VolunTourism in Africa: A Trip of a Lifetime

VolunTourism: When You’re Wanting More than a Destination

I was planning a trip to a beautiful destination, listing off the places I wanted to see, food I wanted to eat, and where we might stay when it started to feel more like a checklist than a vacation. I didn’t want to go somewhere just to have seen this, that, and the other famous monument. I wanted to take my family on a trip that would mean something. Something impactful that would bring us together and possibly change our lives. So I stopped searching travel blogs and starting searching for something else. And then I found it – VolunTourism. The perfect place for our family: Imire Rhino and Wildlife Conservation in Zimbabwe.

Have you ever returned from a trip feeling a little hollow? Your camera roll full of things you saw, your suitcase overflowing with the clothes you wore on tours or at the beach, but your heart feeling a little empty? Maybe you spent a lot of time together when you were gone, but did it bond you together in a way that you were closer when you got home? You put your things away and in a few days it’s almost like you were never gone. 

I’ve felt that way before on vacations I put together based on things we wanted to see and do. This was different. It was a trip focused on things that would make a difference for others, and that made all the difference for us.

So if you’re thinking you want to try a different type of vacation, go for it! Keep reading to find out what Imire was like for us.

VolunTourism at Imire: First Impressions

Stepping into a New World

It was a long and somewhat bumpy van ride to reach the Conservation, but the moment we arrived at Imire we were struck by the raw beauty of the African landscape and the travel exhaustion was quickly forgotten. Our two teenage girls, usually occupied by their phones, were wide-eyed with wonder. In the short ride from the gate to the lodge we were greeted by rhinos, giraffes, and a flock of beautiful blue headed birds. As it was winter in Africa, a warm fire greeted us in the cozy lodge, along with comfy furniture and a large table that would be filled with delicious food to share amongst the staff and volunteers at each meal. Night caught up with us quickly and we snuggled into our beds covered in thick quilts.

Meeting Our New Extended Family

The staff and other volunteers welcomed us with open arms. My initial worry about how my family would adjust quickly faded as I watched my girls eagerly engage in conversations with people from all over the world. These were the people we would share “home” with for the next week, partaking in laundry, meals, clean-up, and conservation activities together.

Hands-On Conservation: A Family United

Working Together for a Greater Cause

Our days at Imire were filled with activities that brought us together in ways I never imagined. From monitoring rhinos and elephants to assisting with anti-poaching efforts, every task required teamwork and communication. It almost brought tears to my eyes watching my kids hand feed the nearly extinct black rhinos. We heard the sad story of how the rhinos at Imire had been viciously slaughtered, nearly ending the breeding program completely. When my husband gave a hungry baby rhino a pat on the horn while tossing a handful of food pellets into its mouth, I knew we would never see these powerful creatures the same way again.

Learning and Growing Together

The educational aspects of the program were eye-opening for all of us. We learned about the challenges facing endangered species and the complexities of wildlife conservation. Discussions around the dinner table became passionate debates about environmental issues, with my teenagers offering insights that amazed me.

Connecting with the Local Community

Breaking Down Cultural Barriers

One of the most impactful experiences was our involvement with the local community. We brought markers, pens, and coloring sheets to engage in play while helping the students practice their English at a nearby school. I saw my family form genuine connections with the local kids. Laughter and smiles melted away the language barrier as we learned along side them (like how to properly pronounce zebra).

A New Perspective on Privilege

Witnessing the resourcefulness and joy of the local communities despite their limited resources was a powerful lesson for our family. It sparked important conversations about privilege, gratitude, and the true meaning of happiness. Each day was a new lesson in how we take for granted hot water, heat, clean clothes, soap, safe drinking water, plentiful food, feminine products, shoes that fit, and so much more. There was no irritation over eating what was served, cleaning and hanging out clothes, or not having internet access. We shared the minimal hot shower water with laughter and chattering teeth. I saw a side of my family I had been hoping to see.

Unforgettable Moments in the Wild

Up Close with Africa’s Giants

Nothing could have prepared us for the awe of being so close to rhinos and elephants. The playful elephant, Mac, enjoyed being hugged and petted, allowing us to feel the long whiskers on his trunk that help him sense his environment and keep his eyes safe. He wanted nothing more than to grab your hat and play keep away until you gave him a treat. These moments created a shared sense of wonder that brought us closer together.

Hiking Adventures

Climbing up several steep ladders along a rock face took us to the most beautiful spot in the conservancy. Away from the distractions of technology, we found ourselves feeling connected to the African landscape as the sun slowly dipped toward the horizon. These quiet moments in nature fostered deeper connections between us. There was nothing more to do besides being truly present together.

The Transformation: A Family United

New Bonds Forged

As our time at Imire came to an end, I realized that something fundamental had shifted in our family dynamic. We were comfortable and laughing together, even when we were physically uncomfortable – tired, cold, and wet from the rain. As parents, we saw our children rise to the level of the college-aged volunteers slinging bricks onto the truck and shoveling gravel to fill holes in the road. As a couple, we were each others confidant and comforter as we  stepped outside our comfort zone both in travel and as parents (letting our children sleep in a separate canvas tent, wildlife regularly passing between us was a new one for us).  Seeing each other in these new roles, we developed a newfound respect for each other’s strengths and perspectives.

A Shared Passion Ignited

Our experience at Imire ignited a shared passion for conservation that has continued long after our return home. We’ve become more environmentally conscious as a family, making changes in our daily lives and looking for ways to contribute to conservation efforts in our community.

Reflecting on Our Journey

Our voluntourism experience at Imire was more than just a vacation; it was a transformative journey that brought our family closer together. We returned home with not only incredible memories but also a stronger bond, a broader worldview, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
For families looking to break out of the traditional vacation mold and create meaningful memories together, I cannot recommend the Imire experience enough. It’s an adventure that challenges, educates, and ultimately unites, proving that when a family works together towards a common goal, amazing things can happen.

If your family wants to volunteer, visit the Imire Volunteer page or feel free to contact us with questions.