaviour and social dynamics of African elephants with one another, as well as their interactions with tourists. This important ...

About the program

Why is our program important?

AERU plays a crucial role in using research as a tool to guide elephant management on the Knysna Elephant Park. Our research investigates the behaviour and social dynamics of African elephants with one another, as well as their interactions with tourists. This important work allows AERU to provide scientific insights and publish scientific papers that can benefit and improve elephant management in semi-captive and captive facilities around the world, developing the best operational practices that ensure their welfare is made the top priority. AERU's primary goal is to ensure the optimal physical, psychological, and social well-being of African elephants in semi-captive environments, helping them live healthy and enriched lives. 

How are we helping? 

AERU offers objective, data-driven insights, we advocate for enhanced welfare standards, providing crucial information that guides everything from daily care practices to long-term management strategies. 

By choosing this program, you can contribute to our ongoing research while undoubtedly experiencing some of the most unforgettable moments of your life. Observing and working alongside the largest land mammal on Earth is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What is the volunteer experience?

The elephant herd you will be working most closely with resides on Knysna Elephant Park (KEP). You will live on-site at KEP during your stay, fully immersed in a life among our elephants. We provide on-site training for our elephant research projects, as well as complimentary related tasks such as boma upkeep, conservation and rehabilitation projects, and environmental education work. 

By the end of your stay, you will have learned a significant amount about elephant biology, social dynamics, behaviour, husbandry, and welfare, and how research practices are conducted, and most likely will have fallen in love with our herd ! You will also have gained a broader understanding of their crucial role in the natural environment and the aspects involved in keeping them happy and healthy. 

Here is a non-exhaustive list of activities that will be offered during your stay:

Research Task 

  • Monitoring elephant behaviour. Following and observing elephants in the field, recording behaviours such as grazing, drinking, playing, dusting, and walking.
  • Recording social interactions between elephants – how they relate to, and communicate with, each other using their trunks and bodies.
  • Night-time observations of elephant behaviour – what is a good night’s sleep for an elephant?
  • Recording and monitoring interactions between elephants and tourists.
  • Botanical surveys of the park – relating plant diversity to grazing patterns and elephant distribution
  • Studies of feeding behaviour and plants eaten by the elephants
  • Collection of dung and other samples for physiological analysis
  • AERU laboratory work – processing of dung samples
  • Data input and analysis

Additional Task

  • Elephant husbandry: This can include preparing their food, changing their sawdust bedding, and cleaning out their overnight boma areas including chewed branches and dung.
  • Nursery project: Animals depend on their natural habitats for survival. This project focusses on growing plants to maintain indigenous biodiversity and eliminating alien invasive species that threaten it. The Nursery is also used for growing plants for community support.
  • AERU Shop production: Help make items which are then sold to raise money for the various AERU research and enrichment projects.
  • Elephant enrichments: Set up intriguing enrichments, stimulating their minds and taste buds!
  • Camera Trap setup: The Park has many less obvious residents, this project discreetly monitors wild animal species living in the forest areas on-site, helping us understand our resident fauna biodiversity.
  • Environmental education: Preparing information to share with school groups or children, guiding their appreciation for nature and the importance of co-existence.

Please note: the activities offered may be influenced by the weather, the number of volunteers present on site, or any other factors beyond our control; working with animals can sometimes be unpredictable.

What about the team? 

On site, you will meet our friendly qualified team ! Our mission is for our volunteers to leave with useful new knowledge about elephants and wildlife conservation, but most importantly, with unforgettable memories and an appreciation for elephants.

We are a small team of 6 - 7 from a variety of different backgrounds (English, Afrikaans, Xhosa, French, Danish, Swazi...). We each have our own specialties, providing you with a broad spectrum of research and conservation insights!

Many of our AERU team live on site at KEP accommodations (Bunkhouse and Mainhouse). It is important for us that volunteers feel embraced as part of our herd as they are typically far from their homes. A simple message in the WhatsApp group, and one of our friendly staff will be there to assist you when needed

Where the volunteers are living? 

All our volunteers are living with the staff, between the two accommodations on site (in the park). So yes, you will be sleeping next to elephants ! Security guard patrols are conducted in the area throughout the night to ensure the safety of both the elephants and the staff on site (reassuring safety measures for our volunteers).

The park is located on the Garden Route, offering many activities to enjoy, as well as breath-taking natural areas to explore.

