GoAbroad

South Africa Zoo Medicine

Inquire Here
Contact ProviderProgram Costs
VerifiedProvider
4.9 / 5Student rating
148Reviews
59Programs
2009Year established

Program Overview

Join us for two weeks at Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary in South Africa! A sanctuary to many previously injured and trapped animals, Lory Park is now home to cheetahs, jaguars, lions, owls, pythons, hedgehogs, servals, lemurs, and many more! During this study abroad program, you'll have the opportunity to work alongside veterinarians and learn more about the behavior and conservation of various animals at the park. Your coursework will focus on the anatomy, handling, and medical needs of animals in captivity. In addition to veterinary labs such as necropsies and lectures from veterinarians and expert guests, you'll also get the opportunity to go on safari in Pilanesberg reserve, visit community schools, and support enrichment for animals at the park.

Ready to dive deeper into this program?

Jump to the full breakdown of dates, costs, eligibility, and more.

See program details

Program Highlights

Study and work with rescued wildlife at Lory Park Animal and Owl Sanctuary in South Africa.
Learn animal anatomy, handling, and medical care alongside veterinarians and wildlife experts.
Gain hands-on experience through veterinary labs, necropsies, and specialist guest lectures.
Go on safari in Pilanesberg Reserve and explore South Africa’s rich wildlife environments.
Support animal enrichment programs while engaging with community outreach and education activities.

What's Included

Tuition & Fees
Some Accommodation
Some Program Activity Costs

Quick Details

Location
Gauteng Province, South Africa
Availability
Year(s) Offered:2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
Terms Available:
  • Summer
Age Requirement18-25
Types & Subjects
Subjects & Courses:
  • Animal Science
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
GuidelinesAll Nationalities
Inquire about this program

Updated May 8, 2026

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Gauteng Province, South Africa

Fields & Subjects

  • Zoology & Wildlife Sciences
  • Conservation & Preservation
  • Animal Science

Available Terms / Availability

  • Years Offered: 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029
  • Terms Available: Summer

Eligible Nationalities

  • All Nationalities

Education Levels & Language

  • Language: English
  • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory

Application Procedures

  • Online Application

Age Requirement

18-25

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about Loop Abroad

4.9
148 reviews

Rating breakdown

5
138
4
10
3
0
2
0
1
0

Top categories

Academics
5.0
Health & Safety
5.0
Program Administration
5.0
Community
4.9
Living Situation
4.9
Cultural Immersion
4.8

Participated in this program? Share your experience now.

Review this Program

Showing 1-20 of 148 reviews

Nannie ReeseOctober 2025

Sad to be leaving

It was a wonderful experience! I learned so much in just two short weeks. Everyone was so kind and experienced. This is without a doubt a once in a lifetime experience and I'm sad to be leaving so soon.

Teddy TorresOctober 2025

One of the best Loop programs

The staff is extremely friendly and they have all kinds of fun activities planned. We get to learn so much about the culture in South Africa and in veterinary medicine. One of the best Loop programs ever!

Lisa HodgesOctober 2025

Learned more than I thought possible

This experience was the best I've ever experienced in my life. I was not only able to learn more about my future career than I thought possible, but also learn the different culture which was amazing to me.

Cerys BaxterOctober 2025

Got what I always wanted

This program was an amazing experience for me because I have always wanted to pursue a career in vet med, but never had the experience I wanted. Coming on this trip has allowed me to gain experience with exotics!

Enya HansenOctober 2025

A whole new person

There is still a part of my heart left behind in Africa. Each and every morning brought a new joy. Every activity broadened my perspectives. Every interaction made me into a whole new person! Thank you Lory Park!

Carol McintyreOctober 2025

I'll never forget it

I loved this journey so much and it was truly the best program on this trip. I thank everyone who came together and made this experience amazing. I will never forget this as long as I live.Thank you, Loop Abroad!

Jasmin GallagherOctober 2025

Helped me think of future pathways

This trip has been an amazing experience with the welcoming staff and the amazing big cats. I have learned more about myself and veterinary medicine and this has helped me think about future pathways for my career.

Freyja CollinsOctober 2025

Once in a lifetime program

Loop has been the best experience of my pre-vet years. I am glad that I stepped out of my comfort zone and came to South Africa. My advice, step out of your comfort zone and experience a once in a lifetime program.

Safaa DunlapOctober 2025

Staff love their jobs.

I loved going to Kruger. It was such a life changing experience. I also loved the Big Cat Day and the cub lab. Our staff also helped us with our project and I can tell how much they love their jobs and the students!

