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Big 5 Volunteering in South Africa

by: Kaya Responsible Travel

Add first reviewVerifiedSince 2008

Dive into a lifetime opportunity to volunteer at an impressive game reserve and see the Big 5 – leopard, rhino, cape buffalo, African elephant, and lion – on a daily basis. You’ll also witness endangered predators, such as white lions and rare Bengal tigers. This placement is based in the Eastern Cape, where you’ll contribute to wildlife conservation efforts to improve the future of South African animals. Take on the role of an assistant conservationist and provide an extra pair of hands in the reserve. There are plenty to do, so you’ll never have a boring day. You’ll work with a group of volunteers, under the supervision of a leader, to complete daily activities like lion tracking and monitoring, tree planting, fence patrol, and game capture. The Volunteer with the Big 5 in Port Elizabeth program is available all year round and lasts 2–12 weeks or longer. No specific skills are needed for this project, however, it is expected that you have a genuine interest in wildlife and conservation. Patience and flexibility are imperative, as this is a dynamic environment and project activities often change.

Program Highlights

Get up close to the Big 5 and other majestic wildlife animals.

Support the protection and conservation of endangered animals.

Stay in an on-site accommodation and soak up the game reserve’s scenic views.

Experience South African culture while living and volunteering in Port Elizabeth.

Enjoy plenty of fun things to do in your free time – visits to a nearby beach, adventure activities, and wildlife exploration.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Availability
Year(s) Offered: Year RoundDuration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Summer
  • Winter
Age Requirement: 14+
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Wildlife
Guidelines
Nationalities:
  • American
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Belgian
  • British
  • Canadian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • English
  • Finnish
  • French
  • German
  • Greek
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Italian
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Maltese
  • Manx
  • Polish
  • Scottish
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • Spanish
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • The Vatican
  • Welsh
See all program details
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2026

Awards

Innovative New Program – Volunteer Abroad Finalist 2022

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Conservation
  • Wildlife

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 1-2 Weeks
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
  • 3-6 Months
  • Alternative Spring Break
  • Summer
  • Winter

Age Requirement

14+

Guidelines

Nationalities:
  • American
  • Australian
  • Austrian
  • Belgian
  • British
  • Canadian
  • Cypriot
  • Czech
  • Danish
  • Dutch
  • English
  • Finnish
  • French
  • German
  • Greek
  • Hawaiian
  • Hungarian
  • Icelandic
  • Irish
  • Italian
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuanian
  • Maltese
  • Manx
  • Polish
  • Scottish
  • Slovak
  • Slovenian
  • Spanish
  • Swedish
  • Swiss
  • The Vatican
  • Welsh

This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Group

Program Cost Includes

  • Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
  • Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • Airport Transfer (Pick-Up)
  • Airport Transfer (Drop-Off)
  • On-Site / In-Country Staff Support
  • Pre-Departure Orientation
  • In-Country Orientation

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

    Language Skills Required

  • English

    Accepted Education Levels

  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Volunteer with the Big 5 in Port Elizabeth program?

Volunteer with the Big 5 in Port Elizabeth is a wildlife conservation program that allows volunteers to assist with South Africa's Big 5. Participants will assist local conservationists with the day-to-day operation of the reserve and animal care.

What is not included in the program cost?

Flights, insurance, visas, activities on excursions and tours, private weekend excursions, and any expenses for COVID-19 PCR testing required pre-departure and in-country are not included in the program cost.

How do I apply for the program?

First, decide whether the program matches your skills and interests. Review the requirements and deadlines and click "Apply Now" if you think the program is perfect for you.

What can volunteers do in their free time?

Port Elizabeth boasts a beautiful coastline and a variety of fun things for volunteers to enjoy in their spare time, such as hiking, bungee jumping, whale watching, and watersports.

How long will the program run?

The program lasts for two weeks, but participants may stay longer for up to twelve weeks if they decide to continue working with the reserve.

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Ready to Learn More?

Dive into a lifetime opportunity to volunteer at an impressive game reserve and see the Big 5 – leopard, rhino, cape buffalo, African elephant, and lion – on a daily basis. You’ll also witness endangered predators, such as white lions and rare Bengal tigers. This placement is based in the Eastern Cape, where you’ll contribute to wildlife conservation efforts to improve the future of South African animals. Take on the role of an assistant conservationist and provide an extra pair of hands in the reserve. There are plenty to do, so you’ll never have a boring day. You’ll work with a group of volunteers, under the supervision of a leader, to complete daily activities like lion tracking and monitoring, tree planting, fence patrol, and game capture. The Volunteer with the Big 5 in Port Elizabe...

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