6 Tips to Prepare for a Successful Remote Internship
Just landed a remote internship and not sure how you should prepare for it? Or maybe you’re still thinking about applying and wondering what kind of preparation it might take.…
Wildlife Sanctuary Program in Malawi
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Work directly with rescued animals, gain conservation skills, and contribute to meaningful rehabilitation efforts
This Wildlife Sanctuary program provides hands-on experience in the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of animals in Malawi. Participants will work alongside experienced conservationists and veterinarians, assisting in animal husbandry, behavior monitoring, and enrichment programs. The program also includes community outreach and education initiatives, giving you a well-rounded understanding of conservation efforts in the region.
The sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including primates, antelopes, and other rescued wildlife. You’ll be part of a passionate team dedicated to giving these animals a second chance while also promoting conservation efforts in Malawi.
Learning Objectives
- Develop hands-on skills in wildlife care, rehabilitation, and behavioral monitoring
- Gain insight into the ethical and scientific aspects of wildlife conservation
- Contribute to community-based conservation and environmental education
- Understand the challenges of human-wildlife conflict and conservation in Africa
ORGANIZATION
A leading conservation initiative in Malawi is committed to wildlife rescue, biodiversity research, and environmental education. Operating the country’s only accredited wildlife sanctuary, it provides care for injured, orphaned, and rescued animals while engaging in advocacy efforts to combat wildlife crime and promote sustainable conservation practices. Through scientific research and community outreach, the program aims to protect Malawi’s natural heritage and inspire environmental responsibility.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
This program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. You’ll actively participate in the daily tasks of the center, while receiving mentorship from experienced professionals.
Responsibilities
- Assist in daily animal care, including feeding, habitat maintenance, and enrichment
- Support the rehabilitation process by observing animal behavior and assisting in medical care when needed
- Care for orphaned animals, ensuring their well-being and socialization
- Engage in hands-on animal welfare activities, including preparing and delivering enrichment
- Participate in integration programs that prepare animals for release into the wild
- Assist with conservation education programs to raise awareness in local communities
- Maintain records of animal health and rehabilitation progress
- Contribute to research projects aimed at improving sanctuary operations and rehabilitation methods
You can combine this sanctuary program with the Wildlife Research Program, allowing you to experience different aspects of conservation in Malawi.
Requirements
- A background or strong interest in Animal Welfare, Biology, or Conservation
- Willingness to engage in hands-on work and outdoor environments
- Passion for ethical wildlife care and conservation
- Adaptability and a positive approach to working in a team
- Strong observational skills and attention to detail
- Commitment to following sanctuary guidelines for responsible wildlife care
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
You’ll stay at a comfortable shared house with other interns and volunteers, right in the 180-acre the sanctuary is based in. The reserve is home to a range of wildlife, including antelopes, small carnivores, hyenas, and crocodiles, so you’ll find yourself staying in a wonderful natural environment. The house features six bedrooms, a lounge, kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas, two bathrooms, a laundry space, and a garden with an outdoor deck. Wifi and cleaning services, including laundry, are provided. Nestled in the heart of the sanctuary, the accommodation offers an immersive bush experience—unwinding by the fire in the evenings while soaking in the sounds of the surrounding wilderness.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy. A rabies vaccine is strongly recommended and we do not advise you to come for a placement without it; animal care tasks will be limited and you will be required to sign a waiver if you choose not to have the vaccination. Additionally, the organization requires you to take a TB test (and receive a negative test result) as even if you have been vaccinated against TB, you may still be a carrier of the disease and pass it onto the animals.
Communication
Communication
Wifi access is limited in Malawi, so the organization will provide you with a local SIM card upon arrival for you to purchase a data bundle. Before you travel, ensure that your phone is unlocked for international carriers.
Meals
Meals
Meals are cooked by the in-house chef every day except on Sundays, when you can sample local restaurants in the nearby urban areas, or order takeaway meals. The menu is vegetarian with a mix of international and local dishes. It’s recommended to only drink water from bottles (filtered water is provided on-site).
Location details
Location details
You’ll be based in the capital, Lilongwe, which is a bustling and vast city. Although you’ll spend most of your time on the project, you’ll have the weekends to explore the area and get a glimpse into Malawian city life. There are plenty of markets to visit, hikes to climb, and people to meet in this energetic location. You’ll also be less than 2 hours away from Lake Malawi, the third-largest lake in Africa.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Program arrival dates are always on a Tuesday, while end dates are flexible and will be discussed with your during the selection process.
