Volunteering in Zimbabwe

Volunteering in Zimbabwe offers something for every volunteer. There are family-run wildlife conservation experiences where you can work to secure the future of the endangered black rhino. Or there are immense wilderness areas within unspoilt National Parks where you will support rangers in their fight against poaching. If you’d rather something more hands-on, we offer the opportunity to volunteer with animals at ethical wildlife sanctuaries devoted to wildlife rehabilitation and release. All our wildlife conservation projects in Zimbabwe work in local villages to support the country’s long-suffering but resilient and welcoming rural communities.

In addition to volunteer projects in Zimbabwe, we also offer tours and excursions, both guided or independent, to Zimbabwe’s main attractions. These include camping in the absolute wilderness of Mana Pools, the ruins and mystery surrounding Great Zimbabwe and of course, the majestic Victoria Falls. We can also include some less well-known destinations – giving you the opportunity to experience the country as, or with, a local.

Read our Zimbabwe blog posts:
10 reasons to visit Zimbabwe
Big 5 Conservation Zimbabwe – National Parks update!

All our Zimbabwe blog posts

Zimbabwe has some of the most breathtakingly beautiful, wild and remote game rich regions anywhere in Africa. From the vast wilderness of Hwange National Park to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mana Pools (surely one of the most magical places on earth), and the world-famous Victoria Falls National Park, every single one of Zimbabwe’s National Parks are simply world class.

Zimbabwe has been off the agenda of many travel agents for many years, with a reluctance amongst tourists to support the country’s tumultuous political regime. However, adventurous tourists will find that Zimbabwe truly lives up to its name as one of Africa’s finest safari and wildlife destinations. You’ll never find masses of people or vehicles crowding around an animal siting – if you’re in the know, its definitely worth giving it a go.

Traveling with a Conservation Travel Africa team who are immersed in Zimbabwe’s wildlife industry, means that you’ll achieve your dream safari holiday, whether your interests are conservation, safaris, tours, adrenalin activities, or a once-in-a-lifetime family adventure.

Yet to be rediscovered by the masses, the safari scene is unparalleled, the natural environment is varied and beautiful, and the welcome you will receive wherever you go is second to none.

Home to some of the most welcoming, resilient and long-suffering people in the world, Zimbabwean hospitality is incomparable.

Friendly service is something that comes naturally in this part of Africa, and whether you stay in a 5 star lodge or a national parks campsite, the people are respectful, kind and willing to share their lives with you. For solo travellers, and especially solo female travellers, the Zimbabwe experience is like no other, and we don’t hesitate to encourage travellers of all ages to visit.

Zimbabwe has a rich and varied cultural heritage and despite the nation’s colonial past, the Zimbabwean people have managed to retain much of their roots and ethnic identity. During the 13th and 14th centuries, Zimbabwe was the seat of one of the greatest African civilisations, whose impressive structures can still be viewed today.

There is a reason why visitors consistently talk about the friendliness and warmth of Zimbabwe’s people, and it is a testament to them, considering their daily challenges.

There is enough to experience in Zimbabwe to fill weeks of travel, but we have selected some of the most iconic below. To add any of these to your volunteer itinerary, please get in touch.

Victoria Falls, or Mosi-au-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”) has the largest sheet of falling water in the world, and is located on the western tip of Zimbabwe on the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. As well as the Falls being a definite must-see for visitors, Victoria Falls town is a lively centre for adventure. The Zambezi River rapids have been referred to as the best one-day white-water rafting in the world.
Please visit our Victoria Falls page for more details, and read our blog post: When to go and what to do in Victoria Falls.

Mana Pools National Park is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, based on its outstanding wildlife spectacles, ecological significance and populations of endangered species – most notably elephant, lion, cheetah, hippo and African wild dog. It was rated the 5th Best Park in Africa by Getaway Magazine, and is the only National Park where you can go on self-guided foot safaris, surrounded by an immense variety of wildlife. Mana Pools is a magical place of serenity and peace, where animals are truly wild.

Great Zimbabwe and the Khami Ruins are the most significant archaeological sites in Zimbabwe, and are home to the largest stone structures south of the Egyptian pyramids. Great Zimbabwe is an ancient city, remarkably preserved and with immersive curved walls constructed from millions of granite blocks fitted together without mortar. The Khami Ruins are a national monument and are an impressive and almost unknown attraction in Zimbabwe. 

Zambezi River canoe safari – for adventurous travellers, this is a magical way to explore a unique destination. Our canoe safari covers a section of the middle Zambezi Valley, through Mana Pools. View wildlife from a unique perspective, watching as elephants come to drink and, if you’re lucky, sitings of lion and wild dog from your canoe. This is a perfect add-on to any volunteer experience! 

The Eastern Highlands never fail to impress and surprise, with spectacular views and amazing walking trails. The area is also home to Zimbabwe’s highest peak. Rolling green hills, magnificent waterfalls and and perennial rivers make the area one of the most scenic in the country, and a welcome break from the hot, dusty interior. 

Read our blog post: 10 reasons to visit Zimbabwe in 2019