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| Frequently Asked Questions |
| Shumba is an African word meaning ‘lion’ |
| Volunteers will typically be around 18 – 25 years old, although the age can range anywhere from 17 upwards. The majority of volunteers will also be gappers and career breakers. |
| Volunteering will bring a variety of benefits to individuals. You will be making a positive contribution to support conservation efforts in Africa, experience different cultures and enhance your CV for future careers.The payment for volunteering goes towards meals, accommodation, airport transfers and transport around the placement. It will also include a donation towards the conservation project. As always, you will receive support from our dedicated team in the UK and the in-country co-ordinators. |
| Yes, please call the office as there are a wide range of ex-volunteers amongst the staff. |
| Due to high demand, it is best to book at least six months in advance to avoid disappointment. This will also allow plenty of time to due fundraising or raid the piggybank! Always contact us to check availability, as some places may become available at short notice. |
| As there are so many exciting choices, we have created a combo page, where there are many suggestions of possible combinations. Volunteers could choose to monitor eagles in Swaziland and spend the next month aiding dolphin conservation along the Mozambique coast. This list is not endless so be creative and select your ideal options! |
| Yes, we recommend looking regularly at the news page. This is full of all the special offers and competitions where you may have the chance to win discounts or even free flights!!
Shumba also operates a scheme where volunteers will receive a £100 discount if they have previously booked with Shumba Experience.
Other excellent savings are available if you join more than one project (See combo page for details) |
| You can either apply online or call the office (0845 257 3205) and we can send you an application form. |
| No, but we are happy to arrange them for you. The advantage of booking with Shumba means, where possible, volunteers can share the same flight. You will also be given the details of volunteers on the same placement so that you can talk or email before flying. This will help you settle into your placement, as you will already know some volunteers!! |
| Volunteers will need to ensure they have full comprehensive insurance before travelling. Shumba Experience can arrange specialist insurance for you, which covers your work within the placements. |
| This will depend on your chosen placement country and also country of origin. Please visit the visa page for more information. |
| All volunteers should seek medical advice from their doctor at least two months before departure. They will provide you with any necessary injections and prescribe malaria tablets if needed. |
| We have provided a guide to the clothes/gear that you need to bring. Go to the checklist page. |
| Yes, you will be met by a Shumba Experience representative when you arrive. If you are travelling overland, we will provide directions to a designated meeting point. |
| No you don’t, as the people at your placement will speak English. |
| Each project will have different types of accommodation and therefore you should check the relevant placement homepage for all the details. In general you will usually stay onsite within the placement boundaries. In some cases you may be woken every morning by the sounds of distant lion roars! |
| Of course! Shumba will advise the placement co-ordinator of your requirements. |
| Yes, it is fairly common for volunteers to travel around their placement country and beyond! Shumba is happy to help any volunteer with flight arrangements and will give helpful advice on future destinations. |
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