Our placements run for between 2 and 12 weeks giving volunteers the opportunity to become involved in a wide diversity of conservation and research projects; from animal rehabilitation to behavioural research and community work. You can start a placement on any Tuesday throughout the year, but given that there is typically high demand to work on our projects and because we maintain small volunteer group sizes, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible in order to go for the dates that you want.
We organise all aspects of your placement, including transport, food and accommodation. Before your departure, we will provide you with all the information that you need about the project, the people you will work with, what to bring and how to get in contact with us in either the UK or South Africa. If you are uncertain about anything or have any problems that you need us to help with then you will be able to contact us 24 hours a day!
Getting there
If you want, we can organise flights for you direct from London to Johannesburg. Alternatively, you can organise your own flights to Johannesburg from wherever you are in the world.
Whether you fly with us from London or organise your own flight, we will meet you personally at Johannesburg Airport and take you to whichever project you are going to work with. Since South Africa is a relatively large country, it may take several hours to get to the project. However, this is a time when you can lie back and enjoy the spectacular scenery on the way! Remember that during these times we place primary consideration on your safety and only work with highly qualified drivers.
If you would like to work at more then one project, then we will also pick you up and transport you between the projects.
During Your Time On The Project
For the first few days of your placement you will probably be getting used to the new environment and the work. During these days you will learn all about why the project is important and about your role in it. You will also be taught the skills that you need and what will be expected of you. The coordinators that we work with are all highly experienced and you should not be shy to ask them any questions if you are unsure of anything.
Your accommodation will depend on the project that you work at. The accommodation at all our projects is basic but comfortable. Sometimes you will be sleeping out in the bush, which although less comfortable, is highly exciting!
Food is provided at all the projects, but, again the manner in which it is provided depends on the project. At some projects the food will be prepared for you, whereas at others you will be expected to take turns in preparing meals for the whole group.
Keeping in Contact With Us
Wherever you are, you will always be able to contact us, 24 hours a day, with any questions or problems that you may have. We continually have staff in both South Africa and the UK that will happily help you with anything that may crop up. We are also available for your friends and family to contact us if they have any questions or concerns.
