Anti Poaching Volunteer Program

Program Highlights

As a Wildlife Guardian, you’ll gain hands-on experience and develop critical skills, including:

• Man tracking and situational awareness in the bush.
• Working alongside dangerous game species.
• Participating in anti-poaching patrols and security operations.
• Assisting with reserve data collection to support conservation research.
• Strengthening team capacity by serving alongside professional Anti-Poaching Units (APUs).
• Delivering GCF-sponsored gear to teams on the ground.

Spend time immersed in the South African bush, learning directly from professionals who dedicate their lives to protecting wildlife. Volunteers can stay for a minimum of one week, with options to extend up to two months.

Program Requirements

To ensure the best experience for all involved, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be 18 years or older.
• Pass a drug test and have a clean criminal record.
• Successfully complete a physical fitness test (10-minute mile or less, 50 pushups in one minute, 10 pull-ups).
• Have completed an in-person, 3-week or longer anti-poaching course. Online certifications will not be accepted. Recognized training providers include:
  • Global Conservation Force (GCF)
  • FSCA
  • Tac Trac APU
  • South African Wildlife College
• Relevant experience (e.g., law enforcement, firefighting, paramedic, military) is beneficial but does not guarantee acceptance. Comparable experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• FGASA Level 1 certification is recognized as partial experience and may be combined with a shorter GCF course to meet eligibility requirements.

Important Notes

• Volunteers are responsible for covering their own food, gear, flights, and transportation to reserves.
• Each Wildlife Guardian will participate individually, joining professional APUs to maximize their impact.
• Per local laws, firearms are prohibited for volunteers. Approved personal safety gear, such as bear mace, a knife, taser, zip-tie handcuffs, or a bulletproof vest, is allowed.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• A one-page statement explaining why they want to join the program, including justifications for their selection.
• A basic 5-year resume.

Qualified applicants will progress to an interview with a GCF representative, where proof of requirements will be reviewed.

Enhance Your Experience

Each Wildlife Guardian’s registration directly supports anti-poaching efforts, enabling GCF to provide vital equipment to APUs. This program offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn from experts while contributing to the protection of rhinos and Africa’s wildlife.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to take on this challenge and contribute to the fight against poaching, send your application to info@globalconservationforce.org.

Together, we can make a difference. Join us in the field and become a true Wildlife Guardian.