Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary

location
2 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Perfect 4.6  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Very high response rate

Highlights

  • Feed, care for, and learn about rescued and in-need animals living at the sanctuary
  • Take part in enrichment activities that improve the quality of life of animals too habituated or injured to be released back into the wild
  • Help rehabilitate wildlife and contribute to the release of animals wherever possible

Highlights

  • Feed, care for, and learn about rescued and in-need animals living at the sanctuary
  • Take part in enrichment activities that improve the quality of life of animals too habituated or injured to be released back into the wild
  • Help rehabilitate wildlife and contribute to the release of animals wherever possible
  • Meet and help local families at the Lifeline Clinic, providing medical attention, food provisions and education
  • Discover and learn the ancient traditions of the San Bushmen dating back 20,000 years


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    Help with the long-term rehabilitation of Namibian wildlife. Experience hands-on volunteering where you'll care for baboons, big cats, meerkats and more!

    About The Project

    An incredible project that packs a big punch, the Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary offers a fascinating cultural exchange alongside the opportunity to help iconic African wildlife that needs it most. From lions and cheetahs to rhinos, baboons and more, there are over 300 animals at the ...

    About the program

    About The Project

    An incredible project that packs a big punch, the Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary offers a fascinating cultural exchange alongside the opportunity to help iconic African wildlife that needs it most. From lions and cheetahs to rhinos, baboons and more, there are over 300 animals at the sanctuary that volunteers help to care for, rehabilitate and, wherever possible, release back into the wild!

    Sadly, human and wildlife conflict is rife throughout Africa, and Namibia is no exception. With habitat fragmentation, climate change, poaching and the pet trade posing an ever-present threat, many animals that come to the sanctuary are orphaned, traumatised or injured. As a volunteer, you'll help to prepare food, feed, create enrichment, maintain enclosures and evaluate the health and well-being of each animal. Volunteers also have plenty of opportunities to experience the wild of Namibia when taking part in night drives and throwing their hats in the ring for a 24-hour game count!

    Alongside working with the wildlife, you'll have some incredible experiences unique to this project. Taking a trip to the local Lifeline Clinic, volunteers will have the chance to meet families receiving healthcare, education and food provisions and help give back to the community by playing some games with the children and serving lunch to the clinic users. You'll also be able to take part in the San Bushmen Experience, spending time with hunter-gatherers from a community known as the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa. You'll learn about San culture, traditions and ancient survival skills dating back over 20,000 years. 

    On this project, you'll see firsthand how 'sanctuary' meets 'safari' and the San community, and blends together to create an authentic, wild experience of Namibia. 

    Prior to Arrival

    Citizens of most countries, including the UK, Germany, USA, Canada, Australia and most of those within the EU, do not need to obtain a visa to enter Namibia and are granted entry for up to 90 days upon arrival. You will, however, need at least 2 blank pages in your passport for the immigration officials to use, and your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.

    You will need to fly into Windhoek International Airport (also known as Hosea Kutako International Airport), arriving by 9:30am on your project start date. You'll then transfer to the Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary, which takes approximately 3 hours.

    Departure

    You will need a flight that departs Windhoek International Airport after 3pm if leaving on your project end date.

    If you are unable to find a suitable flight that departs after 3pm, you can book a night at the Namibia Wildlife Sanctuary for an additional fee and an airport transfer will be arranged for you the following day in time for your departing flight.



    Typical day

    Typically project days start from 7am and finish around 4-5pm, with a long, relaxing lunch break in the middle. Your days will include a combination of the activities found below, working on a rotational basis.

    Food Preparation

    With over 300 animals at the sanctuary and potential new arrivals all the ...

    Typical day

    Typically project days start from 7am and finish around 4-5pm, with a long, relaxing lunch break in the middle. Your days will include a combination of the activities found below, working on a rotational basis.

    Food Preparation

    With over 300 animals at the sanctuary and potential new arrivals all the time, volunteers are kept busy with this food preparation activity! Following nutritional menus, you'll create vegetable platters for the herbivores and meat feasts for the carnivores; so all the sanctuary residents receive a balanced, healthy diet. 

    Small Animal Feeding

    Meerkats, mongooses, lambs and even baby crocodiles; are just some of the sanctuary's many small animals that often need hand-feeding! Volunteers often have some incredible, close encounters when feeding the small residents, and under the supervision of the sanctuary staff, you'll learn about the different species, their care plans and what their futures entail. 

