Nkombi Volunteer Programme
Live and Work
on the Front Line
of Conservation
The Nkombi Volunteer Programme was established to give passionate wildlife enthusiasts the opportunity to gain real, hands-on experience in managing a working wildlife reserve.
This is not observational volunteering. Nkombi volunteers become part of the daily operations of a conservation landscape, contributing to reserve management, scientific research and education.
Hands-on conservation experience in a working reserve.
For many participants, Nkombi becomes more than a placement. It becomes a second home and a lifelong connection to conservation.
A Unique Conservation Experience
A Working Reserve in South Africa
Nkombi is based on a private wildlife reserve in South Africa’s malaria-free North West Province, covering approximately 4,760 hectares.
The reserve has been fenced and protected since 1982 and was established by wildlife enthusiast Dougal MacTavish, who recognised its potential as a highly diverse conservation area.
Over decades, the reserve has grown into an ecosystem supporting exceptional biodiversity, including endangered rhinos.
Private reserves in South Africa receive no government funding and must generate their own income to survive. Nkombi plays a critical role in supporting conservation through participation, education and sustainable engagement.
Discover the ReserveThree Core Areas of Learning
Conservation You Take Part In
Reserve Management
Volunteers gain practical experience in day-to-day conservation operations, contributing directly to habitat management, wildlife monitoring and reserve maintenance.
Scientific Research
Nkombi is a research partner of the University of Gloucestershire and supports multiple ecology-based research projects. Volunteers assist in collecting valuable data that informs evidence-based management decisions.
Education
Volunteers help support visiting university groups and field courses, passing on knowledge gained through practical experience and working alongside conservation professionals.
Research and Academic Partnerships
Learning Alongside Scientists
The reserve has hosted university field courses for over 19 years and continues to welcome ecology students from international institutions each year.
Volunteers work alongside scientists, conservationists and researchers contributing to long-term ecological studies.
This integration of education, research and daily conservation operations makes Nkombi a uniquely immersive experience.
Learn About Research OpportunitiesWildlife and Biodiversity
An Exceptional Conservation Landscape
Since its establishment, the reserve has developed into an area of exceptional diversity.
The construction of dams has also supported wetland birdlife and aquatic ecosystems, strengthening biodiversity across the reserve.
Experience Wildlife Conservation in Action
Supporting the Future of Conservation
Building Tomorrow’s Conservation Leaders
Nkombi supports Endangered Rhino Conservation’s wider mission by developing future conservation leaders, supporting research that informs rhino protection, strengthening sustainable income for private conservation, and promoting responsible, evidence-led conservation practices.
By participating in Nkombi, volunteers contribute directly to the protection of wildlife, including endangered rhinos, on the front line.