Volunteering in Zimbabwe
Making a difference to the communities & wildlife of Zimbabwe
Why Volunteer In Zimbabwe
Not much can beat the roar of Africa, but even less can beat the flavours of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe holds a very special place in our hearts. As our home, we are very proud to represent Zimbabwe and all its glory.
A journey through Zimbabwe offers more than you could ever begin to imagine. Where spotting big 5 game, whilst standing in amazement of one of the seven natural wonders of the world is right at your fingertips.
Rich with history and world- heritage sites, Zimbabwe will exceed all expectations.
Zimbabwe Volunteer Destinations
With an abundance of wildlife and Zimbabwe’s commitment to conservation, there is no better place to make a difference, not only to wildlife but also the surrounding communities.
Antelope Park
Victoria Falls
About Zimbabwe
Welcome to Zimbabwe, a country beaming with stunning landscapes, exquisite wildlife and some of the friendliest people on earth, waiting to welcome you with open arms. Discover the hype of one of the seven natural wonders of the world, or venture into the bush in search of Big 5 game, including the elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino. Zimbabwe is bound to steal your heart and open your eyes.
There are very few places on this planet, where you can trek with white rhino on foot, take in the breathtaking sights of one of the seven natural wonders of the world and discover incredible world heritages sites; rich with history. Zimbabwe will amaze you beyond your wildest expectations.
Fun Facts
- Zimbabwe translates to “House of Stones” in reference to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins.
- Originally called Rhodesia, named after the great Cecil Rhodes, who founded Rhodesia, as part of the British Empire.
- Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) was once known as the ‘breadbasket of Africa’ for exporting wheat, tobacco and corn, Zimbabwe is now one of the poorest countries in Africa.
- Zimbabwe gained her independence in 1980.
- Zimbabwe is home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls
- Zimbabwe was voted by ‘The Lonely Planet as the worlds 3rd best country to visit in 2019
- Zimbabwe was amongst the National Geographic Traveller’s Top 10 ‘must see’ destinations.
We are dedicated to wildlife conservation and community development, as we recognise how they interlink. Zimbabwe offers incredible conservation opportunities, combined with the local community work that is happening right here, on the ground.
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Zimbabwe
Not much can beat the roar of Africa, but even less can beat the flavours of Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe holds a very special place in our hearts. As our home, we are very proud to represent Zimbabwe and all its glory.
A journey through Zimbabwe offers more than you could ever begin to imagine. Where spotting big 5 game, whilst standing in amazement of one of the seven natural wonders of the world is right at your fingertips. Rich with history and world- heritage sites, Zimbabwe will exceed all expectations.
Voted by The Lonely Planet as the worlds 3rd best country to visit in 2019 and National Geographic Traveller’s Top 10 ‘must see’ destination, don’t you think it’s time to see what all the hype is about?
Victoria Falls
Discover one of the world’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders. Although situated between Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls has earned its own place and reputation. Standing proud as the world’s largest falling sheet of water, the mighty falls themselves offers truly speculator sights. Experience the falls in the most expectational and thrilling way possible, right on the edge. Devil’s pool pushes you to the edge of the falls and your comfort zone.
Drawing in all kinds of tourists, from backpackers to luxury safari goers; the is no shortage of things on offer. From adrenaline-fuelled jumps to luxury dinner cruises along the Zambezi river, this is definitely one for the bucket list.
Antelope Park
World Travel Awards, Zimbabwe’s leading private game reserve 2016, 2017, 2018.
You will be based in the heart of the Zimbabwean bush, where waking up to the sound of roaring lions is just the norm, ahead of your early morning activities. Our homey and vibrant volunteer village strikes the perfect balance between comfort and the African bush. Situated in 3000 acres of stunning savanna grassland, with an abundance of wildlife roaming the park, you will be immersed into the bush and your breathtaking surroundings.
We have a variety of accommodation types on offer, from spacious quad rooms to smaller cosy twin rooms, with access to clean bathroom facilities in the village. As we also cater for guests in our lodge, we offer accommodation upgrades for those looking for an extra special bush experience.
Enjoy the true taste of African home cooking with three tasty wholesome meals a day, prepared by our fantastic camp chefs served in our dining area.
On the weekends, take the time to relax by the swimming pool, or enjoy the atmosphere from our raised deck bar overlooking the river. Your unfiltered African experience begins here.
Alongside regular spotting of giraffes, zebras, elephants and more than 14 other plains game species and over 200 bird species, you will also be making your footprint on the conservation efforts here in Zimbabwe and beyond.
