The South Africa Wildlife Conservation program combines practical conservation experience with structured global learning, allowing you to contribute to the management of one of South Africa’s leading private game reserves while working towards a recognised Global Citizenship Diploma. Designed for participants who want more than a traditional volunteer placement, this program combines ecosystem management, wildlife conservation, environmental education, and academic reflection into one immersive international learning experience.
Wildlife Volunteer Program Highlights
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal No.15 – Life On Land
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 160 UCAS Points
- Gain Practical Experience Within a Professionally Managed Game Reserve
- Learn About Protected Area Management Alongside Conservation Experts
- Contribute to Habitat Restoration, Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation Work
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal No.15 – Life On Land
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 3 US Credits
- Gain Practical Experience Within a Professionally Managed Game Reserve
- Learn About Protected Area Management Alongside Conservation Experts
- Contribute to Habitat Restoration, Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation Work
- Contribute Towards The UN's Development Goal No.15 – Life On Land
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 20 ECTS Credits
- Gain Practical Experience Within a Professionally Managed Game Reserve
- Learn About Protected Area Management Alongside Conservation Experts
- Contribute to Habitat Restoration, Wildlife Monitoring & Conservation Work
Why Choose the South Africa Wildlife Conservation Program?
Protecting wildlife requires far more than safeguarding individual species. Successful conservation depends upon healthy ecosystems, habitat restoration, scientific monitoring, sustainable land management, and the careful balance between wildlife, local communities, and environmental stewardship.
The South Africa Wildlife Conservation program has been designed to provide participants with practical insight into these challenges while contributing directly to the day-to-day management of a protected wildlife reserve. Rather than observing conservation from a distance, you will experience how professional conservation teams manage habitats, restore ecosystems, monitor wildlife populations, and respond to the ongoing environmental challenges facing southern Africa.
Throughout your program you will work alongside experienced reserve staff, supporting a wide variety of conservation and land management activities while gaining practical understanding of reserve operations. At the same time, you will develop transferable skills including teamwork, environmental observation, leadership, adaptability, and problem solving within one of the world’s most remarkable natural environments.
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Every stage of the program has been designed to help you develop as both a conservation practitioner and a global citizen, combining meaningful field experience with structured reflection to create an international learning experience that extends beyond traditional wildlife volunteering.
Your Global Citizenship Learning Journey
Unlike a traditional volunteer program, every participant follows a structured learning pathway designed to maximise both personal development and practical conservation impact.
Prepare Before You Travel - Before arriving in South Africa, you will complete online learning introducing biodiversity conservation, protected area management, ecosystem restoration, ethical wildlife conservation, sustainable development, and the environmental challenges affecting African ecosystems. This preparation provides valuable context before beginning your field experience.
Learn Through Experience - During your placement you will apply your learning through practical conservation activities including wildlife monitoring, habitat restoration, vegetation management, ecological maintenance, reserve infrastructure projects, game counts, and environmental education initiatives. Working alongside experienced conservation professionals allows you to understand how multiple conservation disciplines combine to protect complex ecosystems.
Reflect On Your Impact - Following your placement, you will complete guided reflective activities that encourage you to evaluate your conservation experience, explore the role protected areas play in safeguarding biodiversity, and connect your experiences in South Africa with wider global issues surrounding conservation, sustainability, and environmental management. Reflection forms a key part of the Global Citizenship Diploma, helping transform practical experience into recognised learning.
Background to the South Africa Wildlife Conservation Program
South Africa is home to some of the world’s most celebrated wildlife, yet many species continue to face increasing pressure from habitat loss, poaching, invasive species, disease transmission, climate change, and expanding human development. Protecting biodiversity therefore requires carefully managed conservation areas that provide safe habitats while supporting long-term ecological restoration.
Kwantu Private Game Reserve plays an important role within these wider conservation efforts. Spanning more than 6,000 hectares across South Africa’s Eastern Cape, the reserve provides protected habitat for the iconic Big Five alongside a rich diversity of native mammals, birds, reptiles, plants, and other wildlife. Conservation extends far beyond the protection of individual animals, focusing equally on maintaining healthy ecosystems where native species can thrive.
The South Africa Wildlife Conservation program provides participants with the opportunity to contribute directly to these conservation objectives while gaining practical experience in reserve management. Working alongside experienced conservation staff, you will support habitat restoration, ecological monitoring, infrastructure maintenance, wildlife surveys, and environmental management activities that help maintain the long-term health of the reserve.
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Throughout your time in South Africa, you will also develop transferable skills including environmental observation, teamwork, leadership, adaptability, problem solving, and practical conservation techniques. By experiencing conservation within a working game reserve, you will gain valuable insight into the complex balance required to protect wildlife while managing one of Africa’s most diverse ecosystems.
Your Field Experience in South Africa
Your field experience forms the practical foundation of the South Africa Wildlife Conservation program. Working alongside experienced conservation professionals, reserve managers, and field coordinators, you will apply your learning across a wide variety of conservation and ecosystem management activities throughout Kwantu Private Game Reserve.
