Overview
Passionate about horses and the conservation of Africa’s most iconic endangered species? This is the project for you! Imire is a family-run conservancy in the heart of Zimbabwe, offering a unique way for volunteers to partake in the conservation of endangered rhinos and elephant. This project is designed for experienced horse-riders who are looking for a uniquely African horse-riding experience. You will ride for five days a week, Monday – Friday, for approximately 3 hours each day. This may be one long ride or two shorter ones, depending on the weather and what work needs to be done on the conservancy.
As a volunteer, you will contribute to the running of the Imire Conservancy from horseback and get involved in first-hand care of endangered rhinos and elephants on a daily basis. While researching animal behavior and being an integral part of anti-poaching initiatives, you will also learn about conservancy management and provide conservation education in local communities.
Highlights
- Base yourself in an animal lover’s paradise, where endangered elephants and rhinos roam free
- Get involved with conservancy monitoring and management on horseback
- Work closely with local community members as you play a vital role in safeguarding endangered species
- Learn about animal behavior as you monitor their activities, feeding, and socialization
- Assist with anti-poaching efforts to ensure the continued safety of the animals at the conservancy
- With elevated views from horseback, assist with vital snare patrols and search for evidence of poaching
- Get a unique behind the scenes look at life on a reserve and learn what is involved in the wildlife management
- Live in and explore the beautiful Zimbabwe bush on foot, horse-back, or by game viewer
- Educate local school children about conservation, wildlife, and the environment
At the reserve, you’ll encounter a diverse range of landscapes in 10,000 acres of conservancy that includes woodlands, savannah grassland, rocky outcrops, riverine forest, and thorny scrub. Living on this privately owned conservancy, you will witness amazing animal relationships and get a unique behind the scenes look at life on a reserve. You can visit Markwe Caves to see bush paintings and ancient tribal artifacts (if the guide is available). Sundowners from the lookout point are a great way to start off your evenings. End the night off by doing some stargazing and falling asleep to the sounds of nocturnal Africa.
