DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage

The experience of volunteering at Daktari was incredible. The discipline of sticking to a schedule, caring for the animals, and supporting the children during lessons is something truly special. Although my time here was short, those days were excellent. The environment is comfortable, the food is delicious, the other volunteers are welcoming, the educational system is highly efficient, and the animals are very well cared for. I thank the company Exchange do Bem for providing this experience with full support and guidance, and I also thank the Daktari family for welcoming me and teaching me so much during these seven days of volunteering.

I have been home for a couple of weeks now and I still can't stop thinking about my time at Daktari. Despite only a 2 week stay it has had a profound affect on me - amazing team, inspirational animals and unforgetable children. This is a mature organisation that knows what it is doing and enables volunteers to have impact at numerous levels; caring for orphaned animals, teaching and inspiring local children whilst contributing to wildlife conservation and the future of South Africa. Added bonus - Daktari is located in a stunning part of the world with an abundance of wildlife and some of the friendliest people you could meet. I would fully recommend to anyone considering volunteering or contributing in other ways. Might see you there next time!

Daktari is unforgettable in so many ways. It has been an absolute joy and pleasure to work with the team, children and animals. This is a unique volunteer project because it combines teaching local children about life skills, environment and conservation with hands on animal care. Everything is well planned with supportive project coordinators. The best part is seeing the learning and developing confidence in the children. I would fully reccomend. 5 stars!

★★★★★ My experience with Daktari was truly unforgettable. I learned so much, gained valuable hands-on experience, and had the opportunity to meet amazing people from different backgrounds. The environment was welcoming, supportive, and encouraged both personal and professional growth. Every day brought new challenges and learning opportunities, making the experience both rewarding and enjoyable. I left with great memories, new skills, and a deeper appreciation for the work being done. I would highly recommend Daktari to anyone looking for a meaningful and enriching experience abroad.

Surely the experience of a lifetime. Traveling to the other side of the world, meeting people from all over the world, having the opportunity to teach underprivileged children and take care of animals I had never seen in real life before… this experience will stay with me forever. The only negative point I will remember is that I came for a marketing internship, and I feel that people mainly focused on my difficulties expressing myself in English, despite my willingness to do well and the fact that I always tried to do my best, knowing that I came here precisely to improve on that point. Despite that, I will keep wonderful memories of this experience. I also had the chance to meet amazing people throughout this journey. Everyone was very open-minded, welcoming, and genuinely kind, which made the whole experience even more special.

I spent 2 incredible months at Daktari Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage. I met amazing people and made so many great memories. Time went by so fast because the experience was truly unforgettable. There’s also a really good atmosphere in the camp, and you quickly feel at home there. An adventure I will never forget!

Before I got to DAKTARI, I wasn't quite sure what to expect but, through my 3 weeks here, I have worked with met some amazing people and been inspired by the kids I have taught. From my first day, I truly felt like a part of the team. I felt very supported to do something that I had no experience with. Working with the children has been so rewarding and I felt free to teach in a way that was comfortable for me. I will treasure each and every memory of both the children and the animals (especially Karool) and I feel that I have really made a meaningful difference in the lives of these wonderful children.

Very good project, incredible initiative with the children, only investment is missing in the basic work materials and that they serve well, especially the permanent employees of the place. Pleasant reception, well-structured routine, competent workers and dedicated volunteers. The food is sensational.

Taking part in the Daktari Bush School project was a very special experience for me. Spending time with the children, learning from them, and feeling that I was able to make even a small difference in their lives was truly meaningful. This experience made me reflect even more on the importance of education, health, and respect for the environment and animals. I return from this journey with a full heart and an even stronger desire to contribute to a more fair, conscious, and humane world

An incredible place where you can interact with wild animals, learn about essential care and the importance of each one in the ecosystem, and also help with the classes for children who come to spend the week learning more about the importance of preserving the environment.

A very complete project with special people, a very polite, attentive and incredible staff, a clean place that is always very well cared for by the employees, however, there are few work materials for employees, which leads to problems such as cleaning sponges, brooms and simple equipment, and because of this they have to cut grass with machetes and only one brushcutter, which is easily inoperable. The project needs more equipment for the quality of work of the employees and volunteers. The project is already well organized and with a few adjustments it will be perfect, the staff team is incredible.

I really enjoyed the experience. The accommodations are okay, however I think having power outlets in the rooms would improve the service. The food could have included a bit more protein in the meals, and it would be nice to have a fruit or an afternoon snack, considering there are many activities throughout the day. Overall, everything was wonderful — just a few small details that could be improved.

Minha experiência foi inesquecível, sempre sonhei em conhecer a África do Sul e não tinha melhor projeto par começar que o Daktari. Me senti à vontade, amei as instalações, meu quarto, água quentinha, comida boa, só poderia ter mais opção o café da manhã como presunto e queijo para colocar no pão. Os animais são bem cuidados e amei contribuir para que eles fossem alimentados e cuidados. Amei a recepção e a educação de todos e as atividades com as crianças. Para mim foi tudo maravilhoso. Obrigada

It was a great experience, I learnt so much. I was made to feel very welcome. I'm leaving with a wealth of knowledge. This experience has changed me and helped me grow. I met some wonderful people and discovered a new culture.

My experience was amazing! I loved Daktari. Volunteer work was carried out with animals and children, a great combination. The contact with nature is huge! Daktari is a place of peace and tranquility.

As I mentioned in my first week review, my experience at DAKTARI started off very positive. I appreciate the great atmosphere, the teamwork, and the chance to work closely with both the children and the animals

You get the chance to interact and care for African wildlife, a once in a lifetime opportunity! The people here are all very friendly and welcoming. My 2 weeks at Daktari felt like I had known the staff for a lifetime. You get to know each member intimately through excursions and free time activities. Very hard to say goodbye.

I had the most amazing time at Daktari. The staff and volunteers I met are so so special and will hopefully be my friends for life! The animals are so well looked after and the way we show the children how to look after animals is so vital for their lives. The impact that we can make on the local children is astonishing and all of the children I had the privilege of teaching always loved their week at Daktari - I hope I have been able to help the mission of educating South Africa’s next generation!

My two months in Daktari were incredible ! The animals, the kids, the staff members, all was good. I learned a lot about myself and about others, especially when I was with the kids. The excursions were very good, I have a lot of memories, especially with Thabo in the Kruger Park. I would like to thank the kitchen staff too because they always do delicious meal. This experience permitted me to go beyond my limits and to discover this beautiful country. I think theses two months get an impact on the kids because I learned them about the environment and animals.

The experience abroad is always something good, something that adds a lot to your life in all aspects. It was amazing to have the opportunity to work with children and animals at same project. An important point is the possibility of being in the project and being able to visit the villages and know about their culture and their routine.

The experience at Daktari was totally new and rewarding. I couldn't have chosen a better place to experience all of this. I met people who I will carry in my heart forever. I learned much more about myself than I did about others. It really is a parallel world in which I live, but now I have much more to tell.

It was my third volunteering in South Africa and it was an incredible experience. Full of discoveries, sharing, learning, laughter and tears. After 6 weeks at Daktari, I feel like I’m creating a family across the world. Solidarity and mutual aid are the keys to this project. Each group of children or young adults was very interested to be here and to learn. The staff are really caring and attentive. Thank you to the long-term volunteers and members of the office. Take care of yourself and our little pets. “Together we can save our world”.

My time at Daktari was great. I met so many nice people, the animals are so cute and I got the impression that my work really makes a difference in the lives of the children we taught. Thank you so much for everything!

I really loved my time in Daktari. When I've arrived I felt welcome directly by the others volunteers and the staff. The volunteers are from different countries and change quite regularly so I've got to exchange a lot with each of them during my stay. Each week we received 8 kids from 12 to 16 years old from the nearby villages to teach them about the environment and the animals. Every week is different but it is very nice to see the improvement of the students through the week and have the feeling to make a real impact for them. I've also had the opportunity to go to the eco-club to teach directly in the village and it was touching to see again former students who came directly to greet me. Besides the volunteers were also asked to take care of the animals of the camp, I've learnt a lot and lived amazing moments with them. Every Saturday we had the possibility to go to town, and we were free from Friday afternoon until Monday. I've also lived unforgettable moments by doing some excursions like the Panorama tour of the canyon or the game drives to see the wild animals.

My heart is full of joy after this first experience in volunteering at Daktari. Three weeks of laughter and sharing, I’ve met extraordinary people. Kids are adorable and really grateful for all the things that we teach them on the environnement and animals. As volunteers we are very well accommodated and the food is excellent. I will never forget this unique experience. Thanks at all the staff of Daktari for their welcoming and their kindness.

I volunteered 2 weeks at DAKTARI - caring for orphaned animals and weekly lessons for children in 8th grade from a nearby school. In addition we were able to spend time with children of different ages at the local crèche, kindergarten and primary school. Cleaning the cages and providing the animals with food was easier than expected, it felt completely natural. The program for the children was challenging, especially because so many different yet important topics were covered. Replacing some of the "frontal teaching" and writing down definitions with more group work and interactive learning would make a lot of sense to me. It would help the children to put what they have learnt into their own words so that we can be sure that they have understood it. After a busy school day it was heart-warming to see how much fun the children had meeting the animals and playing games with us volunteers. I can only recommend such an experience to each and everyone! ♥

I had so much fun during my stay at daktari! So many fun people welcomed me right away and I was able to creat very good relations with them and the kids I was teaching. This is a perfect mix if you want a mission combining animals and kids while being in a very pretty setting with good accommodation.

Good teaching Programm Super good outreach Programm Missing explanation to some duty’s of the kids (why are we going with the dogs, why are we doing twice a day stabling, etc.) Food situation: missing variety’s, where was some more local food instead of tomato soup?, food was kind of not much and not so good

To summarize, I am incredibly happy that I found DAKTARI. Everything is safe here, a good atmosphere, you have a good place to sleep, food and also time for yourself. Of course, the standards are not what many people are used to in Europe, but I think it's great to get an insight into another country. I would have liked to do more excursions. Thank you for your time.

My experience at Daktari was amazing and fulfilling. Not only did I become more confident in working with kids and learning about the environment, but more importantly, I found there the best group of people to work with. The atmosphere in the camp is great and I found some of the best people I have worked with so far. Not only will you get to learn about yourself through your work but you will also get to make friends all along. Thank you for the amazing time!

I wish I stayed longer ;) I think that the impact on the children we try to help is significant. Thus, I m happy to have come. The atmosphere was also very good, everyone was very kind to anyone. In addition, I liked the food and my accommodation.

Daktari is a great and peaceful place, we can take care of and interect with the animals. We also learned a lot from the kids and also is very good to see them leaning so many important lessons. We met incredible people and i'm so happy to had the chance to be part of this project. It is life changing expirience.

I spend 4 months at Daktari and I will never regret it! Daktari is an amazing place where we feel that we have a real impact with the kids. You will not just teach kids, but you will also learn a lot about yourself and about a lot of other things. Moreover you will also meet amazing people from all over the world with who you will build strong connections. I really recommend this experience!

That experience was a intense immersion in South Africa, we did a lot of new activities that we have never done before, learned a lot and met people that I want to remember and have contact for the rest of my life.

