The Field Study Program

At Baobab Wildlife Sanctuary, we provide a platform for students and researchers to engage in hands-on ecological research within the bushveld of Limpopo, South Africa. As facilitators of this unique experience, we ensure participants have access to the resources, environment, and guidance needed to conduct meaningful research toward their theses or doctorates—and to contribute directly to conservation efforts.

Our Field Study Programs are structured, all-inclusive, and based at the bush camp. They’re designed for students and researchers seeking immersive, guided learning led by experienced conservationists.

For independent travelers or visiting researchers, our self-catering accommodation offers flexible access to the sanctuary and surrounding bushveld—without the schedule or structure of a formal program.

Guests can choose the experience that fits their goals—whether that’s joining a 14-day field course, requesting a custom research placement, or booking a private stay to explore at their own pace.

The BWS Field Study Program is more than an academic endeavor; it’s a collaborative journey built to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of conservation leaders.

BWS sits on 1,100 hectares of wild African Bushveld, offering diverse ecosystems that support extensive research opportunities. Students have access to a variety of habitats, each with unique species and research potential.

  • Savanna Biome: Open grasslands for studying plant-herbivore dynamics, predator-prey relationships, and grassland ecology.

  • Woodland and Bushveld: dense thickets ideal for observing birdlife, small mammals, and species interactions.

  • Seasonal surface water sources and several man-made water sources are suited for research on amphibians, reptiles, and animal movement around these sources.

About the land

Choose Your Program

At Baobab Wildlife Sanctuary, we offer three distinct program formats to suit different academic goals, travel styles, and levels of independence. Whether you're working on a dissertation, looking for hands-on field experience, or simply exploring the bushveld, there's a program tailored for you.

14-Day Field Course

A fully guided group program based at the bush camp. This option is ideal for students seeking practical field training, exposure to conservation work, and an immersive introduction to the region’s biodiversity.

Includes:

  • 14 nights shared accommodation at the bush camp

  • All meals included (self-serve breakfast, light lunch, and cooked dinner)

  • Guided field activities and daily research tasks

  • Field discussion, skills sessions, and workshops

  • Day trip to Mapungubwe National Park and heritage site

  • Use of research equipment, data sheets, and field materials

  • Transport during scheduled program activities

  • Staff support and mentorship throughout

Custom Research Placement

Designed for students working on theses, dissertations, or specific research projects. You’ll be based at the bushcamp with access to the reserve, support from on-site staff, and space to focus on your academic work.

Includes:

  • Optional bushcamp or individual accommodation, depending on budget and availability.

  • Optional meal plans or self-catering

  • Project guidance and logistical support

  • Access to field data, biodiversity records, and GPS coordinates

  • Flexible length of stay (min. 14 days)

Independent Research Stay

A no-frills option for those who prefer to work independently. Stay at the sanctuary in self-catering accommodation with full access to the reserve and bushveld.

Includes:

  • Private accommodation

  • Access to the reserve for observation, photography, or solo research

  • Optional check-ins or guidance (on request)

  • Minimum stay: 1 Week

Pricing

14-Day Field Course

All-inclusive group course

  • $1,400 per person

  • Includes meals, bushcamp lodging, guides, daily fieldwork

  • Fixed start dates (Mar, Jun, Sep, Dec)

  • Includes a formal field skills endorsement and logged hours summary, suitable for academic or professional use

Ideal for students seeking structured field experience

Custom Research Placement

Flexible, supported research stay

  • Starts at $20/day. (Availability dependant)

  • Shared/Private accommodation optional, meals or self-catering

  • Access to the reserve and research support

  • Project contribution logged in BWS biodiversity research archive

  • Start any time (14-day minimum)

For thesis students or focused research projects

Independent Research Stay

Self-catering, private en-suite

  • $50/day per person

  • Private room, reserve access, optional field staff check-ins

  • Flexible dates, (1 week min)

Best for experienced researchers or solo travellers

For a deeper dive into our biodiversity highlights, itineraries, and a range of research and project ideas, click the button below to download a more detailed PDF document.