Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
when visiting EHRA in Namibia

+ General FAQs about travelling in Namibia with EHRA

What is the climate like in Namibia?

With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, Namibia is one of the sunniest countries in the world. Namibia is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year.

Our volunteer project runs all year round apart from the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January. You can visit our family volunteering or our trekking pages to see the dates of these activities.

During the months December to March it is summer time and is generally hot throughout the country with temperatures in the desert rising as high as 40 degrees Celsius. The main rainy season starts in January, bringing a welcome end to a long dry period. During April to May rains might still occur and temperatures begin to fall. From June to September it is winter in Namibia. During the day, temperatures are moderate to warm and the nights can be very cold. In October and November temperatures rise and it gets hot again.

Along the coast, including Swakopmund - where you will depart from for the desert, it is cooler with low rainfall.

See our Information Kits page for a list of what to pack to ensure you are comfortable whenever you decide to visit Namibia.

What is the currency in Namibia?

The Namibia dollar, (abbreviated with the $ symbol, or N$, or the code NAD), each made up of 100 cents, has been the currency of Namibia since 1993 when it replaced the South Africa Rand (ZAR).

Cash payments can be made anywhere with the Namibian dollar and/or the still legal tender of the South African Rand. There values remain one -to-one.

You can check the current exchange rate here.

This page offers a good indication of what things cost in Namibia: https://www.numbeo.com/cost-of-living/country_result.jsp?country=Namibia

What area of Namibia do we visit when travelling with EHRA?

Damaraland, is an area within the Erongo and Southern Kunene region of Namibia. It is a vast, scarcely populated communal trust land. As it is a transitional zone between the high rainfall area in the east, and the Skeleton coast in the west, it is regarded as un-farmable on a commercial basis. Therefore, it has become a natural, unfenced refuge for desert adapted animals such as; black rhino, oryx, giraffe, springbuck, kudu, steenbok, baboon, lion, leopard, cheetah, spotted hyena, brown hyena, black backed jackal and more. These areas used to be inhabited by nomadic bushman hunter-gatherers, of whom there is lots of evidence in the form of thousands of rock paintings and engravings. Now, beyond the fringe of permanent settlements, only nomadic pastoral farmers, and tourists venture. This area is still regarded as one of the last true wilderness areas left on earth! Namibia is a beautiful, friendly and safe country to travel around. If you have the time and would like to see more of it you are welcome to contact Rachel or Victro for further information.

+ FAQ’s about joining any EHRA project

Where will we be volunteering in Namibia?

You will start your EHRA experience by travelling to the coastal town of Swakopmund. You will then head out to the Ugab River area of the Namib Desert in Damaraland, within the Erongo and Southern Kunene region of Namibia.

Is an EHRA Project right for me?

Our projects are real spearhead conservation work. It is not about cuddling baby animals, or being an observer of conservation from the comfort of a game drive vehicle. You need to have an open mind, a willing heart and be prepared to put in work for something bigger than yourself. This is about true adventure with likeminded people that care. This is about teamwork and tolerance. We live close together, close to the ground, and close to the animals. Your project managers are there to make your time in the bush educational and safe, but it is up to you to make a success of the expedition. We ensure that you have the means to be comfortable and well fed, and will teach you how to be that!

You need to have an average degree of fitness, as lot of the work is manual, and we could spend a lot of time in high temperatures on foot. A bit of training beforehand would make your time more comfortable. But don’t worry, anyone is capable, and we would be there for you every step of the way.

Group size is kept at a maximum of 14 team members to minimize impact and maximize safety, and is made up of people from all walks of life and nationalities with a similar passion and interest. On each trip there are always younger and older people. We can accept 17 year olds with a parental consent letter. There is no upper age limit.

This project is for those that care enough to get up, and do it. Those willing to make a personal sacrifice for a belief in the ability of anyone that cares enough to make a difference. That hunger not only for adventure and wisdom, but the satisfaction of giving something back to what we have taken for so many generations. This is not a package holiday, or a feel-good charity case. This is real conservation. You will learn to be one with nature, awaken long-lost memories, do hard satisfying work, and walk away with a Nambia/African pulling at your heart and you longing to be back under the desert stars. So, if you realize that man and beast is one, and without the preservation of the wild places in the world, we would lose the wild places in our hearts, this is for you.