I loved my experience in daktari because of the contact with the kid and the animals , I would like to have done more things actually with the animals ! But it was very good the experience , and the kids were lovely

To be inserted in the South African culture and being able te help, even though it was with so little makes me feel really lucky. I’m really thankful for having this opportunity and will honestly never forget it! To be in touch with the animals, the children and the environment impacted my life and really opened my eyes. The organization of the program, the sympathy, the staff that was always so welcoming and helpful, it really contributes for enhancing the experience even more! To be in touch with the African culture really felt like a dream. It was so much more than I hoped it would be! A special thanks for Noemi, the project manager that was always so helpful and pacient with us, Thabo and Freedom that helped us so much, and Pretty and Pacience that helped us through the hole experience! And really everyone else from the staff, you are all amazing! I hope to always carry a little os the south african way in my heart! Thank you thank you thank you

my experience in daktari was so good, i loved everything, the food, the place, staff, the animals contact and the contact with kids was very lovely, and was also very impactant. I learned a lot, thank you for everthing ❤️

I really enjoyed my experience, to be in contact with animals and children, and in touch with south african culture was very eye opening and impacting. I had amazing days surrounded by amazing people, especially the staff. Thank you so much!

My experience was really good. I have contact with differents animals and I learn a lot of new things. Daktari is a incredible place and turned me a better person. Thank you for helping all the time. I love the people from here.

I has always been a great dream doing some volunteering job abroad. So, I have had this opportunity and I am glad I got it here. People are friendly, the place is nice and we had a good time with kids and animais.

A year ago, I became interested in graphic design. But I was constantly told that I would not be able to be a designer. I am going to study management in a technical school in Warsaw. But they do not believe that I will succeed. I want to help people, give them opportunities

Daktari is a beautiful place where we take care of the animals and where we learn a lot of things. The interaction with the kids is very a unique experience where we learn things to them they also learn new things to us. I met incredible people and i'm glad to had the chance to be part of this project.

In this experience i have discovered qualities of myself that i did not know. I have the ability to help, teach and interact with many children who despite their difficulties, try to give the best of themselves.

My family with two children ages 11 and 13 stayed for one week at Daktari. The combination of working with local children and taking care of animals was perfect for us. Already after the first day, my youngest child was asking if we could stay longer and come back again. We were made to feel welcome from the first minute of our arrival and had the opportunity to meet so many new animals and people. We stayed busy with all of the activities offered, but not too busy - we still had plenty of time to relax! Thank you so much to everyone at Daktari for making our stay so special!

My family with two children ages 11 and 13 stayed for one week at Daktari. The combination of working with local children and taking care of animals was perfect for us. Already after the first day, my youngest child was asking if we could stay longer and come back again. We were made to feel welcome from the first minute of our arrival and had the opportunity to meet so many new animals and people. We stayed busy with all of the activities offered, but not too busy - we still had plenty of time to relax! Thank you so much to everyone at Daktari for making our stay so special!

Days are very busy that what i wanted. Kids and staff are so nice. Food is great also, very flexible for any food restriction. Michelle and Ian let us easily go on excursion or in town if need it. we never feel like we disturb anyone.

What a wonderful, wholesome experience! My time at Daktari included making worldwide connections, lifelong friends and meeting children that crept deep into my heart. The animal experiences were top class, and definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity. I loved every second of my time at Daktari and would come back in a heartbeat. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to broaden their perspective, make an impact and learn something new.

Enjoyed my time at Daktari very much. It is a wonderful organisation with a lot of positive impact on the local community. I liked both teaching and taking care of the animals. I would really recommend going to daktari.

To my surprise, upon arriving here, I stumbled upon the concept of volunteering. Little did I know that this experience would leave an indelible mark on my life. Not only did I get to explore a breathtaking country, but I also had the pleasure of meeting numerous kind-hearted individuals. It was truly an incredible journey, and bidding farewell to this place proved to be a challenging task.

Having an experience as a volunteer in DAKTARI allowed me to learn a lot. The weeks shared with the children were incredible. And the opportunity to live around a large number of animals made the experience all the more enriching and unique. I would advise anyone to come and spend a few months at DAKTARI. this kind of opportunity only comes once.

Having an experience as a volunteer in daktari allowed me to learn a lot. The weeks shared with the children were incredible. And the opportunity to live around a large number of animals made the experience all the more enriching and unique. I would advise anyone to come and spend a few months at Daktari. this kind of opportunity only comes once.

Daktari is a really amazing time that I didn't want to leave. My 4 weeks there went by way to fast. In Daktari you get to learn many new things about teaching, animals, South Africa and also yourself. It is so wonderful to help shape the future of the kids that come every week and also to have an impact on the project. I loved seeing all the animals everyday and getting the chance to interact with them. I can only recommend coming here.

This was my first experience abroad. I had so much fun and everything was amazing. You have time to do excursions and they Daktari arrange that for you, that is so nice. Ofcourse you have to deal with no electricity at night and sometimes bad wifi, but it is okay!

Daktari is a really amazing time that I didn't want to leave. My 4 weeks there went by way to fast. In Daktari you get to learn many new things about teaching, animals, South Africa and also yourself. It is so wonderful to help shape the future of the kids that come every week and also to have an impact on the project. I loved seeing all the animals everyday and getting the chance to interact with them. I can only recommend coming here.

Daktari was for me my first real volunteering experience. I came here with no expectations and fell absolutely in love with Daktari. It feels like you're part of a close friend group with such diverse and international people. I did a study to be a teaching assistance and expected that it would be really similar here. It was quite different here it felt like a had such an impact on the children. They are so grateful for everything you teach them. the subjects I taught about are really actual in society nowadays. A place like Daktari is nowhere else. You have many volunteering projects that are focused on teaching programs or animals rescue. but the combination between animals that are rescued and cant go back in the wildlife anymore and teaching the kids about them makes jut sense to me. Everting is so real here, there is no filter the people I've met during my stay here are incredible. I got to interact with such a different culture than what i'm used to. when I couldn't figure something out or looking for company there was always a person who would be there for me. I would like to thank Michelle and Ian for being one of the most inspiring people I have ever met, they made me feel at home here by there sweet gestures and good jokes. And of course I would like to thank all the other people I got to meet here. I am forever grateful for being surrounded by the kindest and loving persons in such a good pace! Kind regards, Hilde Boomsma

My time at Daktari was great! To be able to teach for the first time to some young students with some wild animals around us was amazing! I also loved the food and the accomodation was very cool so i would definetly recommend it!

I loved my time at Daktari because everything was very cool, working with animals, the volunteer on site, the accomodation and the food. Great Experience with a lot of amazing encouters and i will keep amazing memories!

My time in Daktari has been wonderful ! I really enjoyed meeting wonderful people such as the volunteers, the staff, the co-founders and the children. You have everything you need and everyone is welcoming, which makes you feel at home. I would recommand to everyone to live this experience once in their life !

I spend 6 months in DAKTARI and it has been an amazing experience that I will never forget ! The staff and the co-founders are very welcoming, which makes you feel at home. To work with children and animals at the same time is unique and rewarding. Finally, I met incredible volunteers which became real friends.

Daktari was a once in a lifetime experience for me. It was such a cool experience to have the mix of animal care and the opportunity to teach local children whilst being in control of most of your schedule. I was very interested in doing the teaching and hence spent most of my time doing so. It was great to build a bond with the kids during lessons and games or during dance nights. Even breakfast with a Dassie on the table became a daily morning routine for all of us. Getting to know the staff was definitely a highlight as we learned about the local culture and made friends.

My 4 weeks at DAKATRI have been unforgettable! Thank you so much to the DAKTARI team for this one in a lifetime experience. I have met such cool people and learnt things that will help me in life and made memories that i can bring home with me.

My 4 weeks at DAKTARI were simply wonderful! Met some really cool and friendly people and learnt so so much! I have never been around so many different animals and I really loved the immersive experience which DAKTARI provides regarding animalcare. Teaching was a highlight for me and seeing how kids were able to grow and learn in a week was a really special experience.

My 4 weeks at DAKTARI were simply wonderful! Met some really cool and friendly people and learnt so so much! I have never been around so many different animals and I really loved the immersive experience which DAKTARI provides regarding animalcare. Teaching was a highlight for me and seeing how kids were able to grow and learn in a week was a really special experience.

My 4 weeks at DAKTARI have been unforgettable! Thank you so much to the DAKTARI team for this one in a lifetime experience. I have met such cool people and learnt things that will help me in life and made memories that i can bring home with me.

DAKTARI is an amazing organisation! I had a great time and enjoyed everything from the teaching and outreach programs, to the animal care and enrichment. What really stood out to me was the atmosphere; when you become a volunteer at DAKTARI it feels like you are joining their family. I was not exactly sure what to expect when coming to the middle of the South African bush, but whatever those expectations were, they were beyond exceeded! DAKTARI gave me hands on experience caring for wildlife and experience teaching children about caring for their environment as well as careers that are available for them after school. You can tell how much the owners care for animals and will go above and beyond to help them. I would recommend DAKTARI to anyone looking for an incredible experience visiting a beautiful country and wanting to make a difference to protect the environment for future generations!

This organisation is incredible! The atmosphere is which stood out to me, it felt like I was apart of a big family. Everything from the food, to the accommodation, to the impact you make on the children exceeded all of my expectations!

In total i really enjoyed my time at Daktari. It was a great experience and some things i learned i will keep for life. Teaching kids and watching the progress they made was very touching. I feel like the education the kids get while their time at daktari is so important, because its their country and they are the future of south afrika. They really need to learn about their environment and their animals, thats why i really liked teaching at daktari and helping them get all of this knowledge. I am also very grateful for all the people i met here at daktari. I was able to get to know so many different nations and wonderful people and we had a lot of fun during the weekends. I feel like i found some friends for life. In general i feel like i learned lots of things i can keep for life, about happiness, luck, living conditions, being grateful, that you only live once and that only you can create your only life. If you ever get the chance just do it! If i could change somethimg in the future it would be nice if you can go to town for example twice a week, so you have more social contact with the people who actually life in hoedspruit (especially in the evening, f.e. Sleepers) I also really enjoyed the food, it was very delicious, but i think during the meals animals should not be allowed to sit on the table and eating the same food as we eat. And if there are too many voluteers during one week and you have nothing to do for one afternoon for example, you should not get into trouble, because you are lying in the sun!!

Met great people, teaching program for the kids is very good and the education is so important, learned things for life including living conditions, language skills, importance of education, happiness, luck, being grateful and that you only life once so if you ever get the chance just do it.

I had a very good time here. Everybody was very friendly and the atmosphere with the other volunteers was very nice. Especially at the evenings we had a lot of fun. I really enjoyed the time with the kids, to see the process they make through this one week. The lessons were really good to teach. Also the activities were beautiful and exiting. The food was very varied, but i wish there were more vegetables and fruits. But i really appreciate that the staff cared about special food wishes and allergies. So at all you can say i really enjoyed the time here.

Ive had a very good time at DAKTARI and learned a lot myself about the culture, teaching, managing, animals and so on. The other volunteers, staff members and owners were very welcoming and openminded. there was room for fun excursions which created a diverse and fun stay!

I loved DAKTARI and its purposes, goals. I. liked the way children and staff were treated; everybody was welcomed as a family member. My first morning and day was a bit upset: most of the volunteers and staff assumed that I already know everything , did not introduce themselves. Here I would like to thank Femi especially; because she has been helpful and kind, answered all my questions or directed me to the right person.

I liked so much to everything here! i am grateful to everyone on the project. It's a unique experience, worth every minute. There i no doubt that it was the best trip of my life. I recommend it to everyone.

This is my second time at Daktari. It’s always a pleasure to be here. You meet new volunteers who are always kind and friendly. The staff and the animals don’t change but I’m very happy to see them again. I advise you to do this volunteer experience because you can learn so much about the animals with the staff and the animal manager. Moreover, you can teach some items about the environment to children and you develop a real relationship with them. It was the best experience of my life and I will co;e back again !

