Volunteer in South Africa

Most Affordable – PMGY’s volunteer abroad programs are designed to be accessible to everyone passionate about making a difference. With low fees and high-impact projects, you can create meaningful change without breaking the bank.

Best Support – From the moment you join PMGY, our dedicated international and local team provide extensive, round-the-clock support to guide and assist you through every step of your incredible PMGY adventure.

Safety Prioritised – Safety is PMGY’s number one priority! We’ve taken every precaution to ensure our gap year programs are as secure and well-structured as possible, giving you peace of mind while volunteering abroad.

Extraordinary Experiences – PMGY gives you the chance to immerse yourself in incredible cultural and travel experiences fully. Create unforgettable memories while making a difference in communities around the world.

Friendships for Life – Your PMGY journey doesn’t just end with unforgettable experiences—it’s also about forming life-long friendships with fellow volunteers from across the globe. Prepare to meet like-minded individuals and make connections that last a lifetime.

South Africa Childcare Volunteers

As a childcare volunteer in South Africa, you will play a key role in supporting childcare projects within Cape Town’s vibrant community. PMGY’s South Africa volunteer programs offer the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by helping young children in Cape Town. By volunteering with children in South Africa, you will provide essential support and help brighten their lives in truly significant ways.

Background to the Childcare Program

It is estimated that 80% of young children in South Africa’s townships lack access to early childhood development education. As a result, many miss out on the essential support needed to reach their full potential. Since the end of Apartheid in 1994, inadequate government funding and flawed policies have disproportionately impacted the most underprivileged South Africans, exacerbating the challenges they face.

Today, approximately 57% of South Africa’s population lives in poverty. In low-income township areas, living conditions are harsh, characterised by high crime and unemployment rates, health issues, and overcrowding. A lack of childcare facilities leaves many children without proper care and protection.

Affordable and accessible childcare services are especially scarce across Cape Town and surrounding communities. Families from low-income backgrounds face the greatest struggles. While some centres have been established to address these issues, many are understaffed and lack adequate resources. This makes the contributions of PMGY volunteers invaluable to improving the quality of care provided to these children.

The daycare centres PMGY supports include independent local initiatives and government-subsidised community support programs. Some are home-based crèches run by local women, while others are more structured organisations. All share a common mission: to help children achieve their full emotional, social, and physical potential.

Plan My Gap Year collaborates with a variety of crèches, daycare centres, and kindergartens located in central Cape Town. These facilities offer vital childcare services to impoverished families from nearby communities. Many of these children come from townships and other underprivileged areas where social and health challenges, such as gang violence, drug abuse, malnutrition, and HIV/AIDS, are prevalent.

Parents or relatives of these children often work in the city, enabling them to bring their children to the daycare centres each morning. Other children arrive by bus. Teachers and assistants at the centres use a mix of Afrikaans, English, and Xhosa to communicate. Some centres also provide meals, where volunteers can help during feeding times.

Volunteer opportunities in South Africa provided by PMGY give you the chance to make a meaningful difference. At our childcare volunteer abroad projects in South Africa, it is essential to bring energy, enthusiasm, and creativity. Many of these children rely on the care and attention that you, as a childcare volunteer in South Africa, can provide. To volunteer with children in South Africa, you must dedicate your time and skills effectively to maximise your impact on the local community.

Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples

The Kiddies College – A blend between a crèche and a kindergarten, the Kiddies College was founded in 1997 to support children aged 2-6 years. Volunteers assist local staff in managing the daily schedule and supervising the children. The project emerged after a former preschool was closed by the local council, but the dedication of one of its previous staff members led to its revival. Today, it provides local employment opportunities and boasts spacious rooms and a lovely garden area.

Meals are provided for the children at the centre, and various activities such as library visits, swimming lessons, karate classes, and speech and drama sessions are also included. Volunteers can play an active role in these activities if placed at this project. PMGY volunteers help ease the workload of the understaffed team, offering extra care and attention to the children.

The Starfish Academy – The Starfish Academy is home to around 160 learners, creating a lively and bustling environment! Most children are aged between 3 months and 6 years, although some are as old as 12. The crèche’s mission is to provide a safe, secure, and stimulating space for children to discover their potential naturally.