Facilities
- Swimming Pool
- Volunteer Social Lounge
- Included laundry facilities
- Raised Deck Bar overlooking the river
- Coffee shop
Extras (additional cost)
With the ultimate African backdrop, exquisite wildlife and incredible exclusive activities, there are every reason to take part in one of our many amazing horse activities.
- Sunrise horse ride
- Safari bush ride
- Horse swim
- Sundowners carriage
- Ultimate overnight horse safari
During your stay at Antelope Park, take the opportunity to experience the best of what Zimbabwe has to offer:
- Victoria Falls: Are you curious as to what all the hype about Victoria Falls is? From cruising along the Zambezi river, spotting game during a three-course meal to bungee jumping into the mist itself; a visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world is one for the bucket list. From exhilarating adrenaline packed activities to game viewing in beautiful Botswana, there is something for everyone on the doorstep of the magnificent falls.
- Matobos National Park: Trek through the bush on foot in search of the magnificent African Rhino. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity to see one of the world most endangered, but incredible creatures. The best way to see these amazing animals up-close.
- Free to Be Wild Sanctuary: Get up-close with little baboons with big characters, monkeys and impala, who have been given a second chance in life; at this rehabilitation centre, specialising in rescue and release.
- Great Zimbabwe Ruins: Discover the rich history of Zimbabwe at this Unseco World Heritage Site for the day.
Fuller Forest – Victoria Falls
What else could be better than being right in the heart of the bush, while just 10 minutes away from the bustling town of Victoria Falls?
Our volunteer village is situated in our very own Fuller Forest, 2000 hectares of authentic African bush. Staying in our spacious safari tents in small groups with our fellow volunteers, with access to large and clean ablution blocks; you will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of Africa in the most natural way possible.
Enjoy three hearty bush meals a day, prepared by our brilliant camp chefs, providing you will all the fuel you need for your busy day ahead.
An abundance of wildlife is right on your doorstep. With the town bordering the unfenced Zambezi national park (where the majority of our conservation research takes place,) wildlife is able to move freely. Elephant, Buffalo and lion have been known in the past to pass through the town itself. Your safari experience never stops, so be ready with your cameras at any given moment!
Zimbabwe Current Economic Situation and Cash Shortages
The good news is that the official currency of Zimbabwe is the US dollar, which makes everything much easier.
The not so good news is that due to current economic difficulties in Zimbabwe, the country is currently experiencing a severe cash shortage. That’s why it’ll be very unlikely that you will be able to withdraw money from any ATM in the nearby towns or airports. As a result, please ensure that you bring plenty of cash in US dollars to pay for drinks, snacks, internet connection, souvenirs or whatever you need.
Most volunteers spend on average about $50 to $150 US dollars a week.
You can pay for extra excursions and activities by card. However, if you are going to use your Visa or MasterCard, please contact your bank prior to departure to inform them of your plans. Some banks will not approve foreign transactions if they do not know you are travelling in advance.
Also, please note that most of the card machines require a pin number on transactions so we strongly recommend getting the pin numbers for your credit cards.
Zimbabwe Volunteer Projects
Lion, Elephant & Wildlife Management
Get fully involved with our wildlife conservation efforts, caring for our lions, engaging with our elephants and maintaining our Game park
Location: Antelope Park
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
Wildlife Photography Internship
Help us to raise awareness of our community and conservation efforts through the power of your lens, with stunning photo opportunities.
Location: Victoria Falls
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
African Equestrian Volunteering
Discover incredible wildlife and scenery from the saddle, while taking part in vital stable mgt, with incredible horse activities on offer.
Location: Antelope Park
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
60 Day Field Guide Course
Embark on the world’s first FGASA endorsed mobile field guide training program whilst discovering four spectacular locations within Zimbabwe.
Location: Zimbabwe
Duration: 60 days
Horse and Wildlife Care Project
Not only will you work with horses, but also get involved with the care of our sanctuary animals.
Location: Victoria Falls
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
Lion & Wildlife Sanctuary
Play a vital role in conservation, with close encounters with our resident lions, right on the doorstep of the mighty Victoria Falls.
Location: Victoria Falls
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
Teaching & Community
Be part of our goal to improve education, by providing essential individualised classroom support to kids eager to learn and prosper.
Location: Antelope Park
Duration: 2 – 12 Weeks
Highlights & Excursions
The opportunities Zimbabwe present are staggering and promise to provide an experience of a lifetime. From unique wildlife encounters & historic sites to one of the seven natural wonders of the world; isn’t it time you experienced the hype for yourself?
