High School Study Abroad in Port Elizabeth, South Africa

This project gives participants the opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with a variety of animal-related issues from African wildlife in game reserves to local livestock on farms. The project offers a professional experience for volunteers in the context of animal welfare, management, and veterinary science. The three main focuses of the project are African wildlife, agricultural livestock, and domestic animals. Each section will offer new knowledge for about working with animals. For example, when studying African wildlife, volunteers will hear lectures about animal health and nutrition, tranquilization of animals, and game capture. While working under the agricultural livestock, the issues you will be dealing with are related to cattle, goats, and pigs. Lastly, while working with domestic animals you can help contribute to improving their poor living conditions and their basic healthcare.

Get the chance to work with a variety of exotic and indigenous animals in this volunteer project in South Africa! Perfect for wildlife and nature enthusiasts, this program is based at an animal and bird sanctuary where you’ll provide hands-on assistance with the care of rescued and non-releasable animals. The sanctuary is large, so expect to get involved in different areas. As a volunteer, you’ll support the team in various activities – from preparing food according to each animal’s diet to maintaining the grounds. Some tasks are challenging yet highly rewarding as you get to spend a lot of time with the animals. You have 5 workdays and 2 days off each week, allowing you to explore the beautiful beaches of nearby Jeffreys Bay. You can also visit Big 5 wildlife reserves or hike the adjoining nature reserve to watch birds and wildlife in their natural habitat. This animal welfare project is available all year round, and you can join any day from Monday to Friday. Volunteers should be at least 16 years old if unaccompanied and 14 years old if accompanied by a parent or guardian. The minimum length of stay is 2 weeks and longer periods are subject to visa requirements.