Volunteer Programs in South Africa
249 Volunteer Programs in South Africa
International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
![International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ] logo](jpg/92jaroefh251xzht1gnaidx50mqoffopvwslsbac.jpg){kind=small}
At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 9...
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African Impact
Join our Wildlife and Research Conservation Project and immerse y...
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GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
The ranch is home to over 90 species of animals and reptiles and ...
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Raleigh International
A Raleigh South Africa Expedition is your chance for Adventure. I...
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Impact Gap Year
Explore the dream destinations of South Africa, France, and Thail...
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African Conservation Experience
Are you looking for an epic adventure that will change your life ...
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African Horse Safaris
Experience the excitement of life in the African Bush at Moolmans...
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Sibuya Wilderness Experience
The Sibuya Wilderness Experience welcomes participants from all w...
Kaya Responsible Travel
Take part in this volunteering program abroad, and work on an ama...
See All 13 ProgramsVolunteer International Adventures
Teach at local community schools in Knysna, South Africa, in this...
See All 17 ProgramsBuffelsdrift Game Lodge
We believe that everyone can contribute to conservation efforts, ...
Roots Interns
Gain practical social work experience during this exciting intern...
See All 34 ProgramsGapforce
A volunteering experience with bite! Relocate to the incredible s...
See All 2 ProgramsPenda Photo Tours
Experience the power of visual storytelling during this unique hu...
See All 4 ProgramsGVI
Live on a private reserve in Limpopo, surrounded by wildlife in t...
See All 7 ProgramsProjects Abroad
South Africa's position at the southern tip of Africa has created...
See All 5 ProgramsLove Volunteers
This exciting project was developed to save the majestic native a...
See All 11 ProgramsConnect-123 Internship Programs
Applications are now open for our award-winning Child Life Practi...
See All 5 ProgramsVolunteer World
Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find ...
See All 5 ProgramsVocational Impact
Gain hands-on experience in psychology, mental health, or social ...
See All 3 ProgramsAll Out Africa
The Kruger to Coast Adventure Tour will take you through some of ...
See All 5 ProgramsChild Family Health International
Experience Durban, the heart of Kwa-Zulu Natal province in South ...
See All 2 ProgramsFreepackers
The Wildlife Volunteer in a Rescue Farm program offers a unique o...
myTEFL
myTEFL's four-week Teach in Africa program is an amazing opportun...
AIFS Abroad
Take a semester or academic year in the fascinating Stellenbosch ...
Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre
Become a part of the day-to-day life at the Hoedspruit Endangered...
WorldStrides
Cape Town, known for its diverse and growing population, is rated...
World Unite!
Do you love horses? Then, volunteering at a Horse Ranch on the be...
See All 5 ProgramsInstitute for Global Studies
Join our Journalism Internship in South Africa, and get the chanc...
See All 10 ProgramsGlobal Work & Travel
Everyone has heard of the Big 5—Africa's “must-see” animals! But ...
See All 2 ProgramsInvolvement Volunteers International
Join our mission to protect one of the world’s fastest and most e...
See All 3 ProgramsDAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage
100% of your payment goes to this charity! This exceptional ex...
See All 4 ProgramsOperation Wallacea
The South Africa projects are dotted around several different res...
Oyster Worldwide
If you love sports and want to spend some time sharing your passi...
See All 9 ProgramsGood Hope Volunteers
Good Hope Volunteers offers numerous meaningful volunteer project...
Volunteering Journeys
Volunteering Journeys South Africa programs are extremely popular...
See All 2 ProgramsSurfpop Foundation
Surfpop takes you on an unforgettable surf travel experience that...
Ngala Wilderness
Volunteer in South Africa and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experien...
Tshega
Tshega Christian Mission (TCM) is a non-profit organization estab...
See All 3 ProgramsMagister South Africa Programs for Students and Volunteers
You don’t have to break the bank to learn a new language, explore...
See All 9 ProgramsLoop Abroad
This 9-day, once-in-a-lifetime mission to protect rhinos from rel...
The Hidden Forest Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the stunning Dolphin Coast area of KwaZulu-Natal provi...
Nourish
Since 2016, we’ve been supporting the most vulnerable children, m...
See All 3 ProgramsNatucate
This project strives to safeguard endangered species, including r...
See All 4 ProgramsInternational Primate Rescue - South Africa
If you are passionate about animals, especially monkeys, and want...
African Biodiversity Research Expeditions
The reptile and amphibian diversity of the Sterkspruit Nature Res...
See All 4 ProgramsWild Tomorrow
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime Conservation Experience with Wild ...
Time to Help (UK)
Make a real impact in Africa by joining Time to Help's volunteer ...
De Adelaar Ranch
Do you have a passion for horses and a desire to experience a new...
Africa & Asia Venture
Make a lasting difference using your talents, skills, and passion...
Bambelela Horse Safaris
Join us for a unique volunteer experience where you'll work with ...
People and Places
People and Places is part of an innovative and well-respected pro...
Hope Warriors Children's Charity
Over 80% of South African 10-year-olds struggle to read for meani...
Wild Rescue Nature Reserve
Immerse yourself in natural surroundings in this volunteer progra...
Volunteer Encounter
Brand new for 2023, this program offers the incredible chance to ...
Globe Aware
South Africa has celebrated an end to formal apartheid but, despi...
WorkingAbroad Projects
Volunteer abroad in this program and get involved in citizen scie...
United Planet
South Africa is famous for its cosmopolitan cities, lush vineyard...
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?
- 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.
Popular Providers
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.
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