Written by Andres Huenneke, 2023-24 Latitudes Student
Over this semester I have been in Namibia in Southern Africa working with animal conservation for an organization called Naankuse. I have transitioned between some different projects around the country. Every project deals with a different aspect of animal conservation and rehabilitation. I have been to four different projects so far and next week I will go to my fifth. Some projects are animal sanctuaries where I have had the opportunity to feed and care for many different species of animals such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, baboons, and a variety of other species. The other projects are desert-oriented and deal more with wild desert species and working with identifying and tracking species such as oryx, springbok, ostrich, and others. I’ve come face to face with some of the coolest animals I’ve ever had the pleasure of seeing. Going behind the scenes and working so closely with carnivores especially lions is a once in a lifetime experience and I’m really glad to have been able to do this.
Challenges Along the Way
The heat is definitely a challenge. Temperatures in Namibia regularly exceed 100-110 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. I’ve also experienced a couple of bouts of sickness, mostly stomach problems, but they’re just part of the experience! In Namibia, sunscreen and water are vitally important.
Highlights of the Journey
There have been countless highlights throughout this journey. I was able to climb one of the world’s tallest sand dunes (Big Daddy), which was incredible. Getting to know the other volunteers has been a highlight for sure. The Namibian landscape, combined with the wildlife, makes this place otherworldly. You also can’t beat the sunsets and the night skies that I have experienced here; they are absolutely breathtaking. Every day of this trip has had its own highlights.
Gratitude and Reflection
I’m most grateful for some of the local community I’ve met here who have had such an impact on me. The people in Namibia are some of the most kind-hearted and down-to-earth people I’ve met in my life. A highlight that I did not mention before was just sitting down and having conversations with people from Namibia. In nearly every conversation, I would end up laughing until tears were rolling down my face. They have amazing stories and really interesting traditions as well.
Inspired by Andres’ gap year? Learn more about the Latitudes Year and carve out your own journey!
