Volunteer conservation trips, Zimbabwe

On a preserve near Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, volunteers in the Victoria Falls Nakavango Conservation Programme may conduct research on and monitor endangered species; install solar-operated pumps at water holes; clear bush; work on soil erosion control; do community cleanup, or assist at a primary school with sports coaching, vegetable gardening, literacy or math tutoring. 

The suggested length of stay is two to four weeks or longer. In 2014, prices run from £599 (near $960) for a 2-week trip to £1,099 ($1,760) for four weeks, excluding airfare. 

Participants will be given survival skills training and take part in overnight campouts. Astronomy courses are offered. Guest speakers will give lectures on environmental education, and students will give presentations on their projects. Weekends are free time, when volunteers can book activities such as whitewater rafting, village tours, zip-line tours, fishing, horseback riding and safaris.

Contact Worldwide Experience (call, in the US, 877/742-2935, in the UK, +44 [0] 1483 860560 or, in South America, 0 800 980 816).