Your chance to make a difference to Conservation with a placement at UmPhafa!
Two-week placement: Contribution of £800.
We are pleased to be able to offer a special two week programme with 10 places available to book for each two week placement. Whether you are a recent graduate, in employment or retired, this is a fantastic opportunity for those who are keen to lend a hand to nature and explore a beautiful part of the world outside of our usual busy season.
Over the two weeks you will be involved in every aspect of the reserves management, including: Animal studies, game counts, reserve maintenance, field patrols, data collection and night drives. You will also have opportunities to explore the local landscape and get immersed in local culture.
This in itself is much more fulfilling than simply visiting Africa as a tourist and you will have the satisfaction of being close to the animals, knowing that your contribution is having a direct influence on the wellbeing of the flora and fauna of UmPhafa Reserve.
We are looking for those who are committed and passionate about nature and are not afraid of a bit of hard work. Applicants must be prepared for physical work in South African summer temperatures (Activities will be tailored daily to try to suit the mean temperature). A full kit list is provided in the pack.
Check out the video below created by Emma Barker, who spent three months on UmPhafa.
Please contact wendy@colchesterzoo.org for information about our Internship dates.
– Airport pick-up and drop off (Durban King Shaka airport)
– Experienced staff
– Safe and basic accommodations (usually shared dorm rooms)
– WiFi at the accommodation
– All meals
– Welcome induction and location orientation
– All necessary project equipment and materials
– Research training
– Wildlife identification techniques
– Teamwork experience
– 24-hour in-country support
– Confidential professional reference (where requested)
– Medical and travel insurance
– Visa costs (if necessary)
– Personal kit
– Extra local excursions and personal shopping
Apply Here
Download our application form
Please send your completed internship application form and an introductory email to:
wendy@colchesterzoo.org
Testimonial:
Leyla (August 2026)
“I would like to thank the guides and rangers as they were the ones who made our trip truly special. They were very attentive to everyone’s interests and made sure to check on people. They were very patient when explaining new concepts to us and I am grateful for the experience and for them sharing their knowledge with us.”
Joseph (August 2026)
“The staff had the experience and knowledge to adapt to changing situations and they were able to answer every question. This experience has been a once in a lifetime for me. I couldn’t have asked for better guides.”
Barry (August 2026)
“The trip was very professionally organised and run with a nice balance of theory and practical. I found it rewarding working alongside knowledgeable and experienced passionate likeminded people.”
Leah (June 2026)
“Overall the placement was exciting and I feel like I learnt a lot whilst engaging in hands on activities.”
Grace (June 2026)
“I would 100% recommend the trip to others. It’s an amazing opportunity that everyone should do if they have the chance. Umphafa is a beautiful place and well maintained and made me happy to see so many species.”
Brooke (May 2026)
“Every day was different I loved it and learnt so much. Everyone was awesome and really looked after me and helped with everything I needed.”
Kate (May 2026)
“I enjoyed everything about the placement, we were so lucky to have the experiences we did, each time there is something new and we are all included.”
Krista (May 2026)
“The placement was all about being immersed in the daily life of the Reserve and seeing the different aspects of managing the Reserve and having an opportunity to contribute even in a small way.”
Elise (May 2026)
“These 2 weeks have been absolutely mind blowing and I feel with being able to talk to the staff and ask questions I now have a set future path. All staff were so welcoming and friendly, made me feel at home.”
Rowena (May 2026)
“It was a fantastic experience that could not be replicated in the UK. I learnt a lot about the species, habitat and how a Reserve is run.”
Megan (May 2026)
“I would definitely recommend the placement to others, I loved it. We were welcomed from the minute we arrived and were kept up to date on every days activities and were encouraged to ask questions. Every day was a new challenge where we could show our skills and were then encouraged to grow from these skills!”
Eleanor (June 2025)
“Amazing, I really enjoyed the experience and the range in day to day activities was great. Thank you so much for this incredible, once in a lifetime experience.”
Ellie (June 2025)
“Great place providing a perfect environment for multiple species along with conservation. The staff were really friendly and welcoming and the accommodation was very cozy and fitting.”
Hannah (June 2025)
“Overall the placement has been an invaluable experience which has granted me the opportunity to witness conservation in action. It has been a long term dream of mine to visit South Africa and I have not been disappointed. The internship has been incredible and I will cherish the memories I have made from this trip.”
Irah (June 2025)
“This has been an amazing experience that has taught me a lot about this industry, which I hope to be involved in. I would love to return to Umphafa.”