    Carnivore Feeding

    With the big cats and wild dogs further afield on the reserve, you'll load up the trucks with meaty treats and head out to feed the carnivores! Volunteers may throw food to lions, leopards and more, alongside observing them at mealtime. With the project facilitators armed with knowledge, you'll learn about these iconic animals with a front-row seat to their natural predatory behaviours. 

    Project Work

    Project work is essential to keep any sanctuary operating smoothly. Volunteers may help to build new structures and enrichment items in animal enclosures, dig and clean watering holes or hideouts, fix fences and cut back vegetation. These are just some examples of necessary tasks that ensure the wildlife's well-being.

    Night Drive

    Every week, volunteers will have the opportunity to venture out on the reserve after dark! You'll jump in the truck around 9pm and head out for around 3 hours in search of glistening eyes in the distance. Take the chance to see the nocturnal wildlife of Namibia under a truly stunning night sky.

    24-hour Game Count

    Taking place every full moon, a whole day of safari is on offer to those who want to help monitor the health of this fascinating ecosystem. You'll make notes of the different species you see, alongside location and quantity, helping to survey the predator-to-prey ratio and population density which aids the reserve management team. Sign up for an all-day game count for a real and wild insight into Africa's wildlife!

    Lifeline Clinic

    Alongside protecting the wildlife of Namibia, the sanctuary has numerous initiatives to help local communities. As a volunteer, you'll meet and help families when touring the Lifeline Clinic. Providing medical treatment, food provisions and education for adults and children, the clinic is a cornerstone of the project. This activity offers the chance to play games with the children, serve lunch to the locals and interact with the community.

    San Bushman Experience

    The San Bushman Experience is a unique way to immerse yourself in the ancient customs and traditions of the San community. Learn how the San build their houses, make fire, find water and even track animals, all while connecting with a community understood to be the oldest inhabitants of Southern Africa. Discover 20,000 years of culture and stories upheld by indigenous hunter-gathers keeping their old-age traditions alive in this ever-modernising world.


    Free-time activities

    Free-time activities


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    It's recommended volunteers come with a moderate level of fitness, as project work may include construction and maintenance undertaken in hot weather. No specific skills are needed; we only ask volunteers to come with a willingness to get involved in all activities and respect the wildlife and project staff alike.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 07:30 - 16:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by The Great Projects

    • A donation to the project which funds items such as building materials, animal food and medications
    • Transfers to and from Windhoek International Airport
    • Full orientation and support from the project staff
    • Accommodation, three meals per day and tea and coffee
    • Laundry service
    • All activities mentioned previously

    Airport Pickup at Hosea Kutako International Airport

    You will need to arrive at Windhoek Airport on your project start date by 9:30am at the latest. 

    Accommodation

    Made up of homey wooden cabins, the volunteer 'village' has everything you need, including a traditionally decorated on-site bar and swimming pool, complete with sun loungers. 

    Rooms are typically shared on a same-sex basis with 4 to a room (unless travelling as a couple). Each cabin is solar-powered and has plenty of storage and mosquito nets provided. The nearby bathroom blocks have western-style toilets and hot showers, and if you are looking for a more luxurious stay or your own space, there is an option to upgrade to a private cottage for an additional fee.

    Food & Beverages

    You'll receive three meals per day alongside water, tea and coffee. Breakfast will include toast and cereal, lunch may consist of sandwiches or pasta, and dinner will vary from fish or meat dishes with rice and vegetables. Vegetarian options are available for every meal, and the sanctuary can cater for vegans upon request. At the on-site bar, soft and alcoholic drinks and snacks are available for a small fee.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH) in Windhoek. We assist you to find cheap flights to Namibia. 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 Namibia provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    The project starts every Monday, however, if you did want to arrive in to Namibia earlier, we can arrange additional nights at the sister sanctuary, which is where the transfers to Harnas depart from on Monday afternoons. 

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

    Program fees

    2 weeks (min. stay) 1,381€
    3 weeks 1,948€
    4 weeks 2,516€
    5 weeks 3,083€
    6 weeks 3,650€
    7 weeks 4,155€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 6,677€
    Average fees 623€/week

    Program fees

    623€ per week 2 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    2 - 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 The Great Projects during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    The Great Projects

    Perfect 4.6 rating (197 reviews)

    Agency - founded in 2003

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Very high response rate

    Coordinated by

    Katie

    Spoken languages: English

    About the project

    The Great Projects work with organisations worldwide to establish high standards in animal welfare and conservation within the responsible tourism sector.