What language do the EHRA staff speak?

The EHRA team and projects communicate in English, it is therefore necessary that a volunteer have at least a fair level of spoken English to fully enjoy their participation.

How much hands-on work will I experience with the elephants?

The elephants EHRA works with are wild elephants, therefore there is NO hands on experience with the elephants.

Will I be making a difference to the elephants and local people of the Namib Desert?

Whether you are raising critical funds by trekking through the desert or building water point protection walls and monitoring elephants on a volunteering trip, you will be contributing to reducing the serious problem of human-elephant conflict in the Namib Desert and making a difference to the lives of both the elephants and the people living in the region.

When working on a volunteering project you will see the real challenges and how your work is helping.

Will I see elephants during my time with EHRA?

As a volunteer, you will spend your time in areas that elephants live and roam. Your first week will be spent creating protection walls around local people’s water infrastructure because elephants have visited these areas and caused damage. You will then spend your second week with EHRA’s expert elephant trackers monitoring the elephants.

Namibia’s desert-adapted elephants are wild and free, so we cannot guarantee our teams will always find them, but it would be extremely unlikely for you not to encounter elephants as an EHRA volunteer.

If you take part in the fundraising trek it is unlikely that you will see elephants because you will be walking in areas that the elephants do not tend to go.

Will I see any other tourists during my time with EHRA?

As a volunteer or a member of the fundraising trek team, you will experience true wilderness and are unlikely to see any other tourists during your time with EHRA.

Can I get in touch with previous volunteers or trekkers?

If you contact us, we would be happy to put you in touch with one of our previous volunteers or someone who has completed a desert fundraising trek. You can also see our blog or comments on Facebook and Instagram to see how previous trekkers and volunteers have enjoyed their experience with EHRA.

+ Namibian travel and regulation information

How do I get to where I need to be, Swakopmund?

Volunteer With Elephants - How To Get to EHRA, Namibia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oQE2Wyb56U

It is simple enough to travel to Swakopmund from the airport of your choice i.e. Windhoek International Airport in Namibia’s capital city, five hours away, or Walvis Bay Airport, less than an hour away.

Flights tend to be cheaper to Windhoek, but please factor in enough travel time to get to the coast for the Sunday briefing, and to get back to Windhoek with enough time to catch your flight home. i.e. flights should leave no earlier than 2pm on the Saturday after your trip with us.

EHRA will organise a shuttle service from either airport to your accommodation for you, once we have your flight details. There are scheduled, safe and professional shuttles from Windhoek International Airport and Walvis Bay airport and the drivers will meet you in arrivals with a sign with your name on. On the Monday of the start of the project, the whole team will be transferred to the EHRA base camp in the EHRA bus!

How do we travel to where we start the volunteer project, EHRA Base Camp?

The EHRA minibus will take you from your accommodation in Swakopmund into the desert to start your volunteering experience. You will then be dropped off on our return.

Airport transfers and accommodation

Once you have booked your flight, please send us the details and we will book the transfers for you. For both airports you will be met in arrivals by our transfer service and driven to either Desert Sky Backpackers in Swakopmund or to your accommodation of choice. Airport transfers and accommodation in Swakopmund are at your own cost.
Your transfer from Walvis Bay Airport to Swakopmund is _200 Namibian dollars (one-way) or_500 Namibian dollars from Windhoek Airport. Please pay the driver in cash. Desert Sky Backpackers will cost you _220 Namibian dollars for a dorm bed (per person per night) or_500 Namibian dollars for a single room. This can be paid in cash or using a credit or debit card.

*Please note prices may vary at time of booking.

Do I need a visa to travel to Namibia?

You will need to travel on a full passport with at least 6 months left to expiry from the date you enter Namibia. You can stay for up to 3 months visa-free in Namibia as a tourist, and will need a return or onward ticket booked, as well as proof of accommodation. So please keep the address handy for your arrivals form! Please consult with your appropriate Consulate or High Commission to find out exact requirements for entry to Namibia, and South Africa, if connecting via there.

You can find more specific information on passport and Namibian entry requirements here.

Do I need travel insurance?

It is essential that you have adequate travel insurance for the duration of your stay and send the information to us. Please note that many household polices and cheaper backpacker polices do not provide adequate cover. In the unlikely event that you do have an accident you must be covered for all scenarios, including emergency air evacuation.

