This hands-on wildlife rehabilitation program takes place at one of Malawi's leading rescue and rehabilitation centres, recognised for its ethical approach to animal care, rescue, and release. The centre works closely with Malawian and international conservation specialists and follows a strict hands-off philosophy to give animals the best possible chance of returning to the wild. In the past year alone, 94 animals were rescued and 48 were successfully rehabilitated and released.
Program overview
This program focuses on the rescue, rehabilitation, and long-term care of injured, orphaned, and confiscated wildlife. Volunteers work mainly with birds, reptiles, primates, hyenas, small carnivores, and other wildlife affected by injury, abandonment, illegal trade, or human-wildlife conflict.
What volunteers will do
Volunteers play an important role in the daily running of the wildlife centre and may assist with:
- Preparing food and feeding schedules
- Cleaning and maintaining enclosures
- Creating enrichment activities for animals
- Observing animal behaviour and welfare
- Recording animal data and monitoring progress
- Supporting orphan care when required
- Assisting with general sanctuary maintenance and welfare support
This is a physically active program involving early mornings, outdoor work, and practical tasks in varying weather conditions.
Accommodation & meals
Volunteers stay at the wildlife centre in shared but comfortable accommodation with communal living areas, kitchen facilities, laundry areas, and outdoor social spaces. Wildlife is often present nearby, creating a truly immersive conservation experience.
Meals are provided Monday to Saturday, with volunteers preparing their own meals on Sundays using ingredients supplied by the project. Most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.
Program duration
- Minimum stay: 2 weeks
- Maximum stay: 12 weeks
- Arrival day: Monday only
- Airport transfers are arranged from the designated arrival airport
For volunteers wishing to combine this placement with the Liwonde National Park program, a minimum stay of 3 weeks is recommended.
What's Included
- Accommodation
- Meals – chef cooks Sunday to Friday; volunteers cook on Saturdays with provided ingredients
- Airport transfers
- Orientation and training
- Daily project supervision
- Transport for project activities
- Local SIM card
- Volunteer T-shirt
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Visa costs
- Vaccinations and medical requirements
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Optional excursions
Requirements
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Basic English communication skills
- No formal qualifications required
- Travel insurance required before arrival
- TB test (skin/Mantoux, blood test, or X-ray), rabies vaccination, and malaria prophylaxis are mandatory
Program costs
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | £1,500 |
| 3 weeks | £1,942 |
| 4 weeks | £2,445 |
| 6 weeks | £3,155 |
| 8 weeks | £3,769 |
| 10 weeks | £4,287 |
| 12 weeks | £4,744 |
Prices per volunteer. Flights, visas and travel insurance are not included.
★★★★★
“It's not just volunteering, it's meaningful work with proper guidance and structure.”