Big Beyond: Conservation & Development Volunteer Programme, rural Uganda

This programme in remote and beautiful southwest Uganda encompasses a range of projects aiming to integrate the conservation of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the sustainable development of its local community. Bwindi is famously home to the rare mountain gorilla and although it's a relatively successful conservation story considering the rise in gorilla families, the community have been somewhat forgotten. 

Without genuine support of the local community, for a good reason, the rich forest ecosystem will have no future. Local people need sustainable development that consider their surroundings. On the other side of the coin, the Batwa and Bakiga tribes residing on the forest's new boundaries also deserve to be part of its conservation, tourism-related opportunities, and the chance to understand the improtance and immense benefits of protecting the forest for them and this planet. 

You would work right at the grassroots, support a holistic approach to this challenge and contribute to long-term critical goals. There are fascinating opportunities to get involved in projects across health, business, education, conservation, research, toruism and culture. 

All volunteer programmes are bespoke and tailored to your individual skills, interests and level of ability.