Wildlife Caretaker at a Park
Program Overview
Volunteer as a Wildlife Caretaker at a sanctuary that provides lifelong refuge to rescued indigenous and exotic wild cats, as well as a variety of other animals. This hands-on program offers a unique opportunity to care for animals that can’t return to the wild due to past trauma or captivity. Get to know the animals' unique personalities and stories while working alongside a passionate team dedicated to their wellbeing. As a volunteer, you’ll gain access to restricted areas where some animals—typically off-limits to the public—live in peace and safety. You’ll help care for: ● Big cats like lions, leopards, tigers, cheetahs, and pumas ● Smaller wild cats including servals, caracals, bobcats, ocelots, and more ● Birds such as owls, hawks, vultures, cranes, and emus ● Other species like baboons, wolves, ferrets, honey badgers, crocodiles, meerkats, and monkeys This experience is both rewarding and impactful, offering a deeper understanding of animal care and wildlife conservation. Visit our website and get involved!
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Program Highlights
What's Included
Quick Details
- 1-2 Weeks
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- Winter
- Summer
- Animal Welfare
- Conservation
- Veterinary Science
- Wildlife
- Animals
- Volunteering
Updated Oct 16, 2025
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Kruger Park, South Africa
Available Terms / Availability
- Years Offered: Year Round
- Duration: 1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, Winter, Summer
- Gap Year Timing: Post High School, After College, Career Break / Mid-Career, During College
Eligible Nationalities
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Couples, Families, Group
Education Levels & Language
- Language: English
- Education: University Freshman (1st Year)
- Education: University Sophomore (2nd Year)
- Education: University Junior (3rd Year)
- Education: University Senior (4th Year)
- Education: University 5th Year or More
- Education: High school graduate, diploma or the equivalent (for example: GED)
- Education: Some college credit, no degree
- Education: Trade/technical/vocational training
- Education: Associate degree
- Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Education: Master’s degree
- Education: Professional degree
- Education: Doctorate degree
Accommodation Options
- Group living
- Other
Application Procedures
- Other
- Resume
- Online Application
- Written Application
Age Requirement
18+
Duration
1-2 Weeks, 2-4 Weeks, 5-8 Weeks, 9-12 Weeks, Winter, Summer
Starts At
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all the most common questions about Volunteer International Adventures .
How big is the wildlife park?
The wildlife park spans 14 hectares, featuring numerous enclosures and camps for its permanent residents.
Where do the animals come from?
These animals, unable to be released back into the wild, are cared for due to various reasons such as being too accustomed to human contact, rescued from the trophy hunting industry, living with old injuries that hinder survival in the wild, or being exotic species not native to South Africa.
Does the park have educational programs?
Yes! The wildlife park offers educational programs and tours for visitors and local schools. Volunteers may assist the local knowledgeable tour guides, leading groups through the park, providing information about the animals and their habitats, and answering questions from visitors and even acting as translators.
How can I help as a veterinary student or qualified professional?
Some volunteers with relevant training, interests or experience may assist the wildlife manager and private veterinary doctors with animal health checks, administering medications, assisting with medical procedures, and providing rehabilitation care for injured or orphaned animals if the need arises.
Which is the airport in South Africa I need to fly into?
You’ll need to fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for the Wildlife Caretaker program. Airport pickup is arranged as part of your program.
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