This week here were really special. The kids were amazing and could improve a lot! The eco club and get to new the local school was really special too! I think its an experience that everybody needs to live!

I highly recommend a stay at Daktari. I spent two incredible weeks with the other volunteers. Taking care of animals was awsome. Teaching to children who need it really makes a difference for their future life and it is very satisfying to participate in that. i wasn't use to community life and it's very rewarding

It was awesome to experience the bush life and to enjoy simple things in life with great people. Everyone was so kind and welcoming. I enjoyed getting involved in so many different activities and that is what made my experience so interesting and AMAZING !

It was a really nice time with the kids and intresting with the animals. The eco club was also quite an experience! Tha kids were really intrested and could improve a lot. The acomoddation its satisfying.

I am so happy I did this experience to get out of my comfort zone and meet great people from all over the world. Everyone was nice and welcoming. Teaching and taking care of the animals were interesting. I recommend DAKTARI !

This experience was one on my best one, It is like the dior fragance I adore. It was my first experience teaching English with children, I learnt a lot about children and about animals, trees. Living in the bush was very amazing.

Be part of Daktari project was one of the most incredible experience in my life. We learnt a lot with the kids during classes and funny moments and the contact with nature and animal is perfect. I hope be able to return one day to live unforgettable moments once again. Thank you Daktari!

It was really satisfying working with animal and kids at the same time, the teaching program is well written and managed, you can feel that you have an impact on the kids lives and also in south africas bright future

I spent 9 weeks at Daktari and it was the best experience of my life. The animals are really beautiful and you learn so many things about them. The children are really cute and kind. The staff and directors are really helpful and friendly, they are always here for you. You can do amazing excursions during your stay like game drives for example. If you want to do a volunteer experience in South Africa I recommend this one!

Good trip, great experience, amazing excursions, wonderful people and really beautiful animals ! I spent 2 amazing months at DAKTARI teaching the children and learning about all kinds of information about animals and the bush.

These 8 weeks were crazy because I learn a lot about the animals and how take care of them. I would like to do more excursions during the end of my trip but there were not enough people so I understand. All of people (staff, directors, volunteers, etc...) are very kind, friendly. I was so scared about this new trip but at the end it was the best experience of my life. Except for teaching, it was so anxiety for me but when we talk together outside the class it was really great ! Thank you for all !

I had a great time in DAKTARI. Actually, a life time experience. I left Brazil for 1 month and a half and came to South Africa knowing everything would be different from what I had tried or seeing before. I had a wonderful surprise when I started working with kids and animals. I also felt in love with a meerkat.

I spent 5 weeks in DAKTARI in South Africa and it was the best experience of my life. I'll remember that my whole life. I loved the excursions I did and the staff was really welcoming and nice.

I learned for my life at DAKTARI! Two weeks are by far not enough, so stay longer! I enjoyed being around the kids and getting more information about animals and the life in the bush and communities. The animal stabling with the kids was by far my favourite!

I stayed at DAKTARI for 8 weeks and can say that I enjoyed the time a lot. At the week days we took care of the animals and taught the kids about the environment and so much more. My favourite part of the stay were the evenings were we as volunteers and staff members watched the beautiful sunset on the so called Leopard Rock. Therefore, I can say that this place has a lot of potential, even if of course I do question and criticise some things. But... no project is perfect! Nevertheless, its the people that make this place so amazing. Especially Pretty<3 Thank you for the great time I had with all of you!

One week is not enough to appreciate this program, and feel autonomous on every day activities : stabling and teaching children about preservation of wildlife ! The home stay was also a very interesting experience !

This has been a life-changing experience. From the students, to the staff , to the lodging and leadership, this has been nothing but fantastic. I can think of no better way to make an impact while experiencing the culture and nature of South Africa. Volunteers young and old can make a huge difference. Volunteers range from 18 to 75. At 55 years old, I felt right at home with many of the younger, energetic volunteers. Teaching skills are not required...just a spirit to serve and make a difference. TAKE THE LEAP!

I spent two weeks at DAKTARI that I will never forget. My dream for 7 years was to become a volunteer to help other people und animals. Here in DAKTARI I could live this dream. It was always funny with the kids, the animals and the other volunteers and I always enjoyed this time. The excursions in the Kruger National Park and in the Oaks were incredible. I didn't expect that I will gain so many and wonderful experiences in only two weeks. The other volunteers and all the other people were always very kind. Everything was clean and I felt always comfortable. My entire stay was below my expectations. I can recommend DAKTARI to everyone who loves children, animals and wants to do something good.

I stayed at DAKTARI for 2 weeks and it change my concept of many things in life! It was simply incredible, the animals are so affectionate, the children are very kind e loveness! I had a new vision about giving value to the simplest things and I LOVED my stay!

I stayed at DAKTARI for only two week but is has been amazing. From the first hour I felt at home, welcomed by beautiful people and souls. Approaching animals like Lions, cheetahs was an unforgettable experience, as petting meerkats and dassies. Teach the kids was a real challenge, but I was always so proud of what they learned with us. I really wanted to thank all the staff for taking such good care of me, and for all the vegetarian meals prepared especially for me, that were delicious and healthy. Michelle, Ian, thank you for creating this one of a kind place, I hope to come back very soon !

Volunteering at DAKTARI is the best thing I could do for myself and my daughter. The staff is professional and from the first moment they have given me the feeling we are one and that we all work for the same goal. It's a Bushlife experience that you will not find in any other place. from the owner up to the cook they all give you a homey feeling. I'm grateful for choosing Daktari.

I really enjoyed my 2 months at DAKTARI, I met some amazing human being ! Thanks to DAKTARI I got the possibility to learn a lot about the wildlife in South Africa and take care of the animal. I also create unforgettable memories. Teaching amazing kids about the wildlife was something that I will never forget. Thanks to DAKTARI I also got to do some incredible excursions and see the BIGFive. I will never forget this incredible experience !

I has a few days in the project. Employees, people, and kids are amazing. The room is very clean. The clean at Lapa could be better (tablecloths, sofa). It was good to be able to do the animals things. Thanks for all!

I loved the experience of being here. The animals and activities are great, thanks Daktari. I fulfilled my dream of getting to know Africa and being able to experience a little of your culture. It was excellent.

It is a wonderful experience! I learn a lot from the volunteers and children. i learned a lot about animals which I didn't know. The accomodatains is lovely. I love it. The animals are so unique, it is very special.

My experience in Dakatri has been far beyond my expectations. I expected something unique but it was even stronger than i imagined. i have been fortunate to meet amazing children who are sources of love and joy every day. Life in the bush has been a unique experience, i have been able to see and care for many animals. I can t count all the dreams i've heard during these two months so many of them. Living in community with volunteers from different countries is a chance. I would like to say thank you to the staff for everything they do for us, thank you to the volunteers thanks you to the children because thanks to them i felt at home during 2 months. I get out of this experience grows and especially forever marked because DAKTARI has changed my life

I’ve been at DAKTARI for 5 weeks and it has been a wonderful experience. I learned a lot about the South African Wildlife and the culture, as I was able to go on many excursions, for example a trip to the Kruger National Park. It has been a joy taking care of the animals at the camp; feeding them, cleaning the cages and always having a cuddle in between. I loved working with the children, they were always eager to learn and fun to be around. The teaching program was well suited and it was easy to acquire all the knowledge you needed to teach the kids. DAKTARI was the perfect place to experience every day life in the African Bush, getting to know all types of animals and exploring your skills as a person in charge. This project will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you to all my fellow volunteers and the staff, I am going to miss you!!

Those two months have been an amazing experience for me : I met amazing human being and created some unforgettable memories. Having the opportunity to teach kids, to see them learn and try even if they struggle, to hear their "thank you for teaching me" was rewarding and it helped me grow as well. Learning to know the kids and create relationship with them was incredible, although heartbreaking every friday when you have to say goodbye. I had the chance to have an amazing team of volunteers here at DAKTARI as the same time as me, and I'm grateful for this group. Each person of the staff has been absolutely adorable to me, and I'll never say thank you enough to Pretty, Patience, Thabo and Freedom for making me feel at home.

Before I came to the program the word "DAKTARI" didn't trigger any immediate associations in my head. But when I hear the word now I think of: friendships for life, compassion, happiness, fun, experiences, and memories that will stay with me forever. I will try my best to describe what it's like to volunteer at DAKTARI but sometimes words just aren't enough. From the moment you enter the camp to the second you leave, you will instantly fall in love with the amazing atmosphere. In my experience, everyone from the staff to the owners, and volunteers, all contribute to creating the best work-environment i have ever been witness to. They are easy to talk to, including, funny, happy and the list goes on. It's truly so incredible that I can only recommend you try to see it for yourself. Although the staying in the camp is wonderful, life in DAKTARI offers much more than the classic volunteering experience. It offers a thorough cultural immersion though the excretions, but most notably with outreach program. The program lets you encounter the local communities first hand. Anything from a soccer match with the local children, to the Eco-club where you get to teach and see the them in their own environment. You will definitely go home feeling you got the full African experience. Even though I will always cherish the memories of my friendships and the cultural immersion, the most satisfying part of my stay was working with the children. Teaching the importance of taking care of the environment and the animals within it, is extremely rewarding. Especially when you get to have fun along the way. Knowing that i made a difference in the life of the children, while spreading awareness about the environment, is something I will be forever thankful for. I could continue forever with complimenting DAKTARI, but as I said in the beginning; sometimes words just aren't enough. So the only way you would be able to understand what im trying to say, is to try it for yourself.

My stay at DAKTARI was amazing. I'm very pround to have taken part in this beautiful project. Being able to teach children while being in the middle of the bush observing wild animals is a unique human experience. This experience will have change me for life and I sincerely recommend to people who read this review not to hesitate to leave far from their comfort zone. DAKTARI is worth it!!

If you love animals and like to work with kids, than this is the place for you! I had a blast this last 3 weeks! Great staff, good accommodation and quirky atmosphere made me feel right at home! Besides, you are surrounded by animals! Who doesn't like that!? But the thing I enjoyed the most was working with the kids! its great to see them grow in knowledge and care each week! The people here are great, and you will be sure to have the time of your life here! In short: I fully recommend DAKTARI, you won't regret it!

This place (surrounded by animals) is an amazing place to be! The atmosphere is quirky and fun, and the service great! The staff is a blast to hang around with! Its great to teach the kids new stuff, and super rewarding when you see their growth in knowledge and care! In short: I highly recommend this place!

My time at DAKTARI was way better than I could have ever imagined. The people welcomed me with open arms, and after the first week it already felt like I've know them for a long time. Teaching the kids was amazing. With every lesson I learnt something new. Especially in regards to animals or the culture here in South Africa. DAKTARI also have a lot of amazing trips and in the weekend, where you do a lot of fun stuff. I really recommend for you to come to DAKTARI and experience it for yourself.

I had a really nice time in DAKTARI! The atmosphere was really nice and funny! I met a lot of amazing people ! It give you the opportunity to work with animals and to have a real impact on kids education wich is really important! I highly recomand you to come and do this incredible experience !

Please keep up the work! The combination of people and animals in an international environment is great! It's great to get to know the local customs in the kitchen and to get on with everyone on the staff. We had a fantastic group of volunteers and everyone is in our hearts forever! If I didn't have a permanent job I would have stayed, but unfortunately I have to go back to work. Thank you for the fantastic experience and the warm welcome. You are in our hearts forever and when we move to South Africa we will definitely visit you again.

