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The Research

Join this long-term wildlife census in the approximately 920-square-kilometer Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), the oldest game reserve in Africa. You’ll specifically be looking for the park’s many large herbivores: buffalo, bushpig, giraffe, white rhino, zebra, warthog, and many species of antelope (blue duiker, grey duiker, red duiker, bushbuck, impala, kudu, nyala, common reedbuck, mountain reedbuck, waterbuck, and blue wildebeest). Scientists aim to gather information about both the herbivores themselves and the numerous predators in the park, including lions, cheetahs, leopards, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs (one of the continent’s most endangered large carnivores). Ecologists and managers need to monitor the effect of these numerous predators on prey populations to ensure that the park continues to maintain a healthy predator-prey balance, especially considering increasing poaching within the park and increasing human populations around the park (reducing connectedness with other natural areas). The biennial census helps refine the park management’s ability to effectively manage and maintain species diversity and ecosystem functioning within the reserve’s boundaries.

The method used to control the population of endangered black rhinos is an example of effective management. At a certain population density, nearing the maximum that the park can hold, black rhinos will reproduce at approximately 3% per year. If, however, managers maintain the population at 80% of this critical density (by relocating “excess” animals to other conservation areas) they can increase the annual reproductive rate to 8%. In other words, this simple action will result in an increased growth rate for the black rhino population.

The point is that concentrating on optimizing growth rates rather than population sizes can potentially buffer against other losses, such as those imposed by poaching. This project will provide essential baseline information necessary for informed decision-making of this type.

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How You Will Help

HiP is one of the few protected areas that continues to use the distance sampling method, despite its high demands on effort and human resources. The involvement of participatory scientists has provided the necessary capacity to undertake this significant task, enabling the park to produce reliable estimates of its herbivore populations.

All census counting is done on foot, allowing you the wonderful opportunity to walk through areas that few get to see.

You’ll work on two major tasks during this expedition:

LINE TRANSECTS

You’ll start walking transects after two and a half days of training on research equipment, methods, and focal species identification. You won’t be totally on your own for identifying species: you’ll work with local rangers. Some of them only speak isiZulu, but you’ll have a list of both isiZulu and English names to translate.

Volunteers rise before sunrise each day and, at first light, set out to walk 10–15 kilometers (6–9 miles) over undulating to very hilly savanna thornveld and sometimes through closed-canopy forest. Because the park contains populations of elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions, and other predators, you’ll partner with an experienced, armed field ranger on each walk.

Each pair will hike one transect per day. You will hike quietly along the transect at 2–3 kilometers per hour (11/2–2 miles per hour), making every attempt to observe animals. When a herd or individual of one of the targeted species is observed, you will stop and record the species, the GPS point, the compass bearing of the transect, the compass bearing to the center of the herd, the distance from the point of observation to the herd, and the herd size. Other information about the vegetation and the weather conditions will also be recorded on the prepared data collection forms. You will continue in this manner until the end of the transect. The time taken to complete each transect will vary according to its length and the number of hills, but the average time is four to five hours. You’ll rotate through different transects each day, depending on the group size and logistical considerations.

DATA ANALYSIS

Each day, volunteers will assist in entering the census data and verifying its accuracy. This will take approximately one hour. You will then have the rest of the afternoon for recreation. Data will be analyzed after all teams have completed their expeditions and will be used to produce the biennial game count report. The report is used to inform management decisions around the removal of animals to assist other conservation areas or for other management responsibilities.

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Essential Eligibility Requirements

All participants must be able to:

• Comfortably traverse up to 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) per day over mountainous terrain (while looking around for animals) without significant fatigue for a period of 11 days with just one day of rest in between. Transect walking begins just after sunrise and is generally completed by mid- to late morning. It generally takes three to six hours per day to complete.
• Take immediate evasive action in the event of an animal encounter, e.g., by moving quickly and/or climbing a tree, following the field ranger’s instructions.
• Those who are unable to complete the transects without difficulty or take evasive action can endanger themselves, their teammates, the field rangers, and the animals.
• Independently follow and immediately comply with project/park staff and field guide instructions, whether verbal or visual.
• Enjoy being outdoors all day, in all types of weather, in the potential presence of wild and sometimes dangerous animals, including snakes and insects.
• Hike or climb steep slopes for one to three hours per day, depending on the transect. Most transects are over undulating to hilly terrain, but several involve steep and lengthy hills. There are also deep ravines that will need to be navigated on certain transects.
• Traverse low-level rivers on foot and get into and out of a dugout canoe to cross the deeper rivers that pass through some walking transects.
• Work comfortably alongside armed park rangers. Weapons are for your protection, and rangers are well-trained in their use. Volunteers are NOT permitted to handle weapons at any time.
• See clearly (with corrective lenses is fine) to 500 meters (1,640 feet), as well as close-up to read the instruments used during the project.
• Hear well either naturally or with a hearing aid to follow instructions in the field, particularly in the event of an emergency.
• Carry personal daily supplies, including at least two to three liters of water and some small field equipment (e.g., a GPS unit, compass, rangefinder, binoculars, and a clipboard).
• Search for wildlife while moving in a single file, 2 meters (6 feet) or less behind the guide, over rough, uneven, and sometimes rocky terrain with areas of dense, thorny vegetation, while steering clear of obstacles and animal holes.
• Complete all required transects to avoid placing strain on other team members, which can increase their risk of injury and create tension among volunteers.
• Get themselves up into and down out of project vehicles unassisted.
• Sit or ride in project vehicles (pickup trucks equipped with bench seats), near other team members, while traveling over rough and bumpy roads for approximately two to three hours per day.
• Keep as quiet as possible while walking and working in the bush.
• Tolerate not having a reliable source of electricity throughout the night for the length of the project.
• Comfortable to be trained in the use of a GPS, a rangefinder, and a compass.
• Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently.
• Take an active role in one’s safety by recognizing and avoiding hazards if and when they arise (including, but not limited to, those described in �������� materials and safety briefings). Always comply with project staff instructions and recommended safety measures.
• Effectively communicate to the staff if experiencing distress or needing assistance.
• Get along with a variety of people from different backgrounds, often in close proximity, for the duration of the team.
• Be comfortable being surrounded by a language and/or culture that is not your own.

Video credit: Donna Dela Calzada.

Please Note: Due to the high level of physical activity associated with this project, and the need to take immediate evasive action in the event of close encounters with potentially dangerous wildlife, all participants—regardless of age or health status—are required to submit an �������� Doctors Approval Form within one year of their expedition start date. When requesting a signature on this form, participants must share the above ‘Essential Eligibility Requirements’ with their health care provider.

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Travel Planning

RENDEZVOUS LOCATION

Richards Bay Airport, Richards Bay, South Africa 

Specific travel planning details will be provided in your �������� Expedition Logistics Document. This document can be found in your once you enroll. Please do not book travel arrangements, such as flights, until the Expedition Logistics Document matching the current year has been published to your portal account.

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

�������� strongly recommends that travelers research their destination thoroughly before departure. Familiarity with the destination’s entry and exit requirements, visas, local laws, and customs can go a long way in ensuring a smooth travel experience. and are helpful resources. For LGBTI travelers, the contains many useful tips and links.

COUNTRY AND PROJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

You are responsible for reviewing and complying with the entry and exit requirements of your destination. 

Entry visa requirements differ by country of origin, layover, and destination, and do change unexpectedly. For this reason, please confirm your visa requirements at the time of booking and again 90 days before travel. Please apply for your visa early (we recommend starting at least six months before the start of your expedition). Refunds will not be made for volunteers canceling due to not obtaining their visa in time to meet the team at the rendezvous. You can find up-to-date visa requirements at the following website:

If a visa is required, participants should apply for a TOURIST visa. Please note that obtaining a visa can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency to expedite and simplify the process.

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Health and Safety

EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELD

Field rangers, research, management staff, and camp managers will carry two-way radios. Camp managers and field rangers will also have mobile phones, but reception is limited. There are ranger posts throughout the park, allowing rangers to assist with emergency communications.

Project staff members are not medical professionals.

�������� has a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week emergency hotline number. Someone is always on call to respond to messages that come into our live answering service.

All projects have detailed Emergency Response Plans; these will be shared with participants at the start of each team.

