Experience report: Volunteering in the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program

Namibia is known for its breathtaking landscape and impressive wildlife – but protecting this nature requires commitment and passion. One way to actively contribute to nature conservation is through the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program. My friend Alda took part in this volunteer program for two weeks in January 2025 and gained exciting insights into the work of a wildlife volunteer.

As many of you are interested in volunteering and conservation projects in Namibia, I not only spoke to Alda about her experiences, but also interviewed Carola Oelofse from Mount Etjo. In this article you can find out more about the program, the work of the Okonjati Wildlife Reserve and what you can expect if you would like to volunteer yourself.

Foto von Annette Oelofse

The Etjo Wildlife Protection Program

The Etjo Wildlife Protection Program offers nature lovers and adventurers the opportunity to actively contribute to the protection of Namibia’s wildlife. During the minimum 14-day course, participants learn essential bush survival skills, including reading animal tracks, monitoring wildlife and preventing poaching.

The training includes the use of binoculars, setting up camera traps and first aid skills to observe wildlife and assist with protection measures. A highlight of the program is living in the middle of nature – often in the open air – with a minimal ecological footprint.

The program takes place in the Okonjati Wildlife Reserve, which has been run by the Oelofse family since the 1970s. The focus here is particularly on the protection of rhinos. Thanks to the tireless work of the team, the reserve has been able to maintain an impressive zero-poaching record.

The Etjo Wildlife Protection Program is ideal for anyone who not only wants to learn about species conservation in theory, but also wants to make a practical difference and gain unforgettable experiences in one of Africa’s most fascinating regions.

Interview with Alda, participant in the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program

Alda took part in the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program for two weeks in January 2025 and told me about her experiences. She is so enthusiastic that she would like to take part in the program again soon.

What motivated you to take part in the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program?

I was motivated by the fact that Mount Etjo has relocated many elephants to the Democratic Republic of Congo DRC and recently over 20 elephants to Angola. I wanted to get to know the people who are so passionate – committed – dedicated that they take on this effort.

Can you briefly describe what a typical day in the program looks like?

The first few days consisted mainly of training and day shifts.

From day 4, we also started working at night. We did rhino identification for the Rhino Project and foot patrols at the borders. At night we sat at certain posts and observed and patrolled the borders.

Between the missions we had enough time to rest and sleep. As we took care of the cooking together, this naturally also took up some time.

What skills have you learned so far that seem particularly important to you?

I can now easily tell white and black rhinos apart and can see straight away whether it’s a bull or a cow. I can also read tracks quite well now and my orientation in the field has improved significantly. And I have become more self-confident and have a completely different relationship with my environment and the animals. I am somehow no longer a tourist. I still like to see the animals, but only to see if they are doing well and are all there. No longer, as before, to make sure I get the best photo.

Was there a particular experience during the program that you particularly remember?

We were out with the rhinos on foot and I felt very safe with our rangers (Stefan and Echo). We were at an observation post at night, the moon was almost full and we could hear the lions roaring in the distance. That feeling at that moment is asomething each of us will never forget.

Have you also experienced dangerous or challenging moments? How did you deal with them?

I found it challenging or new to accept the present moment. If you don’t like it right now and you can’t change it, then you can stop complaining. We are so used to being able to walk away at any time if something is too difficult or too unpleasant. But if you’re sitting at the post at night, the wild animals are around you and it’s getting cold, then you can’t run away. You have to wait for your chief to pick you up at the end of his round.

Once we heard a noise in the night that sounded like someone was climbing over the fence. But it was so dark and overgrown with bushes that we couldn’t see anything even with night-vision goggles. That got our adrenaline pumping. After a few minutes, it turned out to be an antelope that had jumped against the fence…

Which animals have you been able to observe or even protect directly?

All the animals you can imagine in Africa, especially the rhinos of course. Fortunately, we didn’t have to protect any directly.

What tips would you give others who are considering taking part in this program?

Just do it!

However, if you can’t do anything with camping and being in the bush, then don’t do it.

What do you wish for the future of wildlife projects in Namibia and worldwide?

