Volunteer with Animals in Africa

For many animal lovers, a trip to Africa represents the ultimate journey—a chance to encounter majestic wildlife, connect with diverse cultures, and make a meaningful impact on conservation efforts. Volunteering with animals across the continent allows travelers to do more than just observe iconic species; it creates opportunities to directly support local communities, safeguard fragile ecosystems, and champion ethical, sustainable tourism. 

We’ve handpicked a selection of iconic Animal volunteering opportunities in the African region!

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ)

International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ) offers a range of programs that might be just what you’re looking for.

Here’s a glimpse into some of their standout offerings:

• Animal Welfare in Arusha, Tanzania: In Arusha, volunteers engage in hands-on care for domestic animals, promoting animal welfare and supporting local initiatives. This program offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of animals and the community.
• Animal Care in Cape Town, South Africa: Experience the vibrant culture of Cape Town while providing essential care to animals in need. Volunteers assist in shelters and rehabilitation centers, ensuring better futures for the city’s animal population.
• Wildlife Conservation near Victoria Falls: Contribute to conservation efforts in the vicinity of the majestic Victoria Falls. This program focuses on preserving local wildlife habitats and educating communities about sustainable practices.
• Wildlife Rescue in Namibia: Join a dedicated team in Namibia, rescuing and rehabilitating injured or orphaned wildlife. Your involvement will aid in the survival and release of these animals back into their natural habitats.
• Wildlife Conservation in Kruger National Park, South Africa: Engage in conservation activities within and around the renowned Kruger National Park. Volunteers participate in research and monitoring projects aimed at protecting the park’s diverse ecosystems.

GoEco

GoEco offers a variety of volunteer programs across Africa that provide hands-on experience with some of the continent’s most iconic species.

Here’s a glimpse into some of their standout offerings:

• Wildlife Rescue Center in Malawi: Located in Lilongwe, this sanctuary cares for orphaned and injured animals, including primates, birds, and reptiles. Volunteers assist with feeding, rehabilitation, and efforts to release animals back into the wild.
• African Wildlife Orphanage in Zimbabwe: Situated near Bulawayo, this renowned center rehabilitates a range of wildlife, from monkeys to lions. Volunteers engage in feeding, enclosure maintenance, and educational outreach, contributing to the well-being of animals that cannot return to the wild.
• Maasai Mara Lion and Wildlife Conservation in Kenya: In the heart of the Maasai Mara ecosystem, volunteers work alongside Maasai guides to monitor big cats and other wildlife. Activities include data collection, wildlife counts, and community education, all aimed at preserving this vital habitat.
• Whale Shark and Marine Conservation in Mozambique: Based in Praia do Tofo, this program focuses on marine ecosystem research, particularly involving whale sharks. Volunteers participate in ocean safaris, photo identification, and data collection to aid in the conservation of these gentle giants.
• Rhino Orphan Sanctuary in South Africa: Near Barberton, this sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned rhinos affected by poaching. Volunteers assist with feeding, care, and preparation for reintroduction into the wild, playing a crucial role in rhino conservation efforts.

Projects Abroad

Projects Abroad provides structured programs with comprehensive support, including accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country assistance.

Volunteers work alongside experienced conservationists, gaining valuable skills and insights into wildlife preservation. Here’s a glimpse into two standout opportunities:

1. Giraffe & Lion Conservation in Kenya
   Located in the Soysambu Conservancy, this program focuses on protecting the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe and monitoring lion populations. Volunteers engage in activities such as setting up camera traps, studying animal behavior, removing invasive species, and maintaining waterholes to ensure vital water access for wildlife. Living on the conservancy provides a unique opportunity to experience the African savannah up close while contributing to meaningful conservation efforts.
2. Africa’s Big 5 and Wilderness Conservation in Botswana
   Situated in the Tuli Block by the Limpopo River, this project immerses volunteers in efforts to protect Africa’s Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo. Participants assist with elephant research, anti-poaching patrols, building and maintaining waterholes, and conducting species surveys to monitor population densities. This hands-on experience in a remote part of the Southern African bushveld offers a profound connection to wildlife and the challenges of conservation.

African Impact

African Impact is renowned for its commitment to responsible volunteering and sustainable development.

With a focus on making a positive impact, their projects are designed to benefit both the environment and local communities. 

Here are some standout programs to consider:

• Horse Riding, Elephant & Rhino Conservation in Zimbabwe: Located in the heart of Zimbabwe, this project combines horseback riding with hands-on conservation efforts focused on endangered rhinos and elephants. Volunteers engage in daily monitoring, animal behavior research, and anti-poaching initiatives, all while traversing the stunning landscapes of the Imire Conservancy.
• African Big 5 Wildlife Conservation in South Africa: Situated in the Greater Kruger Area, this program immerses volunteers in the conservation of Africa’s iconic Big Five: lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo. Participants assist with animal tracking, data collection, and habitat preservation, contributing directly to the protection of these magnificent creatures.
• Endangered Black Rhino & Elephant Conservation in Zimbabwe: This project is dedicated to the preservation of the critically endangered black rhino and the African elephant. Volunteers participate in monitoring, data analysis, and community education initiatives aimed at ensuring the survival of these species in their natural habitats.
• Big Cat & Elephant Research & Conservation in Kenya: Based in the Greater Maasai Mara Ecosystem, this program focuses on the research and conservation of big cats and elephants. Volunteers conduct fieldwork, including tracking and monitoring animal movements, and contribute to the development of effective conservation strategies.
• Wildlife Photography & Conservation in South Africa: For those with a passion for photography and wildlife, this project offers the opportunity to develop your skills under the guidance of a professional photographer. Volunteers capture images that aid in conservation efforts, such as identification kits and health monitoring, while gaining practical experience in the field.

