WILDLIFE REHABILITATION VOLUNTEERING IN SOUTH AFRICA

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Home | Wildlife Rehabilitation Volunteering in South Africa
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Impact:
Wildlife Conservation
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Destination:
Tzaneen, South Africa
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Duration:
2 Weeks+
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Rates: From $1,100 per week

Care for Rescued and Rehabilitated Animals in South Africa

Join a passionate team of experienced staff at Umoya Khulula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and become a champion for animal recovery. Witness firsthand the impact of human-wildlife conflict, , pushing animals into situations requiring expert intervention.

Here, you’ll play a vital role in the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of injured, lost, and displaced wildlife. From providing medical attention to creating enriching environments, your dedication will contribute directly to the well-being of these magnificent creatures. But your journey doesn’t end there. The ultimate goal is to see these animals return to their rightful place in the wild, stronger and more resilient.

Combine this project with our African Wildlife Research and Conservation Project (just 1.5 hours away) for the ultimate South African wildlife volunteering experience!

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Project Highlights

Here are some top highlights from this project.

RESCUE

Get involved in call-outs to rescue compromised or orphaned wildlife.

REHABILITATE

Take a hands-on role approach as you provide care and rehabilitation to rescued animals.

PANGOLIN WORK

Umoya Khulula are famed for their work in rescuing Temmincks pangolins and you may have the opportunity to work with them.

RELEASE

Gain experience in various release techniques to ensure animals thrive.

GAIN EXPERIENCE

Work with dedicated conservationists, veterinarians and rehabilitation experts.

PANGOLIN WORK

Umoya Khulula are famed for their work in rescuing Temmincks pangolins and you may have the opportunity to work with them.

RESCUE

Get involved in call-outs to rescue compromised or orphaned wildlife.

REHABILITATE

Take a hands-on role approach as you provide care and rehabilitation to rescued animals.

RELEASE

Gain experience in various release techniques to ensure animals thrive.

GAIN EXPERIENCE

Work with dedicated conservationists, veterinarians and rehabilitation experts.

Project Destination

Immerse yourself in the untamed majesty of the Greater Kruger area, a sprawling tapestry of over 20 private reserves seamlessly woven together. Bordering the iconic Kruger National Park, this vast landscape pulsates with life, serving as a sanctuary for an extraordinary array species.

Umoya Khulula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is situated close to the Greater Kruger area, just 15 minutes outside of Tzaneen. The proximity of the centre to the Greater Kruger area allows for an array of orphaned, abandoned or injured wildlife to be rescued and brought into the centre.

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view of Blyde River Canyon in South Africa
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wildlife conservation photography intern taking a photo of the sunset in Africa
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Project Impact Areas

Here’s how you will create significant impact through the Wildlife Rehabilitation Volunteering Project in South Africa.

Wildlife Rehabilitation

You will play an integral part in carrying out daily activities for the care of the animals at the center. This could include caring for bush babies, warthogs, antelopes, caracals, porcupines, or other wildlife. Some of the activities include preparing food, feeding the animals, cleaning enclosures, harvesting vegetation, monitoring behavior, as well as other chores needed for the daily well-being of the residents.

Young Animals

As part of our rehabilitation efforts you will be providing intensive care for juvenile wildlife. Sometimes we have nocturnal, sick or baby animals that need nighttime feeding and care. There will be a rotation put in place so everyone gets a night off. You’ll also be a vital part of hand raising orphans that get bought in to help bring them up to strength.

Enclosure Enrichment

One of the keys to being able to successfully release animals knowing they have a positive chance of surviving is enclosure enrichment. Wildlife rehabilitation volunteers will actively work to find ways to keep animals stimulated and living in clean, healthy environments during their rehabilitation process.

Important Logistics and Ground Support

Everything you need to know about this project in one place!

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Flights & Arrivals

Fly in to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Umoya Khulula. Arrive anytime on the Sunday that your volunteering begins and depart anytime on the Sunday it ends. The team from Umoya Khulula will be there to greet you!

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Location

You will be staying on Umoya Khulula’s beautiful 50 hectare property, surrounded by the African bush and just meters away from the animals you will be caring for. Umoya is situated close to the town of Tzaneen where you will have the opportunity to do shopping for personal items and snacks, as well as enjoy dinners out.

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Accommodation

The accommodation at Umoya Khulula is simple and comfortable, with standalone rooms overlooking a beautiful ravine. The center currently hosts up to 10 volunteers at a time, with 4-6 people sharing same-sex rooms and bathroom facilities. After a hard day of animal care and rehabilitation there is also a jacuzzi for you to relax in!

