Overview
Volunteer Work with Desert Elephants in Namibia

This project takes you to Namibia, Africa and the north-western regions of the Namib Desert, traditionally known as ‘Damaraland’. Here in this harsh tribal wilderness that runs parallel to the Skeleton Coast National Park, a small population of desert-adapted elephants have come into conflict with the local human population, and it is the aim of this volunteer project to manage the conflict and assist in its resolution. The majority of the volunteering will require you to help local farmers with community work, building protective walls around their water points and teaching them the skills they need to manage the conflict with the resident elephant populations. You will also assist the project staff with research by following and monitoring the movements of these elephants.

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One of the most satisfying and fulfilling experiences of my life. I think I was very lucky to get such a great group of people with whom to work. I am going back next year.

Paul Porter, 2008 Volunteer

What Difference Does This Project Make?

Desert elephants often damage unprotected windmills leaving communities without access to water. This angers locals and makes it easy for elephants to be labelled as a problem and then shot. Volunteers solve this problem through a simple solution – a wall is built around the windmill which protects it but still allows the elephants to drink. The patrol week is important as you will GPS herd movements which display which farms are visited and require protection. The research provides invaluable information for the government on Elephant numbers and identifications - all integral to the successful management of the Desert elephants

Highlights

Learning to cook delicious food over an open fire. Living in a small community where everyone respects and looks after each other. Sleeping out under the African Stars. Feeling the achievement of placing the last brick in the wall. Sitting and watching a herd of elephants communicate and possibly tracking them on foot. Seeing some of the most stunning areas of Namibia - without the presence of tourists.

Location

The project is located in Damaraland, one of the most scenic wilderness areas in Namibia. Containing prehistoric water courses, spectacular open plains and grassland, massive granite koppies and rugged distant mountains; Damaraland is a gem for the adventurous volunteer that wants to go to a place like no other. As well as the desert elephant, expect to find black rhino, ostrich, springbok, giraffe and kudu and hear the roar of desert lions!

Field Conditions

Throughout your experience the accommodation will be group living and of a basic standard. The food will be simple but nutritional. There is no electricity at our bush camp and field safaris may involve sleeping out under the stars or camping in two man tents for up to 4 days at a time - there are no toilets out there.