What to bring ?

AERU is providing the uniform (2 AERU T-shirts, 1 fleece jacket and 1 cap). You have to bring your own trousers/shorts (khaki, brown, green or dark), good shoes (hiking boots or durable trainers) for walking in the field and an all-weather coat/ jacket for chilly and rainy days.

Here is a list of what you should bring:

  • Towels
  • Latex gloves (for dung collection)
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen (SPF 50 or more)
  • South African plug adapters (3 round pins)
  • Evening entertainment: Books, games, music etc...
  • Swim suite (to enjoy the beach over the weekend)
Optional
  • Torch/Flashlight
  • Water bottle
  • Camera and binoculars
  • Personal First Aid Kit
  • Any donations for community projects (stationary/toys/balls)

A shopping trip is scheduled every Friday for weekly groceries, so if you forget something essential, don’t worry!


Typical day

You will be working from Monday to Friday (7:00 to 17:00 in average) with our team.

Here are two examples of typical days:

Monday 

7:00/8:30 = Dung walk

8:30/10:00 = Observation shift

10:00/11:30 = Lab work

11:30/13:00 = Lunch

13:00/14:30 = Observation shift

14:30/16:00 = Elephant enrichment in camp

16:00/17

Typical day

You will be working from Monday to Friday (7:00 to 17:00 in average) with our team.

Here are two examples of typical days:

Monday 

7:00/8:30 = Dung walk

8:30/10:00 = Observation shift

10:00/11:30 = Lab work

11:30/13:00 = Lunch

13:00/14:30 = Observation shift

14:30/16:00 = Elephant enrichment in camp

16:00/17:00 = Creative session (crafts)

Friday

7:30/8:30 = Night camp cleaning

8:30/9:30 = breakfast break

9:30/10:30 = Zebra herd health check

10:30/13:00 = Meeting and town trip (for shopping and grocery)

13:00/14:30 = Educational content creation

14:00:16:00 = FREE TIME

Please note that these two days are just examples, and some activities and their timings may differ from these examples.


Free-time activities

Our program is located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offering the vast natural and world renowned beauty of the Garden Route in all its splendour. During your free time and off days, you can visit some of the wonderful facilities near by the park, go for a hike among the mystical forests or ...

Free-time activities

Our program is located between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay offering the vast natural and world renowned beauty of the Garden Route in all its splendour. During your free time and off days, you can visit some of the wonderful facilities near by the park, go for a hike among the mystical forests or vast coastlines, go for surf or swim in the ocean,  zipline through massive gorges or even go bungee jumping!

With seasonal whale and dolphin activity, the surrounds of Plettenberg Bay offer some special marine life too. There are also many nearby animal facilities, only a short drive away, making this location an animals lovers delight. For those with a more relaxed temperament, our programme is situated nearby a lovely vineyard, an ideal location to enjoy wine tasting and fine food.

Upon your arrival, we will provide you with a welcome booklet, which highlights a number of activities along the Garden Route. For additional information or advice on what to do, our friendly and experienced team are always happy to help.

For those who prefer to spend their free time on site, you can go for early morning sunrise/set strolls or a morning/evening run (while the elephants are resting in their night camp or boma) and enjoy the stunning mountainous landscapes surrounding the park. You can also enjoy meals and drinks at our on-site restaurant and browse our curio store full of local elephant crafts. By far the most popular thing to do on site is to go visit our elephants in the field for a more relaxed visit together !


Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 15 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 15 years old on the program start date.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (basic level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

- You should be physically fit. A large part of the program involves walking over rough terrain - Enthusiasm, dedication, and willing to get involved with anything, and of course, have a love of wildlife and elephants. - Be at least 18 years of age; Applicants older than 15 years with parental consent may be considered

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 07:00 - 17:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by African Elephant Research Unit

Included:
  • Accommodation at the Bunkhouse
  • Volunteer training for all aspects of work.
  • Arrival/ departure transfers on arrival dates (12:00pm - 3:00pm)
  • AERU uniform- a high quality fleece jacket, 2 volunteer T-shirts and a cape
  • A South African “braai” experience!
  • Trip to Plettenberg Game Reserve to meet Harry’s herd.
  • Weekly trips into town for personal shopping
Excluded: 
  • Flights 
  • Travel and Medical Insurance
  • Food and drinks 
  • Transports (outside of program activities)

Tariff explanation: from week 5 to week 8 you have a 25% discount on the initial price and from week 8 to week 12 another 15% off (discount already calculated on these prices).

