1. Conserve the environment
Get to know your real mother, Mother Nature, as a big game reserve conservationist. Participate in game capture and tagging, tracking and monitoring lions, research hikes, parks maintenance and rehabilitating land back to it’s indigenous state. Working as part of a team of dedicated professionals and volunteers you will not only engage with the Big 5 but also local communities as part of this Eastern Cape voluntourism package. www.amakhalavolunteers.co.za
Shark Alley, the shark diving capital of the world just off the fishing village of Gans Bay, needs volunteers to assist in marine conservation. Using a boat and underwater cage you will be given the opportunity to analyse shark behaviour and learn about coastal ecosystems and then relay the message of preservation to tourists and the local community. This is a very hands-on role lasting from 4 to 12 weeks which actively benefits a range of marine species from seals to marine birds. www.i-to-i.com
2. Get up close with local wildlife
Ever hand reared a cheetah cub? Wildlife rehabilitation centres are always in need of extra helping hands. Situated in and around South Africa’s national parks, volunteers feed and care for cubs, tend to injured wildlife and birds of prey, assist with game capture and relocation of animals. Every aspect of the animals’ recovery and sanctuary maintenance is covered in training by experienced staff members who will treat you as part of their colourful family! www.enkosiniecoexperience.com
3. Motivate active bodies and minds
Want to learn how to surf? Volunteer to teach children from disadvantaged backgrounds how to surf once you’ve got going yourself on the renowned shores of Jeffrey’s Bay. Help maintain a local school while developing the childrens’ confidence and giving them a sense of belonging. Apart from the daily surfing lessons along miles of unspoilt coastline, you will also be involved in the school routines and community initiatives. www.allafricavolunteers.com
The spectacular setting of Knysna hosts volunteers assisting local teachers at pre-school level. In a dual role as assistant and carer, volunteers are encouraged to develop activities and subjects taught to four to six year olds. While many of the teachers have their hearts in the right place they do need assistance teaching English to the large numbers of children. Afternoons are yours to explore the lush Knysna forests. www.workandvolunteer.com
4. Give hugs and love to kids
Play your part as parent, sibling, friend, nurse and climbing frame to AIDS orphans. Certain orphanages and charities rely solely on carers from abroad to help with the daily care and development of infants and rambunctious toddlers. The hours are as long as the challenge is rewarding and by the end of it you’ll have a deeper appreciation of the poignant features of our country and how South Africans live to appreciate each morning. One such charity based on a tranquil plot outside Johannesburg offers two to six month stays starting at £190. www.tlc.org.za
5. Educate on community health
Medical volunteering at HIV and TB clinics along the Garden Route is also an attractive option. Working alongside counsellors, dieticians and nurses you will help educate patients on the risks and preventative measures regarding HIV and TB as well as growing vegetable gardens and assisting with simple medical tasks. On weekends your options will include visits to animal sanctuaries and whale watching. www.workandvolunteer.com
In most cases flights, inoculations and travel insurance are not included in the packages as these organisations rely solely on donations and public support to stay afloat. Prepare to work hard, find new friends and lose your heart to this captivating country.