The crèche operates with a strong philosophy that play is essential to children’s development. Volunteers are encouraged to embrace and support this approach. Tasks include assisting with homework, playing games, engaging in creative arts activities, and supporting the two baby rooms.

Many of the children at the crèche come from broken homes and disadvantaged backgrounds. They greatly value the extra care and attention that childcare volunteers in South Africa bring. This contribution is equally appreciated by the local staff and wider community.

Gingerbread House Educare – Located in the historic Mowbray district, Gingerbread House Educare was established in 1993 to address the shortage of affordable childcare facilities in the area. Over the years, it has expanded significantly and now cares for more than 110 children during the morning. In the afternoons, an additional 30 primary school children join the centre.

The centre focuses on providing learners with a balanced education, emphasising the development of their overall character and self-confidence. As a volunteer in South Africa at Gingerbread House, you will be involved in every aspect of the project’s daily routine. This includes supporting teachers with lessons, facilitating dance and creative arts activities, helping with food preparation and feeding, and engaging in general playtime, which is always a highlight for the children!

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day

As a childcare volunteer in South Africa, you will take part in a variety of activities that support the daily running of the childcare centres. This includes assisting local staff with tasks such as cleaning and administrative duties, food preparation and feeding, supervising playtime, and ensuring a calm environment during nap times.

When you volunteer with children in South Africa, you’ll also have the chance to engage in teaching activities. These might involve helping with basic maths, reading, or arts and crafts. Most importantly, your presence will make you a positive role model for the children – something many of them lack in their daily lives. By completing your volunteer work in South Africa, you’ll provide invaluable support to the overstretched local staff, helping to create a nurturing and stimulating environment.

Your typical volunteering abroad hours will be from 8am to 1pm, Monday to Friday, with a break for lunch. Many of the children take a nap in the early afternoon, but if your project allows and you wish to, you can return after this time to continue assisting until the centre closes. Weekends are your own free time to explore, relax, or travel.

Volunteers are responsible for making their way to the childcare project each day. This usually involves taking an Uber, although some projects may be within walking distance of the Volunteer House. On average, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the childcare project. Our local team will provide clear instructions on how to get to and from the project, and you may be paired with an experienced volunteer already working at your assigned placement.

South Africa English Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will play a key role in enhancing the English skills of local children. As their proficiency grows, so do their future opportunities. PMGY’s South Africa volunteer programs give you the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners in Cape Town. Teach English in South Africa, along with other subjects, to underprivileged children attending government schools – all against the backdrop of vibrant and cosmopolitan Cape Town.

Background to the Teaching Program

South Africa is a vibrant nation with 11 official languages and immense potential. The future of this great country heavily relies on its youth. While significant strides have been made since the end of apartheid to create an inclusive and comprehensive education system, the quality of education remains uneven, often depending on a child’s location and family wealth.

Children from high-income families benefit from private schools and language-focused institutions, offering direct pathways to the best jobs in South Africa. Conversely, children from disadvantaged communities face many challenges, often receiving insufficient education to prepare them for the future. Cape Town, an emerging hub, has seen a growing influx of refugees, placing additional pressure on already under-resourced and overcrowded government schools, where classrooms often hold 40+ students per teacher.

Many of the children attending these public schools come from broken homes, where criminality and illiteracy are common. As a result, many become disengaged with formal education. Unfortunately, the schools lack the resources and staff to address these challenges, offering few recreational activities to re-engage less enthusiastic learners.

PMGY South Africa works with primary schools in and around Cape Town, a popular tourist destination. These schools cater to children aged 6-13, focusing on core subjects such as maths, art, science, and, most importantly, English. Class sizes range from 15 to 40 pupils, with children aged approximately 5-12 years old.

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will assist with lesson planning, one-on-one student support, and leading classroom activities. You may also substitute for the main teacher, conduct physical education lessons, handle administrative duties, and support fundraising initiatives or school events.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad programs in South Africa offer a platform to make a meaningful difference. Your energy, creativity, and enthusiasm will be essential in helping students improve their English skills, providing them with brighter prospects for the future. By donating your time and skills effectively, you will maximise your impact on the local community. If you’re looking for motivation to embark on a gap year volunteering experience, South Africa offers a rewarding opportunity to teach, inspire, and contribute to the development of young learners.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

Chapel Street Primary School – Chapel Street Primary is home to approximately 800 students, most of whom come from underprivileged communities. Many of these children live in Cape Town’s townships, which are heavily disadvantaged. As a result, classrooms are often overcrowded, and resources are scarce.

