Global Conservation Force's professional development programs are designed to teach individuals the skills, knowledge, and provide the experience needed to excel in wildlife conservation and anti-poaching. These programs offer specialized training in areas such as photojournalism, anti-poaching tactics, first aid, and K9 handling. Participants work alongside seasoned professionals in the field, gaining practical expertise while contributing to critical conservation initiatives. Through these immersive experiences, Global Conservation Force fosters the next generation of conservationists dedicated to protecting endangered species and preserving ecosystems worldwide.
Please note: this page and these programs are not intended for active anti-poaching personnel, law enforcement officers, investigators, or conservationists seeking GCF-sponsored training programs.
Â
If you are a professional currently working in the field, please access this Ranger Sponsorship Application. We offer a wide range of courses and training options specifically designed for active teams and programs involved in wildlife protection and conservation.
The GCF Introduction to Anti-Poaching training course is tailored to create and train competent, efficient, and effective wildlife protection and conservation professionals. Trainees for this course will endure a physically demanding and mentally challenging 3-week course aimed to serve the real needs of the wildlife protection field. This course is not for the faint of heart, and the preparation should be treated similar to a military or law enforcement boot camp.
The K9 Field Training and Integrated Operations course offers an intensive, hands-on professional development opportunity tailored for handlers, trainers, and field rangers working with active K9 units in wildlife conservation. This course is designed to enhance the operational effectiveness of working dogs and their human counterparts in anti-poaching, counter wildlife trafficking, and wildlife protection roles. Participants will work alongside Global Conservation Force’s expert K9 trainers and seasoned Anti-Poaching Ranger Instructors in real-world scenarios. Each program is setup for 7 - 10 days of coverage within an ongoing project area.​ These training and volunteer programs have been custom created, curated, and scheduled to overlap one or more of the GCF areas of conservation and wildlife protection zones. Volunteers are guaranteed to see a wide variety of habitat, landscapes, and get to see some local tourist sites while joining our team for these programs.​
This intensive hands-on course provides participants with in-depth training on wildlife game capture, chemical immobilization, and safe relocation techniques. Designed for conservation professionals, veterinarians, wildlife rangers, and those passionate about wildlife management, this course ensures participants gain real-world experience in handling Africa’s iconic wildlife species. Participants will learn about best practices, ethical considerations, public education strategies, and the integration of anti-poaching efforts in wildlife operations. All food, accommodations, and airport transfers are included. Each day will also include at least one game drive for wildlife observation and learning opportunities in the field.
Hands-On Conservation. Real Community Impact. Exclusive Access. This partner volunteer program offers a truly immersive wildlife experience through our direct partnership with the Zululand Rhino Orphanage and our conservation partners in South Africa. Whether you're passionate about wildlife rehabilitation, wildlife conservation, wildlife protection, community development, or getting your hands dirty in the bush, there’s a place for you here.
Snares are silent killers of wildlife around the world. It takes constant effort and routine sweeps to remove and reduce the snares impacting wildlife. Snare patrols take place inside and outside of wildlife reserves and many can be left for years if not removed by trained rangers or conservationists. Be part of the solution. Join us patrolling reserves and removing snares. Learn to see the signs of a snare poacher, how to remove an animal from a snare, and so much more.
Global Conservation Force offers immersive Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) training program in Africa led by our expert Lead Field Medic, Chris Laursen. Participants will gain hands-on experience in medical response, stabilization, and emergency evacuation while working alongside anti-poaching units in remote and challenging bush environments. The training covers TECC fundamentals, scenario-based exercises, and practical techniques for managing emergencies under field conditions. Ideal for professionals in medical, conservation, or tactical fields, this program combines skill-building with real-world conservation impact.
Embark on a comprehensive journey into the skill and art of tactical man tracking with this foundational course. Designed for beginners, this program will equip participants with the essential techniques, procedures, and knowledge to locate and follow a quarry or person by analyzing their footprints and other environmental clues. Whether your goals include anti-poaching operations or navigating dangerous game habitats, this course provides the critical building blocks for your tracking discipline.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the African bush with Global Conservation Force’s Introduction to Dangerous Game, African Wildlife, and Wildlife Tracking course. Designed for conservationists, aspiring field rangers, and wildlife enthusiasts, this intensive field-based program takes place in the rugged wilderness of South Africa, where participants will sleep in canvas tents under the stars and learn directly from expert Ranger Field Guide Instructors. This hands-on course provides a deep dive into the behavior, ecology, and tracking of Africa’s most iconic and dangerous wildlife, including lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards. Training sessions focus on wilderness survival, spoor tracking, situational awareness, and understanding the role of apex predators and keystone species in the ecosystem. Participants will refine their fieldcraft skills, learning to interpret tracks, read animal behavior, and navigate the bush safely.
