Wildlife Research Internship in South Africa

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Journey to South Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, the Greater Kruger National Park, and engage in groundbreaking research to better understand and protect its wildlife

Embark on an unforgettable wildlife research internship in one of the world’s largest National Parks. As a Wildlife Conservation intern, you’ll become part of a dedicated research team, gaining hands-on experience while exploring and studying some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet. Home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffaloes—as well as countless other species, Kruger offers a unique opportunity to collect data and observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Your work will contribute to ongoing research focused on protecting these animals from threats such as poaching, habitat loss, and climate change.

Through this Wildlife Research Internship, you’ll not only enhance your skills in wildlife research, but also actively contribute to the preservation of Kruger’s incredible biodiversity. This work is crucial for understanding how the animals interact with their environment and how human activity affects their survival. The research you participate in will support both local and global conservation efforts, providing critical insights into wildlife protection. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or simply passionate about wildlife, this Wildlife Conservation Internship in South Africa offers a unique chance to make a lasting impact while gaining invaluable field experience.

ORGANIZATION

This organization is a social development company that is driven by six individual causes that have been developed through long-term relationships and experience with communities and volunteering in Africa. These causes motivate, excite, and focus their vision, and allow them to offer internships that contribute to wider causes in Africa. As responsible leaders, they are committed to creating a professional internship portfolio, with opportunities that are unique in support and celebrated results. Through cultural immersion, their internships give individuals the ability to incorporate academic and experiential learning outside the classroom.

TASKS & REQUIreMENTS

Projects change throughout the year, so the specific project you’ll work on will depend on when you join this will be discussed during the application process. No matter the timing, you’ll be part of a committed team consisting of dedicated researchers and qualified Field Guides, working under the guidance of the Research Coordinator. You’ll have the opportunity to lead your own independent research project, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife research. Your weekly schedule will include team meetings, fieldwork in the Greater Kruger area, and occasional lectures about the local wildlife. Interns will also conduct literature reviews, analyze data gathered in the field, and write detailed reports that contribute to ongoing conservation research.

Responsibilities

  • Conducting fieldwork and gathering data, including retrieving camera traps and mapping various ecosystems
  • Managing and processing collected data for research purposes
  • Reviewing academic literature to support research efforts
  • Drafting methodologies, reports, and instructional documents
  • Performing statistical analyses and other forms of data evaluation
  • Applying research insights to address real-world challenges within park and reserve management
  • Delivering presentations to team members and, potentially, to stakeholders

Requirements

  • Currently working toward a degree in biology, ecology, conservation science, or a similar field
  • A solid understanding of how ecological systems work and interact
  • Comfortable with conducting detailed literature reviews to support research
  • Strong communication skills, both written and spoken, with fluency in English
  • Highly motivated, adaptable, and eager to work in remote, outdoor environments
  • Curious learner – this is a hands-on chance to explore wildlife and ecosystems while contributing to impactful research

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

Set within the heart of the reserve, your stay places you right where the work happens—surrounded by raw landscapes and the rhythms of the wild. The camp is rustic and purpose-built for field research, offering simple yet comfortable accommodation after full days outdoors. You’ll share dorm-style huts or safari tents with fellow participants, fostering a close-knit team environment and a shared sense of adventure. Evenings are often spent around the boma, unwinding under the stars as the sounds of wildlife carry through the night. Expect early starts, immersive experiences, and the unique feeling of contributing to life inside a working reserve.

Safety & Support

Safety & Support

Please consult your doctor with regards to vaccinations. The Greater Kruger Area is a low risk malaria zone, so there is a small risk particularly in the rainy summer months (October to April). You should seek medical advice on antimalarial medication options.

Communication

Communication

There is free Wifi at the camp to enable you to make contact with home through WhatsApp, Facetime, etc. Please note that you will be in the African bush, so the Wifi can at times be slow & unreliable. There is cell phone reception at camp, however, it is poor quality so there is no need to purchase a local SIM card.

