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Wildlife Experience with the Big 5

by: Oyster Worldwide

9.87 (15)Verified

Live the life of a game ranger and groundskeeper on a huge, private game reserve in South Africa. Gain the opportunity to get hands-on experience working with a multitude of different animals. Home to the Big 5 - elephants, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and lions - you will get the chance to see animals in their natural habitat. It is so much more than a safari! You can get involved with programme...

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Program Highlights

Experience full immersion into life on a beautiful game reserve.

Make a genuine contribution to land and wildlife conservation.

Work with local guides to gain amazing insight into game reserve life.

Become part of inspiring community programmes, helping provide kids with enough food to be able to concentrate at school and enjoy education.

Live in a beautiful setting close to the sea and the excitement of Port Elizabeth.

Quick Details

Locations:
  • Port Elizabeth, South Africa
Availability
Year(s) OfferedYear RoundDuration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks
Cost Per Week$900-1250
Age Requirement:Varies
Types & Subjects
Causes:
  • Animal Welfare
  • Community Development
  • Conservation
  • See more
Guidelines:
  • American
  • European
  • Canadian
  • Australian
  • South African
See all program details

Awards

Gap Year Association

Program Reviews

Hear what past participants have to say about the programs

Overall Rating

9.87

Total Reviews

15

Fantastic Wildlife Conservation Experience in South Africa: A Memorable Adventure at 17!

January 30, 2026by: Hannah Vale

Program: Wildlife Experience with the Big 5

10

I joined the Wildlife Conservation in South Africa, Port Elizabeth at 17 years old and had an amazing experience! The staff were all very helpful in settling you in and I met people from all over the world across different age groups and really bonded with everyone during my short stay there! Definitely something you can go do alone (like I did) or go with a friend!

Fantastic South Africa Wildlife Conservation: Amazing Experiences and Supportive People

January 11, 2026by: Alex Rowe

Program: Wildlife Experience with the Big 5

10

Kate was so helpful. Everything was set out really simply and was flexible with timing. I did South Africa wildlife conservation and it was great. The highlight was seeing 4 of the big 5, and the incredible people I was with. At one point I was momentarily put in the wrong group during the activity, but I was quickly put in the correct group and got to meet even more people!

Exceptional Volunteering Experience in South Africa: Highly Recommend Oyster for Duke of Edinburgh Award

January 02, 2026by: Lucy Downing

Program: Wildlife Experience with the Big 5

10

My daughter booked a weeks volunteering in South Africa for her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. Oyster were fantastic throughout, providing all the information, ensuring we had everything completed and the experience was excellent. Thank you Kate and Georgie, highly recommend.

Program Details

Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know

Locations

  • Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Types and Subjects

  • Causes
  • Animal Welfare
  • Community Development
  • Conservation

Availability

Years Offered: Year Round

Duration:
  • 2-4 Weeks
  • 5-8 Weeks
  • 9-12 Weeks

Age Requirement

Age Requirement Varies

Guidelines

All Nationalities

Cost per week

$900-1250

Accommodation Options

  • Dormitory
  • Group living

Qualifications & Experience

      Accepted Education Levels

    • Any/All Education Levels Accepted

    Application Procedures

    • Phone/Video Interview
    • In-Person Interview when Feasible
    • Online Application

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