volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-yellow-baboon-tree

Volunteer Abroad Malawi: Lilongwe Wildlife Rescue

Malawi 4 to 12 weeks From 2,900 € Enquire now

Become a volunteer and witness this impressive wildlife conservation project that takes you into the wilderness of Lilongwe, Malawi! Here you can become part of a project that is passionate about protecting wildlife and their habitats.

As the first port of call for injured, orphaned animals or animals rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, this project is a symbol of hope for endangered species. The nature reserve itself is home to antelopes, crocodiles, small predators, hyenas, and over 100 bird species. Every day, a dedicated team looks after around 200 animals here, the majority of which are primates. The aim is to release as many animals back into the wild as possible. Those who cannot return find a home in the safety of the sanctuary.

Volunteering offers you the opportunity to experience the life-changing work of wildlife rehabilitation first-hand while exploring the wonderful country of Malawi. Be part of this important mission and experience the magic that happens when people and nature live in harmony. Start planning your wildlife conservation adventure in Malawi now!

Are you interested in monitoring animals in Liwonde National Park? Then take a look at our Wildlife Monitoring Project in Malawi, which can be combined with this project.

Your trip at a glance

Highlights

Advocate for the protection of wild animals
Gain experience in nature and species conservation
Learn in an international community of experts
Gain insight into the daily care and rehabilitation of rescued and endangered wild animals
Explore Malawi's wildlife and landscapes during your project time

Locations

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-lilongwe-nature

Lilongwe Game Reserve

Plan your trip

Included in the programme fee
- Placement in the programme
- Assistance with travel arrangements
- Assistance with selecting travel insurance
- Assistance with booking flights
- Risk coverage certificate
- Pre-departure information pack
- Airport pick up and drop off
- Transfers
- Accommodation during the programme
- Full board during the programme
- Drinking water, tea, coffee
- Training during the programme
- Programme-related equipment
- English-speaking support by long-term experienced staff
- 24/7 support throughout the programme
- T-shirt with logo
- Locale SIM-Card

- Flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Transport outside programme hours
- Further beverages (e.g. liquors, soft drinks, bottled water)
- Personal expenses and optional excursions
- Tuberculosis test

Write An Email

Terry, your travel agent for Malawi

Don't hesitate to contact me if you would like to learn more about this journey! I answer all of your questions and assist you before, during and after your adventure abroad.

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-baby-hyena

natucate-volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-maintenance-work

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-acitivties-bucket-volunteer-food

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-owl-credit-tom-beddis

natucate-volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-volunteer-house-entrance

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-several-cat-credit-jonas-strahberger

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-trails-lilongwe

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-yellow-baboons-grooming

Lilongwe Wildlife Sanctuary

Join the wildlife conservation project in Lilongwe, Malawi, and actively support the rehabilitation of injured and rescued wildlife.

malawi-country-information-malawi-lake-island-aerial-view

Arrival in Lilongwe

For your journey to Malawi, we recommend travelling to Lilongwe via Kamuzu International Airport . You will be warmly welcomed by the project team in the arrivals hall 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, the local project team will give you an introduction and show you the surrounding area. You will find out where the nearest cash machine is, and which shops are nearby. Note: The project always starts on Tuesdays.

Activities as a volunteer

As a volunteer, you will spend most of your time with the dedicated animal care team that looks after the welfare of injured, orphaned, and abused wild animals. Animal rehabilitation is important, if not always glamorous, work. It involves tasks such as chopping up food, cleaning enclosures, and even feeding orphaned monkeys at 3 am. But each of these activities makes a real difference. You will also be actively involved in the care of the animals, including cleaning, sanitising, feeding, and maintaining their habitat.

Your programme will also include looking after orphans, observing wild animals, and integrating them into the community of conspecifics. You will also have the chance to learn more about specialised areas of work such as enrichment, observation, and rehabilitation techniques.

Please note that you will not be directly involved in the release of the animals, as this task is the responsibility of the trained team of experts. However, your contribution as a volunteer is invaluable to the welfare, rewilding process, and future of these animals.

natucate-volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-volunteer-house-lilongwe-bedroom

Accommodation in Lilongwe

The volunteer house can accommodate up to 17 people in six bedrooms. A supplement may be charged for single rooms. The house also has a lounge, a kitchen, indoor and outdoor dining areas, two bathrooms, a laundry room, a terrace, and a garden. WLAN and cleaning/laundry service are included. The building is located in the middle of the nature reserve, so you can experience the magic of bush life after a hard day's work and enjoy the sounds of the forest by the fire in the evening.

volunteering-malawi-sanctuary-walks-wooden-volunteers

Free time and catering

Enjoy freshly prepared meals from our on-site chef every day, except on Sundays when volunteers can cook for themselves or enjoy leftovers from the previous day. The vegetarian/vegan menu offers a variety of international and local dishes.