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Meals

Two meals a day are provided during the week and we usually go to town on Fridays to collect any food, snacks and drinks you wish to enjoy over the weekends. We have a communal kitchen and dining area where all meals are served. It’s a great space to relax in some shade and get to know the team and fellow volunteers.

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Communication

Cellular signals can be variable. If you are purchasing a local, South African SIM Card, we would recommend using MTN as the service provider. WiFi is available in the central dining area.

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Climate

May to September (winter in the southern hemisphere) are the cooler months and temperatures can be chilly in the evenings and early mornings. Daytime temperatures are mild, usually between 22°C (71°F) to 25°C (77°F), and days can be clear and sunny or overcast. Night-time temperatures can drop to 6°C (43°F).

October to April (summer in the southern hemisphere) most days will be hot and humid. In the middle of summer, temperatures can often reach 34°C+ (93°F+), and the sun is strong.
Most days are clear and sunny, with heavy showers or thunderstorms in the early evenings. You will need a waterproof jacket.

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Staff

Umoya Khulula is owned by Emma, Adriaan and Wynand De Jager. During your time as a wildlife rehabilitation volunteer, you will be primarily working with Emma alongside Katharine, the Centre Manager.

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Safety

At African Impact, our long-term success depends on working to ensure the safety of our volunteers, staff and local communities. With this in mind, we are continually committed to providing high-quality volunteer opportunities in South Africa. We follow the philosophy that a safe and healthy work environment is a fundamental and top responsibility of ours. From the moment you arrive in South Africa to the end of your adventure, we take the utmost care in ensuring your comfort and safety as you carry out volunteer work.

Project Gallery

a man holding a large animal in his hands
a woman holding a baby hippopotamus in her arms
a person holding a small animal in their hands
a close up of a small animal eating a banana
a group of three owls sitting on top of a cage
a woman kneeling down next to a deer
a woman holding two birds in her hands
a close up of a small animal in a field
a close up of a cat laying on a blanket
a man and a woman standing next to each other
a close up of a large brown animal
a close up of an owl on a tree branch
a man holding a bird in a cage
a group of people standing around a table covered in food
a close up of a small animal on a blanket

Our favourite weekend activities in the Greater Kruger Area, South Africa

The Greater Kruger Area offers an abundance of weekend activities for wildlife and conservation participants. From picturesque scenes of the Drakensberg Escarpment, waterfalls, and canyons, to informative conservation-based initiatives and trips to the town of Hoedspruit – there’s something for every participant to enjoy.

Adventure time

Magoebaskloof Adventures

Immerse yourself in the ‘Land of the Silver Mist’, where lush mountains meet the Sabie River. Enjoy ziplining, river tubing, cliff abseiling, hiking, biking, and exhilarating kloofing adventures.

Panorama route

Blyde River Canyon

Travel the scenic Panorama Route, showcasing South Africa’s beauty. On a weekend road trip, see the majestic Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third-largest. Enjoy white-water rafting, a gorge swing, or a microlight flight over the canyon.

Safari

Explore Kruger

With Kruger National Park at your doorstep, a visit is a must during your volunteer stay in South Africa. Explore this renowned game reserve’s stunning landscape, where mountains, savannahs, and rivers teem with wildlife.

Anti poaching

Down To The Wire

This organization transforms wire snares into jewellery. Anti-poaching teams in Greater Kruger remove these traps, and Down To The Wire raises awareness about poaching. Participants can attend an informative talk and then create their own jewellery in a workshop.

Vulnerable species

Rhino Revolution

This organization rescues, rehabilitates, and releases orphaned wild rhino calves, typically victims of poaching. Rhino Revolution also supports crucial rhino dehorning operations in the area.

4 wheel adventure

Quad Biking Adventure

Embark on a quad bike adventure through the African bush. These guided tours, lasting 1-3 hours, offer a unique wildlife perspective, driving among wildebeest and giraffes.

How to Apply

Choose a destination in Africa and a project then enquire to ask any questions.

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Connect with our advisors who can answer any questions you have.

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Once you are ready, head to our booking form, secure your place with a small deposit.

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Get ready to volunteer or intern abroad. Our team will support you at every step!

Project Enquiry

After completing the below project enquiry form, one of our Destination Specialists will get in touch to discuss your volunteer experience and any questions you may have. When you are ready to book, we can send you a booking form or you can book directly from this page too.

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STEP 1 - Personal Information

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STEP 2 - When do you want to Volunteer or Intern?

