"You will get hands-on experience on various wildlife species, learn different techniques to locate, approach, capture and relocate them and will learn about products and medication that are used for all sorts of wildlife. The living accommodations and meals are wonderful, you will be treated as a king!  Overall a fantastic experience, I would recommend it to anyone interested in wildlife medicine and conservation." Vicky, August 2023

The Eastern Cape Veterinary Experience gives participants exposure to behind-the-scenes interactions with vets, researchers, wildlife managers and conservationists in stunning South Africa, while getting hands-on with some of the continent's amazing wildlife. Get your hands dirty assisting, or simply watch from up close, either way, you will have an unforgettable encounter with Africa's wildlife during this small-group adventure (maximum 8 participants).

This program is designed those in veterinary training from vet and vet nurse students to young veterinarians and veterinary nurses and techs.  You do not need lots of experience to take part, this trip is suitable for Pre-Vets and for anyone interested in a career in the industry, however the further into your veterinary career you are the more you may gain from participating in both the practical activities and the field lectures.

Snapshot

  • 2024: 30 Jun – 13 Jul, 21 Jul – 03 Aug
  • 2025: 11-24 May, 22 Jun – 05 Jul, 10-23 Aug
  • Pricing 2024: AU $4,745 / £2,500 / €2,930 / US $3,145
  • Pricing 2025: AU $5,235 / £2,765 / €3,225 / US $3,275
  • Vic Falls Tour AU$1,477 - $2,139 (tour price varies)
  • Minimum Age: 18
  • Fly In/Out: Port Elizabeth (PLZ)
  • What’s included: All meals, accommodation, return airport transfers, activities
  • What’s not included: Flights, travel insurance, off-site activities
  • Accommodation: Twin-share glamping tents in luxury tented camp
  • Food:  3 delicious meals per day are provided, most dietary needs are catered for.
Knowledge and experience gained during this course highlights many of the issues facing wildlife vets and conservation in Southern Africa.

This knowledge and the broad basics will naturally serve as transferable skills for future wildlife work anywhere in the world, including captive facilities. Participants will gain technical knowledge and skills involved in the chemical restraint and immobilisation and conservation of wildlife.

​There are multiple theory and practical sessions during the course to ensure maximum learning opportunities outside of your usual classroom setting.  Topics you can expect to cover:

  • Species identification
  • Grazing and reserve management
  • Methods of capture & immobilisation
  • Nutrition & deficiencies
  • Conservation methods - including hunting as a conservation tool.
  • Conservation vs trophy hunting.
  • Applied pharmacology with commonly used drugs
  • Dart gun theory and practical
  • Law and ethics in wildlife management and wildlife work
  • Transferable skills
  • Rehabilitation
Plus many other wildlife related topics
Accommodation and Meals:

You’ll find yourself at home in our luxury tented camp, for an in the bush experience. Tents accommodate 2 people sharing. The main lodge is where you will be for meals. Laundry services and wifi are available.
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Three delicious catered meals are included each day, so you’ll enjoy the luxury of having your breakfast, lunch and dinner prepared for you.  Most dietary needs are catered for.