South Africa Wildlife Volunteering
2 to 4 weeks
This special program calls for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike to join the effort to protect Africa’s iconic big game species through park patrols; predator tracking; species surveys and more.
Our trips push you to go further – physically, mentally, and beyond – to spark discovery at every step. For those ready to turn their passion for wildlife into hands-on conservation experience, working directly with iconic species and making a real impact in the African bush.
Activities & Experiences
Get closer to wildlife while making a real impact
Experience life on a Big Five game reserve
Take part in hands-on conservation and wildlife management
Learn practical bush skills from experienced guides
Contribute to real conservation initiatives and fieldwork
Enjoy weekend trips to Port Elizabeth
Live and work alongside a community of like-minded travellers
Accommodation
Stay in the heart of the African bush
You’ll live on a private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, surrounded by incredible wildlife and open landscapes.
Accommodation is in comfortable shared dormitories with single-sex sleeping areas and partitioned spaces for added privacy. Communal lounge and dining areas create a relaxed and social environment.
Meals
Hearty meals to keep you going
You’ll be provided with three meals a day throughout your stay.
Meals are varied and filling, with a mix of familiar western-style dishes and local favourites, ensuring you stay energised for full days on the reserve.
Transport
Airport transfers and local travel included
Airport pick-up and return transfers are included. Transport for weekend excursions to Port Elizabeth, including shared accommodation, is also covered as part of your programme.
Leader
Guidance from experienced conservation teams
You’ll be supported by knowledgeable reserve staff and conservation experts throughout your program.
A dedicated on-site co-ordinator will act as your mentor, providing training, guidance and support to help you get the most from your experience.
Itinerary
ARRIVAL
Transfer from Port Elizabeth.
A
rrive in South Africa, you’ll be met and transferred to the game reserve in the Eastern Cape, around an hour from Port Elizabeth.
Once on site, settle into your new surroundings, meet your fellow volunteers and get an introduction to life on the reserve.
THE PROJECT
Live and work on a Big Five game reserve
Based on a 6,000-hectare private reserve, you’ll play an active role in ongoing conservation efforts that help protect and sustain local wildlife populations.
Your volunteer work will vary depending on seasonal priorities but may include tasks such as vegetation management, fence patrols, wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration.
You’ll also take part in activities like lion tracking, game counts and conservation workshops, gaining insight into the challenges and rewards of managing a working reserve.
Training
Alongside this, you’ll develop practical bush skills including:
Orientation in the bush
Introduction to wild animals
Animal tracking (footprints)
Bush survival skills
Various tree species and their benefits/ harms
Anti-poaching and fence patrol
A TYPICAL DAY
Days on the reserve are active varied and rewarding.
You’ll usually start in the morning at 8.30am and spend your day until 4.30pm taking part in conservation work, patrols or wildlife monitoring, with breaks throughout to rest and refuel.
Each day brings something different depending on the needs of the reserve, offering a truly hands-on and immersive experience in the African bush.
FREE TIME & WEEKENDS
Time to relax or explore further
Weekends are yours to enjoy.
You can choose to relax on the reserve and soak up the surroundings or head out on an optional trip to Port Elizabeth or beyond. Transport and accommodation for weekend excursions to Port Elizabeth are included, giving you the chance to experience more of South Africa.
Volunteers at the centre come from all over the world, creating a lively community of like-minded individuals from diverse backgrounds.
IS THIS PROGRAM FOR ME?
Ideal for anyone with a passion for wildlife, conservation and life outdoors
No previous experience is required, making it suitable for first-time travellers, students and those looking to gain hands-on conservation experience.
You’ll need a reasonable level of fitness and must be aged 18 or over. A medical form is required to confirm you are fit to participate, and if you plan to take part in water-based activities you should be able to swim.
Prices
| Duration | Price |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks (14 days) | $1,600.00 |
| 3 weeks (21 days) | $2,400.00 |
| 4 weeks (28 days) | $3,200.00 |
Dates & booking
Currency:
Select start date
What's included
Comprehensive pre-departure support;
Local coordinators supervising throughout the program;
Airport transfers;
Welcome and safety briefing;
Accommodation;
3 meals a day;
Weekend excursions including transport to PE;
24/7 emergency backup
Not included
Flights to and from Port Elizabeth
Travel Insurance
Visa and Vaccinations
Spending money
Additional excursions/activities
When does this program start and finish?
The program starts on arrival at the Game Reserve from 6.00pm on Day 1 (Monday) and ends on the last day (Saturday) at 9.00am, or at the time you depart the reserve, whichever is earlier.
Scheduled transport will be provided to and from Port Elizabeth airport on these days. Full details to help you book flights and plan your arrival and departure will be provided upon booking, but please contact us if you require further details beforehand.
Spending money
We recommend a budget of 50 USD / 45 Euro / 40GBP (per week) to cover food and activities for a weekend excursion into Port Elizabeth. While on Reserve, you won’t need spending money as your food etc. is included.
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postcards
from previous trips
It can be seen that this trip has held firsts for everyone, as it has enabled us to achieve things we thought we never would. Though each individual’s achievements have been appreciated and recognised, our achievements as a group have truly made this trip special — with new friendships made, trust built and memories to last a lifetime
Henry | south africa wildlife volunteering
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