Rather than focusing on a single species, your placement provides exposure to the many different aspects of managing a protected wildlife reserve. Activities may include wildlife monitoring, game counts, habitat restoration, removal of invasive vegetation, planting indigenous species, reserve maintenance, road and fence repairs, anti-poaching support activities, and ecological monitoring designed to maintain healthy habitats for native wildlife.
Depending on operational priorities, you may also contribute to predator monitoring, rehabilitation centre support, community environmental education activities, and landscape restoration projects. Rotating between different conservation tasks allows you to experience the diverse responsibilities involved in managing a modern wildlife reserve while developing a broad understanding of conservation management in practice.
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Working in small groups alongside experienced outdoor coordinators ensures every participant gains exposure to multiple conservation disciplines while contributing to meaningful projects that support the long-term sustainability of the reserve.
Your Role & Typical Day in South Africa
As a participant in the South Africa Wildlife Conservation program, your role is to support ongoing conservation initiatives that help protect wildlife, restore habitats, and maintain the ecological integrity of Kwantu Private Game Reserve.
Each week begins with a schedule prepared by the reserve’s conservation team, outlining the different field activities and projects taking place across the reserve. Because conservation priorities change according to environmental conditions, wildlife movements, and seasonal requirements, every week offers a varied experience.
Most mornings begin with practical conservation work while temperatures remain cooler. Activities may include habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring, vegetation management, infrastructure maintenance, or ecological surveys carried out across different areas of the reserve. Following a midday break, afternoon sessions continue with additional conservation projects, educational activities, or reserve management tasks depending on operational priorities.
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Participants are encouraged to approach every activity with enthusiasm, adaptability, and a willingness to learn. While some tasks involve physical outdoor work, others focus on ecological observation, environmental education, or supporting the wider conservation program. Throughout the placement, experienced conservation coordinators provide guidance, explain the purpose behind each activity, and help participants develop a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation in practice.
Because accommodation is located within the reserve itself, daily travel is minimal, allowing more time to experience life within one of South Africa’s remarkable conservation landscapes while learning directly from the professionals responsible for protecting it.
Other Things to Consider As a South Africa Wildlife Volunteer
Additional Opportunities – As part of the South Africa wildlife volunteer program, the local team occasionally organises exciting activities, offering unique and enriching experiences. These may include evening reptile shows, cultural dance performances, and conservation-focused lectures. On some occasions, volunteers may even get the chance to participate in significant conservation activities, such as wildlife animal captures, game introductions, and fire management. These rare opportunities provide unforgettable memories and invaluable insight into conservation work.
Free Time – Being based remotely on the reserve allows volunteers to fully immerse themselves in life surrounded by nature. During downtime, you can take advantage of the fantastic on-site facilities, including a lounge, swimming pool, entertainment room, and tennis courts. At weekends, complimentary transfers to and from Port Elizabeth are provided at set times. Volunteers often make group plans for weekend trips, allowing you to choose how you’d like to spend your time exploring or relaxing, everything can be arranged easily and spontaneously.
Cape Town Extension – After completing your program at Kwantu Game Reserve, you can continue your South African adventure by joining our Cape Town Projects. Participants heading to Cape Town will fly from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town on the Sunday after their wildlife placement, with the one-way domestic flight included in the price. If you stay for two weeks or longer, you also have the chance to take part in our teaching program, subject to availability.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
A lively coastal city with golden beaches, historic landmarks, and plenty of entertainment, Port Elizabeth makes for the perfect weekend escape. As part of your programme, you’ll receive free Saturday transfers to the city and return transport on Sunday, plus complimentary accommodation at the guest lodge. All you’ll need to budget for is your food, drinks, and activities, whether that’s exploring the coastline, trying sandboarding, or joining a city tour.
Getting There
• 1.5 hours from Kwantu Game Reserve
• Private Bus
Where to Stay
• Guest Lodge – Included
Things to Do
• Sandboarding – 25 GBP
• Beach Hopping – Free
• City & Coastal Tour – 80 GBP
• Algoa Bay Cruise – 15 GBP
Known as the surf capital of South Africa, Jeffreys Bay is famous for its world-class waves, long beaches, and laid-back atmosphere. Spend your days surfing or taking lessons, exploring nature reserves, and unwinding at beachfront cafes. Adventure seekers can try sandboarding or visit the local floating obstacle parks, while evenings bring beach bonfires, live music, and beautiful sunsets. It’s the ideal mix of relaxation and adventure.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Kwantu Game Reserve
• Private Bus
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 8–20 GBP per night
• Guesthouse/Small Hotel – 30–50 GBP per night
• Hotel – 60 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Group Surf Lessons – 20 GBP
• Surfboard & Wetsuit Hire – 7 GBP
• Sandboarding – 15 GBP
• Floating Obstacle Parks – 5 GBP
Take a memorable day trip to Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa’s third-largest park and home to over 600 elephants. Just a short drive from Kwantu, this full-day excursion offers the chance to see Africa’s Big Five roaming across vast, unspoilt landscapes. Join a guided safari, visit stunning viewpoints, and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature before returning to Kwantu for the evening.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Kwantu Game Reserve
• Private Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Kwantu Game Reserve
Things to Do
• Guided Safari – Included
• Spot the African Big Five – Included
• Visit Scenic Viewpoints – Included
Nestled along South Africa’s famous Garden Route, Tsitsikamma and Storms River are a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers. Wander across the iconic suspension bridge, kayak through tranquil waters, or soar through the treetops on a zip-line adventure. The area offers spectacular coastal views, hiking trails, and relaxed evenings filled with fresh seafood and local charm.
