This has been something I've wanted to do for years now and I am so grateful I've had the opportunity to do it with Askari. It took me a while to find these guys on the internet but i'm so glad I took the time to find an organisation that really does care about wildlife and conservation, unlike a lot of other programmes out there (watch 'Blood Lions'). Katie and Ed and all the other staff at the reserve are lovely and extremely passionate about what they do which is really satisfying to see, they have taught me so much in the space of 4 weeks. The volunteer house is in the heart of the bush but it is extremely safe and has wonderful amenities; there is a pool where you can cool off from the midday sun, a volleyball court, large garden-big enough for a kick around, braii area and a couple of hidden chill spots if you want to take a minute alone and soak up your surroundings. Everyone helps out with the cooking and the dishes along with other duties which helps create a communal atmosphere among the volunteers and essentially brings you all closer together!
During my time at Askari we were lucky enough to get involved with the reserves anti-poaching team and also a cheetah introduction project along with many other exciting things! Our group were also lucky enough to see the big 5 along with an abundance of other wildlife, be prepared for some spotting though, you have to be vigilant..this is the wild bush not a zoo! A trip into town is scheduled once a week in order to get the weeks groceries and personal supplies for the weekend, which are at your own leisure, that being whether you hire a car and explore the surrounding area or have some fun and drinks at the house with the group, the choice is yours.
Definitely be prepared for some creepy crawlies and to get your hands dirty, but also to make lasting memories and new friendships! Overall I had an amazing time and would definitely recommend Askari to other keen conservationists or just those who want to experience the african bush. Thank you!
Askari WCP
I regularly do volunteer projects overseas, with a focus on wildlife/conservation.
This project was the best I’ve done, and I’ve worked in Tonga, Indonesia, China, Thailand and this was my 4th trip to Africa. The framework was well set-up, the facilities way better than I’ve experienced before and it was ethically focused and not on income generated from the volunteers. I felt very appreciated, respected and included. The coordinators were outstanding and that can make or break it in my view. Their passion was contagious! Great organisation and a good blend of activities. I learned heaps! 10 out of 10! Makes it hard to consider doing anything else really! Lots of great sightings of wildlife, absolutely outstanding.
https://www.tripadvisor.co.nz/ShowUserReviews-g1209389-d1771470-r4140216...
"To put this wonderful experience into words is nearly impossible but I will try. Firstly Ed and Katie are 2 of the nicest people you could wish to meet. Their knowledge is amazing and enthusiasm to pass it on makes you want to try and use this knowledge to better yourself. The physical activities were very enjoyable and made you feel like you were really contributing something positive to the projects. We arrived as individuals and 4 weeks later leave as a very close knit team having experienced so much together. Anybody thinking of coming here, stop thinking and book your trip. I promise you will not regret it for a second and the experience will stay with you forever. Askari is a priceless diamond in the South African crown and must stay that way. Thank you so much for everything. "
My second visit to Askari was even more amazing than my first - and I never thought I'd be able to match the first one! Every day is a new and different experience & adventure whilst at the same time contributing to the important conservation work that the reserve is dedicated to. There is a great variety in the tasks and the animal sightings, whilst never guaranteed, are always breath taking. Katie and Ed are amazing teachers and every volunteer leaves with so much knowledge, understanding and appreciation for the South African bush - plants, insects, animals and birds. If you want to get involved, get hands on with conservation work and have the experience of a lifetime then I can't recommend Askari highly enough. I can't wait to get back for another visit :)
I felt privileged to work as a volunteer at Askari for a month, that I could share in the vision of a wilderness reserve managed for habitat and wildlife conservation as the first and only priority. And have such fun doing it! We slept under the stars one night and watched the sunrise with lions roaring in the distance. We watched hyaenas play, elephants wander up close, and lion cubs tumbling about under their mother's watchful gaze. A cheetah brought down an impala and fed with her cubs right outside the front gate - amazing to see. We rescued trees strangled by wire and murdered more prickly pear than I can remember. Thanks so much to the Askari staff Katie & Ed, and Pidwa staff Andrew and Elricht for their incredible knowledge, good company and honesty about the management dilemmas facing wilderness reserves and national parks under pressure on a crowded planet. It was a great experience -- highly recommend it!
