The Program

The volunteer program allows participants to gain some work experience by volunteering their time to wildlife and conservation projects (18 - 30 years old). More mature participants are also welcome to apply for the 30+ Program and should have some background knowledge in nature conservation or zoology.Depending on the program, participants have to be 18-30 or 30-50 years old.

Orientation

The five-day orientation will be given in Cape Town before starting the volunteer project. The purpose of the orientation is to give the applicant an understanding of the people, culture, languages and political climate of South Africa. It will also give the applicant the necessary travel, safety and medical advice and how to prepare for their upcoming projects. Participants will also participate in a three-day excursion to experience the Western Cape and see the Cape Penisnula's spectacular coastline, picturesque seasie villages, some of the world's most scenic wine estates, whales, sharks, penguins and much much more!

Projects

•    Social Welfare: different associations take care of the local unfavoured population, in areas such as: medical assistance, help in day-to-day life tasks, teaching fundaments of their new democracy.
•    Education: depending on your skills, you assist a teacher, act as a sport coach for kids, help in school maintenance…
•    Tourism: tourism development is vital for local communities; it’s an important source of money and helps developing infrastructures. You can help restoring old museums, churches, historical sites…
•    Environment: getting involved as a foreign volunteer in ecological project shows the local communities how important and rich their environment is. You can help in nature reserves or on archaeological sites.

Suitability

• Able to face difficult social conditions
• Excellent physical and mental health
• Open minded, flexible, leave prejudice behind, and show initiative.

Departure and Duration

Programs are available all year round and the duration is from five to 17 weeks.

Accommodation

All volunteers stay in shared accommodation (with another volunteer) in a local host family. Most projects are located within walking distance of the host family.

Financial Conditions

Included: Transfers upon arrival and to host accommodation, administration fees in home country and South Africa, orientation week, dormitory and host family accommodation, food and local family accommodation, full support while on the program

Not included: Airfare, visa fees, travel and Health insurance (mandatory), meals during orientation week, pocket money

Price