What you’ll pay (2025 rates)
2 weeks GBP 1,885
4 weeks GBP 2,830
6 weeks GBP 3,540
8 weeks GBP 4,181
10 weeks GBP 4,672
12 weeks GBP 5,129
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right opportunity 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.
- Accommodation in a shared room. If you prefer a single room, please contact us for availability and prices.
- Airport transfers on arrival (Tuesdays) and departure
- All placement-related transport
- Vegan/Vegetarian meals from Monday to Saturday
- Unlimited tea, coffee, and filtered water
- Local SIM card
- Housekeeping service
- Tour of Lilongwe City (depending on departure schedule)
- Program T-shirt
- 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 the program
Exclusions
- Flights to Kamuzu International Airport in Lilongwe
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- TB scan and vaccinations (including rabies)
- Meals on Sundays
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Malawi.
What can I expect from an internship in Malawi?
You can expect to foster a unique connection with the local community, as well as having many opportunities to explore various projects during your internship. If you wish to know more about what to expect, make sure to read our blog from a previous intern who traveled to Malawi!
How long can I do an internship in Malawi?
The minimum length of our internships in Malawi is two months, but the ideal length is closer to four months, if possible. This ensures you have an adequate amount of time to make a tangible impact. Luckily, the length of our programs is customizable so you can apply for a summer, remote, hybrid, or gap-year internship!
Can I get university credit for an internship in Malawi?
Yes, but you must ensure with your supervisor that your university approves this. You can also purchase transfer credits to add onto your internship experience.
How can I prepare for an internship in Malawi?
Personally, you can prepare by learning about the history and culture of Malawi and reflecting on your internship goals, and we’ll be here to help you with the rest! Ask us any questions you may have about placement logistics, matchmaking, check-ins, advice on visa/insurance, or anything else you may think of. If you wish to know more about preparing for your internship, you can check out our ultimate guide to NGO internships in Africa!
Will I receive a stipend during my Roots internship?
Unfortunately, it is not possible to receive any kind of stipend while interning for a nonprofit organization. Your internship will be unpaid so we’ve put together a few tips on how to fund your internship. There will be opportunities for professional and personal growth and you’ll leave with a wealth of knowledge that is invaluable!
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Lilongwe, Malawi
PROGRAM FOCUS: Wildlife Conservation
TASK FOCUS: Animal Husbandry, Orphan Care, Veterinary Science
LENGTH: Min. 2 weeks
COST: From GBP 1,885
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Work closely with rescued wildlife, helping them recover and thrive
- Learn practical skills from experienced conservationists and veterinarians
- Participate in community outreach and environmental education initiatives
- Immerse yourself in Malawi’s rich culture and stunning landscapes
- Gain real-world experience that will shape your career in conservation
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 (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
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.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
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!
"*" indicates required fields
RELATED PROGRAMS
Social Business Internship
- Min. 4 weeks
- Costa Rica OR Peru
- Business Development, Social Entrepreneurship, Strategy
Gain international experience supporting small business development in Latin America.
Find out more
NGO Management Internship
- Min. 8 weeks
- Siem Reap, Cambodia OR Remote
- Communications, Fundraising, M&E, Daily Operations
Engage in broad skill-building opportunities, varied workloads, and a chance to make a tangible impact for impoverished communities.
Find out more
NGO Management Internship
- Min. 4 weeks
- Puerto Inca, Peru
- Monitoring & Evaluation, Impact Reporting, Project Interaction
Embark on a journey of diverse skill development in NGO management while contributing to the protection of the Amazon Rainforest.
Find out more
RELATED BLOGS
What to Expect From A Female Empowerment Education Internship in Zambia
“I learned the value of making personal connections by opening myself for cultural exchange, which helped me truly become part of the community.” - Annie Kelley Learn from Annie, a…
Lessons Learned from a Psychology Internship in South Africa
“This opportunity aligned perfectly with my career goals and allowed me to contribute to a meaningful cause while gaining insight into trauma-informed care in a real-world setting.” - Zarah Kasmani…
