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Sam Johnston
- Okavango Wilderness Project
- Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
- Phinda Wildlife Research Project
Country
🇦🇺 Australia
Length of Trip
21 Nights
Project Year
2024
It's hard to put into words how incredible my experience with African Conservation Experience (ACE) was! After a heap of research on different companies offering conservation experiences in Africa, ACE was by far the standout. This was not only because of the impactful projects they partnered with, but also because of how they supported me throughout the entire trip - in the lead-up, during, and post-travel. In the lead-up to my trip, the ACE team worked with me on determining the best projects to attend based on my personal preferences, physical abilities, as well as what I wanted to get out of the trip. Then once in Africa, they were constantly communicating with me and checking in to ensure everything was running smoothly during my trip. The in-person check-ins and meet-ups at transition points were also a nice touch!
I was lucky enough to be part of three projects over three weeks - the Okavango Wilderness Project, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Phinda Wildlife Research Project. Each project offered a different conservation experience. From the practical care for African wildlife at Moholoholo to population surveys in the Okavango, anti-poaching activities (such as assisting in rhino horn trimmings) and animal relocations at Phinda, each day offered a new experience!
You never quite knew what was going to be in store in for you, but that was part of the excitement as you were dealing with wild animals.
Aside from the work, one of the best parts of these projects was the people you got to meet along the way. This included fellow volunteers and the extremely skilled and knowledgeable professionals and project staff who are dedicating their time to African wildlife conservation.
I have been lucky enough to make some lifelong friends through this experience!
My biggest concern in the lead-up to this trip was that I would just be a passenger when assisting with each project and not be able to get too involved. However, it was the complete opposite! Not only was the work that we contributed highly appreciated but also very much needed! The work can be challenging, on both an emotional and physical level, but that's what makes it so rewarding and worthwhile.
I can't recommend ACE enough to anyone who is interested in travelling with purpose and wants to contribute while being hands-on with wildlife conservation.
It is so worthwhile and can be a life-changing experience! Just book it, you won't regret it!
Feeling inspired by Sam Johnston's experience?
Learn more about Okavango Wilderness Project, Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and Phinda Wildlife Research Project.
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