Testimonials
Here's what some of our past participants have to say about volunteering with Engage Conservation...


Tony Arangio
Geo Spatial Analyst, Australia
f you want to experience true science and conservation, do yourself a favour and take this adventure on. I can guarantee there is no other group or organisation in Africa that will give you the same experiences that you will have with this crew.
There are too many amazing things about this experience to list here, but the absolute highlight is getting to spend so much time with the founder of the group. You'll never meet someone in this world with a bigger heart than Mike. He goes to incredible lengths to protect nature, and also to make sure that his volunteers find themselves in comfortable, safe, yet challenging and educational situations. By the end of my time with him, I had made myself a true friend, mentor, and idol.
Mike is not only an amazing guide but also an extraordinary teacher. In spending time with him, you'll learn about conservation, the sad truths about black market practices, ecology and biology, African history and culture, animal tracking, and so so much more. He even taught me a few delicious recipes (he'll also cook up some incredible feasts for you).
As for the experience you'll have, you're pretty much on a permanent safari. The places we stayed in were totally immersed in the wild of the African bush. At night, you hear elephants, lions, hyenas, leopards, etc walking around the camp. In the day, you watch those animals live their lives, getting seriously up close and personal with them. You'll sometimes find yourself metres away from a lion pride, or a herd of elephants, but you're always safe, and you'll learn the methods to follow when those situations do get a little bit hairy.
I'll finish it off by saying, whether you're a seasoned ecologist or it's your first time stepping into nature, you'll gain everything you want and so much more from your time with this crew. I've covered about 10% of the things you'll get out of the experience, the rest you'll have to find out for yourselves. But give yourself the chance to experience something that is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Kayla Tribbeck
Ecologist, Australia
An amazing experience and an excellent way to experience Africa’s wilderness for the first time. Michaels enthusiasm, passion and knowledge of wildlife and African ecosystems is a testament to him, and his work at Engage Conservation. Laughs, banter and learning are guaranteed. Thanks for being a legend Michael! 100% recommend!


Jacob Stromberg
Sales Agent, UK
If you’re looking for a raw and authentic experience of Africa Engage Conservation is the way to go. I can happily say it’s the best experience i’ve ever had in my life. The trip guide, Michael made it a joy to be there and if you’re looking for an adventure I would highly recommend this trip. There is no better feeling being out in the bush knowing you’re helping to conserve the beautiful wild life. You will see some breathtaking views and I promise you will have some of the best laughs Unfortunately, the downside is that you will miss being out there as soon as you get back home and will be itching to go back. Many thanks to Engage conservation, cant wait to be back again soon.
Kate Duncan
University Placements Coordinator, UK
Just spent the most amazing 2 weeks with Michael who leads Engage Conservation. During our trip, he has gone above and beyond to ensure we got the most out of the experience. He is an entertaining, knowledgeable and well informed host. I have no previous experience of conservation or animal behaviour and I have learnt a lot from Michael with each day. This has included animal tracking, identifying animal behaviour, setting up camera traps, digging snake pits, learning about trees and the different landscapes and environments, and where best to track and view animals. The Kruger Park visit was truly awe inspiring, seeing amazing vistas and animal encounters including wild dogs, witnessing 12 lionesses hunting buffalo and seeing the rare Southern ground hornbill. We were on the move constantly and this keeps everyone engaged and interested. It is best to come into the volunteering opportunity with a flexible and open mind as Africa always has a 'different plan'. I have been mentally stimulated and am very happily exhausted with this experience of a lifetime. Thanks to Michael and his team for such a memorable trip. You might be nervous about taking on this adventure, but I can assure you that are in very capable and safe hands with Michael. Don't hesitate, just do it, you will not be disappointed! BIG THANKS and I'm sure I will be back !