Please fax, scan, attach or e-mail a copy of your insurance policy to the EHRA office with your information form. In the unlikely event that we would need too, we need this information to activate the emergency response.

Where could I travel to before, or after, taking part in an EHRA project?

Namibia is a beautiful country and we would be happy to assist you with your plans to explore this popular tourist and photographic destination.

There is plenty to do, from adrenalin inducing activities like sky diving and sand boarding near Swakopmund, kayaking and dolphin tours in Walvis Bay, wildlife safaris in game reserves such as Etosha National Park , gigantic sand dunes at Sossuslvei to water springs in the Naukluft, and more. Whatever you would like to do please contact us for help and advice.

Where can I get the best deals on flights?

We do have a list of travel companies that offer special rates for EHRA volunteers. The details can be found here on our Information Kits page. It is always best to shop around and compare!

+ Costs, payment, sponsorship and donation information

How much does it cost to take part in an EHRA project?

Volunteer Project: £900

Family Volunteer Project: £950 for adults, £850 for children under 18

Fundraising Trek: £2000

School Partnership: The price varies depending on the itinerary that is designed for your group. Please contact Rachel for more information.

During your stay at camp you will not require money for anything other than refreshments from the bar! We will have a supply of wine, beers and soft drinks.

What costs are excluded from the price?

You need to pay for your flight, insurance, airport transfers (EHRA will organise these for you) and personal kit. You will need a sleeping bag but EHRA provides a bedroll (mattress). You are also responsible for your accommodation and meals whist in Swakopmund before the project begins and after it ends.

Why do I have to pay to volunteer and where does my money go?

Your payment covers all your food, transportation and accommodation during the project (not including weekend stays in Swakopmund or elsewhere). Your funds also contribute towards the project costs such as building materials, fuel, vehicle cost and administrative costs such as staff salaries. The volunteer project provides the sole funding for the operation of EHRA.

Where do my donations or sponsorship money go?

EHRA exists solely to conserve the desert elephants and to keep the people living alongside them safe. As a Namibian registered not-for-profit organisation (under Section 21), EHRA will ensure your entire donation goes directly to our human-elephant conflict reduction projects including the water point protection project, elephant monitoring patrols and our community education programme – The PEACE Project.

How is payment for a volunteer trip made?

The total cost of the volunteering project is due to be paid to EHRA no less than 30 days before the start date of your project. Please see our booking conditions for bank details so you can complete an international bank transfer. Any fees incurred are not reflected in our prices.

How much spending money do I need to bring?

Once on the project you need very little money. There are local crafts for sale and EHRA also sells EHRA T-shirts, hats and shopping bags! When you go through to Uis on the Saturday in between build and patrol week you can choose to buy your own lunch at a restaurant. There is also a supermarket where you can collect supplies for patrol, snacks, beverages etc. As an estimate you could aim to have N$/R500-1000 with you for the duration of the project.

How can I support EHRA’s PEACE Project?

The PEACE Project relies on the kind donations of our supporters so our EHRA experts can bring the conflict prevention workshops to the local people, farmers, game guards and tour guides of Damaraland. You are welcome to join our next desert trek and raise sponsorship money for taking part in the challenge or you can simply make a donation here. Thank you!

+ Health & wellness whilst travelling through Namibia

Do I need to get any immunisation injections or malaria tablets before visiting Namibia?

You must consult your doctor about immunisations before you leave home. The following is some general advice, but please confirm this with your GP before you leave home:

Malaria: Our volunteering project sites and trekking routes are in areas regarded as malaria free, but many parts of Namibia are not, so if you are traveling on, please ensure you are prepared.

You should always use an effective insect repellent on clothing and any exposed skin. Diethyltoluamide (DEET) is safe and the most effective insect repellent and can be sprayed on your body and your clothes. You will find Mosquito repellent varieties in most convenience shops in Namibia.

Tetanus: A recent tetanus jab is highly recommended.

Polio: Recommended

Hepatitis A&B: Recommended

Do I need to bring a first aid kit?