More support and attention! We should ALL be more aware that we should protect what we have more and use it less. To quote Jan Oelofse:

„Always give back more than you take out”.

Interview with Carola Oelofse from the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program.

Carola Oelofse also took the time to answer my questions about the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program. 1-2 sentences about Carola.

Can you tell us something about the history of the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program? What was the original motivation for setting up this initiative?

We started in 2015 to improve security measures at Mount Etjo when rhino poaching became a growing problem in the country. Namibia Wildlife Protection was fortunate enough to choose us as the base for training their professional Anti-Poaching Unit (APU). Since then we have also taken on additional security staff and a few years ago we were asked by Wildlife Angel to offer a volunteer spotter program with them. We offered the accommodation, fuel and some other expenses in exchange for the volunteers’ service.

The volunteers are the eyes and ears of the bush, while the professional team is ready to deal with any real threat. So far we have had no poaching incidents! Unfortunately, Wildlife Angels has discontinued its program in 2024. We have taken the initiative to continue the volunteer program ourselves to ensure the comprehensive protection of our wildlife across 34 000 hectares. We believe that the program is an essential part of covering the entire area, especially at night when activity in the reserve is low.

What are the main objectives of the program and what results have you achieved so far?

The main objective is to deter poachers and raise awareness that our area is fully protected. This objective has not been achieved with a single case of poaching. We also hope that the experience is rewarding for the participants, that they find meaning and purpose in their work with us and continue to advocate for conservation in their homeland.

How do you select the volunteers, and what qualities or skills are most important for participation in the program?

Anyone can take part. Applicants must have a certain level of physical fitness and mental resilience. Volunteers need to be aware of the environment they will be immersed in, including bugs, heat and dust. The program can be challenging as they will experience the harsh bush life with patrols during the day and night. We prefer individuals who can demonstrate a sincere interest in conservation as the experience is more meaningful for those who not only care about their personal wellbeing, but also have a genuine desire to contribute to a greater cause. Skills such as resilience, fitness, and an aptitude for outdoor activities are beneficial, but not necessary – these skills can be learned during the program! We conduct some background checks to ensure the trustworthiness of our applicants.

The Okonjati Wildlife Reserve has an impressive zero poaching record. What strategies and measures help you to maintain this standard?

We have some independent anti-poaching teams on the ground that mitigate the risk of poaching insider jobs. Most importantly, we consider our employees to be loyal and pull together with them. We use technical tools such as a night vision drone, cameras, strict controls on vehicles entering the area, frequent aerial surveillance by helicopters and drones. Our rhinos are fitted with tracking devices that allow us to monitor the animals remotely and non-invasively. We also keep lions on the property, which also helps keep poachers away!

What does the future of the program look like? Are there any plans to expand the initiative or add new elements?

We have only recently started running the program itself. We have many ideas for improvements, but most importantly we are recruiting volunteers! We have found a sponsor for better first aid kits and are looking for better night vision equipment, binoculars… and when the camp is at full capacity we hope to recruit more rangers. We are very grateful to all the volunteers who have helped us protect our wildlife in the past, because without them wildlife conservation would not be complete!!!

Conclusion: Wildlife Volunteering in Namibia

The Etjo Wildlife Protection Program is an intense, meaningful experience for anyone who wants to get involved in the protection of Namibia’s wildlife. The combination of hands-on conservation work, exciting outdoor experiences and wildlife viewing makes this program an unparalleled opportunity for anyone who wants to get actively involved.

I am totally enthusiastic about this program and am considering taking part in it myself on my next trip to Namibia! The opportunity to make a real contribution to wildlife conservation while gaining valuable insights into life in the African bush sounds just too exciting. You know – since my photo trip I’ve become a fan of camping and living in nature.

Are you interested in volunteering in Namibia?

If you would like to become part of this program yourself, you can find all the information you need to register directly at the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!

Find out more and join in: Etjo Wildlife Protection Program

Do you already have experience volunteering in Namibia?

Have you ever worked as a volunteer in Namibia or perhaps even participated in the Etjo Wildlife Protection Program yourself? Then share your experiences in the comments! We look forward to recommendations, tips and personal impressions.