Cradle Mountain
 ©  Lance Neville

Montague Island lighthouse
©   Inger Vandyke

Boroka Lookout Grampians
© Parks Victoria

Grampians Mammal
Monitoring © Parks Victoria

Wombat Lake
Cradle Mountain

Seal Colony Montague Island

Researcher with
Penguin Chick

Naturewise FAQ's

What is the difference between a Naturewise experience and a regular volunteer program?
What is included in the program package?

Do I need special skills to participate on a Naturewise program?

Who are the program leaders?
Who are the other participants?
What do I need to bring?
What level of fitness do I need to participate?

Can a group book out a Naturewise program?
What style of accommodation will we be staying in?
What about meals?
Can you provide accommodation recommendations for before and after my Naturewise tour?
Are the programs suitable for children?
Is travel insurance included?
What is included in the Naturewise package?
What if English is not my first language?

How does Naturewise contribute to ongoing conservation?

 

What is the difference between a Naturewise experience and a regular volunteer program?

Naturewise offers ecotour experiences which combine conservation projects with touring opportunities.  On average between 30 – 40% of your time is spent participating on conservation projects, which will typically involve research and monitoring. Some programs may also include a small portion of physical tasks such as environmental rehabilitation and tree planting.  The remainder of the time is spent undertaking activities such as wildlife viewing, guided walks, visiting scenic lookouts, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing. 

What is included in the program package?

Every detail has been considered to ensure your comfort, safety, and protection of the areas visited.  Packages include meals, accommodation, scheduled activities, Park and Reserve entry, experienced guide and program related transport.  Refer to the detailed program information for each Naturewise experience for a full list of package inclusions.

Do I need special skills to participate on a Naturewise program?

No, you will be shown how to conduct conservation and research activities, and how to use any tools and equipment safely before you start each project.  There will always be a program leader to assist you. 

Who are the program leaders?

Our program leaders are a great source of knowledge about the Australian environment.  They will provide insights into the local wildlife, flora, history, geology and cultural heritage.  Program leaders are trained in the safe management of projects, and are enthusiastic and experts in the conservation projects we operate.  Most of all they are committed to providing you with an enjoyable experience.  On some programs you will also be working alongside specialist staff or researchers.

Who are the other participants?

There are typically between 4 – 10 participants on a Naturewise experience ensuring personalised service and minimal impact on the places visited.  Participants include people such as working professionals, single travellers, couples, groups of friends, backpackers, students and retired people – anyone with an interest in having a holiday with a difference.

What do I need to bring?

Once you have confirmed a booking on a Naturewise program you will receive a detailed information pack which includes a comprehensive list of what we recommend you bring. In general however the following items are recommended:

  • Day pack and personal drink bottle
  • Wet weather and warm clothing (even in summer)
  • Long sleeved shirts and long trousers
  • Wide brimmed sun hat
  • Work / gardening gloves
  • Sunscreen (30+) and sunglasses
  • Camera and film.  You may also like to bring a pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Sturdy and enclosed pair of comfortable walking shoes
  • Sleeping bag (if required)
  • Towel and toiletries
  • Insect repellent
  • Motion sickness tables (if you suffer from motion sickness) and any personal medication your require

What level of fitness do I need to participate?

Naturewise programs take place in the outdoors and will involve some level of physical fitness and walking. We recommend a moderate fitness level. If at any time you have a concern about your participation in a scheduled activity you can bring this to the attention of our guide. An alternative option is always available for you should you choose not to undertake a scheduled activity.

Can a group book out a Naturewise program?

Yes you can book a Naturewise program as a group. For 8 or more people you can book out a Naturewise tour exclusively for your group. Special program packages are available for group bookings of 8 or more people. We can also tailor design a Naturewise program to suit your groups specific needs and travel dates.  Contact our Naturewise reservations team on our free call number 1800 032 501 or email bookings@conservationvolunteers.com.au for more information.

What style of accommodation will we be staying in?

The type of accommodation varies according to the program and a range of accommodation options are available (twin or double room, dormitory room and on some occasions single rooms). Typical accommodation may include wilderness cabins, environmentally friendly lodges, farm stays, cabins, hostels and heritage listed guesthouses.  Each program will detail the style of accommodation available and state if you need to bring a sleeping bag.   If required sleeping bags can be hired from us at an additional cost.

What about meals?

Meals are typically a group activity with participants helping with cooking, cleaning and washing up. Don’t worry if you are not a great cook – there is always something you can help with, even if it’s chopping vegetables or setting the table. Special diets such as vegetarians or food allergies can be catered for – please remember to let us know when you are booking.  Fresh and local produce is used whenever available and we have a policy of supporting local community businesses.

Can you provide accommodation recommendations for before and after my Naturewise tour?

Yes you will receive details on local accommodation options and tourist information web sites in your confirmation pack.  If you require these details to assist with your trip planning before booking onto a program we are happy to provide these.

Are the programs suitable for children?

Children from 14 years and above may participate on a Naturewise program.  On some programs it may be suitable for children 10 years and above to participate. Please check with your Naturewise reservations team on 1800 032 501 or email bookings@conservationvolunteers.com.au.

Is travel insurance included?

Personal travel insurance is not included in the Naturewise experience. We strongly recommend that you take out travel insurance, including a cancellation policy. Please contact CVA if you would like details on our travel insurance available, or check with your local travel agent.

What is included in the Naturewise package?

The program inclusions are detailed in the program information for each Naturewise experience.  In general the following items are included:

  • Meals
  • Accommodation
  • Program related travel
  • Guide
  • Scheduled activities
  • Reserve of national Park entry fees

The following items are not included as part of the program cost:

  • Travel to the designated program starting point
  • Visas and passport charges
  • Travel insurance
  • Airport transfers, departure, airport and airline charges
  • Laundry, medical expenses, items or personal nature, and
  • Food, meals or activities purchased outside what is stated as provided in the program itinerary.

 

What if English is not my first language?

We will explain any technical words or instructions you are unlikely to know, but our staff are not necessarily fluent in any other language.  Participants come from a range of nationalities, and English is used as the common language.

How does Naturewise contribute to ongoing conservation?

Naturewise and Conservation Volunteers Australia are committed to the protection and enhancement of Australia’s environment.   Naturewise programs aid ongoing conservation and research projects in the areas visited.  Naturewise programs focus on visiting areas which require in kind and financial volunteer contributions to achieve on ground conservation and research. Additionally, Naturewise takes the most significant step towards environmental preservation through the donation of profits back into vital conservation projects around Australia.

 

It’s easy to get involved - simply:

 

  • Click on the program that you are interested in then read the program details
  • Carefully read the programs specific Booking Terms & Conditions
  • Once your booking is confirmed  you will be sent further tour and pre departure information in the mail