With only 24 staff members, the teacher-to-student ratio ranges from 1:30 to 1:40. Despite these challenges, the dedicated teaching staff strive to overcome the economic and social hardships their students face by prioritising education and utilising technology as a tool for learning.

The school caters to children aged 6-13, and as you teach English in South Africa, your primary role will be to assist local teachers in the classroom. You will also have opportunities to lead lessons and support physical education, including sports activities. Additionally, you may help with swimming lessons and art classes. PMGY volunteers play a crucial role in alleviating the workload of overburdened teachers while building meaningful connections with the students.

St. Paul’s Primary School – Situated in the vibrant and historic Cape Malay community of Bo-Kaap, St. Paul’s Primary School is surrounded by colourful houses and steep cobblestone streets. Although it is located within walking distance of Cape Town’s city centre, the majority of its students come from the townships – some of the city’s most economically disadvantaged areas. These communities often face significant challenges, including substance abuse and high crime rates, making schools like St. Paul’s a vital safe haven for children.

Volunteers at St. Paul’s are typically placed in lower grades, working with children aged 6-8. The primary focus in these classrooms is on language, basic maths, art, music, and physical education. You will primarily act as a teaching assistant as you teach English in South Africa. Your responsibilities will include tasks such as coordinating reading groups, assisting with administrative duties, and providing one-on-one support to students who need extra help. On occasion, you may be invited to lead a class or assist in older year groups, further enhancing your teaching experience.

Volunteering at these schools offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children while gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by educators and learners in South Africa.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will provide invaluable support in the classroom, helping to ease the workload on local staff. Your presence as a volunteer in South Africa also contributes to better discipline and improved class productivity. For students facing challenges, such as learning difficulties or behavioural issues, the individual attention from international volunteers can make a significant difference.

In most cases, you will work as a teaching assistant. However, there may be occasions when you are asked to lead a class independently. This is a common occurrence during volunteer work in South Africa, so it’s important to come prepared with lesson plans. Spending time planning and organising your lessons in advance will help you make the most of your time on the project.

Your typical working hours are from 7:45am to 2:30pm, Monday to Friday, with a break for lunch. If you wish to take on additional duties or extend your working hours, this can be arranged upon request. Volunteers are encouraged to dedicate at least one hour each day to planning activities and lessons for the following day. Weekends are free for you to relax, explore Cape Town, or participate in local activities.

You will need to travel to your English teaching project each day, typically by Uber, though some placements may be within walking distance of the Volunteer House. The average journey takes around 30 minutes. Our local team will provide clear guidance on how to reach your placement and will pair you with another volunteer who is already familiar with the location, ensuring you settle into your role smoothly.

South Africa Wildlife Volunteers

As a South Africa Wildlife Reserve Volunteer, you’ll have the incredible chance to work behind the scenes on a world-class wildlife reserve. This unique experience also offers an in-depth education in conservation management. PMGY’s South Africa volunteer programs provide an excellent opportunity to get involved in meaningful wildlife volunteer work in South Africa. If you’re passionate about animals, this South Africa wildlife volunteer program is the perfect adventure for you.

Background to the Wildlife Program

The South Africa wildlife volunteer program offers the chance to work within a reserve that is home to the iconic Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. The term “Big 5” originates from hunting terminology, referring to these animals as the five most challenging to hunt on foot in Africa.

Unfortunately, poaching is on the rise across much of Africa, putting many species, including the Big 5, at risk of extinction. Additionally, diseases spread from domestic animals, such as cattle and dogs, threaten wild populations. Another significant challenge is the introduction of alien species, which compete with native flora and fauna for limited resources like food and water. Climate change is further exacerbating these issues, with increasing droughts and water scarcity affecting the survival of many species. Human activities, such as diverting rivers, also compound the problem, leaving wildlife without critical water sources.

Game reserves in South Africa are vital in combating these threats. They offer a safe haven for wildlife, creating managed ecosystems across stunning landscapes. While the primary focus of these reserves is on fauna, they also prioritise the preservation of native flora, fungi, and overall biodiversity. By engaging in wildlife volunteer work in South Africa, participants play an essential role in supporting these conservation efforts.