Matopos
From tracking white rhino on foot and game drives, to cave paintings, hikes and the historic grave of Cecil Rhodes; Matopos offer a whole array of activity, with one of Zimbabwe’s most stunning national parks as your backdrops.
Victoria Falls
Whether you are cruising along the Zambezi river or bungee jumping into the mist itself; a visit to one of the seven natural wonders of the world is one for the bucket list. From exhilarating adrenaline packed activities to game viewing in beautiful Botswana, there is something for everyone on the doorstep of the magnificent falls.
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
These are Africa’s 2nd oldest ruins behind the pyramids and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend the day trekking around these ancient ruins and learn about ancient kings of the past and ancient Zimbabwean culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zimbabwe safe?
Despite negative portrayal within the Western media, Zimbabwe remains a very safe country to visit and considerably safer than neighbouring South Africa, like anywhere in the world the usual theft and crimes occur.
\We encourage you not to walk around at night or alone. Check out our safety tips for more information about keeping safe, as you explore all the incredible opportunities Zimbabwe has to offer.
What is the weather/climate in Zimbabwe?
The weather and climate in Southern Africa are reversed to the Northern Hemisphere. The weather is generally warm reaching hot most days, with evening cool to warm evenings.
However, during the winter months, May-September the climate dropped significantly, with the evening dropping to very low temperatures, although will remain warm during the days. The summer months, October- April can get very hot; with October reaching peak temperatures. Between the raining season December-February, you can expect some cloud coverage and rain to cool things down, however these are usually short and sharp. It is worthy to note that the climate in different areas of Zimbabwe can differ hugely.
The climate in Gweru (where Antelope Park is situated) is much cooler than Victoria Falls, where temperatures remain high for the majority of the year.
What is the currency in Zimbabwe?
The official currency for international tourists in Zimbabwe is the US dollar ($). We ask you to bring plenty of USD cash with you, as you will not be able to withdraw cash in Zimbabwe, due to the national shortage of currency.
Most large retailers, restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards, such as MasterCard and Visa.
Which Electrical Plugs are used in Zimbabwe?
Generally, power sockets in Zimbabwe are ‘Type G’ the square three pin style, found in the UK.
What is the language in Zimbabwe?
The official language is English, alongside the two main local languages Shona and Ndebele.
Is there malaria in Zimbabwe?
Malaria is present in Zimbabwe. The risk is high throughout the year in the Zambesi Valley (which includes Victoria Falls) and in areas below 1200m from November to June.
The risk is minimal in Harare, Bulawayo and Gweru.
Is there ‘Big 5’ game in Zimbabwe?
There is plenty of ‘Big 5’ game roaming national parks in Zimbabwe. The ‘Big 5’ include the elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo.
Hot spots for wildlife viewing include Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe’s largest National Park and the renowned Mana Pools National Park, the hub of some of Zimbabwe’s most incredible and wild animals.
How to get to Zimbabwe?
There are three international airports in Zimbabwe: Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.
There are daily flights to each of these locations from Johannesburg (O.R Tambo Intl.)
Some international airlines offer flights into Harare including:
- Emirates
- Kenya Airways
- Ethiopian Airways
- South African Airways
Know Before You Go
Visa Requirements
Packing List
Code of Conduct
Volunteering Safety Tips
- Avoid traveling alone, especially at night.
- Ensure that excessive amounts of cash are left in safe boxes, not lying around in plain sight.
- Do not carry excessive amounts of cash on you
- If you are taking a taxi anywhere, make sure you book it in advance through a trusted and reliable driver.
- Avoid wandering down dark streets, even in large groups.
- Be aware and alert at bars. Do not leave you drink unattended at any time. If you drink has been left out of your sight, discard it.
- Do not enter township areas without being accompanied by one of our local staff members.
- Be wary of people who seem too friendly too fast.
- Avoid leaving your personal items like bags or mobile phones unattended.
- Do not share personal information with anyone under any circumstances.
- Save your project manager’s number on your phone and make sure to provide us with a copy of your emergency contact person at home.
Zimbabwe Vaccinations
Please consult with your private physician or doctor in regards to what immunizations or vaccinations are needed.
Our recommendations:
- Tetanus: Recommended
- Hepatitis A&B: Recommended
- Typhoid: Recommended
- Malaria: There is very low-risk malaria at Antelope Park, Bulawayo and the immediate surrounding areas. We do not advise that you need malaria medication while at Antelope Park or Bulawayo. However, there is a high risk of malaria in Victoria Falls, so we recommend you bring the correct malaria medication if you are volunteering or visiting on an amazing excursion.
- Yellow Fever: Zimbabwe is NOT at risk to yellow fever.
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