This is my third trip to Africa to experience wildlife. While I have loved the other trips, this one stands out as being the most integrated. It wasn’t just a wildlife viewing trip. I was submerged into a programme of conservation, preservation, awareness and the day to day management and running of a wilderness conservation reserve. I have come home with a mountain of knowledge gained while also aware I have only touched the surface. My life has been enriched by a dedicated team of staff (Katie, Bron & Stu) who are extremely knowledgeable, passionate and enthusiastic about the reserve and all it has to offer. Their warm hospitality created a family environment and it was wonderful being part of a contributing team. The entire programme is so well organised and run which is a credit to the hard work of the team there. I cannot speak highly enough of them and I am so thankful that I went on this trip.
Askari WCP
I just concluded my second volunteer trip at Askari, and this place never ever gets old. My first time I spent 3 months, and most recently I stayed for 2 months, and my life was changed, enlightened and inspired both trips. We are involved in so many aspects of the reserve management, learning about the bush every day and making amazing friends along the way. Askari is special. I get choked up just thinking about how much its impacted my life and my passion for wildlife management and conservation. You will leave this place feeling inspired and proud of what you took part in, I guarantee it.
If youre wondering if you should come to Askari, do it! Your outlook on life will be changed for the better, and your breath will be taken away at least once a day...thank you Askari, I hope be back for trip #3!
More than a volunteer program it's a real friendly experiment. With a dedicated and passionate staff, we learn so much about animals and birds. I really enjoy discovering the bush like this, with no tourists around, only us and the wilderness. Working on the reserve was like a treasure hunt everyday. We had no idea what could happen but it was always such amazing things. I trully recommend to join Askari if you want to discover the Big Five in a different way.
This volunteering has been the best experience of my life! This was the first time that I travelled alone for my vet studies and I was just amazed day by day by the animals we discovered. I have got so many great moments that I will always remember, from seeing the lions up close, to seeing such young hyaena pups on our trip to Kruger (so curious and cute!) to having an elephant herd surround us, it was so beautiful! In the final week, we had an unexpected visit from a wildlife vet to assist with an injured cheetah, I am so grateful for that! I made new friends, we had lots of hilarious moments. The braai rendez-vous around the fire each Friday night was just perfect and memorable. Thank you Katie, Stuart, Bronwyn and all the staff for their kindness and their passion. They made me live my childhood dream!
Askari is my first volunteer mission and what a joy it was! These four weeks have passed at high speed as I loved all these moments spent along true enthusiasts – Andrew, Katie, Bronwyn and Stuart. The discovery of this beautiful reserve, the search for the wildlife that composes it… I learnt a lot during my stay and leave with my head, eyes and heart full.
Thank you again for your kindness, your teaching and all the good times spent together. Hope to see you again one day!