This project is dedicated to restoring the natural environment to its original state, ensuring it remains a safe home for wildlife and native plant species. Since its inception, the reserve has worked tirelessly to reintroduce native flora and fauna, creating a thriving ecosystem. As a South Africa wildlife reserve volunteer, you will contribute to this mission by participating in various conservation and maintenance activities, helping to sustain this incredible environment for future generations.

Wildlife Reserve Volunteer Placement

South Africa Big 5 Wildlife Reserve – This incredible game reserve, located on the Eastern Cape, spans over 6,000 hectares and provides volunteers with a truly immersive wildlife experience. As a South Africa wildlife reserve volunteer, you’ll gain insight into the conservation and management of the majestic Big 5 – lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo – while also supporting the preservation of other fauna and flora that form this delicate ecosystem.

The reserve’s education and rehabilitation centre is home to several endangered predators, including lions, Bengal tigers, and cheetahs. The dedicated conservation team focuses on rehabilitating these animals and releasing them back into the wild, ensuring their integration into a carefully managed ecosystem. While this is not a hands-on program due to the wild and predatory nature of the animals, you’ll still play a vital role in supporting their conservation. Close interaction or monitoring of the animals is not part of the program to ensure their safety and well-being.

At the centre, you’ll also learn about the plight of species like the Bengal tiger, whose population has dwindled alarmingly due to hunting and deforestation. This program is perfect for volunteers passionate about wildlife and eager to experience the essence of African conservation. Each day on the South Africa wildlife volunteer program is filled with varied activities, offering a dynamic and meaningful experience. The itinerary adapts based on weather and other factors, so flexibility is essential.

Example volunteer activities:

• Lion monitoring
• Rhino monitoring
• Educational sessions and classroom activities within local communities
• Removal of alien vegetation
• Planting indigenous trees
• Landscaping and vegetation re-establishment
• Fence and anti-poaching patrols
• Fence repairs and road maintenance
• Monitoring predators in the rehabilitation centre
• Conducting game counts

Your contributions will help ensure the reserve remains a safe, thriving environment for its wildlife. The daily tasks are diverse, meaning no two days will feel the same. While the program involves physical work, it’s balanced with fun and engaging activities to make each day both productive and enjoyable.

Volunteers are divided into small groups of up to 10, depending on the number of participants at the time. Each group is led by an outdoor volunteer coordinator who acts as a mentor and guide. Groups rotate through different activities, ensuring everyone gains a comprehensive experience by the end of the week. Occasionally, all groups may work together on larger projects.

This busy yet rewarding program is designed to provide a mix of education, conservation work, and personal growth. A dedicated volunteer coordinator and local staff ensure you not only contribute meaningfully but also leave with a deeper understanding of South Africa’s conservation challenges on the wildlife volunteering abroad program.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Work Day

As a participant in the South Africa wildlife volunteer program, you will play a vital role in supporting the conservation efforts of the reserve. Your daily activities will be outlined in an itinerary displayed on the volunteer noticeboard, detailing your group’s tasks and timings. If you have ideas or suggestions related to volunteering with animals in conservation, you are welcome to share them with the local team.

This program is a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact on South Africa’s wilderness, preserving it for both current and future generations. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get involved in meaningful conservation work in an unforgettable setting, this is the perfect program for you. Whether it’s for a week or as part of a gap year, there’s no better place for wildlife volunteer work in South Africa than on this reserve. Learn, contribute, and immerse yourself in this one-of-a-kind experience as a volunteer in South Africa.

Working hours as a conservation volunteer are generally consistent from Monday to Friday, divided into morning and afternoon sessions. Mornings, running from approximately 9:30am to 1:00pm, often involve more physically demanding tasks while temperatures are cooler. After a lunch break, the afternoon session typically runs from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. Times may vary slightly depending on the season or specific activities for the day. As volunteers are based on the reserve, daily tasks are only a short jeep ride or walk away. Any necessary transport for the project is included in the Program Fee, ensuring convenience and accessibility throughout your stay.

Flights

After confirming your place on a PMGY volunteer program, we strongly advise that you book your flights as early as possible. This will help ensure that you get the lowest airfare. You can choose to book your flights independently or we can help you with arranging them.

