Do I need a visa to join the volunteer programs?
The volunteer programs we offer take place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Kenya which most nationalities will be able to enter on a tourist visa. This will be enough time to complete the volunteer program and in the case of the Anti-Poaching Program in South Africa to volunteer for a short period. If you wish to volunteer for a longer period you will have to apply for a volunteer visa. Ensure you check the entry requirements for your country before booking.
Will I get a refund if I can't join my chosen program?
Yes, provided you cancel your booking with the specified cancellation limits for your program you will get a full refund minus international payment transfer costs and card fees which are specified in our T & C’s. It is also very important to ensure you have the correct travel protection in place in case of unforseen circumstances.
Can I change my volunteer program dates if I can't go?
If you are unable to join your chosen program we will do our best to organise for you to join it at a later date. It will depend on who you volunteer with and their cancellation policy so ensure you read the T & C’s but the organisations we work with are flexible and want you to be able to enjoy these experiences. It is also very important to ensure you have the proper travel protection in the case of unforseen circumstances.
Is there an age limit for the anti-poaching training?
There is no age limit as such, provided you are still fit and healthy. That being said the training is mentally and physically challenging so we reserve the right to refuse an application if we deem it to be too challenging or not in the best interest of the applicant.
Can I return home after the anti-poaching training then come back and volunteer?
Yes, you can return home or take a break between the training and volunteering as the certificates are valid throughout Africa and you will not need to re-do the training. It is important to note, that if you leave it too long between the training and using your new skills it might make it harder to secure somewhere to volunteer/work as recent experience in the field is looked upon favourably and keeping your skills fresh is key to being safe in this field of conservation.
Do I need previous experience to volunteer?
Previous experience is not neccessary although it can be beneficial. The training and experiences are tailored to suit people from all walks of life and experience levels.
What happens after the anti-poaching training?
After you successfully complete the training you will have the option to stay on and volunteer at the conservancy you were being trained on provided you perform well during the training. You also have the option to volunteer elsewhere. The training is recognised throughout Africa and the training provider can assist with a letter of reference and contacts to help you find somewhere to volunteer. Or you can do your own research and organise somewhere to volunteer prior to the training depending on your plans and where you want put your new skills to use.
Will I be able to carry a firearm?
If you choose an anti-poaching program you will be trained on the necessary weapon systems but won’t necessarily carry one in the field unless you are a South African citizen. After the training it depends on what country or wildlife reserve you volunteer in or on among other things.
Can I book through Global Guardians Conservation Fund?
Yes, we handle everything from your enquiry and securing your position on your chosen volunteer program to providing assistance and advice leading up to your departure and while you are on your program.
Can I use my own equipment during the anti-poaching training?
Yes, provided it is similar to what is shown on the equipment checklist in the info pack you can use your own gear. You can also bring other things you may find useful but ensure you check first as we don’t want too many items weighing you down.
Will I be paid for volunteering/can I find paid work after the anti-poaching training?
The programs we offer are paid for by the volunteer to help support the conservation efforts and you will not be paid for volunteering. In the case of volunteering after the anti-poaching training you can usually find somewhere that will cover your accommodation while you are there but it can be hard to find paid work as a foreign anti-poaching ranger as it takes work away from locals who need it. That being said, if you have other specialist skills it is possible to find somewhere to employ you with the right research.