Our 2 weeks at DAKTARI went by very quickly. a super location with very friendly staff, after 2 weeks it felt like home. all the animals are very well cared for and the children have the time of their lives here. it is nice to work with other volunteers from all over the world. you go back home with new friends and an experience you never forget!

Hii I really enjoyed my stay, everyone treated me very well. I highly recommend others to come and have this experience. Here are some improvement suggestions: - Volunteers who are in class should not talk to the staff, it is difficult for them to understand and with people talking it is worse. - We should add a lesson about bullying. - The lesson about vultures should be after the one children learn about poaching and endangered. - We must add a light in the classroom, and room 1. - Volunteers and coordinators SHOULDN'T write the children's paper. - During the stabling, it would be nice if the staff spoke in English.

Spending those 6 weeks at Daktari has been even more amazing and wonderful than I would have ever imagined. I did not feel like a volunteer at all, I immediately became part of a caring and fun family. Working so closely with all the animals has always been a dream of mine and being able to do so, in such an ethical, respectful environment is a wonderful, life changing experience.

I loved everything about my week in DAKTARI! I felt at home and I discovered so much things!! The lessons are very well organised and the teaching program is diversified and very interesting. Animals are so cute and they are so well treated by loving people. I am deeply grateful for this wonderful experience

I spent 2 weeks in DAKTARI and it was an amazing experience. It feels like we are part of a big family, everyone is polite and respect each other. Being with the animals and teaching the kids is really cool. I really recommend this adventure.

Excellente experience...... correspond a mes attentes. .....contact avec les animaux , super. Tres bonne acceuil... le programme est tres bien fait.... bien organise... c est vraiment un excellent endroit.... et une bonne sensibilisation aupres des enfants.......

The DAKTARI family is more than welcoming and you feel at home as soon as you arrive. The teaching program is great and you can feel the impact on kids. Stabling twice a day allows you to interact with bush animals which is incredible ! You're never get bored ! Thanks a lot to everyone !

Being part of this project was incredible, working in this community for 3 month was incredible. In order to describe my stay I would require at least to write a book, because describing all the amazing things that I experienced here would be too long. So I would recommend to anyone that want to be part of DAKTARI to do it, personally it changed my life in so many aspects. I would like to thank everyone here for everything they are doing.

I spent only a week in DAKTARI but i immediately feel like at home. i really enjoyed be surrounded by wild animals. The teaching program is also very interesting and i recommend this experience to all people who would like to give their time for this cause and discover the wonderful South AFRICA.

I work as a travel agent, bringing volunteers to DAKTARI and other projects around the world. After helping a lot of volunteers fulfill their dreams of coming to South Africa, I managed to arrange 2 weeks to spend at the project. What a wonderful time I had starting with the staff who are so friendly and polite, the animals being taken care of as if they were family and the amazing food that was prepared catering to each of the volunteers individual needs. I can only say that if you are looking for an unique and quality experience involving a well thought out educational program and the preservation of native animal species, this is the one for you.

The 2 weeks I stayed at DAKTARI were amazing, spending time taking care of the animals, teaching children about the environment and always working as a team make this experience unique. I recommend this project.

The food is perfect I loved the generosity and the charisma of the people and the food is without a doubt the best way. I really like the schedules, but they should serve coffe before the activities

It was amazing, and I had the opportunity to meet amazing people and children. know a little more about the culture, and experience unforgettable moments! And learn more about the animals in the region every day

I work as a travel agent, bringing volunteers to DAKTARI and other projects around the world. After helping a lot of volunteers fulfil their dreams of coming to South Africa, I managed to arrange 2 weeks to spend at the project. What a wonderful time I had starting with the staff who are so friendly and polite, the animals being taken care of as if they were family and the amazing food that was prepared catering to each of the volunteers individual needs. I can only say that if you are looking for an unique and quality experience involving a well thought out educational program and the preservation of native animal species, this is the one for you.

Great volonteering experience, the staff is allow you to have an incredible experience in the camp. Leave with so many animals is also amazing I learn a lot with the kid and on the south african community, notably on the dancing party, sing, game, culture...

My volunteering experience was good, I really like this place, I like the animals and the peoples. The staffs are amazing, they are very kind. The chindren's school is very important, and i loved teaching. I really enjoyed meeting new people and other cultures. It was very important for my growth.

My wife and I spent 2 weeks in DAKTARI and it was an unforgettable experience. The all staff are friendly, and they make you fell at home, the food was delicious. We could mixed with other international volunteers and staff all time and we had so much fun in teaching program, animal care and all activities.

I really liked my weeks here, it was better than I was expecting, people is too kind and polite, the food is very good, the accommodation too, The experience that I had here will certainly change my life and I will always remember

My wife and I spent 2 weeks in DAKTARI and it was an unforgettable experience. The all staff are friendly, and they make you fell at home, the food was delicious. We could mixed with other international volunteers and staff all time and we had so much fun in teaching program, animal care and all activities.

That was a great experience! It was my first time doing volunteer work, and I could learned a lot, have fun, great moments, know people from all world, teach kids... but I can tell that they teach me about everything of life... and about love! Thank you DAKTARI for give us this experience, and the amazing staff that are our new friends! Lets together!

My experience was very good, I really enjoy it, the people was polite, the food good, and the accommodations was too comfortable, it was too important for me, I have learned many things that I will always remember

I loved the entire place, staffs, volunteers and also the food and acomodation. I had so much fun doing the animal care and the teaching program with the kids, they were so kind with me and all group.

The food is wonderful and the accommodations are great. From contact with children to care for animals. Everything was amazing. Incredible experience that only adds values for a lifetime. Each day was a positive surprise.

I am still trying to find words for the to share with you our 2 weeks in the BushCamp. I just loved being around all the animals and the children from the village that comes here for us to help teaching them about the animals and nature. It was my first experience as a volunteer in another country and was just so gratifying. I could learn a lot and also teach. It is for sure a life time experience. Congratulations Michelle and Daktari's team for the wonderful work you've been doing.

I am still trying to find words for the to share with you our 2 weeks in the BushCamp. I just loved being around all the animals and the children from the village that comes here for us to help teaching them about the animals and nature. It was my first experience as a volunteer in another country and was just so gratifying. I could learn a lot and also teach. It is for sure a life time experience. Congratulations Michelle and Daktari's team for the wonderful work you've been doing.

Coming to volunteer at DAKTARI Bush School was an experience close to perfection. Without a doubt it was way better than expected and I would recommend this place to everyone. Since the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by everyone in the best way possible. During these three weeks, they made me feel part of a big family between the volunteers and the staff. From each person that you get to know from here, you will take new memories and create unique moments. Doing the teaching program is pretty easy as there is a guide extremely clear that explains everything that you have to do during each lesson. It feels really good to teach the kids from the community as you know you are making an impact in their lives as they learn about animals, environment, crime, drugs, alcohol, etc. Furthermore, specially for me, working with animals was something extremely new but I can say, although I'm very afraid of them, you get used to work in stabling every day and even you can start to like them. I had the opportunity to see cheetahs, ostrichs, owls, and many other animals, all days as something normal, and even sometimes you will see jiraffes near the campus. Also, we went on an excursion with other volunteers thats was awesome, and we got to see four animals out of the Big 5, and the remaining one, I saw it in one of our trips to town. On the other hand, food and accommodation was really good and overpassed my expectations, you will have something different to eat in every meal and in every day of the week, and absolutely everything is delicious. Overall, I can say I will always remember my time here at DAKTARI and I will take friendships that will remain for a long time.

I spend 4 weeks at DAKTARI and I loved working with kids and animals, I learned a lot and I also got to know amazing people from all over the world! Amazing trips, nice food, lovely people and wild animals. thank you for this experience!

I had a great experience her in DAKTARI. I have learned a lot about wild animals and the bush. Thanks to Michele and Ian to welcoming me. But also I would like to say thanks to all the volunteers and the local people.

I spent 2 months in Daktari and I had the time of my life! I learned so much and it as really amazing to be able to work with animals and children. It was really fulfilling for me to be able to share knowledge with local children and also to do a lot of things for the camp and the animals. I also had the chance to do many excursions and discover the area, go to Blyde River Canyon, see the Big 5, it was really amazing. The staff is really friendly, the accommodation is very nice and the cooks cooked some amazing food for us and I am really grateful. I met some incredible people there and I will never forget the memories I have created there.

What I can retain from these 2 months spent in DAKTARI, is that it was a real-life lesson. The 3 weeks that we spent with the children were pretty intense and exhausting, however, the kids were so joyful, voluntaries, well-intentioned, ambitious, and willing to learn. I did not expect to connect with them and create bonds that easily. It is such a chance as a kid to go to DAKTARI because this kind of experience can be revealing, can make people aware of the importance of their environment and the precious wildlife, etc. I would like to thank all the people that I met there, the directors, the other volunteers, and the staff persons, for being so welcoming and friendly with me. We had the opportunity to get to know each other pretty well during these 2 months, and I wish I could see them again one day

I am so happy of my stay in DAKTARI. I spend 2 months here and it went so fast! I learned so much things here as community life, local culture, animal care, teaching and also on myself. A big thank you to this amazing team, I really felt part of a family here. It is one of the best experience in my life and I will always remember it!

A wonderful experience, so close with the animals and useful by teaching important stuff to the local children A beautiful team composed with super person and a amazing place to be I had great excursions in different reserve around DAKTARI reserve. All of them were amazing We can talk about a life changing experience !

Amazing trip in South Africa Great experience, son close to the animal and useful by teaching important stuff to the local children The staff is composed of super people and the place where we stand is wonderful

I will recommend DAKTARI to anyone that want a life changing experience, with both animals and children, in a pleasant environment. I have now so many good memories, but also animal and nature knowledge. And even with a bad covid-19 situation, the staff had made everything so my stay was enjoyable. And I'm so thankful for that !

I was at DAKTARI for 3 weeks and I had an amazing time. Everything here is made with so much love and effort and everybody is doing their best to make DAKTARI a wonderful place. The animals are treated with so much love and they receive a really good life. The teaching program that they have for the kids contains everything that is important to teach them and I'm sure that it makes an impact on the kids. The atmosphere in the camp is always nice and funny and you never get bored. Everybody is so nice and lovely and you spend everyday with nice and open-hearted people. I really can't complain about anything and I will leave this place with amazing memories

I had the chance to be at DAKTARI for 3 weeks and it was an amazing time. It is a wonderful place here and everything is made with so much love and effort. When you arrive at DAKTARI you are welcomed by really nice and openhearted people and during your whole stay you are treated like a family member. All the animals here at DAKTARI are treated with love and receive the best life that they can get here. The project that they have with the kids is amazing and I'm sure that it has a great impact on them. I can't complain about anything - during my whole stay I was more than happy with everything. The atmosphere in the camp is always nice and happy and I received some memories that I will never forget. I recommend DAKTARI to everyone who loves to work with animals, to meet new people and to experience life in the African bush. I really have nothing to complain about.

I had the chance to be at DAKTARI as volunteer 2 weeks, I learned a lot of things and all the team are so friendly. I would like to say thank you to all the staff kitchen for the vegetarian meal, and for the perfect breakfast. Thank you DAKTARI I will never forget this experience.

I had the chance to be at DAKTARI as volunteer 2 weeks, I learned a lot of things and all the team are so friendly. I would like to say thank you to all the staff kitchen for the vegetarian meal, and for the perfect breakfast. Thank you DAKTARI I will never forget this experience.