You must bring your own first aid kit with you both on the trek and volunteering projects. Legally we are unable to provide you with any medication, so please make sure you have at least the following with you:

∙ Paracetamol (Painkillers)

∙ Ibuprofen (or other anti-inflammatory)

∙ Anti-histamine tablets and cream (for insect bites, stings, allergic reactions)

∙ Eye drops

∙ Anti-diarrhoea medication

∙ Rehydration sachets

∙ Antiseptic cream and spray

∙ Burn cream

∙ Plasters, bandages

∙ Gauze

∙ Sterile water

∙ Cough medicine

• Zinc oxide tape (Essential for treating hot spots/blisters)
• Adhesive tape
• Moleskin and/or 'Compeed' for blister treatment
• Dehydration mix (enough for at least one/day)
• Small tub of Vaseline and/or cornflour or baby powder – for chaffing
• Tweezers
• Scissors

Please also bring enough of any prescription medication that you take or any other medicines that you think you may need.

As well as sunscreen and insect repellent.

A full downloadable checklist of what to pack, and what you need for your first aid kit is available on our Information Kits Page.

What happens in an emergency?

Our project managers are first aid qualified and have years of experience in dealing with medical issues in the field. Namibia has first world medical facilities and emergency response services. EHRA carries a satellite phone and GPS with the volunteer teams at all times. All volunteers must ensure that they have a good quality insurance policy which will cover emergency evacuation by air and road and repatriation. You must ensure you are covered for volunteer work of a manual nature (not using power tools) and also for being in a safari/game drive style vehicle. We also ask that you complete our medical form. Please ask us more information or send the insurance policy to us to check before you purchase for it.

How can I prevent dehydration in the heat?

The Namibian desert temperatures can reach high levels and the heat can be intense. However, if you take the right precautions you will be fine. It’s important to use a high-factor sunscreen, always wear a hat and drink plenty of water. Please follow the advice of your EHRA guide with regards to staying hydrated and cool.

You can help your body to absorb the water that it needs by eating foods containing sodium. If you have any health concerns or are on medication, it is important that you discuss hydration and your sugar/salt intake requirement for your training walks and the trek itself with your GP.

At all times watch out for signs of dehydration. In this respect, fluid output is as important as the input. If you are drinking a great deal but not passing water regularly, you may find you are dehydrated. Look also at the colour of your urine - dark yellow coloured urine is a warning sign that should not be ignored (with the ideal being champagne coloured urine).

Other signs of dehydration are:

• dry or sticky mucus membranes in the mouth
• fatigue
• dizziness or confusion
• decreased urine output
• heartburn or stomach ache
• recurring or chronic pain
• lower back pain
• headache
• mental irritation or depression
• water retention
• lack of skin elasticity
• sunken eyes

Hyponatremia … The condition known as hyponatremia results from sodium loss through perspiration or from over-hydration (if you drink too much water you may well dilute your sodium levels, putting you at risk from hyponatremia). It is important, therefore, to drink sports drinks in addition to water while training and on the trek itself. Water alone can cause electrolyte imbalance, as can profuse sweating. Some sports drinks contain sodium, sugar and other electrolytes to counteract this. If you eat salty snacks and high carbohydrate foods (or add salt or sugar to your water) you can also help to balance your electrolyte levels.

The symptoms of hyponatremia are very similar to dehydration. The effects and consequences are more severe, however, and studies have shown that women are particularly vulnerable.

As far as hyponatremia is concerned, watch out for:

• bloating
• swelling of hands and forearms
• nausea
• headaches
• cramps
• confusion
• slurred speech

Can I still participate in EHRA projects if I have some health limitations?

We are happy to discuss any concerns you have with regards to your health and fitness and the physical demands of our volunteer programs. We suggest you consult your doctor before deciding whether to travel and take part in a volunteering or walking holiday.

Everyone taking part in a volunteering or trekking experience will be expected to complete our medical questionnaire. Please see more information on the physical demands of each project within the specific volunteer program tabs below.

+ Food, water and living conditions whilst volunteering with EHRA

What is the food like on an EHRA project?

With years of experience EHRA have put together a variety of delicious camp friendly recipes. There is always a new dish to enjoy, with adequate vegetarian options.

Please don’t be scared to eat meat out of worry you may get a travellers tummy, the quality of meat in Namibia is better than most European produce and is organically reared. We are also very good at maintaining a high level of hygiene and have been running catering in the desert for 12 years now without any sickness.