To join our South Africa childcare and teaching volunteer program, you should book your flights to Cape Town International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is CPT. Volunteers in Cape Town can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

To join our South Africa wildlife reserve volunteer program, you should book your flights to Port Elizabeth International Airport on the Monday start date. The airport code is PLZ. Volunteers can arrive before 4pm on their designated Monday start date.

Travel Insurance

Importantly, having an appropriate travel insurance policy during your time abroad is essential. Therefore, it is mandatory for all of our international volunteers to be appropriately covered across all of their trip dates. This includes your travel to and from the host country, as well as any onward travel. Although PMGY does everything to ensure your trip is safe, inevitably things can go wrong. Therefore, having a travel insurance policy in place helps you effectively deal with any problems you may encounter during your time away.

We have partnered up with Howden Insurance to create an affordable and comprehensive optional policy. This has been designed with our international volunteers in mind, to cover our participants for all of their travel essentials. The policy is available to anyone across the globe, up to the age of 65 years. The document will cover you for your time on any PMGY destination. You can purchase PMGY Travel Insurance during your online application or you can contact us directly to arrange it.

Our International Team works tirelessly to provide extensive support leading up to your volunteer or gap year trip. From our online chat service to email support and telephone conversations, we’re always ready to assist. All international volunteers with PMGY receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which serves as your ultimate guide for planning your volunteer trip abroad. This detailed handbook includes everything from visa guidance to suggested packing lists, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.

We also have dedicated Facebook groups for each of our volunteer destinations. These groups are a fantastic resource where you can connect with our international and local team, as well as past, present, and future volunteers. They provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, asking questions, and staying updated with community news year after year.

Sometimes, it’s hard to imagine yourself volunteering abroad without having been there yet. To help manage expectations and give you a clear picture of what to expect, we offer a variety of engaging and informative videos on our PMGY YouTube Channel. These clips offer a visual insight into life as a PMGY volunteer. In addition, don’t miss our webinars, which run on selected Tuesdays at 4pm UK time. Our International Team provides invaluable advice in these sessions, tailored to help you prepare for your trip.

Each webinar is designed with a specific focus. Our Pre-Departure Webinar covers all the essentials you need to know before joining us abroad. The Program Preparation Webinar is project-specific, offering detailed advice and insights about your placement. Finally, our Safety Webinar provides top tips for managing your safety and wellbeing while volunteering abroad. For those simply curious about PMGY, we also run an Introductory Webinar. This session introduces our organisation, background, goals, and the volunteer and gap year travel opportunities we offer overseas.

Our childcare and teaching South Africa volunteer program, is set in Cape Town, a city known for its stark contrasts and cultural diversity. From the bustling city centre with its vibrant nightlife to the challenging realities of the Townships and Cape Flats, Cape Town offers a truly eye-opening experience.

The wildlife reserve project on our South Africa volunteer program is based on a sprawling game reserve in the Eastern Cape, approximately 1.5 hours from Port Elizabeth International Airport. Spanning over 6,000 hectares, the reserve is home to the iconic Big 5 and a diverse array of fauna and flora. Volunteers immerse themselves in the heart of conservation efforts while experiencing the beauty of South Africa’s wilderness.

PMGY’s volunteer opportunities in South Africa are delivered by our dedicated and highly experienced in-country local team. Every team member is fully vetted by our International Team, ensuring that your experience is both safe and rewarding. Our local community network provides the structure and support you need to make the most of your time on a volunteer abroad program with PMGY. From arranging your accommodation and meals to coordinating airport pick-up, in-country orientation, and 24/7 emergency support, our team ensures that every detail is covered, leaving you free to focus on making a difference during your volunteer experience in South Africa.

Cape Town

Your orientation for your volunteer program in South Africa will begin on Monday at the Volunteer House after breakfast.

Throughout the morning, our local team will introduce you to South African culture, safety guidelines, and local transport options. You’ll also receive a full overview of your volunteer project, including the dos and don’ts, daily expectations, and how to make the most of your time in Cape Town. Our team will also share insights into exciting travel opportunities and experiences you can enjoy outside of your volunteer work in South Africa.