Airport Pickup at George Airport

Arrivals:
  • Airport pickups are only from 12:00 to 15:00 pm on arrival days.
  • Someone from the team will be there, waiting for you with an "AERU" card ! 
Arrivals after 15:00, or missed flights must contact AERU so that a taxi transfer can be arranged (at your own cost)
Departures:
  • Departing flights must be arranged for the Monday leaving, 13:00 onwards for all volunteers taking an AERU departure to the airport.
  • For departure flights earlier than 13:00, taxi transfers will to be arranged (at own cost).

Accommodation

AERU volunteers live onsite at the Knysna Elephant Park Bunkhouse. Many members of staff also live within the park, which is a safe
secure premises.

• There are five rooms with on suite bathrooms. Each room has 2-3 beds, with bedding provided. Sharing rooms may be required depending on bookings.
• The bunkhouse has a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and a lounge with library, television and Wi-Fi.
• On site laundry room at the Main house annex and requires the purchase of tokens.
• The Bunkhouse deck and braai (fire) area are a perfect spot to enjoy outdoors.
• Volunteers staying four weeks or more receive a complimentary night in the elephant lodge!

Internet Access

Good access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Food & Beverages

Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is George Airport (GRJ) in George. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Our programs start every three weeks on Mondays. Here are the dates: 

2025

13/01; 03/02; 24/02; 17/03; 07/04; 28/04; 19/05

09/06; 30/06; 21/07; 11/08; 01/09; 22/09; 13/10

03/11; 24/11; 15/12

2026

05/01; 26/01; 16/02; 09/03; 30/03; 20/04; 11/05

11/06; 22/06; 13/07; 03/08; 24/08; 14/09; 05/10 

26/10; 16/11; 07/12; 28/12


Details on arrivals:

All international flights arrive in/depart from Johannesburg or Cape Town, and must travel to/from either George or Plettenberg Bay in the Garden Route.

AERU collects volunteers at George Airport on arrival dates between 12:00-15:00, which is an 1.5 hour drive from the Park. On the way, a stop will be made so you can do your shopping for the week.

For any other arrival/departure times, taxi transfers can be arranged (at your own cost). All taxi transfers require cash available to pay the driver upon pick up/drop off. 

Bus travel to Plettenberg Bay is an alternative option of travel. Although more cost friendly, the journey is lengthy. From Capte Town it is about 8 hours and Johannesburg it is about 15 hours. We can arrange to pick you up at Plettenberg bus station (organise that with your correspondent at AERU in advance). 

  • Arrivals 

Monday__ Airport pickups are only from 12:00to 15:00 pm. Arrivals after 15:00, or missed flights must contact AERU so that a taxi transfer can be arranged. 

  • Departures

Monday__ Departing flights must be arranged for the Monday leaving, 13:00 onwards for all volunteers taking an AERU departure to the airport.

For departure flights earlier than 13:00 or an other day, taxi transfers will to be arranged (at own cost).

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

3 weeks (min. stay) 1,241€
4 weeks 1,652€
5 weeks 1,958€
6 weeks 2,265€
7 weeks 2,566€
8 weeks 2,873€
9 weeks 3,145€
10 weeks 3,417€
11 weeks 3,689€
12 weeks (max. stay) 3,961€
Average fees 372€/week

Program fees

372€ per week 3 - 12 weeks Age 15 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES


Duration

3 - 12 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.


Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with African Elephant Research Unit during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


Meet your organization

African Elephant Research Unit

Excellent 4.8 rating (13 reviews)

Non-profit - founded in 2009

Verified by Volunteer World

Coordinated by

Jarrett

Spoken languages: French, English, Afrikaans

About the project

AERU promotes ethical research and collaborates with researchers from around the world, improving semi-captive elephant welfare through science.

Meet your organization

The African Elephant Research Unit (AERU), founded in 2009, is based at the Knysna Elephant Park in South Africa. AERU was established in response to the need for a deeper scientific understanding of elephant behaviour and welfare, particularly for semi-captive elephants. Over the years, AERU has evolved into a leader in research-based management practices. Our mission is to bridge the gap between science and elephant welfare, providing actionable insights to enhance elephant well-being globally. 


