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Wildlife Volunteer in South Africa

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VerifiedProvider
4.8 / 5Overall Rating
4Reviews
2010Year established

Program Overview

The Wildlife Volunteer in a Rescue Farm program offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about wildlife conservation to contribute actively to rehabilitating and caring for injured, orphaned, or abandoned animals. As a volunteer, you will work directly with various species and assist in animal care, habitat maintenance, wildlife rehabilitation, and educational outreach.

This program is perfect if you're interested in environmental protection, animal care, and sustainable travel. It's a “family” project, meaning children as young as four can join. Our advisors will provide personalized recommendations based on your kids' ages and the project's mission.

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Program Highlights

Volunteer with big cats and other rescued wildlife, gaining firsthand experience in animal care and conservation.
Contribute to feeding, enclosure maintenance, and enrichment activities, directly impacting the well-being of rescued animals.
Learn about animal behavior, rehabilitation processes, and dangers of unethical practices.
Work alongside passionate animal lovers from around the world, sharing meaningful experiences while making a difference in wildlife conservation.
Live and work in the heart of South Africa's Free State province, experiencing its stunning landscapes, local culture, and unique wildlife up close.

What's Included

Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
All Program Activity Costs
Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Weekend Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
In-Country Transportation To & From Project
Guide / Chaperone
On-Site / In-Country Staff Support

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • South Africa

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered
  • Year Round

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities
  • This Program is also open to Families

Education Levels & Language

  • Language
  • English
  • Education
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Group living

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

All Ages

Duration

  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Summer
  • Winter

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about Freepackers

4.8
4 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
3
4
1
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Living Situation
4.8
Community Engagement
4.8
Day to Day Life
4.8
Program Administration
4.5
Health & Safety
4.5
Volunteer Placement
4.3

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-4 of 4 reviews

Paola DaherFrance · April 2025

Opened new horizons

This experience was truly eye-opening. I learned a lot about animal and environmental conservation, which sparked a strong interest in this field. I also discovered much about myself and my abilities. In short, it opened up new horizons and helped me grow personally and professionally. I recommend it 100%. It’s a unique opportunity to grow and learn while being immersed in an incredible world. I’d give it a 5/5 without hesitation!

Sarah ChakorFrance · April 2025

truly uplifting

This project was truly uplifting personally, thanks to the people involved in the project and volunteers from around the world. Also, being in contact with animals and in a peaceful environment allowed for deep self-connection. It was the most beautiful trip of my life. If you love animals and meeting new people, it’s the best place to go.

Arthur HumeauFrance · April 2025

This experience was incredible

This experience brought me so much. Every day was an adventure, discovering new aspects of life there and sharing moments with volunteers and animals. The memories are precious, and it was hard to return to Europe. This mission is unforgettable for any nature lover. Freepackers were fantastic throughout our project. Their availability and attentiveness were invaluable, and they provided exceptional follow-up. I highly recommend them!

Victoria ChicheFrance · April 2025

Amazing from start to finish

This project amazed me from start to finish. Everything was absolutely incredible: the animals, the environment we lived in. Without a doubt, it was the best experience of my life. I participated in walks with elephants and cheetahs, regularly cleaned their enclosures, and ensured their upkeep. I fed giraffes, zebras, and other animals while doing headcounts to ensure everything was okay. I also prepared and distributed food for the big cats, cleaned vehicles, and prep rooms. This mission is perfect for those wanting to be close to wildlife while contributing to their well-being. It’s an incredibly rewarding and beautiful experience. I highly recommend Freepackers. They were responsive and answered all my questions (and I had a lot!). Their professionalism and efficiency helped me organize this trip in just one month under the best conditions.

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Freepackers Interviews

Read interviews from alumni or staff

Anaelle Audebaud

Anaelle Audebaud

Participated in 2023

Alumni

Anaelle Audebaud is a sustainable travel advocate, animal lover, and supporter of ethical wildlife practices. She volunteered with Freepackers' Wildli...

I was deeply inspired by the desire to make a positive impact on wildlife conservation, especially after learning about the harmful practices like canned hunting.

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Pauline Trotabad

Pauline Trotabad

Participated in 2022

Alumni

Adventurer, creative, and passionate about events, travel, and motorsports! Pauline took a gap year to get involved in causes close to her heart: turt...

I wanted to make a difference in wildlife conservation while getting to experience a new culture. Going abroad allowed me to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in hands-on conservation work. Being surrounded by incredible big cats and other rescued animals while contributing to their care and rehabilitation was an opportunity and experience I could not miss.

Show Full Interview

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Global Youth Travel Awards 2023 Winner WYSTC Partnership Award
aussie-specialist
travel4impact
international-mobility-comittee
afnor
WYSE LOGO
ICEF Agency Status
EAIE
Certified B Corporation

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