Volunteering in South Africa- History in the Making

In some ways South Africa is different from the rest of Africa as there is less poverty and strife here. South Africa is home to some of the most spectacular game reserves and landscapes. Considered as the adventure capital of the world, South Africa offers many pleasures from the Gold Reef city in Johannesburg to hiking across the scenic route of N12. It is known as the rainbow nation and has a diverse range of activities to offer and places to see. One of the most popular destinations in South Africa is the Kruger National Park, which is the icon of African Safari. The Kruger National park is home to several lion prides, herds of wild elephants and thousands of other small and bid animals and birds. From spotting the elusive leopard at Sabi Sands to watching the lion pride enjoy a meal in the Mala Mala, this national park is one fairy tale ride. The Sun City and the Garden route are two attractions that you can afford to miss. The garden route is a natural theme park that is home to Dolphins and whales and if you are lucky enough, you might end up with a pearl of your own.

Why Volunteer In South Africa

South Africa lies deep in a myriad of colors that vary from the different cultures to the different flora and fauna that lies in the heart of this magnificent country.

Types Of Projects Available

As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get to choose the kind of project you are interested in. The different types if projects available include:

• Wild Coast wildlife conservation project: This is one of a kind project, which will bring out the best in you. As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be surrounded by the stunning and awe-inspiring wild coast that stretches from Durban to East London. Situated in the Transkei homeland, it has some dramatic coastlines and will including working at the base camp as well as on the field. The age requirement for this project varies from 18-40 years. As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get different opportunities to work with wildlife under this project. You will get the opportunity to learn about the South African big cats and other wildlife during your stay. The different activities that you will be involved with as a part of volunteering in South Africa includes:

1. Patrolling the fence and looking for and removing snares and any other threat to the wildlife. Also assist in fence management as well as maintenance.

2. Assist in removing any alien vegetation and help towards controlling soil erosion

3. Wildlife research as well as monitoring their activity

4. Interaction with the locals and other monitoring activity of elephants

5. Working at the rearing centre for lion cubs

6. Attending as well as giving lectures on environmental issues and wildlife management

7. Participating in bush walks and taking game drives to help in identification of different species and interpreting their behaviors.

8. Assisting in cultivation of indigenous plants in a nursery. These plants will later on be used for rehabilitating the erosion sites.

9. Creating a catalogue of birds by monitoring their activity, breeding and behaviors.

• Wildlife Research and Rehabilitation: As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be handling different wildlife research activities. You will be assisting field supervisors in the following:

1. Capturing of wild animals for collar tags and releasing them in the wild.

2. Observing complex procedures done on wild animals especially if they are injured

3. Grooming horses

4. Rehabilitation work on various animals
including lions and cheetahs

5. Learning the coastal systems as well as the ecology and developing an understanding of the coastal dynamics

6. Assisting other volunteers and staff on various local community projects

7. Working with experienced staff in wildlife identification and identifying behavioral changes

Volunteer Requirements

Age: The minimum age for volunteering in South Africa should be 18 or older.

Fee and Other details

There is a fee attached to each of the projects that you volunteer for. The fee is charged in advance and is charged for the following:

1. Accommodation

2. Emergency evacuation services    

3. Food/meals

4. Travel insurance

5. Transportation within the region

6. Emergency support

7. All types of training material

8. Supervision by local staff

9. Orientation on arrival

10. Local sightseeing & recreational activities

Conclusion
South Africa is one of the magnificent countries in Africa that has abundance of flora and fauna. Volunteering in South Africa will provide you with limitless opportunities and it will be highly rewarding experience.