Shamwari Conservation Experience

When is the best time to volunteer?

Nearly all the activities take place year-round except for the community-based projects, as schools are closed in South Africa between mid-December and early January. Therefore, if you are keen to get involved with the community projects, you should avoid volunteering during this time. The only other factor that may impact your preference of when to volunteer is the weather.

Due to its position on the Eastern Cape, the reserve typically enjoys mild, pleasant weather throughout the year with occasional rain (but no distinct wet season). There are 2 seasons which are explained below:

Summer (November - April): During these months, daytime temperatures average 25–30°C (77-86°F), but can occasionally go up to 35°C (95°F) with January and February being the hottest months of the year. At night, it stays relatively warm, averaging 15°C (59°F).

Winter (May – October): This time of year is still very pleasant during the day with temperatures between 20–25°C (68-77°F), however, it can get very cold at night with temperatures falling to 5-10°C (41-50°F).

Getting There

You will need to fly into Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) on your project start date and then transfer to the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. The transfer from the airport to the project site takes approximately 1.5 hours and while it is not included, it can be provided for an additional cost. If you would like to take the transfer on your start date, please ensure your flight arrives by 12:20pm at the latest as it departs at 1:00pm. Similarly, there is a return airport transfer available on your final day which arrives at Port Elizabeth Airport at midday. If you would like to take this transfer, please ensure your flight departs no earlier than 2pm. The cost of these airport transfers is $57 each way.

If you cannot find flights that arrive/depart in time for these transfers, we may be able to arrange a private transfer for you at a cost of $113 each way, but this is dependent on the availability of vehicles.

Visa Requirements

Citizens of most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and most of those within the EU, do not need to obtain a visa to enter South Africa 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 a period of at least 6 months from your date of entry.

If you are unsure of your individual visa requirements, we recommend speaking to your local South African embassy at least 2 months prior to travel.

Fitness & Skills

We recommend all volunteers have a moderate level of fitness, as the days are busy and you will be involved in a variety of activities! Whilst no specific skills are required, we ask that everyone arrives with a willingness to get involved and a respect for the wildlife and the committed project staff with whom you will be working.

Vaccinations

The vaccinations required will depend on the individual medical history of each volunteer. We recommend that you consult with your doctor/GP regarding your own vaccination needs as this will ensure you are protected and prepared to travel. In conjunction with this, we also recommend that you take a look at the Fit for Travel website for more helpful information on how best to prepare for your experience.