Volunteer Programs in South Africa

Filter Results
239 Volunteer Programs in South Africa

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
9.56
816
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. ...
See All 9 Programs
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
9.96
27
The ranch is home to over 90 species of animals and reptiles and is one of the largest cheetah breeding centers in the world. The ranch is intern...
See All 20 Programs
Penda Photo Tours
9.75
8
Experience the power of visual storytelling during this unique humanitarian photography program in a town just outside Cape Town—Stellenbosch, So...
See All 4 Programs
Sibuya Wilderness Experience
10
4
The Sibuya Wilderness Experience welcomes participants from all walks of life. Volunteers, adventure-seeking travelers, gap year students, adults...

Raleigh International
9
1
A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. In the stunning Kruger region, you have the chance to take action on some of the ...
See All 5 Programs
Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
9.48
31
We believe that everyone can contribute to conservation efforts, and therefore, our vision is to empower ordinary people to protect nature. The k...

Vocational Impact
10
4
Gain hands-on experience in psychology, mental health, or social work through this dynamic volunteer programme in one of South Africa’s major cit...
See All 3 ProgramsGapforce
10
2
A volunteering experience with bite! Relocate to the incredible setting of the South African bush for the animal encounter of a lifetime, working closely with the entire spectrum of safari wildlife on a working game reserve. This special program calls for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to joi
See All 2 ProgramsLove Volunteers
0
0
This exciting project was developed to save the majestic native animals of South Africa. The Wildlife Protection program is based in a spectacular game reserve outside Port Elizabeth. The 6000 hectares of land are filled with diverse species, including the ‘Big 5’. In addition to the combination of
See All 11 ProgramsAfrican Conservation Experience
9.78
9
Are you looking for an epic adventure that will change your life forever? Then look no further! This Ultimate Gap Year Experience is unique; you will be transported to four different projects across southern Africa, working on the front lines of conservation and connecting with local and expert prof
See All 7 ProgramsConnect-123 Internship Programs
9.89
18
Applications are now open for our award-winning Child Life Practicum Program in Cape Town! Our 4-week Child Life practicum program is open to child life students as well as to those interested in the field and is led by Certified Child Life Specialists. The practicum is designed to meet the Associ
See All 5 ProgramsVolunteer World
8.76
17
Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller g
See All 5 ProgramsChild Family Health International
9.63
8
Experience Durban, the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal province in South Africa. Child Family Health International is proud to have operated this excellent program in collaboration with many health care providers and public health projects in the Durban area since January of 2006. The Durban program highlig
See All 2 ProgramsFreepackers
9.75
4
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 i
Roots Interns
9.5
8
Gain practical social work experience during this exciting internship program in Cape Town, South Africa. You'll be part of a community center in Masiphumelele, a township on the outskirts of the city that provides a safe and stimulating space for up to a hundred children every afternoon. Many of th
See All 34 ProgramsKaya Responsible Travel
10
1
Take part in this volunteering program abroad, and work on an amazing research and conservation project in a private game reserve in the Greater Kruger area. Home to more than just the Big 5, the reserve also has more than 400 species of birds. The project aims to share data with conservation gro
See All 13 ProgramsWorldStrides
0
0
Cape Town, known for its diverse and growing population, is rated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Opportunities to serve all year round include daycares for lower-income families, education centers for disadvantaged learners, and human rights organizations. Partnering with commun
Volunteering Journeys
0
0
Volunteering Journeys programs in South Africa are highly sought after, offering a wide range of opportunities—from English teaching and coaching sports to medical electives to animal and wildlife conservation projects, including work with the Big 5. These programs are well-suited for gap year stude
See All 2 ProgramsInstitute for Global Studies
0
0
A lifetime adventure is waiting for you in South Africa! Sign up for our safari internship, a program that covers a broad range of degree majors and interests - from tourism to business. You will get to focus on tourism and marketing or work as a safari guide. Your position and responsibilities depe
See All 10 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
0
0
Everyone has heard of the Big 5—Africa's “must-see” animals! But are you ready for your disappointing fact of the day? They are called that because they were the most difficult to hunt. Because of this, “claim to fame” hunters have gone overboard, making each of these animals endangered and needing
See All 2 ProgramsA Guide to Volunteering Abroad in South Africa
Prepare for Volunteer Abroad
Set Goals
Setting clear goals will make your volunteer experience more meaningful and focused. Consider your objectives and what drives you to volunteer:
- Personal growth: What new skills or experiences are you looking to gain?
- Impact goals: How do you hope to contribute to your chosen community or cause?
- Cultural exchange: How will you engage with and learn from local South African communities?
By establishing your priorities, you’ll ensure a fulfilling and well-rounded volunteer experience.
Understand the Benefits
South Africa offers numerous benefits for international volunteers, including opportunities for personal and professional growth:
- Cultural immersion: Gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s diverse cultures, languages, and histories.
- Wildlife experience: Work closely with endangered species or conservation programs unique to South Africa.
- Career skills: Develop transferable skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving.
- Community contribution: Make a difference in areas of education, healthcare, or conservation that deeply impact local lives.
Things to Know
Before setting out, make sure you’re aware of these key points:
- Visa requirements: Check if you need a visa and for how long, based on your nationality and length of stay.
- Cost of living: Living costs can vary; create a realistic budget for accommodations, meals, and excursions.
- Weather: South Africa has diverse climates, so check the weather for your specific location and season.
Local safety: Research local safety guidelines and always follow the recommendations of your volunteer program.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s simple enough to volunteer in South Africa. Think about what kind of skills you have and what you can offer as a volunteer in South Africa. This will help you narrow down suitable programs. You can apply for volunteer programs in South Africa online, and once accepted, you’ll pay program fees and book your flight, as long as you’re eligible for the proper visa (see below).
Popular places where volunteers are needed in South Africa include Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Kruger National Park. If you’re interested in conservation and environmental volunteering, the latter will be your best bet! Check out Cape Town and Johannesburg for projects in community development and education.
It depends. If you intend to volunteer in South Africa beyond 90 days, you will need to apply for a Volunteer Visa, which allows you to volunteer for up to 6 months. If you’re volunteering for 90 days or less, your tourist visa will be sufficient.
No, paid volunteer work in South Africa is rare—hence the term volunteer! However, through your program fees, you’ll be afforded the basics at your placement, such as accommodation, transportation to and from your project, and meals.
It’s as safe to volunteer in South Africa as anywhere else. Program providers do their best to ensure a safe experience for all volunteers. Of course, you’ll still want to make smart decisions and keep your personal safety a priority.
Latest Interviews

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

Pauline Trotabad
Freepackers
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 zo...
Popular Searches
Apply for Scholarships & Deals
Submit a single application on MyGoAbroad to get exclusive discounts on travel programs!