Give us an idea of your travel plans, you can also choose ‘I’m not sure yet’ if you aren't sure about your preferred start dates.

STEP 3 - How long do you want to Volunteer or Intern for?

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Please complete the details below in order for us to provisionally hold a space on your preferred project. A deposit will be required to secure your position. By submitting these details you agree to our Terms and Conditions.

PRICE

From $1,100 per week

Your weekly cost will reduce if you stay for longer than 2 weeks.

Start day: Every Sunday

PROJECT FEE INCLUDES

  • Cottage style accommodation with jacuzzi
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner (Mon - Sun)
  • Laundry service
  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • All project transport, equipment and resources
  • Support from experienced local and international staff
  • Full orientation for responsible project contribution

PROJECT FEE EXCLUDES

Price excludes flights, visas, insurance, weekend tours and personal expenses.

PARTICIPANT REQUIREMENTS

Our minimum age for this volunteer project is 16 years of age. Parental consent is required before arrival for those aged 16 and 17. We can also accept 15 years of age if travelling with a parent, but other adult companions it will need to be discussed ahead of time.

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FAQs

Recent Wildlife Rehabilitation Volunteer Reviews

“
Becky EmilyWildlife Rehabilitation Volunteering in South Africa

“I stayed at Umoya for 2 weeks and would highly recommend volunteering at the centre. The owner and staff are so dedictaed to the animals and their release. I had an incredible experience and learnt a lot about animal welfare. I have meomories that I will never forget. Thank you!”

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Max CoultWildlife Rehabilitation Volunteering in South Africa

“I spent a month volunteering at the centre and I could have easily stayed for a couple more. Emma, Katharine and the rest of the team there were so nice and friendly. I hadn't travelled along before but they really made it feel like home. The range of different animals that they had there was amazing and I got hands-on experience that you wouldn't find anywhere else, for example, taking Mars the aardvark on his evening walks, darting and transporting animals and camping at the release site. I would definitely recommend this to anyone and I am hoping to go back one day.”

“
Emily TrahanWildlife Rehabilitation Volunteering in South Africa

“My experience at this sanctuary was unforgettable! I traveled alone and it was definitely out of my comfort zone, expecially travelling to a different country. However, right when I got there I felt overwhelmed with the amount of nice people I encountered. They made me feel like family and that's all I needed, being a solo traveller. The best part is that you are involved with everything like waking up every morning and cleaning the enclosures or getting to feed the animals. Every day will be different, but amazing and you will learn a lot and get to experience a lot as well!! You will definitely not be disappointed there at Umoya Khulula!! Had the best time and definitely will be going back!!”

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Wildlife Rehabilitation FAQs

What kind of work will I be doing?

Volunteers at the wildlife centre will be immersed in a variety of essential tasks and learning opportunities. Daily responsibilities include cleaning enclosures and feeding the animals, as well as assisting with the hand-rearing of orphaned wildlife. You’ll gain valuable knowledge about South African wildlife and conservation practices. When appropriate, volunteers may help with medical procedures and participate in anti-poaching efforts by removing snares from local farms. Other tasks involve collecting enrichment materials for the animals, constructing new enclosures, and maintaining existing ones. You’ll also monitor animals being prepared for release, help integrate social animals into groups, and assist with wildlife releases. For nocturnal, ill, or young animals requiring nighttime care, a rotating schedule ensures that all volunteers share these responsibilities while also getting regular nights off. This hands-on experience offers a comprehensive view of wildlife rehabilitation and conservation efforts.

What animals will I be working with?

At the centre we hold permits for over 70 different species of animals. It is always hard to say what is going to be at the centre. Some of the main animals that come into the centre are bushbabies, squirrels, warthogs, antelope, hippos, jackals, mongoose, zebras, owls, and tortoises.

Will I get to see an animal release?

Unfortunately we cannot guarantee that you will see a release but we hope that you do. We do release more animals in October – March as the conditions for herbivores are better in these months. Carnivore releases happen year round.

Do I need experience to volunteer at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre?

No prior experience is required! What truly matters is your enthusiasm for animals and a willingness to learn. So, if you’re eager to immerse yourself in the world of wildlife conservation, don’t let a lack of experience hold you back!

What vaccinations are required to be a volunteer?

The main vaccinations you will need to have are tetanus, hepatitis A and rabies. Others consider typhoid, hepatitis B and cholera, but we do not specifically require them. We do require proof of vaccination for the 3 mentioned above. Malaria medication is optional. We are not in a high-risk zone but if you are planning to go to Kruger National Park then your doctor might advise you to have them. If in doubt consult your doctor.