I've spend only one week in DAKTARI and it was too short to really be comfortable with the teaching program ! But I've spend a really great time teaching children and caring of animals. It was so nice to caress Meerkats too ;-) Michele is really welcoming. Thank you all for your patience and your investment with the local community.

After more than 4 months in Daktari, the departure is hard. I will miss the atmosphere, the people, the place and the animals. It will be an opportunity to come back. I was the animal manager, along with Lilly Husson, another Frenchwoman. We never had time to be bored, between working with animals or with children and having a good time with the staff and volunteers. Thanks DAKTARI and Michele

After more than 4 months in Daktari, the departure is hard. I will miss the atmosphere, the people, the place and the animals. It will be an opportunity to come back. I was the animal manager, along with Lilly Husson, another Frenchwoman. We never had time to be bored, between working with animals or with children and having a good time with the staff and volunteers. Thanks DAKTARI and Michele

During 6 months I was the Office Assistant at DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage. I am so happy to have chosen DAKTARI, it turned out to be one of the best experience of my life. I had the chance to work with a young team. They welcomed me warmly, making my experience unforgettable. I had so much fun at work, I learned so many new things. It is a perfect occasion to meet awesome people around the world. I felt living in a huge family. DAKTARI’s camp feels like a home away from home! I had at my disposal many facilities such as bar, braai are and swimming pool. The food was very good, with chefs adapting to our special dietary requirements (vegetarians). This is such a special place. Situated right in the middle of the bush, we are living around wild animals. Total escape ! If you love community project, teaching children and take care of animal, this project is for you. I can highly recommend this project. I just want to thank everybody I met during my internship who be able to make this inedible experience. I will always remember it !

During 6 months I was the Office Assistant at DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage. I am so happy to have chosen DAKTARI, it turned out to be one of the best experience of my life. I had the chance to work with a young team. They welcomed me warmly, making my experience unforgettable. I had so much fun at work, I learned so many new things. It is a perfect occasion to meet awesome people around the world. I felt living in a huge family. DAKTARI’s camp feels like a home away from home! I had at my disposal many facilities such as bar, braai are and swimming pool. The food was very good, with chefs adapting to our special dietary requirements (vegetarians). This is such a special place. Situated right in the middle of the bush, we are living around wild animals. Total escape ! If you love community project, teaching children and take care of animal, this project is for you. I can highly recommend this project. I just want to thank everybody I met during my internship who be able to make this inedible experience. I will always remember it !

DAKTARI is a very beautiful place, their project have a real impact for the local community. I was there for few days to take care the animal, they have a lot of different species. In DAKTARI, people are passionate and amazing. And the food is very good.

My experience in DAKTARI was one of the greatest in my life. I made true friends and learn so much things about the bush. All the accomodations were perfect and everybody was really polite and kind. I would totally recommend this experience !!!!

My experience in DAKTARI was one of the greatest in my life. I made true friends and learn so much things about the bush. All the accomodations were perfect and everybody was really polite and kind. I would totally recommend this experience !!!!

I really enjoyed my stay at Daktari. The staff is very welcoming and so are the co-owners Michele and Ian. I had a great experience teaching the kids about their environment and how to take care of it. Taking care of the animals here has also been a real pleasure.

DAKTARI is my first volunteering experience abroad. The staff is very welcoming and so are the co-owners Ian and Michele. We truly feel like home in the middle of the bush. It has been wonderful to take care of wild animals, feeding them and cleaning their area, they are very safe in Daktari. The educational program is also very pleasant to do, Patience and Lebo (teachers at Daktari) helped me to get comfortable with the lessons and allowed me to share very important knowledge with kids. The organisation has a very positive impact on the community and it has been a real pleasure to be part of it.

I felt at home from the first day. I had lost of fun taking care of the animals and teaching the children about the animals. I liked that everyone around was kind to you. I would recommend to a friend and would also come back. Thank you DAKTARI

I felt at home on the first day. I had so much fun taking care of the animals and it was n good experience to teach the children. I would recommend to come visit DAKTARI. Thank you DAKTARI

i was the only volunteer and sometimes felt a bit left out, everyone went to bed at 19:30 so i was alone for a few hours, the best part was getting to go to krugar it was amazing, the accomadation was good and the food was amazing, the animals were very cute and i had been in africa for 1 month and it was the first time i had seen an ostrich up close

I was the only volunteer and sometimes found myself alone, while others had conversations in other languages although everyone is told to speak English, I expected the children to have more animal experiences especially with everything that is right on their front door, the accommodation was lovely and the food was amazing.

I highly recommend this volunteering experience : a perfect mix of animal care and children teaching ! 2 classes of 6 children in two weeks to teach and more than 20 animals inside the camp to take care of !

These three weeks have been very good and ran out too fast. Everyone is friendly. The kids coming here every week are very charming and the animals are as well as they can be knowing why they arrived here. Everyone take good care of them and that is a very pleasant place to be.

This program offers everything someone needs to have an amazing experience at volunteering. The staff was excellent and the interaction with kids is very intense, with daily activities from 7am until 9pm, which makes the program great.

I spent 1 week at DAKTARI school bush and orphanage. It was a great experience. This organisation is really professional and has a long-lasting impact. By volunteering there, you get a 2-sides experience : you learn about African wildlife. You actually take care of the wild animals who got a second-chance in this wildlife orphanage after being hand-raised despite their wild instinct and the abandoned once people realised they were not pets, or found as babies after storms separated from their mum, or injured. It is great opportunity to learn more about them. You also get the teaching side where you actively participate in educating children from the local communities. You give them a chance to learn what is the environment, why they should protect wildlife and so forth. This program has been running for long so you can be sure it is serious.

I'm very happy and so rich after this week immersion with children and animals. Thanks to all the team and founders for this fantastic place which contribute to educate futures generations. I loved the education part and the time spent with the children, thanks a lot <3

I would highly recommend volunteering at DAKTARI Bush School and Wildlife Orphanage. I have had an amazing and life changing experience at DAKTARI and have met so many incredible people and have made friends for life. The whole atmosphere at camp has created a second family for me while I have been here. Everyone is so friendly and everyone becomes united together for the amazing cause and project. The lessons with the kids are always a lot of fun and you can see the positive impact you mare having in just a few days. The animal care and stabling is very interesting getting to interact and care for so many different animals. My favourite animals at DAKTARI were the meerkats because they are so affectionate and cheeky. Overall this experience has brought me so much happiness and laughter and wouldn't change it for the world. If you are nervous or questioning coming I promise you you will not regret it. I was nervous before travelling but I couldn't have asked for a better time.

I came here to learn how to take care of animals and how to interact more with kids, and I'm leaving with my goal achieved! It was amazing to see how much impact we can make in someone's life with just a little of attention. I went to Eco Club at Oaks High School and it was so different than what I was expecting. It was a experience that I'm going to take for life! I loved it and I would definitely love to come back. Thank you to all the incredible staff and to all the amazing people that I got to know in Daktari.

Daktari is great, the atmosphere is nice, the people are nice and you have lots of fun things to do. Working with the animals and doing stabling is always fun. Going to the leopard rock is always fun and the sunset from there is very beautiful

The experience of charing with kids is really interesting and the visit of the children of the village allowed a very interesting cultural exchange. we can see that all the children are really interested and this week has a good impact on them

great experience. the best part was first volunteering with the kids along with the animals but then taken to the schools/communities they came from. I loved going to eco-club and seeing the fruition of Daktari.

In Daktari, I was able to experience the cultural life of South Africa and to help the local community by teaching the kids about the environment, politeness, animal knowledge etc. Being there, helped me gain another perspective of life and grow a little bit more.

Everything is peaceful here, it's a pleasure to work with children and and animals for such a price. It is my first time in Africa and these two weeks made me feel so good. Thank you for this experience.

In this beautiful place with a friendly team, I learned with children and team, spent my time teaching, taking care animals and more important learning with others volunteers and children about their lives, countries and culture. Daktari was amazing place.

I have never been to South Africa. And i stayed for only 2 weeks. But i enjoyed it very much. I liked the atmosphere there, the people, the animals and the children. Its just a great project. I recommend it highly!

My stay at Daktari will surely be one of my life's milestones. this has been such an impactful and enjoyable experience. Daktari has changed my life. it was such a fun time meeting new people and learning about other cultures. meeting the children and spending a week with them, you end up falling in love with them and wanting them to have the safest and most sustainable future possible. the animals are such a joy and taking care of them is so satisfying. from laughing with your new found friends the fellow volunteers and staff to trying to make a positive impact on the life of children. Daktari is an experience that everybody should go through because it is life changing

This experience was my first time for me in South Africa and the first time volonteering. It was a great and amazing experience, I stayed for 6 weeks. During my time in Daktari, I spent time with children (teaching, playing, socials talks...) and with animals (take care of them, feeding, cleaning, improve the enclosure...). I worked with a wonderful team, since the beginning until the end, all the staff is available if you need anything. You can also leave for excursion during the week-end to discover the country. Accommodations are really comfortables and meals are delicious. You will also live with other volunteers from all over the world. It was for me the best experience I have ever lived. I really advise you to come to discover this magical place.

Daktari offers an amazing, unique experience suitable for everyone who enjoys working with children and animals. Everyday and everyone you meet is different and fun, along with experiencing the African bushlife first hand.

Daktari provided a superb opportunity for our family of four (2 teen age boys: 13 and 16) to have an informative and interesting volunteering experience in South Africa. The accommodation was comfortable and clean and the volunteers were superbly looked after by the volunteer co-ordinator and their team. Meals were plentiful, freshly cooked and extremely tasty. The volunteer programme gave our family opportunities to work together and independently and the team thought carefully about the experiences that they allocated to us all in order to give us the best possible volunteering experience. The teaching programme was very carefully considered and it was wonderful to see all the lessons coming together to provide a coherent programme which I felt sure had an impact on the local children, giving them lasting memories and messages to take away with them. the ease of access to the programme, the support given to volunteers and although we didn't experience any, the range of excursions available make this a fantastic volunteer experience for groups or individuals alike. Highly recommended!

I had an amazing time at Daktari! It gave me the opportunity to work with kids who need education and animals who need care. Daktari has a community minded vision and will do whatever possible to accomplish small and big goals. It gave me the best experience i could have asked for here in the bush. I will never forget my time here.

DAKTARI is an incredible volunteering programme. It includes education of the children from the village and the caring of animals who live in their orphanage. The people here are amazing! Big hearts and big souls. I had a lot of fun, improved my english, learned with the kids and was able to experience amazing moments with the animals. The staff members are great! I really don't have any bad observation to make! I had such a great time :)

This was one of the most incredible experiences of my life! I had been searching for a volunteer program and I was referred to Daktari by another non for profit organization. From the moment I filled out the information form I was contacted by someone named Pretty, I can say she was the reason that I decided to take the leap and book this program. Coming from the USA to an unknown bush school that took me 30 hours and 3 planes to get to is scary and Pretty made me so comfortable by answering my emails in under 24 hours everytime. Once I arrived at camp I immediately felt like part of the family! I was showed around and introduced to the other volunteers, staff, and animals. They make it so easy and so comfortable to fall right into place. On that Monday the children arrived and began our teaching program, I am not a teacher and do not have kids so was a little worried. That worry was taken away within the first hour of the day. The program they have to teach is so easy to follow! I loved meal time, it was a big family meal, great food, no phones allowed and just laughing the whole time. My overall experience exceeded all of my expectations. Daktari is doing such great things for the community and the world, I hope one day I can return to see Bubba the dessie.

a very interesting experience. i know more about animals, i learned more about living ways, ways to be better with other people, with myself. open mind . I learnt more about the country , people here and around. Thank you very much DAKTARI family! Wonderfull to stay with you.

