GoAbroad

Volunteer Programs in South Africa

Volunteering in South Africa offers the chance to make a meaningful impact while discovering one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world. From wildlife conservation to community development, volunteering in South Africa allows you to immerse yourself in unique local experiences. You’ll have opportunities to help with critical social, environmental, and educational initiatives, making it a rewarding journey full of cultural exchange, personal growth, and unforgettable landscapes.

Read More
feeding a baby sloth

Featured Provider of the Month

#1 Animal Welfare & Wildlife Volunteer Programs Abroad
with GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

Top Rated Program Volunteer Abroad in South Africa 2025
Volunteers watching elephants
9.23520 reviews

African Impact

African Impact logo

African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation Project in South Africa

Join our Wildlife and Research Conservation Project and immerse y...

See All 4 Programs
girl kissing a giraffe
9.9624 reviews

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization

GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization logo

South Africa - African Wildlife Ranch

The ranch is home to over 90 species of animals and reptiles and ...

See All 18 Programs
Volunteer in South Africa
91 reviews

Raleigh International

Raleigh International logo

Volunteer in South Africa - Expeditions With Purpose

A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. I...

See All 6 Programs
a child surfing
9.569 reviews

Surfpop Foundation

Surfpop Foundation logo

Surfing for a Better Future

Surfpop takes you on an unforgettable surf travel experience that...

volunteers teaching children to surf in South Africa
9.54762 reviews

International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]

World’s #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) brings people together from all...

See All 9 Programs
volunteer in South Africa
9.48198 reviews

GVI

GVI logo

Wildlife Research in South Africa Expedition

Live on a private reserve in Limpopo, surrounded by wildlife in t...

See All 7 Programs
Impact Gap Year
93 reviews

Impact Gap Year

Impact Gap Year logo

South Africa, France and Thailand Gap Year Exploration

Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thail...

See All 7 Programs
veterinary experience in South Africa
9.789 reviews

African Conservation Experience

African Conservation Experience logo

The Ultimate Personalized Gap Year Experience

Are you looking for an epic adventure that will change your life ...

See All 7 Programs
AHS
102 reviews

African Horse Safaris

African Horse Safaris logo

Moolmanshoek Wildlife Working Holiday

Experience the excitement of life in the African Bush at Moolmans...

See All 3 Programs
Sibuya
104 reviews

Sibuya Wilderness Experience

Sibuya Wilderness Experience logo

Nature and Coastal Wilderness Conservation in Sibuya

The Sibuya Wilderness Experience welcomes participants from all w...

Kaya Responsible Travel
101 reviews

Kaya Responsible Travel

Kaya Responsible Travel logo

Rhino, Elephant and Big Cat Research and Conservation

Take part in this volunteering program abroad, and work on an ama...

See All 13 Programs
Natucate
00 reviews

Natucate

Natucate logo

Volunteer in South Africa: Zululand Wildlife Conservation

This project strives to safeguard endangered species, including r...

See All 4 Programs
Volunteer International Adventures
9.910 reviews

Volunteer International Adventures

Volunteer International Adventures logo

Social Work, Education & Youth Development in South Africa

This youth development project was started to provide young peopl...

See All 17 Programs
Volunteer World
8.7512 reviews

Volunteer World

Volunteer World: Best Volunteer Abroad Programs Worldwide

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...

See All 5 Programs
Roots Interns
9.56 reviews

Roots Interns

Youth Social Work Internship in Cape Town, South Africa

Gain practical social work experience during this exciting intern...

See All 38 Programs

Popular Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

Latest Program Reviews

One of the most meaningful experiences of my life.

April 18, 2025by: Kellie Butterworth - United StatesProgram: World’s #1 Volunteer Programs. 40+ Countries from $20/day!
10

I participated in the IVHQ Sea Turtle Nesting Program on Isabela Island from March 31 to April 15, 2025, and it was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. This program combines practical conservation efforts with cultural immersion in one of the most ecologically unique places on earth. Our daily tasks included monitoring sea turtle nests, searching for nesting turtles, collecting scientific data, cleaning up beach debris, and removing invasive plant species that threaten the nesting areas. I worked alongside a wonderful group of international volunteers, knowledgeable local staff, and a park ranger from the Galápagos National Park. The collaborative environment made every day engaging and educational. Scientific Discovery in Action. One of the most emotional and memorable moments came during a nest excavation. As we carefully unearthed the nest, we discovered a single hatchling still making its way out. Watching that tiny turtle begin its journey to the ocean was breathtaking—and witnessing how the scientific data was gathered during the process made the moment even more powerful. The accommodations exceeded my expectations. Staying with a local host family not only gave me a comfortable and welcoming home base but also offered a rich introduction to Ecuadorian culture and daily life. They were incredibly helpful, and the food was fantastic. Eye-Opening Environmental Realities, one of the more surprising aspects of the experience was the amount of trash we encountered on the beaches during our morning patrols. Even though the beach looked clean at first glance, the tides brought in a constant stream of microplastics and debris. It was a stark reminder of the global scope of marine pollution. I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone passionate about marine conservation, sustainability, or environmental science. It’s also ideal for those seeking an adventure that blends purpose with exploration. The Galápagos Islands are a natural wonder, and this program offers a hands-on way to help protect them while learning from dedicated professionals and making lifelong memories.

A 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?
Deals Banner Image
Apply for Scholarships & Deals on GoAbroad

to get exclusive discounts on meaningful travel programs!

Apply Now

Recent Volunteer Abroad Articles