After the orientation session and an opportunity to grab some lunch in town, it’s time to explore the area. You’ll be taken on a walking tour of the surrounding neighbourhood, helping you get familiar with your new home.

During the tour, our local team will point out key locations such as markets, malls, shops, ATMs, and public transport stops. By the end of the first day, you’ll feel more confident navigating the area. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, bond with fellow volunteers, or prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Over your first few days, you’ll quickly settle in and soon find yourself exploring Cape Town at your leisure with your fellow participants!

Kwantu Game Reserve

Your orientation for your volunteer experience in South Africa will begin on Tuesday with an incredible 3-hour game drive around the reserve. This will be your first chance to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5!

After returning to the reserve for lunch, our local coordinators will provide a detailed introduction to your volunteer role, the history of the reserve, and the various conservation tasks you’ll be involved in.

The rest of the day is yours to relax, settle in, and prepare before you officially begin your volunteer program in South Africa the next morning.

Cape Town

Please make sure you arrive into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) on Sunday.

Day 1 (Sunday) Arrival

Welcome to South Africa! Upon arrival at Cape Town airport, you will be picked up by a local backpacker bus and transferred to the Volunteer House in downtown Cape Town. The journey will take around 20 minutes, depending on traffic, giving you your first glimpse of this incredible city.

You will have the rest of the day to relax and settle in. Depending on your arrival time, the hostel manager may take you on a walking tour of the local area. This will help you get familiar with essential spots such as the ATM, supermarket, and laundry services. If you arrive later in the day, this tour will take place on Monday instead.

Day 2 (Monday) Orientation

Your orientation for your volunteer project in South Africa will begin on Monday at the Volunteer House after breakfast.

Throughout the morning, our local team will introduce you to South African culture, safety guidelines, and local transport options. You’ll also receive a full overview of your volunteer project, including the dos and don’ts, daily expectations, and how to make the most of your time in Cape Town. Our team will also share insights into exciting travel opportunities and experiences you can enjoy outside of your volunteer work in South Africa.

After the orientation session and an opportunity to grab some lunch in town, it’s time to explore the area. You’ll be taken on a walking tour of the surrounding neighbourhood, helping you get familiar with your new home.

During the tour, our local team will point out key locations such as markets, malls, shops, ATMs, and public transport stops. By the end of the first day, you’ll feel more confident navigating the area. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax, bond with fellow volunteers, or prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Over your first few days, you’ll quickly settle in and soon find yourself exploring Cape Town at your leisure with your fellow participants!

Days 3-6 (Tuesday-Friday) Volunteering Begins

Tuesday marks your first day at your volunteer project. During your orientation, the local team will explain the travel routes to your project. In most cases, you will travel with a fellow volunteer or be accompanied by a local coordinator on your first day.

The first couple of days will be spent settling into the project, meeting local staff, and adjusting to your schedule. You will also get a better understanding of the tasks you will be involved in.

Volunteers typically have a 1-hour lunch break during the day. You can pack a lunch before heading to the project or grab something from a nearby café or restaurant after your project finishes for the day.

Cape Town is a vibrant city with plenty to do in the evenings, but we expect all volunteers to remain committed to their projects and be punctual at all times. Remember, our local team is always just a phone call away should you need any support!

Days 7-8 (Saturday-Sunday) Weekend!

After a busy week of volunteering, it’s time to explore the wonders of South Africa. Whether you choose to experience Cape Town’s many attractions, go on safari, or explore the wine regions, there’s something for everyone!

The Following Weeks

Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, with volunteering from Monday to Friday and free weekends to travel or relax.

Our local team is here to support you throughout your stay. Whether you need help with weekend travel plans, advice on local attractions, or just someone to chat with, they’re always available.

Last Day (Saturday)

Saturday is your final day with PMGY. If you are heading home, we can assist you in arranging your return airport transfer. Please note that this is not included in your Program Fee.

Kwantu Game Reserve

Please make sure you arrive into Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ) on Monday.

Day 1 (Monday) Arrival

Welcome to South Africa! Upon arrival at Port Elizabeth airport, our local team will be there to greet you with a sign. Airport pickup is available until 3:30pm, as the transfer to the reserve departs by 4pm.

If you arrive later than 3:30pm, you will need to land on Sunday instead and arrange your own accommodation for that night. You will then meet the transfer team back at the airport on Monday afternoon for your journey to the reserve.

