Major FAQ
Where is the Namibia Wildlife Project?
The project is conveniently located only 40+ km east of Windhoek near the Otjihase River, a non-perennial river that cuts through the farm.
When and where should I arrive?
Volunteers should book their flights to arrive and depart from Windhoek International Airport on the set arrival and departure dates.
How do volunteers get to project? Who will take them there?
Volunteers are at the airport by a representative from the project, who takes them to the actual project in a project vehicle.
Do I get orientation before the start of project?
Orientation is given on arrival at the project, and lasts about an hour and a half.
What about food and accommodation? Do I need to bring sleeping bag? Mosquito nets?
Accommodation during the project is at the volunteer house. The single beds are comfortable with bedding providing (duvets and pillows). Ladies and gents will sleep in separate rooms. Electricity and hot water (showers and baths) is freely available, however it should be noted that sometimes water levels are restricted and electricity has been known to cut off during storms.
Sleeping bags only needed if doing your own travels after your volunteer experience.
Mosquito nets not essential, but a good mosquito repellent is recommended.
What kinds of food do you offer? Who cooks food? What are local food item?
Three meals a day are provided and are typically: meat, vegetables, pasta and rice. Vegetarians and Vegans should make special arrangements when booking. Breakfast is self service and includes toast, cereals and fruit. Lunch can vary from sandwiches, salads to hot food
How many days do volunteers work in a week? What can they do in weekend?
Volunteers do limited work over the weekends, and are given time to relax and enjoy themselves. We suggest you take things like board games, books, cards, etc, to keep themselves busy during their time off. Trips into Windhoek are not a guarantee.
Are there internet, telecommunication, and medical facilities in the project sight?
Due to the rural location of the project there is a very unreliable Internet service at the camp and this is for use in emergencies only. If you get the chance to take a trip to Windhoek, you will be able to access the Internet from there.
We suggest that you take your mobile phone with you, and make sure that you active international roaming on your phone before you leave home.
Due to the rural location of the project, the mobile phone signal is quite weak, although there are a few spots around camp where you can get reception, but you will need to walk around a bit to find these areas!
Should a medical emergency arise, volunteers are taken into town to the local clinic.
How much extra money do I need?
Answer to this question depends upon your spending habits. Program basically covers most of expenses of room, food, and transportation. However, we would say an amount of $150 a week to be more than sufficient unless you wish to participate in extra optional tours or excursions then you may require more.
Do I need any vaccination and immunization?
Volunteers can have rabies and anti-tetanus injections should they wish. Many areas have malaria risk so it is best to take something for Malaria. We suggest you consult your primary care physician or a local travel doctor before your leave the country.
Are there any other requirements?
Our strong field support
We care for our volunteers, people, wildlife, and our continent and wish to make it a better place for all. We support our volunteers by:
- Running a 24-hour back-up service to volunteers any place any time while in Africa you can call our hotline for tips, assistance and a chat.
- Operating regular phone checks with you (where possible).
- Contacting your family and loved ones at home, and letting them know how you're doing (on request only. Please make request to the local coordinator).
- Assisting with bookings be it for tours, volunteer work flights etc.
RECOMMENDED KIT CHECK LIST
Please be aware that your clothes are going to get dirty! Also it can get very cold during the evenings during the African winter so please bring a warm jacket and long trousers.
- A "willing to learn and participate" attitude
- Mobile phone, personal stereo, sewing kit and books, cards and board games for evening entertainment
- Bio-degradable detergent for washing underwear and socks
- Natural color clothing and hat
- Warmer clothes for winter
- Casual clothing for weekends
- Comfortable walking shoes and thick socks
- Raincoat
- Personal toiletries and towels
- Sunscreen lotion and lip balm
- Mosquito and insect repellent
- Malaria tablets (Only if visiting a malaria risk area)
- Small first aid kit, including nailbrush, wet wipes and earplugs
- Powerful flashlight and batteries
- Sun hat and sunglasses
- Swim wear and towel
- Alarm clock and round 3 pin adaptor
- Binoculars
- Water bottle
- Working gloves
- Sleeping bag is traveling after volunteer experience
- Backpack, and day pack for personal items, camera sunscreen and water bottle
- Notebook and pen
- Camera and film / memory card, and enough batteries for the duration of your star
- Spending money in Namibian Dollars and South African Rands
- Passport, Visas and Medical & travel Insurance documents
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