Volunteer in Namibia

I have gained so much from my time volunteering in Africa and I cannot emphasize enough what an incredible experience it was. There were challenging times and a lot of hard work but the feeling of achievement and the amazing opportunities and experiences I had while there made it all worth it.

The traveling and volunteering have had such a positive impact on my confidence as well, showing that I can do it and it feels amazing looking back over everything I have achieved and experienced over the 6 weeks. I have made friends for life, had a positive impact on the amazing African wildlife and environment and gained incredible memories that will stay with me forever. I have always wanted to work with and help endangered species so to actually be out having first hand experience doing just that felt incredible especially as the tasks we were doing actually contributed to the conservation efforts so it felt like I was having a direct, positive impact.

I really enjoyed the experience of staying in the semi permanent tents and the more basic style of accommodation made it more authentic and like we were fully immersed! The food was delicious and I always enjoyed what was prepared. I also appreciated that there was always a vegetarian option.

To anyone who is hesitant I would say that this has honestly been one of the best experiences of my life and the confidence, skills and memories I have gained have made me so grateful I decided to sign up for the program. No matter what your interests or current skills there is a volunteering opportunity for everyone and the sense of achievement and pride after completing it and knowing you have had a positive impact on the world is one of the best feelings you can have.

The local team was very helpful and quick to respond when I needed support. I gained confidence in travelling alone and would advise everyone to just do it!

This program was the first time I have ever travelled internationally by myself. It has been an amazing experience that has inspired me to travel and experience the world even more. The people were fun and I've made great friends. Most days I felt I put in a good days work, and when I didn't, it was still enjoyable. My only regret was not staying longer. I wish I could have seen the Namibia Desert or Kanaan.

The sanctuary is so well established at volunteer work that it was a great experience and very easy to see the return on investment. It has been one of the best experiences in my life! Will always be stored in my memories and I might come back- who knows. Namibia has stolen my heart.

IVHQ helped me through the process from applying to the day I left. I would recommend IVHQ to everyone who's looking to volunteer overseas who made the booking process smooth and calm.

The local team helped me whenever I needed help and responded within minutes. Rooms had enough space for all of my luggage and belongings and beds were comfortable. There were different meals served every day and there was food for vegetarians and people with allergies or dietary requirements.

My journey as a volunteer changed me as a person and showed me how people are able to use different methods to protect wildlife and nature around them. I changed as a person and saw what my work and assistance went towards which made me happy.

I would advice someone who is new to volunteering abroad to embrace all the experiences with an open mind and to take it as it comes. It is also pretty important to open yourself up to meeting a lot of new people. It does help as well, if you are a newbie to travelling and volunteering abroad, to plan everything as well as you can. Often going through an organization like IVHQ can help you a lot with that and will make you feel a lot safer and more comfortable. That is how you make the best memories.