The Field Journalist Professional Development Program with Global Conservation Force offers an in-depth learning experience in conservation storytelling. Participants will apprentice with our Field Photo/Video Journalist, gaining hands-on skills in capturing, editing, and documenting conservation efforts. The program also teaches the art of engaging with stakeholders, donors, and partners while staying true to the story. Participants will learn to effectively publish content across social media, blogs, and other platforms, mastering the full spectrum of field journalism to support and amplify conservation efforts.
Global Conservation Force’s Introduction to Anti-Poaching Training Course is designed to develop competent, efficient, and effective wildlife protection professionals. This physically demanding and mentally challenging three-week program is tailored to address the real-world needs of wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts.
Trainees will undergo rigorous preparation akin to a military or law enforcement boot camp. The selection process is highly competitive, with hundreds of applications received annually. Only those who follow every step of the application process will be considered for this elite training opportunity.
Graduates of the course will earn both an Introduction to Anti-Poaching Course Certification and a Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) Certification.
Program Length: 3 weeks
Dates: August 9th – August 30th, 2025
Cost: $2,800 USD
Program Highlights:
Physically and Mentally Demanding Curriculum
Comprehensive Anti-Poaching Training
Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC)
Exclusive and High-Quality Training
Learning Outcomes:
Who Should Apply:
This course is for dedicated individuals 18 years and up ready to commit to a physically and mentally challenging program with a passion for wildlife conservation and protection. Applicants should treat preparation with the seriousness of military or law enforcement training.
Due to the limited number of spots, applicants are encouraged to submit a complete and detailed application to ensure consideration.
The Wildlife Conservation K9 Field Training and Integrated Operations course offers an intensive, hands-on professional development opportunity tailored for handlers, trainers, and field rangers working with active K9 units in wildlife conservation. This course is designed to enhance the operational effectiveness of working dogs and their human counterparts in anti-poaching, counter wildlife trafficking, and wildlife protection roles. Participants will work alongside Global Conservation Force’s expert K9 trainers and seasoned Anti-Poaching Ranger Instructors in real-world scenarios.
Program Length: 7 days | 6 nights
Dates: August 1st- August 9th, 2025
Cost: $2,600 USD
Program Highlights:Â
Scent Detection
Training in advanced scent detection techniques for identifying wildlife contraband such as rhino horn, ivory, and pangolin scales.
Field exercises to enhance K9s’ precision and reliability in diverse environmental conditions.
Tracking and Trailing
Development of K9 capabilities in tracking and trailing human and animal targets.
Scenario-based training to simulate real-world applications, including search-and-rescue and anti-poaching operations.
Bite Work
Instruction in controlled apprehension and bite work for K9s in high-stakes security scenarios.
Emphasis on handler safety, effective commands, and operational control.
Live Field Patrols
Integration of K9 units into live patrols, allowing for real-time application of skills.
Training in situational awareness, communication, and tactical movements with K9s in the field.
Counter Wildlife Trafficking Operations
Specialized training on utilizing K9s to detect and interdict wildlife trafficking activities.
Techniques for identifying smuggling routes, contraband detection, and collaborative efforts with law enforcement agencies.
Operational Procedures
Comprehensive training in the latest advanced field operational procedures for ranger teams utilizing K9s.
Focus on effective coordination during patrols, searches, and mission-critical scenarios.
Scenario Training Operations
Realistic multi-faceted scenarios to refine both K9 and handler performance.
Simulations of wildlife crime interdictions, area searches, and team-based missions.
Learning Outcomes:
Enhanced K9 capabilities in scent detection, tracking, trailing, and bite work.
Improved handler skills in operational deployment and command execution.
Increased team cohesion and efficiency between rangers and K9 units.
Advanced knowledge of field operational procedures to combat wildlife crimes effectively.
Practical strategies for training, refining, and working in counter wildlife trafficking through K9 operations.
Who Should Attend:
This course is ideal for conservation professionals, law enforcement officers, and anti-poaching rangers actively working with or planning to integrate K9 units into their operations. Participants will leave equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to elevate their K9 program’s impact on wildlife conservation.Join us to advance your effectiveness and contribute to the protection of endangered species through innovative K9 training and integrated operations.
This intensive hands-on course provides participants with in-depth training on wildlife game capture, chemical immobilization, and safe relocation techniques. Designed for conservation professionals, veterinarians, wildlife rangers, and those passionate about wildlife management, this course ensures students gain real-world experience in handling Africa’s iconic wildlife species. Participants will learn about best practices, ethical considerations, public education strategies, and the integration of anti-poaching efforts in wildlife operations.
