LIVING AMONG

GIANTS

The African Elephant Research Unit (AERU) is the first research and volunteer programme dedicated to optimizing the welfare and management of these gentle giants in a semi-captive environment in South Africa

Our Services

About our Research

Delve into the details of AERU's historic and ongoing research

About the Program

Discover a world of elephants while learning research practices

About our Team

Gain some insight into the team and their roles within AERU

AERU - African Elephant Research Unit

Since 2009, nestled within the beautiful Knysna Elephant Park in South Africa, AERU has grown into a passionate non-profit trust devoted to understanding and caring for African elephants. Our mission is clear: to combine rigorous scientific research with deep empathy, ensuring that every elephant in semi-captive care thrives with dignity and well-being. At AERU, we don’t just study elephants, we listen to their stories, observe their unique behaviours, and unlock the secrets of their biology and social lives. Our dedicated team of researchers, students, and volunteers commit many hours, gaining invaluable insights that help shape the future of elephant care and welfare across South Africa and beyond.

 

Your time here won’t just be about volunteering; it’s about becoming part of a community committed to ethical conservation and learning. Together, we gather crucial data that guides responsible elephant management; bridging science, education, and heartfelt connection. Whether day or night, your involvement helps protect these gentle giants and supports vital environmental education initiatives that inspire the next generation of conservationists.

 

Ready to make a real difference? Join us at AERU and become a vital part of a movement that’s changing elephant welfare from the ground up.

Your journey with these incredible beings and with us, starts here.

 

AERU is a registered Public Benefit Organization: #IT854/2013; PBO #9300 44259

AERU’s work has inspired and informed researchers across the globe. Through meaningful partnerships with universities, we’ve helped deepen the world’s understanding of elephants in semi-captive environments, fueling compassion-driven science that supports welfare  outcomes.

Extraordinary Elephant Encounters

Musical enrichment for elephants

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