I was in DAKTARI place for a month, and I really really loved it. It was awesome and i will probably come back one day ! The children are very involve and cute. Here, the staff are perfects, very kind and friendly. Thanks a lot DAKTARI for everything.

This was my first time travelling alone and it couldn't have been better! Daktari was the best place for this experience, I had a great time with the animals, the kids and the staff. Also, having volunteers from all around the world was really nice! I made new friends and discovered new things about their culture. I'm gonna miss this place and can't wait to come back!

My stay in Daktari was really nice, I recommend it if you like animals and children. It was a good experience to practice my english and meet new cultures. I have been there for a month so I can tell.

One of the best experience I had so far. Meaningful activities throughout the day that you feel a great sense of fulfilment. I have learnt a lot from the stabling staff, volunteer coordinators, and even the children themselves.

If your passion lies in community enrichment via education, wildlife, nature conservation, then Daktari Bush School is definitely the place to go. It is a unique experience that goes beyond teaching or wildlife conservation, but it is also about connecting the local children with the wildlife and nature in their homeland. For my first time in South Africa and overseas volunteering experience, the only bad point I could think of was that I was only able to stay for a week and not longer.

My experience at Daktari was amazing. I got to spend time with animals I never thought I would see so close. I got to be surrounded by wild nature for a month. I also had the opportunity to teach kids about something I hold very dearly; the environment. And I had the pleasure of being part of the Job Hunting Program, which helps young adults with teaching e-mail, cv, confidence at job interviews, ... It was real fun to be there with both locals who shared their culture with us and international travelers such as me. Everyone was very polite and welcoming! What really made this experience one I'll never forget, is the excursions that we could do on the weekends. I went to Kruger Park, Panorama Route, Blyde Canyon and Tshkudu Game Reserve. All in all, I'm very happy that I had this experience and I'm sad that it's over!

Daktari Bush School and Wildlife Orphanage is something else, lemme tell ya. Absolute looneys all of them - but in a good way! It's very relaxed, and they obviously care about what they are doing. If you're on the fence about this - go. You won't regret it.

The program is very good because we have the chance to learn more about the African culture too. I loved Daktari because we had the chance to work with the animals and the children too. That is the deferent thing about it.

It was a great opportunity to learn more about the animals of the bush, but it was also very interesting to teach the children about respect and the environment. We also helped in the Job Hunting program, in which we taught youngsters how to prepare themselves to a job interview, how to make a CV and a cover letter.

Daktari is a one-of-a-kind place. I don't know of any other volunteer placements that allow you to have such a great impact on the lives of both children and animals. I had an amazing time, and I wouldn't change anything about my stay. I can confidently say that I've achieved what I wanted to by coming here, and that I've left a better person because of it. Life in the bush, and volunteering with the kids and animals, is really quite incredible. If you enjoy volunteering, working with children, animals, and being surrounded by a fun-loving group of international volunteers, then Daktari is the place for you.

Daktari is a good place in the bush, you can see willdlife animals all around the camp but you don't really take care of wildlife animals inside the camp. The most I appreciate in my stay was teaching the kids about environment, anti-poaching e.g the program is very well thought and very helpful.

Coming to Daktari, I had a good idea of what to expect. This is because their website is very well laid out and informative, so I knew I would have an amazing experience here at Daktari. The people here (most of them), are very welcoming, polite and fun to talk to. I loved meeting the Daktari crew and getting to know them so well over my three weeks here. The animals are all very friendly and it was amazing being able to hold some of the animals. Teaching the children, you really understand how important Daktari is for their education. Its nice knowing you're actually having an impact in children's lives.

I spent 2 weeks in DAKTARI, it was an amazing experience. The project is good, children were concerned and wanted to learn more and the animals are happy there. The accommodations were good also same for the staff always available to help us. I would recommend it!

My two weeks at DAKTARI were amazing, if you like to sharing, transmit values and being into a project, it is definitely for you! It is another way to travel. The children were really interesting and the staff was nice and involved.

In what it seemed to be such a short period of time, I experienced the great adventure of my live. Daktari feels now like home and I will forever be grateful for this opportunity. To the kids, to the staff and to the amazing animals, a huge OBRIGADA!

Here I discovered a new David and i learnt a lot about environment and Bush life. We talked about many topics important for the future. Thank you for the experience that stay in my heart forever! Thank you!

My Experience at Daktari was amazing. It was my first time traveling out of my country and volunteering, I think it couldn't be better. All the people are so receptive and fun. I had a lovely time at Daktari, learn so much from the kids, from de locals. South Africa is a beautiful country, I was so lucky because I saw so much of it. I'm very thankful for the opportunity of been at Daktari, they do an absolutely amazing job. I'm proud of been part of it.

My few months at Daktari have been some of the most memorable few months of my life. I woke up every morning surrounded by nature, feeling as though I was making a difference in the lives of the children as well as the animals. I've met some of the most incredible people over the past two months from all over the world that will remain friends for a long time to come. Daktari has given me that opportunity. I've learned so much from understanding the differences and the similarities in people from different areas that will certainly help me in the future. From the food to the work to the accommodation, I wouldn't want it any other way than it was. Daktari has everything you need to be comfortable, but still has a necessary rustic bush feel to the camp. I wouldn't change a second of my stay. By the end it started to really feel as though it was home, and it's been very difficult to leave. I'm honoured to have volunteered at Daktari and it will be something I'll never forget. Much love for everyone involved with this organization.

It has been some amazing days at Daktari - everyone has been so welcoming, sweet etc. I've felt safe and really enjoyed it. I've honestly been having the time of my life and truly been happy. Thank you

I had a wonderful time in Daktari. I learnt a lot about bush life, wild animals and protection the environment in South Africa. I also loved interacting with children and helped them better understand the beauties of their country. Thank you everyone for making a dream come true !

Tank you so much !! It was an amazing experience ! I never forget that, lessons, volunteers, stay etc... Excursions was really really good, so thank you so much coordinators and safari link for that !

It was an honor to take part in the amazing work done at Daktari, where the local youth are educated in how to take care of the environment, the animals and each other. If you want to volunteer at a place that really makes a difference - I would highly recommend Daktari. Michelle and Ian, the founders, are amazing people and they are doing a great job for the local community!

I was at DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage for 3 months as a short term volunteer. I enjoyed myself there as a volunteer, the reason why I enjoyed is because of the combination between educating the children and taking care of the animals at the same time. The people there are also so amazing and wonderful to work with, I have never volunteered in my entire life and felt so welcomed like I did at DAKTARI. We lived as a family and you will not even miss home because it feels like you are already home with your family.

I had an amazing time. Everyone was so friendly and took care that my stay is going well. Michelle and Ian, the founders, are doing a Great Job! The animals inside the camp are in good shape with nice shelters. Often they still try to improve them. An Important thing is that all animals in camp are there because they wouldn’t survive in the wilderness without help. So they don’t lock some animals away that would be perfectly fine out in the wild.

Living in Daktari for a month has been an incredible experience ! People are friendly, their are willing to share their culture. I enjoyed teaching to the children and playing with them. The bush is amazing and the animals can't be forgotten.

Perfect! I had a great time, I met wonderful people, saw and learn things I will never be able to forget. I went out of my comfort zone and had the greatest experience of all my life. I almost forgot about the delicious food, wow.

I has an amazing experience at Dakatri, meeting wonderful people, both those who were volunteering as well as the staff and children. I could not recommend enough doing this volunteering. You have to meet Martin the Cheetah it's amazing to see him being fed.

I'm very glad to have being part of this amazing project, I think new generations will take a lot of profit of this time in Daktari and this is exactly what we need in order to change the environmental disorder we have created. Working both with animals and kids is very gratifying and enjoyable, you never get bored haha. My experience was so authentic also because of the Staff there and the others volunteers working with me, we created a really good team and I'll never forget them. Overall an unique experience everyone should try once in their life !

My stay with Daktari, had a pretty good but chaotic start. They picked me and another girl up from the airport and drove us to a restaurant where we met a few other volunteers to wait for another pickup. When we arrived at the small "game reserve" there was a warm and kind welcoming. To sum it all up, I enjoyed my time there and I can´t say anything negativ about the project itself. The only time i don´t like to much was the weekend (how ironic). Over those 3 days the kids were not around, there was not much to do for us... Sitting around the pool and being online (there was wifi) was the daily life or you could to some more exiting but you had to pay for all the "touristic stuff" and i planned to travel the country solo afterwards so i had to safe up my money… But that´s only me, i can´t sit still a hole weekend ;)

Are you looking for a safe volunteer project in South Africa where you can work with both animals and children; go to Daktari. I had a great time, met great people and learned a lot about the country. I am convinced that this project actually makes a difference.

Being part of this project in South Africa has been one the best decisions I've ever took, I have seen the real impact it has on the kids that come for a week to learn more about their environment and how can they protect it. I thing education is key to get things better from the start, and this is the perfect example of how can we reach it. I also have to be grateful for the staff I've worked with, for all the new things they have taught me and the welcome they gave to all of us from the first day. I'll never forget it. Life here in the bush is exciting every day, you always have new things to do and to see, especially taking care of the animals in the orphanage. It's amazing to wake up being surrounded by all of these animals and those which come closer to the camp. This is for sure an experience that makes you growth and nobody should miss it.

Time definitely flies when you are having the best time of your life, doing the things you love every day. In the 2 weeks I spent at Daktari I got the opportunity to see how different the educational system can be around the world and how difficult it can be for children in South Africa to keep up with school and not be caught up in some bad circles. Every Monday when a new group of children was joining Daktari you could see in their eyes the eagerness to learn, despite the shyness that they were showing in the beginning. Also being in contact with the animals that are at Daktari daily and feeding them and even cleaning after them, gave me the opportunity to observe them and learn more about their behaviour. And, of course, simply enjoying the fact that I can be so close to wild life made this experience so precious. Even though there is a certain schedule and routine to the program, it is also flexible and it offers you the possibilities to go on different excursions, which are definitely a must do. It is hard to decide on which tours to go if your time is limited, but the people at Daktari or the other volunteers can give you some advice and share from their experiences, which makes it easier to take a decision. I would definitely recommend this program to someone who loves children and animals and wants to experience Africa from a different point of view, not just as a simple tourist.

My stay at Daktari has overall been a great experience, which is a result of your wonderful staff and office team. According to me theres a few thing where i think that Daktari could improve. The schedule planning for us who are volunteering needs to be more specific when it comes to the work which are not regarding teaching the kids. You should make it easier for the volunteering to participate in your staffs projects. You often find yourself without a class to lead, meaning you having some extra time and it would a lot easier if you created a board where people could sign up for tasks regarding maintenance or animals. This would save a lot of time both for the animal manger and the people who are volunteering because you wouldn't have to find the animal manger every time you have some spare time. This is the only thing where i think Daktari could improve, overall it has been an amazing experience and i would recommend your facility.

Daktari really helped me understand more about animals! I loved being involved in the day to day feeding and cleaning. Also, every week they receive a group of children, we get to teach them really important lessons about animals and life in general. It's a excellent project to be around both children and animals.