The transfer to the reserve takes around 90 minutes. Upon arrival, you will be shown to your room and given a briefing from your coordinator. You will also take a walking tour of the reserve to get familiar with your surroundings, including the dining area, leisure spaces, and social rooms.

Day 2 (Tuesday) Orientation

Your orientation for your volunteer project in South Africa will begin on Tuesday with an incredible 3-hour game drive around the reserve. This will be your first chance to see the stunning landscapes and wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5!

After returning to the reserve for lunch, our local coordinators will provide a detailed introduction to your volunteer role, the history of the reserve, and the various conservation tasks you’ll be involved in.

The rest of the day is yours to relax, settle in, and prepare before you officially begin your volunteer program in South Africa the next morning.

Days 3-5 (Wednesday-Friday) Volunteering Begins

Wednesday marks your first official day as a volunteer on the reserve. Volunteer activities are split into morning and afternoon sessions, with specific tasks depending on the weather and project needs.

Throughout the week, you’ll have the chance to work closely with some of South Africa’s most famous wildlife. The program is designed for long-term conservation impact, meaning that while daily tasks may vary, every contribution helps achieve a greater goal.

During your free time, you’ll have access to great amenities at the reserve, including a lounge, swimming pool, entertainment room, and tennis courts.

Days 6-7 (Saturday-Sunday) Weekend!

After a week of volunteering, it’s time to relax and explore. You can head back to Port Elizabeth using the complimentary transfers or venture further to Mossel Bay and Tsitsikamma National Park.

The Following Weeks

Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, with volunteering from Monday to Friday and weekends free to travel, relax, or take part in local excursions.

Our local team is here to support you throughout your stay. Whether you need help with weekend travel plans, advice on local attractions, or just someone to chat with, they’re always available.

Last Day (Saturday or Sunday)

Your final day on the reserve will either be Saturday or Sunday, depending on scheduled transfers back to Port Elizabeth. These transfers are included in your Program Fee and run as follows:

Saturday – Kwantu to Port Elizabeth (departs 9am)

Sunday – Kwantu to Port Elizabeth (departs 6pm)

If your flight departs on Monday or later, you have the option of joining a weekend excursion or staying in Port Elizabeth for an extra night. Most participants choose to leave the reserve on Saturday morning and either fly home that afternoon or spend a final day exploring Port Elizabeth before heading home on Sunday.

For many first-time travellers, heading abroad can feel both exciting and daunting. At PMGY, we take every precaution to make our volunteer projects in South Africa as safe as possible. While no experience can ever be 100% risk-free, our robust safety measures provide peace of mind for both volunteers and their families.

Every program has been personally inspected and approved by a PMGY director. We’ve lived in the Volunteer House, experienced the orientation, and worked on the projects ourselves. Through frequent visits and daily communications, we’ve built strong, trusting relationships with our local team, ensuring that all programs meet our high standards.

In the unlikely event of an issue, volunteers have access to several layers of support:

• PMGY Local Team
• Project Staff
• PMGY International Team

Our programs are continually monitored to evaluate volunteer experiences and ensure high standards. We rely on volunteer feedback to make ongoing improvements to improve volunteer opportunities in South Africa. Safety and security are regularly assessed, and participants are encouraged to raise concerns with our local or International Teams, allowing us to resolve issues promptly and effectively.

Pre-Departure and In-Country Guidance

To ensure you’re fully prepared, PMGY provides comprehensive pre-departure guidance and an in-depth safety briefing during your orientation. Our local team cover all the essentials, including project introductions, emergency procedures, tips for using local transport, and cultural differences. Volunteers also receive a full list of important contact numbers, ensuring you always know who to reach out to.

General Safety Tips

While our local team work hard to ensure your safety, we encourage volunteers to follow these general tips for an even more secure experience:

• Be modest with jewellery worn in public.
• Avoid drinking tap water.
• Stay vigilant in crowds or near beggars; distractions may be used to target you.
• Be discreet when handling money in public.
• Plan your journeys carefully, especially at night, and know your destination in advance.
• Use only reputable transport providers; recommendations will be provided during your orientation.
• Stay in groups at night and avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas.
• Keep valuables safe, especially when heading out of the accommodation.
• Be cautious of traffic, always looking left and right before crossing roads.
• Never accept food or drinks from strangers.

