Volunteering in South Africa- History in the Making

In some ways South Africa is different from the rest3. Wildlife research as well as monitoring their activity
of Africa as there is less poverty and strife here.4. Interaction with the locals and other monitoring
South Africa is home to some of the mostactivity of elephants
spectacular game reserves and landscapes.5. Working at the rearing centre for lion cubs
Considered as the adventure capital of the world,6. Attending as well as giving lectures on
South Africa offers many pleasures from the Goldenvironmental issues and wildlife management
Reef city in Johannesburg to hiking across the scenic7. Participating in bush walks and taking game drives
route of N12. It is known as the rainbow nation andto help in identification of different species and
has a diverse range of activities to offer and placesinterpreting their behaviors.
to see. One of the most popular destinations in South8. Assisting in cultivation of indigenous plants in a
Africa is the Kruger National Park, which is the icon ofnursery. These plants will later on be used for
African Safari. The Kruger National park is home torehabilitating the erosion sites.
several lion prides, herds of wild elephants and9. Creating a catalogue of birds by monitoring their
thousands of other small and bid animals and birds.activity, breeding and behaviors.
From spotting the elusive leopard at Sabi Sands to• Wildlife Research and
watching the lion pride enjoy a meal in the Mala Mala,Rehabilitation: As a part of volunteering in South
this national park is one fairy tale ride. The Sun CityAfrica, you will be handling different wildlife research
and the Garden route are two attractions that youactivities. You will be assisting field supervisors in the
can afford to miss. The garden route is a naturalfollowing:
theme park that is home to Dolphins and whales and1. Capturing of wild animals for collar tags and
if you are lucky enough, you might end up with areleasing them in the wild.
pearl of your own.2. Observing complex procedures done on wild
Why Volunteer In South Africaanimals especially if they are injured
South Africa lies deep in a myriad of colors that vary3. Grooming horses
from the different cultures to the different flora and4. Rehabilitation work on various animalsincluding lions
fauna that lies in the heart of this magnificentand cheetahs
country.5. Learning the coastal systems as well as the
Types Of Projects Availableecology and developing an understanding of the
As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will getcoastal dynamics
to choose the kind of project you are interested in.6. Assisting other volunteers and staff on various
The different types if projects available include:local community projects
• Wild Coast wildlife conservation7. Working with experienced staff in wildlife
project: This is one of a kind project, which will bringidentification and identifying behavioral changes
out the best in you. As a part of volunteering inVolunteer Requirements
South Africa, you will be surrounded by the stunningAge: The minimum age for volunteering in South
and awe-inspiring wild coast that stretches fromAfrica should be 18 or older.
Durban to East London. Situated in the TranskeiFee and Other details
homeland, it has some dramatic coastlines and willThere is a fee attached to each of the projects that
including working at the base camp as well as on theyou volunteer for. The fee is charged in advance and
field. The age requirement for this project variesis charged for the following:
from 18-40 years. As a part of volunteering in South1. Accommodation
Africa, you will get different opportunities to work2. Emergency evacuation services  Â
with wildlife under this project. You will get theÂ
opportunity to learn about the South African big cats3. Food/meals
and other wildlife during your stay. The different4. Travel insurance
activities that you will be involved with as a part of5. Transportation within the region
volunteering in South Africa includes:6. Emergency support
1. Patrolling the fence and looking for and removing7. All types of training material
snares and any other threat to the wildlife. Also8. Supervision by local staff
assist in fence management as well as maintenance.9. Orientation on arrival
2. Assist in removing any alien vegetation and help10.
towards controlling soil erosion