During volunteer projects, excluding the Fundraising Trek, everyone gets a chance to prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lunch is usually self-service sandwich making, often from the back of a patrol vehicle.

You will be amazed at the feasts prepared after all your hard work. Examples of meals include Spaghetti Bolognese, Carbonara, Thai Curry and Roast Chicken! There is even an Apple Crumble cooked on the fire!

Can you cater for special dietary requirements?

Yes, we are happy to cater for special dietary requirements but please specify your needs at the point of booking.

Is drinking water provided?

Yes. The water at base camp, and surrounds is perfectly safe, and palatable. EHRA fills a number of water tanks for drinking and (limited) washing when staying away from base camp. Be sure to keep bring your own water bottle along and keep it full at all times.

You will not need to purify the water we provide during the trek or volunteer projects. However, we always recommend that you have some purification tablets incase of emergencies. Tablet purification comes in three main forms either iodine based (Pota Aqua), chlorine based (Puritabs) or silver based (Micropur). The only preparations that kill guardia are those based on iodine so please bring either Pota Aqua or liquid iodine.

Will I have a phone signal or access to the internet?

You will be in a remote wilderness, so once you leave the coastal town of Swakopmund on day one of your trek or volunteering experience there will be very limited to no mobile phone signal or internet access. Feedback from past walkers and volunteers tells us that being ‘off the grid’ is one of the best parts of the experience and really allows you to switch off and enjoy your stunning surroundings.

Rest assured that EHRA staff can contact the outside world in case of emergencies using a satellite phone.

Will I have access to electricity?

Once you leave the coastal town of Swakopmund and head into the desert for your trek or volunteering project, you will have limited access to electricity to charge your appliances.

Please don’t forget to bring spare batteries for your camera, and other gadgets, because there will not be much opportunity to buy batteries once you leave Swakopmund and/or Uis.

If you want to use the camera on your phone while you are in the desert, then it is worth bringing a portable power pack so you can charge it.

What are the toilet and shower facilities like during an EHRA trip?

At the EHRA base camp we have composting toilets and solar heated hot showers. During the build week there is a long drop style toilet which is private. There are no washing facilities during build or patrol week, so we advise that you bring plenty of wet wipes with you! On patrol week the toilet facilities will be behind a bush!

+ Safety and wildlife in Namibia

Does poaching occur in the area of Namibia that EHRA projects take place?

No, currently there is no elephant poaching in the area EHRA operates in.

What wildlife will I encounter during an EHRA trip?

The volunteer teams enjoy a true wilderness experience, sleeping under the stars and observing elephants and other Namibian wildlife such as zebra, oryx, giraffe, kudu, springbok, ostrich and a wonderful variety of birds. If we are lucky we might see a black rhino or even a lion. Sightings of black rhino and lion are rare but there are small populations of both in the area.

How close will I get to the elephants?

Taking part in an EHRA volunteering project is about real conservation to protect the wild desert-adapted elephants and the people that live alongside them. It is not about bottle feeding baby animals or touching the wildlife at all.

Your expert guides will ensure that you are always a safe distance from the elephants and do not disturb them by getting too close. If an elephant decides to come closer to the car then that is that elephant’s choice and as long as everyone adheres to the guide’s advice this can be a safe and incredible experience!

Is it safe for a volunteer to go on hikes around the area during downtime?

Once you begin your volunteering experience we ask that you listen to the advice of the EHRA staff at all times to ensure your safety and enjoyment. Guided walks from Base Camp can be arranged, where appropriate.

How safe is the area we will be carrying out a volunteering project?

Our expert EHRA staff will provide briefings before you leave for the desert and offer you guidance throughout your experience to keep you safe. It is really important that you listen to their advice at all times to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I go to the toilet at night while camping in the desert?

Yes, your EHRA staff will brief you on how to stay safe.

Is it safe to sleep out under the stars?

Wild camping sleeping out under the stars in the African wilderness is often one of the highlights of our volunteers’ experience. Your EHRA staff will brief you on how to stay safe throughout your time in the desert.

+ Volunteer Project FAQ’s

How long can I volunteer with EHRA for?