Meals

Meals

Your meals are included with the fee and consists of a mixture of international and local cuisine. Some examples of traditional South African meals include bobotie, a potjie, a Cape Malay-style curry or the experience and excitement of cooking on an open fire with a South African braai. Or how about a local dessert such as milk tart or malva pudding, perhaps a peppermint crisp tart or sweet koeksisters. If you have an dietary restrictions or allergies, please let us know upon application so that the team on the ground can prepare to accommodate your needs.

Location details

Location details

You will be based at a traditional bush lodge in a Big 5 private reserve on the shores of the Olifants River. The surrounding wilderness is known as the Greater Kruger Area and Africa’s most iconic (and endangered) animals can be found here. When you’re not out on a bush drive, you’ll spend your time relaxing by the pool or hanging out with fellow wildlife enthusiasts while watching giraffes, hippos, elephants, and other wild animals across the river.

DATES & RATES

Fee Breakdown

Prices are available starting May 3, 2026

Longer stays than 12 weeks are possible; contact us for more information.

What you’ll pay (2027 rates)

8 weeks USD 6,250

9 weeks USD 7,140

10 weeks USD 8,030

11 weeks USD 8,920

12 weeks USD 9,810

Inclusions

  • Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
  • Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
  • An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
  • Accommodation in a dorm-style room in African hut or safari tent
  • Three meals a day
  • Wifi access
  • 24/7 on-site support during your stay
  • Project transport, equipment, and resources
  • Optional weekend excursions (additional fees apply)
  • Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
  • Onboarding with your supervisor
  • Regular check-ins
  • Support from the Roots team remotely
  • A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
  • A reference letter upon request

Exclusions

  • Flights to Hoedspruit
  • Visa and medical & travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
  • Laundry
  • Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
  • Costs for additional excursions or activities
SCHOLARSHIP & FUNDING

FAQs

Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in South Africa.

What can I expect from a NGO internship in South Africa?

During your internship in South Africa you can expect to meet people from around the world, as well as indulging yourself into the culture of this beautiful country! If you want to know more about what to expect, make sure to check out our top 7 reasons for an internship in Cape Town.

Will I have time to explore South Africa during my internship?

Yes! We partner with various activity organizers that can offer discounts exclusive to Roots Interns, for example, a road trip through the Garden Route and bungee jumping off the world’s largest natural bungee. You may also explore the country on your own and we are happy to give recommendations.

Am I able to do an internship while on a study program in Cape Town?

Yes! You are able to do a part-time internship with certain organizations so that you can continue your studies, while also gaining valuable work experience.

Will I receive a stipend of any kind during my internship with Roots?

Unfortunately, no. When working with a nonprofit organization, your internship will be unpaid, but there are many ways to fund your internship. Your experience will bring a wealth of knowledge and opportunities for both professional and personal growth that are invaluable!

QUICK FACTS

LOCATION: Greater Kruger Area, South Africa
PROGRAM FOCUS: Wildlife Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Game Drives, Research, Fieldwork, Data Analysis, Reports
LENGTH: Min. 8 weeks
COST: From USD 6,250

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Receive personalized guidance from a Research Coordinator
  • Design your own research project upon arrival
  • Enjoy exclusive, twice-weekly game drives into the African bush
  • Share your insights with fellow research volunteers
  • Appreciate life on a game reserve in the renowned Greater Kruger area
  • Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich wildlife in a tranquil setting
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW

HOW TO APPLY

If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:

APPLY

Fill in the application form and share your CV with us.

GET STARTED

CONNECT

We’ll set up a call to get to know a bit more about you and your internship goals.

MATCH

If we feel it’s a good match, the placement manager will set up a call between you and the supervisor of the host organization

CONFIRM

If everybody’s happy, we will provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and give you access to our portal where you can find all the information you need.

PREPARE

Once we receive your deposit payment, the placement will be officially confirmed. We’re excited to help you plan and prepare for your international internship!

NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?

If you’d like to ask us some questions about our internships, fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!

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