Broadly speaking, mature volunteers seek one of two types of experiences: observation and education about wildlife, while not going on a traditional safari, or the chance to have close, hands-on contact with wildlife. In the former case, they select Tuli Conservation Project or Phinda Wildlife Research Project, and the choice usually coming down to their level of physical fitness and adventurousness. If they seek a "bush experience" with complete immersion in nature and are quite happy to forgo some physical comforts, they love Tuli. If they feel they have less physical stamina or need the relative comforts of indoor accommodation, electricity and hot showers, I recommend Phinda.

The Khulula Wild Care Centre is popular because of the close wildlife encounters they give volunteers. It has recently made additional provisions for mature volunteers with a number of private en-suite rooms available for them. Volunteers are given more responsibility and less rigid timetabling at this project than at some other facilities which generally suits professionals and experienced travellers better.

To make sure that potential volunteers are fully informed of their choices, we always speak to them by phone to understand their needs and expectations before recommending the best placement.
Photo above: Tuli is a largely unmanaged wilderness the size of The Netherlands, with no electricity lines or paved roads in sight. Martin Bornman

African Conservation Experience (ACE), www.conservationafrica.net, organizes volunteer placements at wildlife conservation projects throughout southern Africa. The supported projects range from wildlife research and monitoring projects, like the Tuli Conservation Project, to animal care at wildlife rehabilitation centres, marine conservation, wildlife veterinary work or conservation education. Volunteers may participate in projects for 2-12 weeks. The United States is ACE's fastest growing segment for attracting volunteers: In 2010, 19% of volunteers were from the US, compared to only 6% the year before. It is the second most common nationality after the UK. Knowledge-able contact representatives are in both the UK and the US.

When to go: There are volunteering opportunities all year round. Following the southern hemisphere seasons, the temperatures are most pleasant in the South African spring (September/October) and autumn (March/May). There is a dry winter from June to August and a hot, humid summer from November to February. For volunteers at the wildlife care and rehabilitation projects, November to February can be especially rewarding, as this is the baby and birthing season in South Africa. The centres are very busy with hand rearing infant wildlife at this time -- sometimes around the clock -- and appreciate extra hands for this rewarding task.
Caption: Mashed up fruit and yoghurt are part of the bushbaby diet. Despite their small size, they have quite an appetite! Martin Bornman

Silvia Russenberger is retired and living in Switzerland. Previously, she worked as a potter and pottery teacher and prior to that she was a wine merchant in the family business.

Based in the United Kingdom, Ellen Sziede is an African Conservation Experience International Development Executive, looking after international marketing and most international volunteers. Ellen says, "My love for African wildlife goes back to the unforgettable 3 1/2 years I spent in southern Africa, during which time I visited many national parks and reserves to observe the wonderful wildlife." Email: ellen@conservationafrica.net.