Maia BonnerOctober 2025

10/10

This was one of the most magical experiences of my life. If I could do this every year I would. From the people to the experiences, everything was so informative and welcoming. The experience I gained here was invaluable.

Traci OconnellOctober 2025

Met amazing people

Loop has been one of the best experiences of my life! I learned so much and met some amazing people. This is a trip I will remember for the rest of my life! The connections I made and experiences I had were unforgettable.

Sophia MendezOctober 2025

Freda the python is my bestie now.

I really enjoyed all the activities we had, from dancings to vet practices. We really got hella opportunities to work with animals and do the procedures we wouldn't normally be able to do. Freda the python is my bestie now.

Hannah DavenportOctober 2025

Grateful for the opportunities

I am extremely grateful for all the opportunities this program has given me. I am grateful for the bonds I have created and the new information I have experienced. I get to take home and apply all of this to my journey in veterinary medicine.

Alex PattersonOctober 2025

Can't describe the family I made

I loved the relationships I made and I can't describe the family that I have truly made. We got many opportunities to learn and get an experience that is truly once in a lifetime. I can honestly say this program has changed my life for the better.

Laiba SuttonOctober 2025

Skills that will aid my future

This program excited me in the veterinary field and allowed me to practice skills I could only develop on this trip. The staff was amazing and helped me every step of the way. I am so grateful for the opportunities given to me and i know these skills will aid my future!

Jannat AbbottOctober 2025

Had a blast.

The very first day, we got to watch a procedure and then take care of her afterward. From there, the great times with the staff kept going. Our program vet leader was so inspirational and gave us so much advice. I learned a lot from her and had a blast at the same time!

Rebekah AtkinsOctober 2025

Wouldn't trade for anything

I had a fantastic time on this trip and learned so much about how a zoo runs day to day and how so many people come together to make things happen. I'm so glad I was able to be a part of this program and I wouldn't trade the skills, knowledge, and memories gained for anything.

Brittney BonillaOctober 2025

I hope to do it again

I really enjoyed the program and the staff, everyone was super welcoming, patient, and friendly, making the whole time super nice. I learned so much and those experiences I'll keep and remember for life. Thank you for this wonderful opportunity and I hope to be able to participate in something like this again.

Xanthe SullivanOctober 2025

The inside scoop on wildife

I had the absolute best time on this trip. I learned so much about so many different animals and it taught me that we need to care about all animals, not just the cute cuddly (not) big cats. If you are passionate about wildlife and would like to get an inside scoop, this once in a lifetime opportunity is for you!

Elena HarmonOctober 2025

A real experience

Getting to see everything the zookeepers do from the moment they wake up gave me perspective. More appreciative towards the work the other people do that are connected to vets. I absolutely love South Africa and its culture. I can't wait to come back and see everyone. Thank you for opening my eyes and giving me a real experience.

Inquire

Inquire about this program

Have a question? Send us a message and the program team will get back to you.

Step 1 of 4Timing

When do you want to travel?

Recognitions & Awards

Awards and accreditations earned by this provider

Top Rated Program Study Abroad in South Africa 2026
Top Rated Program Study Abroad in South Africa 2025
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2025 - Notable Mention
GoAbroad Top Rated Provider 2024 - Study Abroad
Top Rated Provider 2023 - Study Abroad
Top Rated Study Abroad Organization 2022
Innovation in Online Programming 2020 Finalist
2019 Notable Mentions
Forum on Education Abroad
GoAbroad Top Study Abroad Program 2018

Related Programs

Browse programs you might like

Group
Semester at Sea logo

Semester at Sea

4.77

47 reviews

Top Rated Program Study Abroad in Multiple Countries 2026
Semester at Sea: Global Study Abroad on a Floating Campus

Unlike traditional study abroad or tourism experiences, Semester at Sea offers a unique opportunity for deep, authentic engagement with countries...

Listing Photo
University Studies Abroad Consortium logo

University Studies Abroad Consortium

4.14

7 reviews

USAC South Africa: Stellenbosch - Undergraduate Courses

Live and study in one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa, featuring historic architecture, rich cultural heritage, and easy access to ou...

Granada
AIFS Abroad logo

AIFS Abroad

4.44

25 reviews

Study Abroad and Discover the World with AIFS!

Traveling and seeing the world doesn’t necessarily mean taking a break from your studies. Study abroad with AIFS and broaden your academic knowle...

Have more questions?

We're here to help!

The GoAbroad team is here to support you as you choose the best program for you, and Loop Abroad is also happy to answer any questions you have.

Trusted by millions of travelers worldwide since 1997