IMMUNIZATIONS & TRAVEL VACCINATIONS

Please ensure your routine immunizations are up to date and that you have received the appropriate vaccinations for your travel destination. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and their doctor. Visit the or the for guidance on immunizations. 

If traveling from countries or regions where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination. 

Staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations, including receiving booster doses, as applicable, is strongly encouraged. For more details, please visit

PROJECT RISKS AND CONDITIONS

Transportation

Roads may be corrugated, made of dirt, or composed of gravel, and can be very bumpy, as well as either dusty or muddy and slippery, depending on the weather conditions. Thorny brush can lead to tire punctures and/or scratches while driving past. Other road hazards in South Africa include fast and reckless drivers, livestock and wildlife, rain, poor or no lighting, and banditry. Traffic moves on the left side of the road. Project vehicles are pickup trucks fitted with bench seats. Volunteers will be exposed to the elements during drives. You should therefore bring appropriate clothing, including warm, wind-proof clothing for the mornings when being driven to the start of transects (this clothing can be left in the vehicle when you disembark). Volunteers are not permitted to drive. Volunteers should remain quiet and refrain from moving around on the back of the vehicle when potentially dangerous animals are spotted while driving.

Hiking

The terrain is isolated, rough, and undulating, and can be quite steep along some transects. Vegetation, including areas of thorny acacia scrub, may be quite dense. Exhaustion and injuries such as scratches, sprains, and broken bones are possible. Well-worn (NOT NEW) hiking boots with ankle support and socks should be worn to avoid blisters and other injuries. Appropriate clothing (e.g., long trousers, a hat, etc.) should be worn during fieldwork. No bright, black, or white clothing should be worn during fieldwork. Only dull-colored clothing will be allowed (e.g., dark khaki, dark green, or earth-toned colors). The walking pace is deliberately slow, allowing observers to maintain concentration and avoid disturbing the animals. Be sure to walk slowly and carefully, remaining aware of your surroundings at all times. Closed-toe shoes are required in the evenings around camp.

Animals

The region is home to a range of large and potentially dangerous animals, including lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, elephants, black rhinos, white rhinos, buffalo, crocodiles, a variety of snakes, and various scorpion species. Any wild animal is potentially dangerous if provoked. Never approach, antagonize, provoke, or tease any animal. 

Well-trained and experienced armed field rangers will be deployed in the field alongside volunteers to mitigate the potential risks associated with encountering wild animals. It is of the utmost importance to obey the orders of the field rangers in the case of an animal encounter. When walking in the bush with armed rangers, volunteers should walk in a single file and always behind the ranger. They should not linger behind but always keep within a meter or two of the ranger. Volunteers should be as quiet as possible and wear dark khaki, dark green, or earth-toned clothing. Volunteers will be trained on how to behave in the field and avoid incidents with wildlife. The best rule is to keep your eyes open, pay attention, and always be aware of your surroundings. The rangers are instructed to avoid close encounters with wildlife, but such encounters can still occur. Participants must be able to move quickly if the team gets too close to a buffalo, rhino, or elephant. 

Volunteers should not walk toward the camp perimeter fences when potentially dangerous mammals are visible from the camp. Note that these fences are electrified due to the presence of wildlife outside the camps; therefore, team members should exercise caution when approaching them to avoid the risk of electric shock.

There may be opportunities for supervised viewing of captive animals which are housed on the grounds of the Game Capture Camp from time to time. Such viewing is not permitted without prior arrangement and approval by park management. If a viewing is planned, staff will brief participants on the appropriate behavior to exhibit around captive animals.

Snakes

A range of venomous snakes are present in the area (including green and black mambas, puff adders, vine or twig snakes, Mozambique spitting cobras, and others). Volunteers must not attempt to pick up, catch, approach, and/or provoke any snakes. Ankle-high, closed-toe hiking boots should be worn for protection while walking transects. Closed-toe shoes must be worn around camp at night, and team members are encouraged to use a torch/flashlight when walking around at night. Training in snakebite prevention and what to do in the event of an incident will be given before fieldwork. Anti-venom is not held at camp, as most hospitals prefer to treat the symptoms rather than take a risk that the snake has not been identified correctly. In the rare event that a team member is bitten, he/she will be immediately taken to one of the hospitals in Richards Bay.