All food, accommodations, and airport transfers are included. Each day will also include at least one game drive for wildlife observation and learning opportunities in the field.
Program Length: 7 days, 6 nights
Dates:Â TBD 2026
Cost:Â
Â
Course Itinerary:
Day 1: Introduction to Wildlife Capture & Safety Protocols
Day 2: Hands-on Restraint Practice, Health Exams & Ethics
Day 3: Wildlife Game Capture Operation Day
Day 4: Animal Behavior & Walking with Dangerous Game
Day 5: Anti-Poaching & Wildlife Monitoring Collaboration
Day 6: Final Field Training & Emergency Response Drills
Day 7: Departure Day
Course Inclusions:
✔ Hands-on training with expert wildlife veterinarians and conservationists
✔ All meals, beverages, and accommodations
✔ Transportation to and from the local airport
✔ All necessary field equipment and safety gear
✔ Access to reserves with Africa’s Big 5 and other wildlife species
✔ Certification of completion from Global Conservation Force
This course provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain practical wildlife management skills while contributing to conservation efforts in real-world settings. Join us for an immersive, educational, and life-changing experience in the heart of Africa’s wild landscapes!
Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, participants will:
Demonstrate knowledge of chemical immobilization and restraint techniques for various wildlife species.
Understand safety protocols and ethical considerations in wildlife capture.
Apply hands-on skills in darting, handling, and post-capture care of wildlife.
Develop awareness of animal behavior and safe approach strategies for high-risk situations.
Gain insight into the role of anti-poaching units and wildlife monitoring in conservation efforts.
Utilize modern technology such as drones and camera traps in wildlife management.
Improve communication and public outreach strategies for conservation awareness.
Who Should Apply:
Wildlife veterinarians and veterinary students
Conservationists and wildlife researchers
Field rangers and anti-poaching unit members
Ecologists and wildlife biologists
Zoo and sanctuary professionals
Individuals passionate about hands-on wildlife conservation
The Zululand Rhino Orphanage Volunteer Program offers a unique opportunity to be directly involved in active conservation work in South Africa. Through our exclusive partnership with the Zululand Rhino Orphanage—along with additional conservation reserves and anti-poaching teams in Zululand—you’ll engage in real-world, meaningful projects that support endangered wildlife.
This is not a leisure or tourist experience. It’s a boots-on-the-ground, physically demanding volunteer program designed for individuals who are passionate about wildlife protection and are ready to work hard in challenging outdoor conditions. Volunteers live in a rustic communal camp environment and work alongside experienced animal care staff, K9 handlers, and conservation professionals. Each day begins early and adapts to the dynamic needs of wildlife, weather, and conservation priorities. Weekends include optional free time to explore nearby towns or relax at camp.
Volunteers must be 18 years or older to participate.
Program Length:
Minimum stay: 2 weeks
Recommended stay: 3–4 weeks for deeper immersion and greater impact
Dates: Start dates are flexible and available throughout the year to accommodate individual schedules. Volunteers may join at any time, pending space availability and project needs.
Cost: $1,000 USD per week
Program Highlights:Â
Wildlife Care & Reserve Management
Assist with feeding, cleaning, and care of orphaned rhinos at the Zululand Rhino Orphanage
Participate in vegetation surveys, game counts, fence maintenance, bush clearing, and firebreak creation
Help with alien plant removal and ecological monitoring to support habitat health
Field Monitoring & Anti-Poaching Efforts
Join anti-poaching patrols, snare sweeps, and perimeter checks via bush walks
Work with trained conservation K9s on scent detection and tracking exercises
Set up and manage camera traps and telemetry equipment for endangered species research
Community Outreach & Education
Support local village projects aimed at building conservation awareness
Contribute to educational efforts that empower community involvement in environmental protection
Optional Veterinary Exposure
Assist with wildlife veterinary procedures when available (additional charge may apply)
Observe and support field interventions for injured or sick animals, gaining rare behind-the-scenes insight
Volunteer Life & Experience
Live in a communal bush camp with basic amenities and shared duties
Work under the guidance of field professionals and make meaningful global connections
Enjoy downtime on weekends with optional visits to local towns, markets, or for spa treatments
Who Should Apply:
This program is ideal for individuals who are:
Passionate about wildlife conservation and eager to contribute meaningfully
Physically fit and mentally prepared for early mornings, hot conditions, and hands-on labor
Adaptable, enthusiastic, and ready to work as part of an international team
Seeking authentic field experience—not a luxury safari
Looking to gain skills, insight, and memories that will last a lifetime
This program is best suited to those who are serious about conservation and ready to challenge themselves while making a tangible difference in the fight to protect endangered species.
Snares are silent killers. They are responsible for the suffering and death of countless animals worldwide. Through hands-on training and fieldwork, participants will learn the skills needed to locate, remove, and respond to the presence of snares, contributing directly to the protection of vulnerable wildlife.
Snare patrols target areas both inside and outside wildlife reserves, where snares may remain undetected for years. These efforts, led by trained rangers and conservationists, are vital to reducing the impact of poaching on wildlife populations.
Program Length: 5-7 days
Dates:Â TBD 2026
Cost:Â
Program Highlights:Â
Understanding the Threat
Hands-On Training
Responding to Wildlife in Snares
Addressing Poaching Activity
Field Patrols and Impact Reduction
Learning Outcomes:
Who should apply:
This hands-on program is designed for individuals who want to take an active role in conservation efforts. Participants must be prepared to hike up to 5 miles and carry enough food and water for a full day of patrolling. Most activities take place on game reserves, where participants will be on foot in close proximity to wildlife. Under the constant supervision of an experienced anti-poaching ranger, you will encounter animals such as rhinos, elephants, and lions. This requires a strong sense of determination and readiness to face the challenges of working in the wild.
Global Conservation Force offers a specialized opportunity for participants to develop advanced Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) skills through immersive, scenario-based training sessions in Africa. Led by our highly experienced Lead Field Medic, Chris Laursen, this program provides hands-on experience in medical response, stabilization, and emergency evacuation techniques tailored to high-stakes environments.
This professional development program is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their capabilities in remote and challenging areas of the African bush, working alongside anti-poaching units to protect wildlife.
Program Length: 7 days | 6 nights
Dates: TBD
Cost: $3,000 USD
Program Highlights:Â
Tactical Emergency Casualty Care Fundamentals
Scenario-Based Training
Emergency Evacuation Techniques
Collaboration with Anti-Poaching Units
Real-World Experience
Learning Outcomes:
Who Should Apply:
Participants will leave equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact on wildlife protection efforts while advancing their professional expertise.
This program is a comprehensive journey into the skill and art of tactical man tracking. Designed to provide essential techniques and knowledge, participants will learn how to locate and follow a quarry or person by analyzing footprints and environmental clues. This foundational training is ideal for those aiming to contribute to anti-poaching efforts or safely navigate dangerous game habitats.
Program Length: 7 days, 6 nights
Dates: TBD
Cost: $2,800 USD
Â
Program Highlights:
Introduction to Tactical Man Tracking
Tracking Techniques and Procedures
Environmental Clue Analysis
Applications in Anti-Poaching and Conservation
Real-World Scenarios
Learning Outcomes:
Who Should Apply:
Whether you are a professional seeking to expand your skill set or a beginner passionate about wildlife protection, this program offers the essential tools to begin your tracking journey.
Join Global Conservation Force for an unforgettable educational eco-camp experience in the heart of the South African wilderness. This 7–10 day immersive program is designed for conservationists, nature enthusiasts, and aspiring field rangers who want to deepen their knowledge of Africa’s wildlife, tracking techniques, and the behavior of dangerous game.
This is not a high-intensity bootcamp but rather an educational training camp, where participants will learn hands-on bush skills, tracking, and conservation techniques under the guidance of expert Ranger Field Guide Instructors. Each day will be filled with bush walks, field lectures, and guided wildlife observations, offering a unique opportunity to experience Africa’s ecosystems up close.
Program Length: 7-10 days
Dates: TBD
Cost: $2,800 USD
Program Highlights:
Immersive Outdoor Experience
Learning Outcomes
Who Should Apply:
The Field Journalist Professional Development Program offers an in-depth learning experience in conservation storytelling. Participants will apprentice with Global Conservation Force’s Field Photo/Video Journalist, gaining hands-on skills in capturing, editing, and documenting conservation efforts. This program also focuses on effective communication with stakeholders, donors, and partners, ensuring the story remains authentic and impactful.
Program Length: 7 days | 6 nights
Dates: Ongoing – contact us for more info
Cost: $2500
Program Highlights:
Conservation Storytelling Essentials
Photo and Video Documentation
Engaging with Stakeholders
Publishing Across Platforms
Real-World Application
Learning Outcomes:
Who Should Apply:
Whether you are a beginner or looking to expand your expertise, this course equips you with the tools to effectively document and share conservation stories.