You are welcome to volunteer with us for a minimum of two weeks and a maximum of twelve weeks, because of Namibia’s visitor visa 90 day restriction. You can begin on any of the start dates stated in our Volunteer Project Dates, subject to availability.
Please find more information about our volunteer projects.

What level of fitness do I need to do a volunteering project?

Besides a willing mind, and a relatively strong back, you do not need any special training to take part in an EHRA volunteering project. You need a basic level of fitness but you will work as a team and will be able to find a role that suits your abilities.

Do I need any specific skills or qualifications to volunteer with EHRA?

Besides a willing mind and a basic level of fitness, you do not need any skills or qualifications to take part in an EHRA project. You will work as a team and will be able to find a role that suits your abilities.

What will I learn during the volunteering project?

During the time you spend volunteering with EHRA you will learn lots of new skills including cooking over a fire, setting up a bush camp, safety and hygiene will in the wilderness, animal behaviour, how to identify individual elephants and traditional building skills.

Is there an age limit to participating in EHRA projects?

The minimum age for taking part is 17 years old with no maximum age limit. We have had volunteers from all corners of the globe at various stages of their lives, with great success! You need a basic level of fitness, but you will work as a team and will be able to find a role that suits your abilities.

How many other volunteers will there be?

The EHRA volunteering groups are a maximum of 16 people.

What should I pack for an EHRA volunteer project?

Different times of year may have seasonal recommendations. Please see our comprehensive packing lists on our Information Kits page.

What do we do in the evenings?

The evenings are spent around the campfire, eating and talking about the day’s events.

What can I expect to happen on an EHRA Volunteer Trip?

During the first week, ‘on build’, after the team member on duty serves breakfast, we head out to our project site for the day. We have an enclosed and private long drop toilet, tents for getting changed in, and then everyone normally sleeps under the stars under shade and on a tarpaulin. We provide ‘bed rolls’ which are foam mattresses which roll up. Washing facilities are limited, however if there is a water dam at the farm we can set up a ‘bushman shower’. Meals are prepared on a rotational basis, over the fire and eaten around the camp fire together.

It is likely you will be busy building a wall around a local farmers windmill, although we also work on other projects such as, doing work on our base camp, helping community members build a tourist camp or fix a rural school. We head to our camp for lunch and siesta. You could be tasked to update data forms, be on kitchen and camp duty for the day. The evenings are spent around the campfire, eating and talking about the day’s events. We live closely in our desert camp.

The second week is spent out on elephant patrol. We pack some basic camping equipment in the 4x4 and set off looking for the illusive elephants. On patrol we camp wild, and sleep under the stars. Toilets and showers are not available during this week.

We follow elephants on foot, sometimes for hours under the desert sun, and sit patiently observing from some rocky outcrop whilst they laze away in the shade! This life, few ever have the privilege to live.

+ Family Volunteer Project FAQ’s

Do I need to be worried about my children’s safety?

As with any travel, general awareness and suitable precautions should be taken. Our expert EHRA staff will provide briefings before you leave for the desert and offer you specific guidance and support throughout your experience to keep you and your family safe. It is really important that you listen to their advice at all times to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time with us.

What should we pack for an EHRA family volunteering project?

Please find a printable list of packing suggestions on our Information Kits page.

+ Fundraising Trek FAQ’s

What is the fundraising trek raising money for?

If you take part in an EHRA fundraising trek you will be raising money for EHRA’s PEACE Project.

What is the EHRA PEACE Project?

EHRA’s PEACE (People and Elephants Amicably Co-Existing) Project exists to reduce people’s intolerance of elephants by teaching them facts about the elephant’s behaviour, and practical measures to keep themselves safe when living alongside them.

How safe is the area we will be trekking in?

Our expert EHRA staff will provide briefings before you leave for the desert and offer you guidance throughout your experience to keep you safe. It is really important that you listen to their advice at all times to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

What level of fitness and expertise do I need to take part in a trek?

Besides a willing mind, and a good level of fitness, you do not need any special skills to take part in an EHRA fundraising trek. Please refer to the suggested training schedule for guidance on fitness levels.

Will there be a doctor with us on the trek?

Yes, a doctor will accompany your trekking group on your walk through the desert in the unlikely event somebody needs medical support.

Do I need to bring my own first Aid Kit?

Please download the trek specific First Aid Kit list from our Information Kits page.