Insects and Other Invertebrates

Biting insects (e.g., ants, spiders, flies, centipedes, and mosquitoes) and stinging insects (e.g., scorpions, bees, and wasps) are present in the field areas. Care should be taken to prevent insect bites/stings, and volunteers with the potential for allergic reactions should bring medication (antihistamines, at least two Epi-Kits, etc.) as appropriate. Ticks, which are very small and can transmit tick-bite fever, may also be present. To minimize risk, bring and use insect repellent, check your body daily for ticks, and wear proper neutral-colored field attire, including long pants tucked into socks. Thin, long-sleeved shirts are also recommended. Ticks that are latched onto the skin should be removed with tweezers. Tick bite fever is treatable with antibiotics that can be obtained from the local doctor/pharmacy.

Plants

Walking in the African savanna, one can expect scratches on the legs and arms from vegetation. The area is home to a multitude of thorn trees. Staff will assist in identifying potentially harmful plants. Wearing long trousers and sleeves can help protect against scratches. You need to keep your eyes open to avoid walking into these and causing injury. Antiseptics, plasters, and/or bandages will be available. Some plants may also cause allergic reactions. If you have any known allergies, please inform �������� and the research staff and bring any necessary medication (such as antihistamines and at least two EpiPens) as appropriate. Even those without known plant allergies may have reactions, so you may wish to bring antihistamines. If you have allergies to antihistamines or other medications, please inform �������� and the research staff accordingly.

Climate/Weather

Heatstroke, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and dehydration are possible when working in the sun. Appropriate clothing (including a wide-brimmed hat and long sleeves/trousers) and high-factor sunscreen are essential. Each volunteer should carry at least two to three liters of water into the field and ensure they drink plenty of water throughout the day. Inform a staff member immediately if you are feeling tired or unwell. Exposure to rain, wind/and cold may cause chills or overexposure, so bring warm layers. Participants will often be exposed to the sun for extended periods or to highly variable weather conditions, which may include significant temperature differences between night and day, as well as sudden storms or rapid temperature drops. Although it is usually cool at the start of the transect, it can reach up to 35°C/95°F by the end, so you must be prepared for the sun, stay hydrated, and be able to continue walking when it's hot. Wildfires are possible. In the event of a fire, team members will be removed from any areas of danger and must always follow the instructions of staff and field rangers.

Weapons

Field rangers will carry heavy-caliber weapons with live ammunition for your protection. The rangers are well-trained in the safety and firing of these weapons. Volunteers will NOT handle the weapons at any time. Weapons are kept unloaded unless the teams are walking on the transects.

Poaching Activity

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park has experienced a rise in rhino poaching incidents in recent years. Park management has responded by increasing law enforcement personnel in the park, including allocating additional resources at the fence boundary and in areas known for poaching. An Operations Command Centre, a K9 unit, and a park-based helicopter facilitate the response when poaching is reported.

Field activities are scheduled when poachers are typically inactive (during daylight hours), and Lead Scientists communicate regularly with park law enforcement regarding planned activities. Nevertheless, encountering a poacher is always possible. Participants walking transects must remain alert and aware of their surroundings, always following the instructions of project staff/rangers. Do not engage with a poacher if you encounter one.

As a part of the park’s population management strategies, rhinos are housed, from time-to-time, in enclosures on the grounds of the Game Capture Camp. This camp is fully-enclosed by an electrified fence and fitted with two control-access gates. Surveillance cameras and a 24/7 security guard provide additional safeguards to people, animals, and property while at camp. Participants will be briefed onsite about what to do in the rare event a poacher is encountered in the field or near camp.

Rivers

A few transects may require crossing rivers. Depending on the water level, this activity can be completed on foot or by canoe (staff will paddle, and life jackets are required). Because the transects are conducted during the dry season, the water speed is very slow, and water levels are usually low. If there is water in the rivers, it is usually in pools, which one can walk around rather than go through. Canoes will be used to transport volunteers and field rangers across only if the water level is high and there is no other way to get around. Dangerous animals are also present near rivers, such as hippos and crocodiles. Again, never approach, antagonize, provoke, or tease any animal; always be aware of your surroundings; and carefully follow any instructions given by the field rangers.