It has been a wonderful time to work and help at Daktari for those 2 weeks, I have been very welcomed since the beginning by Pretty at first, and Patience, Nodia and the whole permanently staff. I really felt the impact and difference for the kids at the end of the week, through the lessons (be respectful, safe sex, environment, animals in South Africa and so on), our talks, our spared time together. I really open that this experience will stay in their mind and it will be useful in their future. For the animal part, I would recommend to have bigger cages for each wild animal (caracal, genet, cheetah, wild dog, owls and eagles, ect.) especially that I think they they have enough space in the reserve. The animals would be more comfortable to create an environment close to their (even if they do not hunt, they need space as a wild animal, like horses, cows, ect.) In any case, I would recommend Daktari!

Working at Daktari has been such an amazing experience. The staff, among the volunteers, create such a welcoming environment. Pretty, Patience and Nodia are so in love with their jobs that it make us fall in love with that too. Also, the project itself is so important for the community, it is visible how much it affects the kids and how important it is for them. Nevertheless, working at Daktari has been an adventure of a lifetime.

Hi everyone, My Name is Alice and I‘ve been a volunteer at Daktari for 8 weeks. Now I can say that this project was absolutely perfect for me.Teaching the children and interacting with the animals was so much fun and I really learned a lot in this time.To see the children leaving at the end of the week with their certificates was always a heartwarming moment and I really enjoyed to be a part of a wonderful team that helped them grow. I also loved that we had the chance to experience South Africa on some excursions.It was beautiful to see the landscape, the animals and everything else South Africa has to offer. But the most important thing for me was not only the animals and my work that I’ve done, it was the people. All the staff members at Daktari are really kind and it was a pleasure to get to know all of them. Also the volunteers are amazing people and everyone is helping each other, we were a great team and I am so glad that I can call a lot of them my friends now.I can say that everyone made me enjoy life so much and Daktari became a home to me even in this short time. I would like to thank all who made this experience so wonderful.I will never forget this and South Africa especially Daktari will always be in my heart. Alice

Hi everyone, The day I heard about Daktari, I knew that was what I wanted to do for my gap year after graduation! South Africa is a country I always wanted to experience, for the culture, the animals and the exotic landscapes... I think volunteering is something very important in our actual world situation. It is an incredible experience to work with children and animals, to feel helpful, to live in community in the bush and bee out of the society! I love the camp life, everybody knows and helps each other and it is really difficult to feel unhappy in this beautiful environment! I feed my whole person with the beauty and the good energy that you can feel in here ! I feel that all this made me evolve in my human being, my mind and my soul! It is a perfect occasion to meet awesome people around the world and that can also give you clues for your future!!! For the kids that we welcome here, the teaching program is very interesting and it is a pleasure to teach all these important values to them! The staff members are always lovely and I love conversing with them... They do there best in their work and I am really thankful for everything they do for me, for example cooking me special vegetarian meals every time, knowing that the kitchen we have here is not easy to work in. I just want to thank everybody who helped me to come here and to be able to make this inedible experience, because I will always remember it and use it in my whole life!!! Thank you so much Léa TREMSAL

Hi all, I came to work as a volunteer at DAKTARI for 2 weeks and it was an amazing an experience!! In this time I had the chance to work in different activities such as giving classes to children and young students to learn about the environment, politeness and animals but also to take care of animals (like feeding and cleaning them) that I had never saw before. As I never teach before and neither took care of animals before all activities were a new learning and I had a great time with that. Volunteers helped each other and if you feel quickly part of a community. Also, interacting with the staff working in DAKTARI was a fun way to learn more about South African culture. People are extremely nice and happy and fun to be around (music and dancing all the time!). I had the opportunity to also go in an excursion to the National Kruger park and see a bit more of South African landscape and animals diversity. It is amazing and worth going for sure! This experience was a great way for me to "disconnect" from my usual day to day life and be part of something completely different. I learn so much new things and also had time to reflect about myself. I hope I help to made a difference in the kids and students I taught and as well the animals I took care. I am bringing back to me a lot of souvenirs, good memories and contact of friends made in DAKTARI. I encourage you to try out also :)

8 weeks here can seems long, but the time past very quickly in this place lost in the bush... I learn a lot about the southern African culture, thanks to the staff, the excursion and the children. Personally I'm a kind of person who loves traveling, discover new cultures and meet new people it's why Daktari was like an evidence for me and I recommend this experience to all the people who want to take care of our environment and animals through the children's education. My best souvenir here was for sure the interactions with the children I was very happy to do this unforgettable experience in the bush !

Lovely place, beautiful animals, lovely staff, delicious food, and you feel like you're really making a difference. One of the best experiences I've ever had, and would recommend it to anybody. Having already concisely explained why Daktari is a wonderful place by any conceivable metric, this sentence is an entirely superfluous filler to satiate the inane minimum character count of this site.

For four weeks I did voluntary work at Daktari Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage. It was amazing! The way in which animal care and education is combined is special. The founders of Daktari dedicate their lives to the project. Their strategy, including the eco-club and Job Hunting Program, has a real impact on the lives of not only the children who attend classes, but also on the villages where these children live. At Dakatari you are welcome, safe and well cared for. The way Michele and Ian and their staff make you feel at home is very special. The solidarity between the volunteers, staff and founders is fantastic. I can recommend everyone to do voluntary work at Daktari!

I've been to Daktari twice now, and hoping I can go again with one of my grandchildren before I quit travelling. Working with the kids was just fun and watching them absorb new concepts for the ecological preservation and renewal of their land was rewarding. Tutoring in English and Math was fun too and hearing later on which students got jobs was a bonus. But you *do* hear. Once you are part of the Daktari family you can stay involved and informed forever. I like that. There was lots of fun to be had caring for the animals, learning what they needed and trying to come up with ideas to make their lives better. And learning to keep the kitchen door locked tight at night so the huge African porcupines wouldn't raid the kitchen was a real necessity. There was lots of fun to be had as well. Swimming in the pool with the kids, sundown walks to the rock, weekly Lion King parties, not to mention being able to meet other volunteers from all over the world. Most of the volunteers are young people, but there is a sprinkling of retired folk too, and we all got along well. Ian and Michele, the owners and operators are super people, though Ian does work hard at maintaining his image of 'old grump'. There is also a weekly trip into town and time to see the local sights as well as trips to the local village for projects and eco club work. I'll be back in a flash as soon as I can make it.

I am an Elementary Art Teacher from NJ. I was looking for a cheap way to get close to animals in South Africa when my research lead me to Daktari. This program is amazing. On my first day, I got to see what a real South African school looks like. I still use pictures that I took, in a slide show to students and fellow teachers to show how different it is. I treasured my time with the kids. I treasured my time with the animals. I treasured my time hanging out in the open air at night, playing pool and drinking a beer. It was so fantastic, in so many ways... there is no way that I can fit it all in this box. Coming back I had a better appreciation for my life and all my blessings... and I just wanted to un-plug and enjoy the beauty that is all around me. It was life-affirming.

I spent a week at Daktari with a group of 24 volunteers on a specially organised programme. The administration pre-trip and the co-ordination during our visit was excellently handled. The experience was pure and no thrills, which made it authentic. There was a great balance between working with the animals, teaching the children (and learning about oneself) and going on outreaches into the local community assisting with tree planting at various schools and the eco-club. All in all it was a great experience.

I have had the most amazing month at Daktari! Daktari is such a great project, what they do is amazing! I've always wanted to go and volunteer in Africa but I wasn't sure if I wanted to find a project with animals or with people and this was just such a good combination, I immediately knew this was it! My first week, the group of kids we got were amazing! They were a little shy in the beginning because this is such a new experience for them. For most, it was the first time they went away from home for that long. But very quickly the kids opened up to us. They were so enthusiastic to learn! You can tell they're not used to having people actually ask them questions and pay attention to them in class. In the beginning of the week we take a survey with each kid with questions about animals, the environment, safe sex, respect,... all the topics we teach about in the week. On Friday we take the survey again and we can see how much they improved. A girl there my first week went from 2/16 to 14/16! All the kids improve and grow so much! Not only pure knowledge, but also their English, their confidence,... The animal part was amazing as well! My first night I hardly slept because of all the noises; owls, ostrich, dogs, donkey, squirrels,... But I got used to it so quick and now it's weird to be back home and to hear cars and plains at night! Every day you do stabling twice a day; preparing food, cleaning out the cages, giving clean water,... There was also an orphaned baby nyala we had to take care of while I was there which was such an amazing experience! It's also good to know that all the animals at Daktari are there for a reason! That was something we really tried to teach the kids as well; protecting the animals doesn't mean putting them into cages if they can live in the wild! On Friday afternoon and in the weekends you have free time and there are lots of trips and excursions to take! Me and another volunteer Beccy, went to the Blyde River Canyon with Gregg. Not very cheap but definitely cheaper than a tour with a company, and Gregg knows so much about the area, the animals, the history! We also went and did a homestay in the Oaks village to really get immersed in the culture! I was also very lucky and joined the students of the week (each week the volunteers choose a student of the week; someone who improved the most and has shown the most interest. They win a free game drive) for their game drive to Kruger! We saw so many animals and all the Big 5 except for a leopard! Last but not least, the people there, staff and long-terms and Michele and Ian are so wonderful! They have been so sweet! I would highly recommend this project, you'll have the time of your life!

First of all, I want to say a massive thank you to everyone at Daktari for an incredible two weeks which I will never forget! As a primary school teacher, I wanted to find a productive way to spend my summer holidays, and Daktari Bush School seemed like the perfect way to spend a couple of weeks; teaching local children and working with animals. I was a little nervous when I first arrived as this was my first time travelling solo, but I soon realised I had no reason to be! Ian was there at the airport to greet myself and another volunteer, and he immediately made us feel welcome. He even stopped the car a few times on the way back to show us the giraffes and other animals! Arriving at Daktari, the warm welcome continued and it seemed like Ian and Michele had created a proper little Daktari family. After settling in, we were invited to join the other volunteers on an overnight safari, organised by Greg, which was such a fantastic experience and allowed me to bond with the other volunteers before the children arrived, and get a real taste of Africa. At the start of both weeks, the children were so shy and quiet, but it was fantastic to see them growing in confidence and knowledge as the week progressed. By the time Thursday rolled around, we were all toasting marshmallows on the bonfire, with the children teaching us different songs, chants and dances. The teaching programme at Daktari covered so many areas in such a short space of time, but it managed to do it in a way that kept the children engaged and motivated. As volunteers, we were encouraged to improve the lessons, so we worked on the existing knowledge hunt lesson to create a challenging scavenger hunt. The children got incredibly competitive running around the camp looking for the clues, and it was great to see them helping the other children in their team. I was also given the opportunity to visit a local crèche as part of Daktari’s outreach programme and teach a lesson to the 3-4 year olds. It was a real eye opener, and such a contrast from my school back in England. All in all, I have had such a fantastic experience at Daktari, and my only regret was that it didn’t last longer! It’s incredible what Ian and Michele have achieved at Daktari in 10 years, and it’s clear the impact it has on the children, animals, local communities, and the volunteers who visit. I cannot recommend it enough, and I hope very much to visit again in the not too distant future!

