Volunteer Abroad Malawi: Lilongwe Wildlife Rescue

Our programme offers a variety of services that are included in the price to ensure that you have an unforgettable experience. These include placement on the programme, assistance with travel planning, travel insurance, and flight bookings. Before departure, you will receive a certificate of risk cover and a comprehensive information pack. You will receive a comprehensive introduction and will be looked after by experienced English-speaking staff. Flights, visa costs, travel insurance, snacks, Tuberculosis test, malaria prophylaxis, and soft drinks are not included in the price.

The project is looking for volunteers who are willing to work for the protection of animals. You should be able to work independently and responsibly and not be afraid to take on tasks such as cleaning the cages. It can also happen that animals need to be cared for very early in the morning or even at night - here we rely on committed and flexible volunteers.

Before travelling to Malawi, it is advisable to seek advice from your doctor about possible dangers, vaccinations, and protective measures. The project team requires a negative Tubercolosis test and proof of a rabies vaccination. Malaria prophylaxis (e.g. Doxycycline or Malarone) is strongly recommended, as Malawi is a high-risk area for malaria. In addition, you should not forget a first-aid kit with medication for diarrhea, pain, and travel sickness. Travel health insurance is also a prerequisite for taking part in the project.

Yes, every Natucate guest must take out suitable international health insurance for the duration of their programme.

In addition, it may be necessary to make certain medical arrangements before travelling. As Natucate cannot give professional medical advice, we strongly advise you to consult your GP about any vaccinations, medication, or other health measures you should consider. You can also find detailed information on health and safety on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

As a volunteer, it is important to bring some essential items:

• Important documents such as passport and copy, flight ticket and copy, credit / debit cards, proof of travel medical insurance, proof of vaccinations, and driving licence (if available, including international driving licence).
• Any necessary medication should also be in your luggage.
• We also recommend long-sleeved, light cotton clothing, trainers, and light hiking boots or wellies for possible off-road activities.
• A torch can also always come in handy.

With these preparations, you are well equipped to actively participate in the project as a volunteer and make a significant contribution to species conservation.

At least four weeks to twelve weeks.

Are you also interested in monitoring wildlife in the national park? Then take a look at our Monitoring Project in Liwonde National Park, which can be combined with this project.

You should be at least 18 years old.

The project team on site does everything they can to give the animals that come into their care a chance to return to the wild, where they belong. This means that a hands-off policy is followed in the rehabilitation work, i.e. no direct contact with the animals unless it is necessary for veterinary or rehabilitation purposes.

For your journey to Malawi, we recommend travelling to Lilongwe via Kamuzu International Airport. In principle, you organise your journey yourself, but we will be happy to support you if you wish. You can also contact your Natucate contact person by message during your journey and the project period.

From the airport, the project team will welcome you warmly and take you to the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre, which is about 30 minutes by car from the airport.

After you have settled into your accommodation, you will receive an introduction and explore the surrounding area. You will find out where the nearest ATM is, which shops are nearby and at the same time all your questions about your stay can be answered.

The Volunteer House can accommodate a maximum of 17 people, including volunteers and interns.

The volunteer house offers cosy accommodation for up to 17 people in six bedrooms. For those who prefer privacy, a single room is also available for a small extra charge. The house is generously equipped with a spacious lounge, a fully equipped kitchen and cosy dining areas both indoors and outdoors.

Two well-equipped bathrooms and a practical laundry room are available to make your stay as comfortable as possible. There is also free Wi-Fi and a dry cleaning service for your laundry. To protect you from annoying mosquitoes at night, you will be provided with a mosquito net over your bed. You will also receive a local SIM card so that you can easily stay in touch with your loved ones.

The volunteer house is idyllically situated in the heart of the nature reserve. After a full day's work, you will have the opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of bush life. In the evening you can sit around the campfire, watch the stars and listen to the soothing sounds of the forest.

Yes, please let us know when you make your booking.

The chef in Lilongwe prepares lunch and dinner, ingredients for breakfast are provided.

Yes, all meals are vegetarian or even vegan.

English is spoken in the project.

The ones in our care are the spotted hyena, serval cats, African grey parrots, wood owl, olive & yellow baboons, and blue & vervet monkeys.

The wild ones are porcupines (quite elusive), bush buck, common duiker, bush pigs, and spotted hyenas.

You will have regular contact with your team and the local organisation, who will be your point of contact. You can also get in touch with our Natucate team at any time.

Additional costs include expenses for snacks, leisure activities, and excursions.

You can keep in touch with family and friends by using both Wi-Fi and your SIM card.

The local climate is typical for the region with warm temperatures and a clear distinction between the dry and rainy seasons. During the dry season, which lasts from May to October, the weather is generally sunny and pleasant with little to no rainfall. Temperatures can be high during the day, but cool down at night. The rainy season runs from November to April and brings frequent and heavy rain showers, leaving the land green and lush. Temperatures remain warm during this time and humidity levels rise. It is advisable to bring light, breathable clothing and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Volunteers are taken to the nearest Clinic /Hospital and emergency protocol is in place for emergencies. We ask all volunteers to be covered for medical evacuation.