By following these guidelines and the advice provided by our in-country teams, you’ll be able to enjoy a safe, enriching, and memorable experience at your volunteer project in South Africa.

The weather in South Africa varies significantly throughout the year, with seasons opposite to those in the UK. Summer lasts from November to March, bringing warm and dry conditions, with temperatures climbing as high as 35°C. It can get quite windy, but February to April offers the best beach weather, making it an ideal time to soak up the sun.

Winter arrives in June, bringing colder temperatures that last until September. During this period, the temperature generally hovers around 15°C, though it can occasionally drop to 8°C, especially at night. July and August tend to be the wettest months, as they see the majority of the country’s annual rainfall.

If you are volunteering in South Africa between June and August, it is essential to pack a warm jacket. The weather during this time can be unpredictable, so we recommend bringing clothing for all seasons, just in case!

The most pleasant times of the year, weather-wise, are spring (September–November) and autumn (April–May), offering mild temperatures and comfortable conditions for both volunteering and exploring.

Cape Town

Accommodation – Volunteer House

During your time on the South Africa volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House, located in Observatory – fondly referred to as ‘Obz’ by locals! Known for housing South Africa’s oldest Astronomical Observatory, this bohemian suburb in Cape Town is full of character. The main entertainment area is just a 10-minute walk from the hostel along Lower Main Road. By day, this street is lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and cafés. By night, it transforms into a lively hub with a vibrant nightlife.

The accommodation is basic but comfortable, with free Wi-Fi available. Bedrooms feature bunk beds, accommodating up to eight people per room on a single-sex basis. Bathrooms are shared and include showers and Western-style toilets. If you’re volunteering during the winter months (June to August), it can get chilly, so be sure to pack warm clothing. Volunteers are provided with a bedsheet and blanket, though you may want to bring a sleeping bag or purchase an extra blanket locally for added warmth.

The Volunteer House includes a communal area where you can relax after your volunteer work in South Africa. The space is equipped with sofas, a flat-screen TV, and a DVD player. Additionally, there is fridge space for storing any chilled items. Each volunteer is also assigned a lockable cupboard for securing small valuables, such as a passport or money. To make use of these cupboards, volunteers are advised to bring a small lock.

During our busiest months, you may be accommodated in one of our secondary Volunteer Houses. These alternate accommodations provide the same core amenities but may differ slightly in location or setup.

Meals

During your volunteer trip to South Africa, breakfast will be provided at the Volunteer House. You will need to budget for lunch and dinner during the weekdays and all meals over the weekend. While the Volunteer House has a kitchen, it is quite small, so preparing your own meals can be challenging. As a result, many volunteers find it more practical to eat out for lunch and at weekends.

Breakfast is self-service, with all cutlery and crockery provided. If you fancy dining out, there are plenty of cafés, restaurants, and local amenities within walking distance.

* 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 – Toast, Fruits, Eggs, Cheese, Peanut Butter, Jam

Lunch – Not Included

Dinner – Not Included

Kwantu Game Reserve

Accommodation – 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.

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.

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 your volunteer trip 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.

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, Sausages, Mash

On the childcare and teaching in South Africa volunteer program, the cost of your transport to the project is not included in your Program Fee. Most volunteers use Uber, although some placements are within walking distance of the Volunteer House. Commutes generally take around 30 minutes. The local team will assist you in navigating transport or pair you with an experienced volunteer at your placement.

On the wildlife in South Africa volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. During your animal conservation volunteering abroad, you will be based on the wildlife reserve, placing you in close proximity to the volunteer projects. Transportation to and from your project each day will be provided by safari jeep.

PMGY welcomes volunteers of all nationalities and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, and there is no upper age limit. All volunteers need to have a good level of English, although it does not need to be your first language. You do not need to speak the local language; however, learning a few words during your time with us will go a long way and greatly enrich your experience!

All participants must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering abroad with us. No formal experience or qualifications are required—just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to prepare!

To confirm your place on a PMGY program, you need to pay a Registration Fee. The remaining Program Fee is due no less than 60 days before your program start date.

For more information on how to join one of our volunteer opportunities abroad, please visit our Application Process.