How far is the EHRA fundraising trek?

The EHRA annual trek is a sponsored 141km walk over seven days to raise much needed funds for our human-elephant conflict reduction programmes; community education, water point protection and elephant patrols.

Please see our Fundraising Trek page for more information.

Where will we be trekking?

You will start your EHRA experience by travelling to the coastal town of Swakopmund from where you depart in the early morning towards the South Kunene Region of Namibia. The trek will take you through remote desert areas of Damaraland, with the Brandberg as your backdrop throughput the trek. Whilst finding elephants is not part of the mission, you may be lucky enough to spot a few en-route.

What should we pack for an EHRA fundraising trek?

Please see our packing list for a comprehensive list of what to bring along for the EHRA Trek on our Information Kits page.

What will the accommodation be like?

You will be wild camping at a new location each night whilst taking part in a fundraising trek. This is an incredible experience of back to basics living in the true wilderness of the Namib Desert. You will have the opportunity to put your feet after a long day and enjoy dinner around the campfire and a well-deserved nights rest under the magnificent starry sky of Namibia.

Who will be joining us from EHRA on the trek?

You will be joined on your trek with a variety staff who will all be there to support you and make sure you not only complete your challenge but that you enjoy the experience!!!

Expedition Leader

Rachel Harris – Rachel has lead the trek on many occasions and will ensure that the expedition runs as safely and as smoothly as possible!

Local Guides

Markus Shiweda, EHRA Field Manager and Hendrick Munembome – EHRA Head of PEACE Project and Community Relations. Both have worked for EHRA for many years and have lead the trek in previous years. Both are great trackers and fantastic characters!

Support Staff

The rest of the team comprises of EHRA staff who will help cook, set up camps and do backup driving. Their job is to ensure that the camps are set up on time and that we have all the food we need to keep us sustained. This involves moving the tents and equipment along with our main packs/sleeping bags and everything else we need for camping en-route – if you’re lucky they may even provide a bar!!??

Trek Doctor/Medic

The Dr is to be responsible for any medical/health issues that may arise on trek and to give general advise/awareness of health & medical precautions. They will also be taking on the challenge of the trek with you, and will run a “surgery” in the evenings and/or mornings to attend to any issues that may have arisen during the day.

+ What is EHRA’s responsible travel policy?

Environmental Concern

• Over and above EHRA’s focus on conservation we are very strict about the impact that we have on our environment
• EHRA will not leave any trace of occupancy at any of its wild camps on patrol
• EHRA will not drive off existing tracks, unless safety of the group dictates this
• All waste will be recycled where possible and brought through to towns where recycling schemes exist rather than using local land fill sites.
• Volunteers will be trained and expected to use our system of waste separation
• At EHRA base camp toilets are a composting design, at wild camps volunteers and staff will burn toilet paper
• Water use is kept to a minimum; at the base camp where we have water volunteers are encouraged to turn taps on and off whilst brushing teeth and washing.
• We limit the amount of wood that we use and only use wood from sustainable sources.
• We limit the amount of foil, tins and unrecyclable products in our provision of food items

Social Concern

• Volunteers are encouraged to interact with the local communities and information on cultural differences is explained
• EHRA supports its local primary schools through links with partner schools
• EHRA supports local conservancies and assists in their management of their area and resources
• EHRA has sponsored the local conservancies football team
• EHRA has created an educational project focusing on elephant training to empower communities with the knowledge they require to live in safety and without fear of the local herds of elephants
• Volunteers will be treated in a professional manner and provided with high quality customer service
• Volunteers will be given training in all aspects of bush life from cooking to safety instructions
• Volunteers will be fully briefed on EHRA’s risk assessment
• Volunteers will be fully briefed before the build week and patrol with specific information pertaining to skills and knowledge

Economic Concern

• EHRA employs staff from the local area and Namibian residents
• EHRA staff are paid almost 40% more than the industry standard and provides SOS International cover for staff and families
• EHRA uses local shops for the provision of food for volunteers
• EHRA assisted local people to provide add on businesses based around the volunteer programme, for instance a clothes washing service and wood provision service.
• EHRA encourages volunteers to buy souvenirs from the local area and stops at the various stalls
• Approximately 50-60% of a volunteers contribution is directed back to the local community