
Embark on an unforgettable Adventure
Hands-on, Veterinary Wildlife & Marine Program
Our standard program is presented in English, with dedicated slots also available in French & Spanish
Our Program
Embark on a unique Veterinary Wildlife and Marine Program in South Africa’s malaria-free region, designed for veterinarians, vet students, and nurses.
Choose between two specialized options:
- a 12-day terrestrial-focused program with marine exposure, or
- a 10-day marine-focused program with terrestrial exposure.
Gain hands-on experience with diverse species, working alongside experienced wildlife veterinarians. Limited to 12 participants per session, our program offers a comprehensive, reality-based educational adventure in wildlife conservation and veterinary medicine.
Hands-On Experience
Work directly with terrestrial and marine species.
Expert Guidance
Learn from experienced wildlife veterinarians.
Exclusive Opportunity
Limited to 12 participants for personalized attention.
Program Outcomes
Our program aims to provide participants with an immersive and practical experience in wildlife veterinary conservation and management. You will:
- Participate in rescue and rehabilitation efforts for endangered species.
- Develop essential skills in wildlife handling, identification, and data collection.
- Work alongside experienced wildlife veterinarians in both terrestrial and marine settings.
Course Highlights
Terrestrial Animals:
- Capture Techniques: Learn both chemical and physical immobilizing and handling techniques.
- Animal Transportation & Sedation: Methods to reduce stress during transport.
- Drug Protocols: Tailored for various situations and challenges.
- Darting Procedures & Techniques: Master the art of darting for safe capture.
- Relocation Techniques & Equipment: Effective strategies and tools for animal relocation.
- Disease & Parasite Diagnosis and Control: Critical knowledge for maintaining animal health.
- Helicopter Procedures & Safety: Safety measures and procedures for aerial operations.
- Telemetry Tracking: Techniques for tracking and monitoring wildlife.
- Anti-Poaching Measures: Strategies to combat poaching and protect wildlife.
Marine Animals:
- Capture & Restraint Techniques: Safe methods for capturing and handling marine species.
- Species Exposure: Work with sea turtles, sea lions, penguins, and seabirds.
- Rescue, Transportation, Medical Stabilization, Rehabilitation, & Release: Comprehensive training in the rescue and care of marine animals.
- Anatomy, Biology, Diagnosis: In-depth understanding of marine species.
- Clinical Approach to Treatment: Practical skills in treating marine animals.
- Anesthetics for Marine Animals: Techniques for safely anesthetizing marine species.




















Animal Species Exposure
Our program provides a balanced introduction and exposure to a wide variety of species, and we strive to maximize your learning adventure by including encounters with the Big 5 and some of the world’s most majestic and endangered animals. Whenever one of the gentle giants presents with a veterinary need, you will have the opportunity to engage directly. Depending on scheduled and unscheduled emergencies, participants may work with:
- Terrestrial Species: Rhino, elephant, lion, giraffe, zebra, and various antelopes.
- Marine Species: Penguins, sea lions, seabirds, and sea turtles, with sightings varying by season.
Program Structures
- Duration: Choose between a 12-day terrestrial-focused program with marine exposure or a 10-day marine-focused program with terrestrial exposure, each offering intensive, hands-on experience.
- Delegates: Limited to 12 participants to ensure a high-quality learning experience.
- Location: Southern-most malaria-free region of South Africa, providing a safe and beautiful setting for your educational adventure.
- Program Director: Dr. Willem Burger, founder of AWCF, brings over 35 years of extensive veterinary experience and a passion for sustainable conservation to the Wildlife Veterinary Program.
Why Choose Us?
- Reality-Based Learning: Engage in real-world wildlife veterinary practices.
- Expert Instructors: Learn from some of the best wildlife veterinarians in the field.
- Comprehensive Training: Gain skills in both terrestrial and marine wildlife care.
- Unique Bilateral Program: Experience the diversity of both marine mammals and terrestrial mega herbivores and carnivores.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable Adventure?
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enhance your skills and make a significant impact on wildlife conservation.

Contact us: [email protected]
PROGRAM DIRECTOR:
Dr Willem Burger
Wildlife Veterinarian
HOSTED IN COLLABORATION WITH:







