Learn how to conduct scientific conservation research through hands-on experience in South Africa’s diverse ecosystems
Based in rural South Africa, this Conservation Research Internship provides an immersive opportunity to gain practical experience in applied environmental research. Designed for individuals eager to learn how science operates beyond the classroom, interns will get to execute an independent study, gaining hands-on experience in scientific examination, data collection, and interpretation.
Research interns can contribute to one of seven projects involving Primates, Predators, Birds, Reptiles, Vegetation, Butterflies, or Small Mammals, each supporting long-term biodiversity assessment. You will work alongside on-site researchers, field assistants, academic partners, and students providing a collaborative team with individual ownership of each project. Surrounded by the Soutpansberg Mountains, the remote location offers a deep dive into local ecosystems conducting all research and fieldwork on foot throughout the reserve.
Learning Objectives
Located in a remote mountain landscape in South Africa, this organization supports applied research and environmental education by fostering teamwork among students, researchers, and academic institutions from all around the world. It accommodates both independent and joint projects within a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, making it a valuable opportunity for biodiversity surveys and long-term environmental monitoring. This secluded setting encompasses forests, grasslands, and freshwater habitats, providing a natural laboratory for field-based ecological research with findings shared through academic and conservation networks. Through a strong emphasis on a combination of hands-on experience in fieldwork and guided mentorship, the participants contribute to meaningful scientific and conservation-focused outcomes.
Interns will follow a flexible research structure shaped by their interests and academic goals. This offers a customizable research experience depending on your background, project selection, and seasonal research priorities. You can expect early mornings or late nights to align with peak data collection times for your specific research.
Projects include Primate, Predator, Bird, Reptile, Vegetation, Butterfly, and Small Mammal research within the reserve. It’s important that all research is done on foot, so you must be physically and mentally prepared for manual tasks in nature.
Accommodation is provided on-site at the research center in shared rooms at the Barn, with bathrooms (private or communal), a kitchen, living areas, and a workspace. Bedding and towels are included, though interns should bring their own toiletries, especially any specific items or medications as these can be difficult to procure in the area. Outdoor facilities feature a braai, patio, and pizza oven to enjoy with fellow researchers. Located in a remote mountain reserve, living and working here requires interns to be both physically fit and mentally prepared for fieldwork immersed in the wild.
Be sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and obtain all recommended vaccines and/or medications to stay healthy. While on this remote project site, you will have 24/7 support from the on-site team in case of emergencies. They will also provide guidance on safety measures for the area and any local wildlife to be aware of. As an intern, it is essential to show respect for local wildlife, cultures, and customs.
Given the remote location of this project, you must be physically prepared to handle the challenging conditions of living and working on the mountain. It is equally important to be mentally ready, adaptable, and able to live and work closely with the same group of people in a remote environment.
Interns can access Wifi in communal areas, but reception is limited. For additional connectivity, ensure your phone is unlocked and consider a local or international e-SIM. It is recommended to buy a local South African SIM card at the airport, with MTN offering the best coverage nearby. A shared Lajuma Student WhatsApp group is used for communication, updates, and safety check-ins throughout the internship.
Meals are not provided, and students are responsible for buying and preparing their own food. “Town days” take place once every two weeks, usually on Thursdays, when students are transported to Makhado Crossing Mall in Louis Trichardt to shop for food, toiletries, medicine, and other essentials. Students must plan ahead and purchase enough supplies to last two weeks, as shopping trips run on a rotating schedule, and students coordinate among themselves who will attend each trip. Those not scheduled may ask fellow students to purchase items for them.
Makhado Crossing is about a one-hour drive from the research camp, so thorough planning is essential. Drinking water comes from natural mountain springs and is safe to consume. Hot water is provided via a traditional donkey system, where students maintain a fire beneath a water tank. Please inform the Roots team in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions so necessary arrangements can be made.
The research centre is located in the Soutpansberg Mountain Range, approximately 45 km from the nearby town of Louis Trichardt, where essential services and shopping facilities are available. The area is known for its remarkable biodiversity and landscapes. On weekends, interns can explore local hiking trails, waterfalls, and surrounding reserves, or travel further to destinations such as Kruger National Park and other regional attractions.
Arrival dates are every other Thursday and will be shared with you during the application process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
8 WEEKS EUR 2,099
12 WEEKS EUR 2,814
16 WEEKS EUR 3,529
20 WEEKS EUR 4,244
26 WEEKS EUR 5,316
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.
Research interns will gain hands-on experience in conservation research, ecological monitoring, data collection, fieldwork skills, and exposure to real-world environmental projects.
Any student, recent graduate, researcher or an early-career professional with an interest in conservation, ecology, or environmental studies can apply for this Conservation Research Internship in South Africa
Yes! This Research internship qualifies for university credit. Confirm requirements with your university and reach out to the Roots team for help with transfer credits.
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
SOCIAL
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
ABOUT US
At Roots, we create the perfect balance between meaningful work and valuable learning through internships with nonprofits & social enterprises in Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
CONTACT
UK: +44 139 269 0255
US: +1 617 500 6179
internship@rootsinterns.com
OFFICE: Cape Town, South Africa
SOCIAL
SIGN UP TO OUR NEWSLETTER