Involvement Volunteers International (IVI)

Involvement Volunteers International is a non-profit organization with over 35 years of experience in global volunteer placements.

They offer affordable program fees, comprehensive in-country support, and a commitment to ethical volunteering practices. Here’s a glimpse into some of their standout offerings:

• Turtle Conservation in Nungwi, Zanzibar: Located in the picturesque village of Nungwi, this program focuses on the preservation of endangered sea turtles. Volunteers engage in activities such as cleaning turtle tanks, collecting seaweed, monitoring turtle health, and assisting in the release of rehabilitated turtles back into the ocean. This hands-on experience contributes directly to the survival of these majestic creatures.
• Animal Care in Arusha, Tanzania: In the vibrant city of Arusha, volunteers work alongside local veterinarians to care for domestic and farm animals. Tasks include feeding, cleaning, administering treatments, and assisting with vaccinations. This program offers invaluable experience in animal welfare within a developing country context.
• Turtle Conservation in Nosy Komba, Madagascar: Set on the idyllic island of Nosy Komba, this initiative aims to protect and study sea turtles in a relatively unresearched area. Volunteers participate in scientific data collection, seagrass surveys, beach clean-ups, and community education to promote environmental stewardship and safeguard turtle populations.
• Lemur Conservation in Madagascar: Madagascar is renowned for its unique biodiversity, including the iconic lemur species. This program involves monitoring lemur populations, habitat restoration, and engaging with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these endangered primates.

Volunteering Solutions (VolSol)

Volunteering Solutions is renowned for offering affordable and impactful volunteer programs worldwide.

With a commitment to responsible volunteering, they ensure that projects are sustainable and beneficial to local communities and ecosystems.

• Sea Turtle Monitoring in Madagascar: Located on the picturesque island of Nosy Komba, this program focuses on the conservation of endangered sea turtles. Volunteers engage in activities such as monitoring nesting sites, collecting data on turtle populations, and participating in community education to promote marine conservation. This hands-on experience contributes directly to the preservation of these majestic creatures.
• Animal Rescue in South Africa: Based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, this project involves working with a local animal shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating domestic animals. Volunteers assist with feeding, cleaning, providing medical care, and facilitating adoptions, playing a crucial role in improving the lives of abandoned and neglected animals.
• Wildlife Volunteer Program in South Africa: Situated in a private game reserve near Port Elizabeth, this program offers volunteers the opportunity to work closely with Africa’s iconic wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Activities include monitoring animal behavior, assisting with anti-poaching initiatives, and participating in habitat restoration projects, all aimed at preserving biodiversity.
• Penguin and Marine Bird Rescue in South Africa: Located along the stunning coastline of Cape Town, this project focuses on the rescue and rehabilitation of African penguins and other marine birds. Volunteers are involved in feeding, cleaning enclosures, providing medical treatment, and educating the public about the importance of marine conservation. This program is essential in efforts to protect vulnerable seabird populations.

Global Vision International (GVI)

GVI has a reputation for offering ethical, impactful programs that make a tangible difference.

Each project is designed with sustainability in mind, ensuring that your contribution supports long-term conservation goals. Here are some of their standout programs:

• Volunteer with Desert Elephants in Namibia: Set against the stunning desert backdrop of Namibia, this program focuses on protecting one of the most unique elephant populations in the world. These desert-adapted elephants are essential to their fragile ecosystem, and volunteers assist with tracking, monitoring, and habitat restoration to ensure their survival. Whether you’re observing their movements or mitigating human-wildlife conflicts, this hands-on experience offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary creatures.
• Rescue Dogs for Wildlife Conservation in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: In the lush surroundings of Victoria Falls, this innovative program combines wildlife conservation with canine companionship. Volunteers work with trained rescue dogs to track poachers and protect endangered species like rhinos and elephants. Activities include assisting with training, conducting patrols, and raising awareness about the critical role these dogs play in safeguarding Africa’s wildlife. It’s a rewarding way to support cutting-edge conservation techniques while bonding with some remarkable four-legged teammates.
• Penguin, Dolphin, and Whale Conservation in South Africa: Located along South Africa’s spectacular coastline, this program allows volunteers to dive into marine conservation. From monitoring African penguins on rocky shores to conducting surveys of dolphins and whales in the ocean, participants contribute to essential research and conservation efforts. Volunteers also engage in community outreach to promote marine protection and sustainability. It’s a perfect opportunity for ocean lovers to combine their passion with impactful action.

Choose Your Adventure!

From the crystalline waters of Zanzibar to the sprawling savannahs of Kenya, volunteering with animals in Africa places you at the intersection of travel, cultural exchange, and meaningful conservation. Whether you dream of caring for orphaned rhinos, tracking elusive predators, or rescuing endangered seabirds, these programs offer something for every passion, skill set, and budget.

Embark on a life-changing journey, and return home not only with unforgettable memories, but also with the knowledge that you played a part in preserving Africa’s extraordinary wildlife heritage for future generations.