  • History

AERU was established with a clear objective—to generate scientific knowledge that informs and enhances the welfare management of African elephants living in controlled environments. The research unit was born out of the realization that while conservation efforts in the wild are crucial, elephants in semi-captive environments, like those at the Knysna Elephant Park, also deserve focused research and welfare improvements. In the early days, the research mainly revolved around understanding basic behavioral patterns, but it quickly expanded to include physiological and social research.

Through continuous efforts, AERU has gained recognition for being a pioneer in creating an understanding of the complexities of elephant behavior in these settings. The organization has developed a robust foundation of data that assists in improving management and care for elephants, not only at Knysna Elephant Park but globally through shared insights and collaborations.


  • Mission

Our mission is clear: to provide research-backed, ethical, and scientifically sound insights into elephant behaviour and welfare that can be applied in facilities worldwide. At its core, AERU aims to ensure the optimal physical, psychological, and social well-being of African elephants in semi-captive conditions, ensuring the live healthy and enriched lives. By providing objective data-driven insights, we advocate for improved welfare standards, offering valuable information that provides understanding into everything from daily care practices to long-term management strategies. 


  • Values

AERU’s values center around three primary principles: ethical research, conservation, and education. Ethical research ensures that all studies conducted prioritize the well-being of the elephants, minimizing disruption to their natural behavior while maximizing the data collected to improve their care. Conservation lies at the heart of all our efforts, recognizing the importance of preserving both wild and semi-captive elephant populations. Education serves as a vital tool in our mission, as we work to disseminate our findings to other institutions, students, and the public to foster an informed global community.

AERU believes in transparency, collaboration, and sustainability. We recognize that elephant welfare is not an isolated endeavor, but a shared responsibility between researchers, caretakers, the tourism industry, and the public. This drives our commitment to educate future generations, train handlers, and advocate for policies that prioritize ethical treatment and management of elephants.


  • Goals

AERU’s goals extend beyond just research. In the short term, the organization is focused on further expanding its research into key areas such as social behavior, cognitive abilities, and physical health of elephants in semi-captive settings. This includes continued data collection on elephant activity patterns, interactions with their environment, and responses to human interaction.

Long-term, AERU is working towards building a comprehensive database that will serve as a resource for researchers, institutions, and wildlife managers worldwide. This repository will offer insights into various aspects of elephant management, from dietary needs and medical care to social enrichment and psychological well-being. Additionally, AERU aims to influence policy and management practices across the globe, advocating for standardized elephant care practices that are informed by sound science.

AERU also envisions expanding their volunteer programs, enabling more individuals to participate in non-invasive conservation efforts while learning about elephant behavior and conservation. Through our work, AERU aspires to be at the forefront of global initiatives for the betterment of elephant welfare, bridging the gap between human knowledge and the needs of elephants in managed care.

13 reviews · rating4.8

Rand Darbader rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

First Time in Volunteering Abroad and First Time in Africa: What a Journey! Traveling to South Africa and Volunteering with the elephants was a life-changing experience that allowed me to connect deeply with nature and understand the importance of wildlife conservation. In one week, I had the ...
Henry Turnbull rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

Volunteering for just a week at the elephant park was a once in a lifetime experience. Spending time with the elephants was incredible, and the jobs required were varied and enjoyable, while also feeling like substantial contributions. The sense of community in the park is fantastic, and is a ...
Sandra Messerli rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

Me and my 2 boys and my best friends family volunteered for a week at Aeru.It was such an amazing experience to witness the behaviors of the elephants and spend so much time watching them.The workers at Aeru are very passionate about their work and excited to share their knowledge with us We will ...
Niscala Sanskrit rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

Very lovely, I made some great friends and had a wonderful time learning about elephants and their behavior. The place was extremely safe and the ladies who organized it were always there for you. Would do it again if i had the opportunity! ...
Samuel Chapman rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

Met some great people and learned lots about the care of semi-captive elephants. The other volunteers along with the AERU staff were wonderful people and I’ve made some lifelong friends from the experience. The staff were very knowledgeable with the elephants with their care, enrichment and ...
Mar Solà rating5

2024 at African Elephant Welfare Research

I stayed at KEP for 1 month, which when I booked it, it seemed like a very long. But it went by so so quickly. This has been such a unique experience. From the very beginning I was involved with the research and all the work in the field. The Aeru and KEP team has been very welcoming and has taught ...

Location

Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Plettenberg Bay

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