Two beautiful rhinoceros walking through the African bushveld with a black bird flying overhead

TOGETHER FOR WILDLIFE

Learn how Selati Wildlife Experience began, what drives us, and how every volunteer becomes part of our conservation story.

Make a Difference

Where It All Began

Selati Wildlife Experience began in 2012 with a simple passion for Africa's wildlife and a belief that meaningful connections with nature can change lives.

What started as a dream to share the beauty and spirit of the African bush has grown into a hands-on program where students immerse themselves in conservation and authentic wildlife encounters.

Our mission is to ensure that every participant leaves not only with unforgettable memories, but also with a deeper respect and understanding of the natural world.

We've hosted and trained

Over 500

volunteers from around the world

Established in 2012, we have

14 YEARS

of experience protecting wildlife

We've saved more than

130 RHINOS

and over 10 000 animals so far

Inspired by our journey? Discover how you can be part of it through our hands-on wildlife veterinary program.

View the Program

Meet The Team

Behind every adventure is a dedicated team. Meet the passionate people who guide, teach, and inspire volunteers at Selati Wildlife Experience.

Jessica Osmers

Selati Wildlife Experience was born from my deep love of Africa's wildlife and the belief that people protect what they truly experience and understand.

After years as a wildlife veterinary technician, I saw the importance of conservation and hands-on involvement. I created a place where students connect meaningfully, do what they love, and contribute to protecting wild spaces.

Founder

Conservationist

Dr. Rita Piso

Since joining the team in 2016, combining veterinary care with hands-on conservation and education has been an incredible journey.

Wildlife work is demanding, unpredictable, and often physically challenging, but deeply rewarding. Every experience helps students better understand and appreciate the importance of protecting Africa's wildlife.

Veterinarian

Conservationist

Corlia Bekker

I'm a nature enthusiast and adventurer at heart, with over 3 years in conservation and a lifelong passion that began at age six.

As a qualified guide and field ranger, I love sharing my fascination with trees, birds, and grasses, inspiring others to connect with nature. Every small action counts, and I'm proud to make a difference with Selati Wildlife Experience.

Safari Guide

Conservationist

Ready to be part of the team? Join us in the African bush and make a difference alongside our passionate conservationists.

Join The Team

WHAT OUR VOLUNTEERS SAY

Every volunteer's journey leaves a story. Hear directly from those who've lived the adventure, gained the skills, and contributed to the conservation of Africa's wildlife.

Stephanie Krill

This experience exceeded all my expectations, and I am still in awe of the conservation work happening here.

Thank you to Carli, Jessica, and Rita for creating such a meaningful trip for Lauren, Julia, and me. The accommodation was comfortable, the food was excellent, and each work day felt purposeful and well organised. I left with new skills, unforgettable memories, and deep gratitude for the whole team. I miss this special place and everyone in it.

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Kaula‐Jane Waldon

Thank you for two amazing weeks where I learned so much about South Africa and the species we worked with. The lodge felt welcoming, and the food and housekeeping made every long day easier.

Carli kept us smiling and made each day fun, while the small group gave everyone hands-on opportunities to build confidence and veterinary skills. Rita was excellent to learn from and always made sure each person got a turn. I will never forget this experience.

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Ella

I cannot explain how incredible these two weeks have been. Everyone was kind and easy to be around, and having our washing done each day was such a help. Surprise's cooking was fantastic, and the work, food, and activities gave us a feel for Africa.

Carli and Rita made a huge difference. Carli was fun, supportive, and always capturing great photos, while Rita was patient and excellent to learn from. I would recommend this program to friends and family.

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Lauren Barry

Friends who visited last year told me this trip would be amazing, and Selati still surpassed every expectation.

The food and accommodation were excellent, Carli was warm and encouraging, and Rita was hilarious while also being an outstanding mentor in the field. Everyone we met was patient, kind, and genuinely welcoming. I loved every part of this experience, learned a huge amount, and truly hope to return again in the future. Thank you so much. Amazing.

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Lucy Frousheger

This was a trip of a lifetime, and I am deeply grateful to the Selati Wildlife Experience team for making these two weeks in South Africa so unforgettable.

Carli was a guide who taught us so much about the animals and always made us feel safe. Surprise's food was excellent, especially the lemon cheesecake, and it was lovely coming back to clean rooms and washed clothes after long days. Rita was patient and inspiring, and I cannot wait to come back.

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Karita

I want to come back as soon as possible because this experience was truly special from start to finish.

I loved the excursions, the practical work with Rita, and the way every member of staff made us feel welcome and supported. We shared so many good laughs, learned every day, and saw incredible animals up close. I will remember this trip for a very long time, and I would return in a heartbeat for sure and recommend it to others without hesitation.

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Mathilde

Thank you for three unforgettable weeks and for making every day meaningful, exciting, and full of learning.

Jessica, I am grateful for the chance to experience South Africa so fully. Rita, thank you for the knowledge you shared and the confidence you inspired in all of us. Carli, I appreciate every laugh, each challenge, and even the early mornings that became part of the adventure.

I will cherish these memories for life and hope to see you all again soon.

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Emily

Thank you for this wonderful experience in South Africa. This trip was always a dream of mine, and your kindness and passion for the project made it even better.

I met some of the loveliest people, who now feel like family, and those memories will stay with me forever. I also learned so much about South African wildlife and culture, and I am excited to share everything with people back home. Thank you for making this one of the best times of my life.