Personal Security

Volunteers should always heed camp policies. Particularly when outside of the park, on the roads, and in towns, there is a risk of hijacking and mugging. Being alert and keeping valuable items, such as cameras, binoculars, and jewelry, out of sight can reduce this risk. Use sensible precautions, particularly when traveling in urban areas: avoid carrying money conspicuously (e.g. in bulging wallets or bum-bags/fanny packs); avoid walking alone whenever possible and ignore persons who approach to solicit for donations; avoid wearing jewelry, “tourist outfits” such as safari shorts, jackets, cameras and binoculars, and very short skirts or shorts, tank tops, etc. (more conservative clothing is recommended); always take a taxi when going out after dark; and select and use ATMs with caution. It is always wise to leave unnecessary valuables at home.

Swimming

There is a swimming pool at a local tourist camp near the project’s north camp accommodations. There may be occasional opportunities to visit this pool during recreational time, but this is not guaranteed. Please note that there is no lifeguard on duty, so volunteers swim at their own risk. Always notify a staff member where and when you will be swimming and never swim alone or at night. Do NOT go swimming or wading in any of the natural water bodies in the area due to the risk of drowning, crocodiles, and schistosomiasis.

Political/Social/Culture

Political tensions in South Africa frequently lead to demonstrations, protests, strikes, or rallies, primarily in urban areas. These events can turn violent. You should avoid all protests, demonstrations, rallies, and areas where picketing is taking place.

Burns

When electricity is unavailable, gas or oil lamps may be used at camp. Participants should exercise extreme caution when using such lamps to minimize the risk of fire or burns. Smokers must take care while smoking in the field or outdoors to mitigate the risk of bushfires. A designated ash container is provided at the camp.

Distance from Medical Care

The nearest hospital is 150 km away from the project site, and it may take up to two hours to arrange transport and reach the hospital. If you have a chronic condition that could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma, etc.) or if you are pregnant, please discuss your participation on this expedition with your physician.

Disease

Traveler’s diarrhea affects many international travelers.

Diseases found in South Africa include Hepatitis A/B, measles, malaria, typhoid, rabies, West Nile virus, leptospirosis, schistosomiasis, cholera, hepatitis, filariasis, chikungunya, tick bite fever, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, Rift Valley fever, avian/bird flu, hantavirus, tuberculosis, and the largest epidemic of HIV/AIDS in the world. Please visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention () or the World Health Organization () websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them.

You can decrease your risk of many diseases by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate.

If you feel unwell upon returning from your trip, be sure to inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region.

Malaria: Chloroquine-resistant malaria is present in this region, although there have been no malaria cases at the project site in years. Malaria is also present in other parts of South Africa. Speak with your doctor about appropriate prophylaxis. Be aware that certain medications may increase your sensitivity to sunlight and heat.

Rabies: Vaccinations are not compulsory for this expedition, as volunteers will not be handling any rabies-carrying wildlife as part of their assignments. However, volunteers may wish to consult with their healthcare providers about the rabies vaccine, given the regional prevalence of loose and stray dogs. Team members should always avoid stray dogs. The rabies pre-exposure vaccination consists of three doses over a 28-day period. Please consult your physician or a travel health clinic well in advance to ensure you have sufficient time for the full vaccination series. If you have previously been vaccinated, you must have a medical professional check your antibody levels; a booster shot may be required. Rabies is a fatal disease. Treatment after rabies exposure requires immediate care (within 24 hours), and this type of rapid response may not be available to volunteers on this project due to the remote locations. Pre-exposure vaccination does not eliminate the need for post-exposure medical attention and treatment, but it does provide additional protection against the disease in the event of a delay in treatment. In addition, any bites or scratches should be immediately and thoroughly washed with soap and clean water, followed by a topical povidone-iodine solution or ethanol.

Risk of COVID-19 or Other Respiratory Illness

arthwatch strongly encourages you to take precautions to help protect yourself and others from common viral respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19, flu, and RSV: stay up to date with your vaccinations; wash your hands frequently; take steps to improve air quality, for example, by increasing ventilation indoors or gathering outdoors; and use preventative measures to limit the spread if you are sick. 

Persons with a higher risk of severe respiratory illness should consult their healthcare provider before participating

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