My summer at DAKTARI primarily consisted of teaching local children and working with orphaned African wildlife. Working with local children proved to be the largest interaction while working at DAKTARI as students would come for five days a week and we would work with them from 7 A.M. to 8 P.M. each day. We would teach the students different subjects related to the environment and eco-tourism with some lessons touching on making South Africa a better place, safe sex, respect, and substance abuse. The schedule for working with the children was very similar to that of an educational summer camp, and also involved the children and volunteers with the care taking of animals kept within enclosures around DAKTARI's camp. Taking care of the animals consisted of cleaning their enclosures and feeding and watering them every day. At times, volunteers created projects to enhance the animal enclosures and would work on those projects when students were not at DAKTARI. There were also opportunities for volunteers to go on excursions during the weekends, where every Saturday volunteers could go into town or go on other excursions such as hot air balloon tours, trips to Kruger National Park and to different wildlife centers around Hoedspruit. I had a wonderful time and would recommend looking into DAKTARI as a possible volunteering opportunity. Be prepared to work, as it can be a demanding and tiring job at times. While I worked at DAKTARI some issues arose between volunteers and managerial staff where views did not align at times, and jokes could be off-color, but the long term volunteers were great to discuss these issues with. DAKTARI gave me a wonderful, life changing experience and really opened my eyes to the world outside of the United States. I could have never predicted what the experience was like and the African bush was truly breath-taking. I greatly enjoyed working with the local children, they were very fun to teach and to play games around the camp with. I enjoyed working with all of the other volunteers and I am so glad that I met all of the long term volunteers, all of which are wonderful people and great company around a dinner table. I hope DAKTARI continues to touch the lives of the locals and to make a difference in how the environment is perceived in Africa.

I had just retired and decided to travel to South Africa to begin my new life of "giving back." When my husband and I (both in our early sixties) arrived at Daktari our first activity was after dinner -- the baby dassies needed their evening bottles. I fed the furry little creature, then she crawled onto my neck and went to sleep. Believe me -- it was more relaxing than any spa treatment I have ever experienced. So began our wonderful 2 week adventure at Daktari. We feed and cuddled the dassies every morning and evening, met the cheetah, held brand new baby mice, petted the jackal and laughed with Eeyore the donkey. We also worked hard stabling and feeding the animals. That was the animal orphanage part of Daktari. The Bush School part was just as rewarding. Who knew my husband could command such attention in the classroom - the kids really listened to him. We had the opportunity to talk about politeness, respect, the environment and the economic and humanitarian importance of protecting the animals in South Africa. I loved every minute. Everything was wonderful -- from my first email inquiry until the day we left. We plan to go back. Animals and kids in the African bush. What could be better than that?

My four weeks I spent at Daktari is, and will always be one of the best experiences I have ever had! If you love animals and kids this is the perfect volunteer programme for you! From the moment I arrived at Daktari and met everyone I was made to feel so welcome within their family atmosphere and the location of the camp is beautiful, the fact you can be sitting chatting and a Bushbuck can come wandering up to talk to you is just an incredible. The accommodation was ideal and I was surprised at how comfortable it was despite the fact you are out in the middle of the bush. My first day of teaching the children I was so nervous but the kids are so great and enthusiastic that they make it easy and it was actually really fun. We had such a great time with them, especially on Thursday evening's when we had our bonfire where we sang and danced around the fire, everyone is in such great spirits! Each group of children we had at Daktari were great, along with those we got to meet in the local schools, we all had so many great laughs together. For me that loves animals, being surrounded by some of the most beautiful creatures, as well as looking after them, was literally a dream come true. I also had the opportunity to do a home stay at the local village with a great family where I was made so welcome, and to experience their culture and their daily lives is fantastic, I would highly recommend it! I have so many brilliant memories from my time in South Africa, and I met some of the most amazing people! I couldn't recommend Daktari enough it is one of the greatest places I have been lucky enough to have been to, which I would go back to in a heartbeat!

Staying at Daktari was such a great experience for me. I was impressed of the amazing people who made me feel welcome. I didn’t need previous knowlege to teach the chiledren and to take care about the animals I could easily handle it, because of the good introduction of the Daktari team. Ian and Michelle are just like caring parents for the children, animals, the staff and volunteers. I had the feeling to really make something useful for the the children and the animals. I enjoed showing them the real world and the real south africa. Reflecting the time in africa I really miss the beatiful landscape of Daktari, the morning Dogwalk, the colourful sunset, the run to „Leopard Rock“, singing and sitting around the ,,Bonfire’’ and last but not least the people from Daktari. A big thank you to all the people who made my visit at Daktari unforgettable. Best wishes Sabrina from Germany

Ever since I first visited Daktari (over 9 years ago, not as a volunteer but as a friend) I made a promise to myself that I will come back but as a volunteer. I finally did and it was even better than I imagined. I spent three weeks at Daktari teaching children, looking after the animals living there and mostly laughing and having fun with the other volunteers. The whole team at Daktari are great, they made me feel at home even before putting down my bags. The work that is done at daktari is amazing, what Ian & Michele have created is really something worth taking your hat off to. Having lived and worked there for a couple of weeks, you really appreciated the amount of hard work that is put into it, they are literally changing most of these children's lives with the knowledge they give them during their week at Daktari. It may sound exaggerated (I promis it isn’t) but the time I spent at Daktari was one of the best experiences of my life, just participating a tiny bit in what they are doing is a great honor and I was very proud to be part of it.

I visited several countries as a tourist, which were all nice experiences, but I was looking for more. I really wanted to help people, not only by spending money in their country. Out of all the projects that were looking for volunteers, I chose Daktari. The combination of working with kids and animals is great. But Daktari earned my choice because of their tone of voice; positive and full of sincere love for the environment. At first I was really nervous about joining them as a volunteer. I did not have experience in teaching, working with kids, animals or travelling alone. These worries were not necessary at all. I was adapted in a group of very nice people and really felt at home. The staff even cooked me vegetarian meals. Fake meat in the bush; I did not expect that at all :)! I had never been so far from the civilized world. I had to get used to the peace and quiet. But after a few days I really appreciated it, even the digital detox cure :)! The set-up of the teaching programme is great. We have done so many things with the kids, which gave lots of energy. Finding the squirrel in the peanut butter, feeling the breath of the donkey in my neck during dinner and getting kicked of the couch by the warthog because I was sitting on his spot; Daktari is really a unique, peaceful and loveable place. The only thing that annoyed me during my two weeks stay was the sound of the owl. I said that I would rather hear the sounds of traffic. But as I am writing this experience on my roof in the noisy center of Rotterdam, I think that owl was not that bad ;). I have many good memories from my stay. Thank you very much for that Daktari, I wish you all the best in the future!

cette experience m a permise de voyager, de decouvrir toutes sortes d animaux, des personnes extraordinaire.... une superbe experience. de plus yan et michele sont deux superbes personnes !!!!! bref que du positif Translation: This experience allowed me to travel and discover all sorts of animals, amazing people .... a great experience. more Yan and Michele are two beautiful people !!!!! brief but positive

I was there for a month in 2011 and though I've done volunteering before, this was one of the best. Michele and Ian have really involved the community youth in finding answers and ways to combat the ecological devastation in their communities. The program continues with the eco-clubs. Part of the program for the kids is some tutoring in English and math which is so much needed as many of the teachers don't have much training. The kids are fun and polite, and there are games, a Lion King (movie) night and a party night before they head home again. Working with the animals was just great too. Seeing the variety that is there along with what just comes to visit was really fun, and I learned a lot about the critters that were there, and of course had my favourites. Meals were good and plentiful, accomodation was clean and comfortable, and I was greeted each morning by a little tree frog that would be sitting on my bathroom mirror. So, not only value for money (there are too many of the other kind!) but great fun and a real sense that you'd helped with something worthwhile when you came home again.

I volunteered at Daktari for 6weeks in 2011 and loved every moment! Michele and Ian (founders) are awesome , they care a huge amount about the local community and local wildlife hich is infectious for volunteers! I remember Michele had an injured baby bush baby we helped care for during my time at Daktari, holding & caring for that cute & fluffy bush baby was amazing, unfortunately he I'd not make it but we tried! And that's the point of Daktari, they all try to save wildlife and make a difference! By educating the local community it will help protect wildlife now and in the future, watching personalities and attitudes of the kids that visit Daktari change during their time is a life is a life changing experience or all volunteers! Being a part of Daktari is being part of a family!!

Hi all :o) If you're looking for a volunteer experience, where you can combine working with children with the african bush and animals, this is the place. As part of my study, I did an internship a 6 months internship at Daktari in 2006/2007, and I have been coming back every year since. The founders Michele and Ian are fantastic people, who put their heart and soul into making a difference for not only the local children and injured animals, but also for the local community and the volunteers, who stay at Daktari :o) At Daktari you will become part of the local community, and get an insight into the local south african way of living. At the same time, you will have a chance to influence the life of young local children - and they will influence you life as well. And if you end up like me, Africa and Daktari will get under your skin - and you will try to get back here, at every chance you get :o)

I consider myself to be a pretty well-traveled man and I have had all kinds of adventures around the world and I can honestly say that my time at Daktari was among the best times of my life. I stayed at Daktari for a couple of months in 2010 and visited again for a shorter time last year and the place has only gotten better and better. It is a beautiful place and i loved being constantly surrounded by animals and having such a hands-on experience with them. When listening to a leopard roaring and being visited by a hungry porcupine while enjoying an evening beer become a regular thing you know life is good;) And driving the kids back to the village one Friday and having kids from previous groups chasing the bus and waving and calling to me made me realise what a wonderful thing Ian and Michelle (and all us volunteers) are doing. It really seems to have a positive impact on their lives. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Volunteering at Daktari in August 2012 is my best volunteering experience because it combined wildlife conservation and education. I've done other projects (orangutans in Borneo, pandas in China, teaching in Beijing, planting native trees in Mauritius) but this is a fantastic opportunity to make a real social impact through the one week residential program and visiting the eco club at the local secondary. It was most rewarding to see the kids confidence with animals and expressing themselves improve over the course of just 5 days in residence.

In my 2 weeks at Daktari (June 2013) I learned a lot about under-privileged kids in Africa, notably that education is key for them to a better life. Education must include a broad bundle of aspects in order to carry them personally, and the region they live in, forward: Command of the English language, knowledge about nature and environment, but also ethical and friendly behaviour count. I am happy to have contributed to a couple of children making strides forward. Taking care of the animals at Daktari was also a very nice experience and contributed to the deep spirit of giving to support every being, to be giving and foregiving. Amazing organization, too, so no animal was ever forgotten! I also learned new things about myself, and developed myself further. At first I was a bit doubtful whether I could do a sufficiently good job at teaching. After all, I was by far the youngest of the volunteers, and barely older than some of the kids. The good teaching material, helpful other volunteers, and just pleasant and excited kids coming in both weeks made it easy and fun for me to master the teaching well. PS: I would have preferred to stay another week or 2, but I had to fit this into a 2 week "social project" slot at my (German) high school.

Daktari was my first experience as a volunteer, and a great one to start. Communication was good and quick and we got there with good directions. We were picked up and brought to the farm. Met everyone and got shown around. For me the best part was the combination between wildlife and children. Helping both felt great and satisfying. Best was to see the kids grow as the week progressed, with the Thursday night bonfire with great dancing and singing. The accommodations were very good for African standards and the food even better. Great to hear all the animals noise at night. Ian & Michele are loving and warm people who dedicate their living to bringing joy and health to both animals and people. Plus Ian is very funny. In the weekend we went on a trip to Kruger park with Greg, the house-friend. He knows about every bird and animal and shared all his knowledge during the tour. Would definitely recommend taking a trip with Greg. We went for two weeks, because it was our first trip, but wished I went longer. It really was a great experience and would love to go again. Martien PS part of the reason I choose Daktari is that you contact them directly, and not pay for intermediaries. That is why this is very affordable compared to other projects.

Daktari offers a volunteers programm that will amazed you. Leopard, crocodiles, owls, austrichs, antilopes, donkey, porcupine...all the wildlife around you and you become a actor of there survival! Wow, I could not advise better programm!