    Meet your organization

    Looking to volunteer abroad with animals? Here at The Great Projects we believe that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.

    It all began with The Great Orangutan Project in Malaysian Borneo and after a number of years working with local authorities, passionate project facilitators, and hard-working volunteers to create a sustainable, progressive, and effective project - The Great Projects decided to use the experiences and knowledge we had gained to expand our expertise to other projects in Asia, Africa, South America and Europe!

    Now with over 35 projects, you can be confident in the fact that you’ll be able to volunteer with some of the world's most incredible wildlife species in completely breath-taking environments. From orangutans in the Bornean rainforest to whale sharks in the Indian Ocean; you’re sure to find something suited to your interests. What’s more, The Great Projects make sure that with us, volunteers are completely immersed into the heart of the matter, at site, delivering an experience like no other as you become familiar with the life of an animal keeper, game ranger, or wildlife conservationist.

    Plus, every time someone volunteers with The Great Projects  in addition to their fee which covers accommodation, food, and transfers, we donate up to £350 to the project visited to help the project itself. Therefore, our ecotours and projects are not only designed to be an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life, but you will also join a project knowing that your travel truly does help to save endangered animals and the local communities with which they live alongside.

    Here at The Great Projects, we believe that we should practice what we preach. We send volunteers to worldwide destinations on a range of truly unique and thoroughly worthwhile projects that make a real, sustainable difference to their causes. What’s more, The Great Projects provide them with dedicated UK-based staff that ensure volunteers have informative and friendly help throughout all stages of their experience, from initial enquiry to their return.

    Through this, we can show volunteers that there is a better way to holiday. Our award-winning wildlife volunteering abroad with animals projects and signature tours are not only designed to provide truly unique and life-changing experiences for volunteering worldwide, but our donation and conservation pledges ensure that your travel will have a lasting and sustainable impact on some of the planet's most incredible and endangered species and the local communities which live alongside them.


    Further, The Great Projects does not only aim to provide travel destinations that hold responsibility for animal welfare, but also to the environmental, economic and social impact of our conservation projects as a whole.

    HEALTH AND SAFETY

    Here at The Great Projects, we are completely dedicated to providing our volunteers with the utmost protection with regards to health and safety.

    Adventurous travel always involves some degree of risk. Our priority is to keep you safe and protect you as much as possible whilst still giving you an authentic experience of life in your chosen destination.

    We conduct extensive risk assessments to make sure we have identified potential hazards and done everything we can to reduce them and we make sure you have the information you need about the destination you are visiting and how to stay safe and healthy while you are out there. We also are partnered with Endsleigh Insurance who are able to offer volunteers comprehensive insurance for all of our projects.

    197 reviews · rating4.6

    Bente van Veggel rating4

    2024 at Harnas Wildlife Sanctuary

    I had the best time at Harnas. I met the most amazing people and I learned a lot in the 2 weeks I was there. I truly recommend spending time here for anyone who loves animals. ..
    Godelieve Meuris rating5

    2024 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

    Een ongelooflijke ervaring om deel te mogen uitmaken van dit centrum waar de nood voor hulp zeer hoog is, de hitte de vochtigheid, de regen het soms harde werk is snel vergeten bij de belevingen die men heeft, een fijne groep vrijwilligers maakt het geheel af ...
    Petra Noordanus rating5

    2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

    My experience with The Great Project is very good! I had a great time at Naankusé Wildlife Sanctuary. Everything was well organized and when we had changes to our arrival time at the last minute, this was arranged immediately. I recommend The Great ...
    Patrick Bloomfield rating5

    2024 at Wildlife Reserve Big Five Conservation

    As per the title, what an amazing & rewarding experience! Our day-to-day work included clearing alien plants, removing fencing from an old corral, community involvement such as re-building a jungle gym, revitalising a vegetable garden (& playing with the local kids!). We were also privileged enough ...
    Natascha Zeiler rating5

    2024 at Wildlife Sanctuary Supporter

    It was the best experience in my whole life. I will definitely return to see those great and special people living and working there again. I met so many great people from around the world. These two weeks were absolutely awesome. ..
    Renato Bruno rating5

    2024 at Orangutan Wildlife Center

    It was a fantastic experience with lots of new impressions. Dom the responsible person for the volunteers is an amazing person with a fantastic humor and is well conected and is always very helpful. The people in the group are all coming from different countries worldwide and it was just wonderful ...

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