Welcome to WildeReptile – Where Wild Meets Purpose
This intensive course offers you the chance to work alongside wildlife experts and herpetologists as you gain practical skills in reptile conservation, snake handling, and cutting-edge anti venom research. Learn how to safely capture and relocate crocodiles, respond to real snake call-outs, rehabilitate small mammals, and assist in the production of life-saving anti-venom. There may also be opoprtunity to join a wildlife veterinarian on emergency call-outs, gaining rare insight into frontline wildlife care and crisis response.
See what it is like to join this conservation mission! --> VIDEO
You'll also dive into groundbreaking research on anti venom and its medical applications—knowledge that few ever get access to. Best of all, the anti venom you help produce directly supports local anti-venom initiatives, making your work both scientifically impactful and deeply meaningful to surrounding communities.
The adventure continues with a marine excursion, where you'll aim to study sea snakes and sharks in their natural habitat and enjoy the breathtaking coastline with time to swim and snorkel.
Join us. Be part of real conservation. Be part of the wild.
Open with a passion for conservation and interest in reptiles
13 - 22 November 2026
Private group bookings available on request!
9 nights, 10 days shared rooms
All meals and non alcoholic drinks
Including airport pick-up and drop-off from Durban Aiport (DUR)
Venom production for antivenom, crocodile translocation, snake removals, wildlife vet emergencies, sea snake and shark research, small mammal rehab, snake husbandry, community support.
Venom production for antivenom, crocodile translocation, snake removals, wildlife vet emergencies, sea snake and shark research, small mammal rehab, snake husbandry, community support.
Qualified English-speaking field guides
International flight to Durban Airport
Mandatory
If applicable
Touch down in the vibrant city of Durban, where your journey kicks off with a warm smile and airport pickup by our friendly team. As you drive through the coastal city, catch your first glimpses of the stunning landscapes that await.
Upon arrival at camp, take some time to settle into your new home – surrounded by nature, it's the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. Unpack, unwind, and soak in the atmosphere.
As the sun sets, gather around for a delicious welcome dinner under the stars. Enjoy local flavors, refreshing drinks, and good company as you meet your fellow adventurers and the incredible team who’ll be guiding you through the days ahead.
Kick off with a vital safety briefing, then dive into the week’s adventure with a full facility tour. Get hands-on in your first reptile husbandry session – both in theory and practice!
Join us and be part of real-world conservation, ready for an unforgettable adventure. Throughout the course, you’ll engage with a variety of topics and activities tailored to the season and the needs of the animals. Every interaction is purposeful—animals are worked with only when there is a genuine need, never for entertainment.
Dive into the fascinating world of crocodile conservation with expert lectures covering capture, handling, translocation, and managing human-wildlife conflict. Prepare for fieldwork by getting hands-on with vehicle and gear setup, then enjoy an evening game drive to experience the local wildlife and environment. Crocodiles are often misunderstood, and conflicts between humans and crocs impact both sides. Join the effort to safely relocate crocodiles to protected havens, working closely with local communities. Learn humane capture techniques, feel the leathery skin of these incredible reptiles, and play an active role in restoring balance to the ecosystem in a safety-first, community-driven approach.
Venture to the ocean for a day of marine conservation, where depending on the season and current research needs, you’ll work with sharks, sea snakes, or other fascinating marine creatures. Enjoy snorkeling and the ocean’s beauty while contributing to vital conservation efforts that prioritize ethical research over entertainment.
Delve into cutting-edge anti-venom research with in-depth lectures and hands-on practicals focused on snake handling, venom extraction, blood draws, and the medical care of reptiles. Gain advanced knowledge of anti-venom production and the latest techniques, preparing you for real-world application in wildlife conservation and medical intervention.
On Wildlife Intervention Day, collaborate directly with a wildlife veterinarian on real cases such as de-horning, collaring, and emergency call-outs. This immersive, hands-on experience allows you to apply your skills to help injured or at-risk animals, making a tangible difference in their lives.
After an incredible journey of hands-on conservation, unforgettable wildlife encounters, and new skills, it’s time to say goodbye to the wild. Depart with a heart full of memories, new friendships, and the satisfaction of having made a real difference. Head to the airport inspired and ready for your next adventure!