Getting There
• 3.5 hours from Kwantu Game Reserve
• Private Bus
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 20–30 GBP per night
• Guesthouse/Small Hotel – 50–60 GBP per night
• Hotel – 60 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Canopy Tour – 40 GBP
• Woodcutters Guided Hike – 20 GBP
• Kayak & Lilo Adventure – 38 GBP
• Coastal Hikes – Free
Experience the beauty of the Garden Route in Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, known for their pristine beaches, nature reserves, and vibrant atmosphere. Spend your days hiking Robberg Nature Reserve, spotting dolphins, or kayaking across the bay. Visit local markets, enjoy fresh seafood, and unwind by the ocean as the sun sets, the perfect end to an adventurous weekend.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Kwantu Game Reserve
• Private Bus
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 20–25 GBP per night
• Guesthouse/Small Hotel – 30–50 GBP per night
• Hotel – 60 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Nature Walks & Hikes – Free–3 GBP
• Monkeyland or Birds of Eden – 18 GBP
• Snorkel Gear Hire – 4 GBP
• Sea Kayaking – 15 GBP
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- Friends enjoy a joyful beach day at sunset, soaking up ocean views and the warm, relaxed coastal atmosphere.
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- A kayaker in a yellow life jacket relaxes near a stunning waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and fellow paddlers in peaceful waters.
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- Friends enjoy a scenic outdoor adventure beneath a striking modern bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
During your time on the South Africa volunteer program, you’ll stay in one of our Volunteer Houses, located in the heart of the reserve compound. The accommodation is basic but comfortable, offering a vibrant and welcoming environment for international volunteers. You’ll share the experience with other participants from around the world, making it a great opportunity to form lasting friendships.
Volunteers are transported via jeep to and from the accommodation for their volunteer work in South Africa. This service, along with transportation to activities on the reserve, is included in your Program Fee.
Communal areas across the accommodation offer comfortable sofas, fridge space, books, and tea/coffee stations for volunteers to unwind. Wi-Fi is available in the main lounge area outside of volunteering hours, though it can be intermittent. Volunteers can also access the swimming pool, tennis courts, and entertainment room during their free time.
A weekly chargeable laundry service is available for all volunteers in South Africa. Clothes will be washed, dried, and returned to volunteers. The reserve has on-site security, including personnel stationed around the accommodation compound and at the main entrance to the reserve.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
You will be assigned accommodation in either the Kubs Quarters or Mafusa Camp dorms, which are single-sex dormitories. Volunteers are provided with bed linen, cupboard space, and a mini-locker safe for storing valuables. Bringing a padlock is strongly recommended, but if forgotten, one can often be purchased from the on-site shop. Bathrooms are shared, dormitory-style, and include western-style toilets and hot showers.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 525 USD350 GBP420 EUR735 AUD595 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
If you prefer a private room option, you can upgrade to the Comfort Option when you register with us. Comfort rooms will accommodate a solo traveller or up to two participants travelling together, with a double two single beds. Your room will be located within the Game Reserve hotel and include en-suite bathrooms with western style facilities and hot showers. You will have sole access to your room as well as access to all facilities on site such as pool, tennis courts and game rooms.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 48 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1.5 Hours
Nearest ATM & Shops
60 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to South Africa, participants are provided with breakfast, lunch, and dinner during their stay. Meals are designed to be varied and satisfying throughout the week. For breakfast, you can expect cereals, bread, butter, jam, fruit, tea, coffee, and cheese. Occasionally, options like eggs, sausages, or baked beans may be served.
Lunch and dinner offer a wide selection, including burgers, chicken, macaroni cheese, vegetarian dishes, chips, potato casserole, and more. All meals come with a salad option. Meals are served in the Mafusa dining area, and cooking is not allowed in the kitchen areas.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Cereals, Bread, Butter, Jam, Fruit, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Burgers, Chips, Pasta
Dinner
Spaghetti Bolognese, Chicken Curry, Stew, Mash
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes wildlife volunteers in South Africa of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in South Africa will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a South Africa wildlife volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the wildlife projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the South Africa wildlife program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to South Africa, you should book your flights to Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport – Port Elizabeth (airport code PLZ) to arrive on the designated Monday start date before 3:30pm local time. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a South Africa wildlife volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to South Africa, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a South Africa wildlife volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the South Africa wildlife volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous South Africa wildlife volunteers, we’ve found that 2-3 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in South Africa. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore South Africa’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our South Africa wildlife volunteers who joined us for just 1 week often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 4 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in South Africa, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a South Africa wildlife volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a South Africa wildlife volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
