At DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage, every volunteer arrives with their own expectations, ambitions, and unique story. For five French students from Tarbes, this experience quickly became far more than a simple internship abroad — it turned into a life-changing adventure. 

Who Are We?

We are a group of five French students from the University Technical Institute of Tarbes, currently studying business and marketing. As part of our studies, we were required to complete a two-month internship related to commerce and communication.

When our university presented several international internship opportunities, DAKTARI immediately stood out to us. Beyond gaining professional experience, we were inspired by the organisation’s mission and values. Contributing to a project that combines wildlife conservation, environmental education, and community support felt both meaningful and rewarding.

After individual interviews with Camilla, DAKTARI’s Director, our applications were quickly approved — and suddenly, our South African journey was no longer just an idea, but a reality.

Our First Weeks at DAKTARI

On Saturday, 4 April, we arrived in Hoedspruit, where the DAKTARI bus was waiting to collect us from the airport. During the drive to the centre, something unforgettable happened: less than a minute after leaving the airport, we spotted a giraffe standing peacefully in the bush.

It felt almost symbolic, as if Africa itself were welcoming us and whispering, “Your adventure starts now.”

As soon as we entered DAKTARI, we stepped into a completely different world. Ostriches wandering around the camp, meerkats playing nearby, lions resting beneath the trees, and even a cheetah — animals we had previously only seen in documentaries or zoos.

What impressed us even more was the incredible international atmosphere. We met volunteers and interns from Sweden, Hong Kong, Brazil, and many other countries. Despite our different cultures and backgrounds, DAKTARI created a strong sense of connection, making everyone feel part of one big family.

Discovering Life With the Children

The following Monday, the first group of children arrived at the bush school. From the very beginning, we shared countless special moments through lessons, games, activities, and everyday life around the camp.

The days seemed to pass in an instant. By Friday, saying goodbye already felt emotional, and we wished the week could last longer. Soon after, a new group of children arrived, bringing fresh energy, different personalities, and many more memories waiting to be created.

One of the biggest challenges for us was adapting to a completely different way of life while communicating in English every day, which is not our mother tongue. At first, it felt intimidating, but little by little, we became more confident and comfortable.

Today, even though we have only spent three weeks at DAKTARI, it feels as though we have been here for much longer. Before arriving, we were nervous about the unknown. Now, what feels difficult is imagining how quickly the remaining weeks will pass.

A Memory We Will Never Forget

If we had to choose one unforgettable memory so far, we would all agree on the same moment: seeing wild elephants for the very first time during our visit to Kruger National Park.

It was around 6 a.m., and the landscape was still covered in morning mist. Some of us were barely awake when suddenly, three elephants quietly emerged before us.

Watching these majestic animals in their natural environment was both emotional and surreal. Their presence was powerful yet peaceful, creating one of those rare moments that words can hardly describe — a memory that will remain with us forever.

To Be Continued…

Our DAKTARI adventure is still unfolding, and we know that many more amazing experiences await us in the weeks ahead.