Conservation Travel Africa: Horse Riding & Rhino Conservation (Imire, Zimbabwe)

Conservation Travel Africa offers a Horse Riding & Rhino Conservation volunteer programme based at Imire Conservancy in Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe. The programme runs in one- or two-week blocks with arrivals and departures on Mondays, and is limited to a small group (maximum four horse-riding volunteers).

Volunteers live at Numwa House and contribute directly to the conservancy’s work protecting rhino, elephants and other wildlife. As an equine volunteer you will spend around three hours riding each day (five days a week) and take part in activities including game counts, wildlife research and tracking, horseback conservancy monitoring and maintenance, anti-poaching and security patrols (including snare patrols), cattle mustering on horseback, and community conservation and education projects.

Practical instruction is provided by experienced guides, and volunteers work closely with local staff and the conservancy team. The programme includes accommodation, three meals a day, airport transfers on set Mondays, laundry, orientation and equipment.

Minimum solo volunteering age is 17 (accompanied riders 14+ with a riding adult). Riders must be confident, experienced (able to trot and canter) and under the 80 kg weight limit. Flights, visa fees, travel insurance and a $40 administration fee are not included.