Five days a week you help with wildlife conservation, the other two days are at your leisure. The centre of Lilongwe City with its restaurants, shops, and markets is only ten minutes away. There are also various hiking trails in the immediate vicinity, or you can organise an excursion with other volunteers.

Arrival

How to get to Lilongwe

For your journey to Malawi, you will fly to Lilongwe to Kamuzu International Airport. From there, our project team will give you a warm welcome and take you to the Lilongwe Wildlife Centre. This is around 30 minutes by car from the airport.

After you have settled into your accommodation, the local project team will give you a thorough introduction and show you the surrounding area. They will show you where the nearest ATM is, and which shops are nearby and answer any questions you may have about your stay so that your adventure can begin seamlessly.
Orientation

About the project

The project pursues a comprehensive nature conservation strategy that goes beyond the protection of wild animals. In addition to the wildlife conservation project, there is the opportunity to assist with Wildlife Monitoring in Liwonde National Park. Those projects also help the government of Malawi to take progressive measures to combat wildlife and forest crime. They also offer various educational programmes to young people of all ages on a range of environmental issues.

They focus on sustainable practices such as utilising solar energy and using local ingredients and gas for cooking instead of firewood. The site integrates a recycling station, organises waste collection campaigns in local rivers, and favours natural materials.
Project

Typical volunteer day

A day in your project as a volunteer could look like this: Your day starts early in the morning when the sun is just rising. After a hearty breakfast at the volunteer house, you make your way to the Wildlife Centre. Once there, you are greeted by the cheerful sounds of the animals that are already waiting for you.

You start by cleaning the enclosures and preparing food for the animals. While you look after them, you can learn more about their stories and needs. After a short break and a delicious lunch, you continue your work, be it caring for orphaned young animals or assisting with other relevant tasks.

As the day draws to a close, you enjoy the tranquillity of the nature reserve and reflect on the important work you have done. Back at the volunteer house, you may share stories and experiences with the other volunteers before retiring for the night, ready for another eventful day in the service of nature.

Please note: Working hours are usually between 8 am and 5 pm, but there are exceptions, particularly during orphan season when feedings may take place at less sociable times. So occasionally you may be on duty early in the morning or even at night to fulfill the animals' needs.
Departure

Saying goodbye to Lilongwe

FAQ – Learn more about this trip

Before travelling to Malawi

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.
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.

Travelling to Malawi

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.

On-site in Malawi

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.
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.

1. Lilongwe Game Reserve

Lilongwe Wildlife Reserve, located in the capital city of Malawi, Lilongwe, is a vital sanctuary for the conservation of wildlife and environmental education. Established to protect and rehabilitate injured, orphaned, and rescued wild animals, the reserve spans a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It is home to a wide range of species, including antelopes, primates, and various bird species. The reserve also plays a crucial role in community outreach and education, promoting conservation awareness among locals and visitors alike. Through guided tours and interactive programs, Lilongwe Wildlife Reserve offers a unique opportunity to learn about and contribute to wildlife conservation in Malawi.

Lilongwe Wildlife Reserve, located in the capital city of Malawi, Lilongwe, is a vital sanctuary for the conservation of wildlife and environmental education. Established to protect and rehabilitate injured, orphaned, and rescued wild animals, the reserve spans a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It is home to a wide range of species, including antelopes, primates, and various bird species. The reserve also plays a crucial role in community outreach and education, promoting conservation awareness among locals and visitors alike. Through guided tours and interactive programs, Lilongwe Wildlife Reserve offers a unique opportunity to learn about and contribute to wildlife conservation in Malawi.

Background on the project initiative in Malawi

Malawi is amid a conservation revolution: in recent years, the government has passed strict laws and dismantled organised crime syndicates against wildlife crime. Major investments in protected areas have led to an increase in wildlife populations and even the return of the "Big Five" to some areas. As a result, Malawi has quickly made a name for itself as an emerging leader in African conservation.

The Lilongwe Wildlife Trust was established in 2009 when the first and to date only wildlife sanctuary in Malawi was opened. Many of the first animal residents were rescued from a neglected zoo in the bustling capital Lilongwe. Since then, it has developed into one of the country's leading conservation organisations, running programmes that include wildlife rescue, biodiversity research, conservation, environmental education, campaigns, and other conservation initiatives.

Our blog

Travel Guide

Volunteering: 5 reasons for conservation volunteering

Nature

Hyaenas: Their image problem

Travel Guide

Our trips: Animal sightings and wildlife interaction

Travel Guide

Travel Guide Malawi: Liwonde National Park

Conscious Travel with Natucate

Supporting real conservation projects worldwide through individual wilderness adventures – our ambitions, our values, our service.

Learn more

Adventures to get you dreaming

Start your adventure in wildlife monitoring in Liwonde National Park, Malawi!

Join a project that involves conservation of the wilderness and protection of endangered wildlife in Zululand and discover the beauty of South Africa.