Skills Focus Gap Year Programme
Experience life with our team in the heart of the Okavango Delta
Programme Overview
A programme designed for participants who have skills to offer other than equine. This includes, but is not limited to:
photography
chef/catering
social media & marketing
mechanics
builders
Participants will be immersed in OHS life, with main duties tailored to their specialism. We will collaborate with each person to create a programme where they will have maximum impact.
Applicants need to be experienced in their field and able to bring ideas, enthusiasm and expertise.
Applicants must be willing to lend a hand with the many tasks associated with keeping the camp running.
As well as being expected to work hard, those who join us will join regular game drives, walks and boat trips and experience the spectacular scenery and wildlife the Okavango Delta has to offer. If competent enough, they will also have the opportunity to take horses on safari rides.
Unlike many programmes, we only accept one, occasionally two varticipants at a time, as we want those on our gap year programme to feel like an integral part of our family run business.
What you can expect to gain from the programme
The programme offers unique and invaluable experience to those looking for careers in travel and tourism, hospitality, the safari industry, outdoor activities, or careers involving logistics and operations, as well as adding to your existing skills.
Volunteers will gain a myriad of transferrable skills; communication, leadership, problem-solving, adaptability, team work, planning, working in remote areas, time management, cultural awareness.
A Typical Day
7am – Breakfast.
8am - 1pm - Spend the morning utilising your specialist skill. Mechanics and builders might work alongside our local staff on current projects, sharing their own skills. Chefs can provide new inspiration for our catering team, adapting recipes to work in our remote camp. Those with creative flair can assist the office team with our social media and website.
1pm – Lunch.
1-2pm – Midday rest – a good opportunity to have a siesta, journal or study our library of reference books on local flora and fauna.
2pm - 6pm – An afternoon to enjoy the Delta and join in with guest activities such as walks, game drives, boating (in either traditional canoes, or motorboats) or riding.
7pm – Hot showers at your accommodation then dinner. You may be asked to assist with hosting guests.
No day is set in stone and participants may wish to join morning safari activities, then work for the afternoon. We are flexible and keen to ensure you enjoy the stay as much as possible while providing meaningful contribution to the camp.
Fees & Application
What is included?
Transfers from Maun airport (participants will be met at the airport), meals (all delicious, fresh food made by our catering team), drinks with meals, private accommodation and riding.
In addition, a UK representative will be available to assist with advice on flight booking, packing and logistics.
What is not included?
Flights to Maun, vaccinations, travel insurance.
Fees
£980/week, with a 2 week minimum stay. Reduced to £910/week after 2 weeks. Maximum stay of 10 weeks.
In the months of December, January and February a 25% discount is applied; fees are £735/week then £682.50/week.
These fees help us to cover the cost of meals, drinks (all food and drinks have to be transported into camp), accommodation, transfers and training.
Application Process
Applicants will be required to submit a short form. This will be followed by an interview, either online or in person. References and/or examples of work may be requested.
