South Africa – Environmental research and conservation While you will be exploring natural landscapes and experiencing amazing wildlife, you will also contribute to environmental research which supports local conservation. Whether it’s supporting with data collection or getting your hands dirty on nature-based activities, you will learn from environmental experts and leave a positive mark through your contribution to environmental work which protects our natural world. UN Sustainable Development Goals Climate action Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts Life on land Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss
What is the South Africa Uhambo Expedition in Partnership with Raleigh International? The South Africa Uhambo Expedition is a two-week leadership development programme delivered by Camps International in partnership with Raleigh International. Uhambo means ‘journey’ in Zulu. The programme combines Camps’ expertise in impact and community work with Raleigh’s renowned leadership adventure model, offering students aged 14 to 17 a structured, outcome-led experience in South Africa’s diverse and wildlife-rich landscapes.
What are the three phases of the South Africa Uhambo Expedition? The expedition is structured across three phases. The Induction phase takes place at the South Africa Fieldbase near the Kruger National Park, where students develop survival skills, basic first aid, cultural insights and the foundations of expedition leadership, leaving fully equipped and ready for the adventure ahead. The Research and Conservation phase involves working alongside local experts and conservationists in the Kruger region on field projects protecting South Africa’s natural environment, with the chance to see giraffes and other wildlife. The Adventure Challenge phase takes students through bushland, savannah and mountain landscapes including the Drakensberg, carrying their own kit, orienteering and camping under the stars with students taking turns as Day Leader. The expedition closes with a reflection and celebration session where students debrief on their achievements and explore how to take what they have learned back home.
What leadership skills will students develop on the South Africa Uhambo Expedition? Students develop practical leadership capability through progressive challenge and structured reflection across the three expedition phases. Taking on the Day Leader role during the Adventure Challenge phase places students in real decision-making situations in unfamiliar environments, building confidence, resilience, communication skills and cultural intelligence. A structured debrief and celebration session at the end of the expedition helps students understand how to apply what they have learned back at school and beyond.
What conservation and project work is involved in the South Africa Uhambo Expedition? Students work alongside local environmental experts and conservationists on field projects that contribute to the protection of South Africa’s natural habitats. This may include environmental research, data collection and nature-based conservation activities supporting climate action and land conservation. Whether supporting data collection or getting hands-on with nature-based activities, students learn from environmental experts and leave a positive mark on the region.
Where do students stay on the South Africa Uhambo Expedition? Students are based at the South Africa Fieldbase near the Kruger National Park during the Induction phase. Accommodation is in tents with toilet and shower blocks providing cold running water and a basic central building for meals and group gatherings. During the Adventure Challenge phase, students camp under the stars. Accommodation throughout is basic and authentic to life on expedition in South Africa.
What food will students eat on the South Africa Uhambo Expedition? Students eat a mix of dry and fresh food and have the chance to cook with their group. Staples include rice, pasta, potatoes, tinned foods and vegetables, with the occasional meat. Students also have the opportunity to experience traditional South African dishes including braais, an African-style barbecue. Most fresh produce is sourced locally. Students receive orientation and cultural language insights as part of the programme.
Is this expedition safe for school students? Yes. The expedition operates under Camps International’s established safeguarding policies, robust risk assessment frameworks and experienced in-country teams. Full safety documentation is available for EVC and SLT review, and 24/7 emergency support is in place throughout. The programme follows UK FCDO travel advice at all times.
What is included and excluded in the South Africa Uhambo Expedition cost? Included: international flights, tented and field camping accommodation, all food, in-country transport, adventure challenge, project costs, leader and staff costs, a Camps t-shirt, orientation and language lessons, travel insurance and 24-hour emergency support. Not included: vaccinations, visas, personal kit and spending money.
