Paola protected the Big 5 in South Africa
I learned a lot about the conservation of animals and the environment, which sparked a strong interest in this field.
South AfricaPaola’s incredible experience for the study and protection of the Big 5 in South Africa!
What this experience brought me…
This experience was a true revelation for me.
I learned a lot about the conservation of animals and the environment, which sparked a strong interest in this field. Moreover, I became aware of my own capabilities and learned many things about myself. In short, this experience opened new horizons for me and allowed me to grow both personally and professionally.
What were the tasks assigned…
The tasks entrusted to me included monitoring the animals, cleaning the reserve, setting up and maintaining camera traps, as well as various general support duties on site.
Do I recommend this experience?
Absolutely! I recommend this experience 100%.
It offers a unique opportunity to grow and learn by participating in this project. It’s a total immersion into a world you wouldn’t have suspected, and it’s truly amazing!
If I had to rate it, I would give it a 5/5 without hesitation!
I also recommend Freepackers, as I encountered no issues with them and was taken care of from the moment I arrived at the airport!
Frequently asked questions
Is volunteering in South Africa safe?
All the projects are very safe and you will have continuous support from a local team present on site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Even so, every volunteer is briefed on arrival in South Africa about risks and safety, particularly in urban and tourist areas. We strongly advise following the local organisations' recommendations so that the programme runs smoothly.
How do I sign up?
To begin with, simply request a call (15 to 30 minutes) through our calendar. A member of the team will call you at the time you asked for, to introduce our organisations and the RealStep and Freepackers international opportunities that suit you.
We will then email you a selection of projects. To put yourself forward, send us the completed registration form along with other documents such as your passport and, in some cases, a criminal record check.
What does it take to join a Freepackers project?
All it takes is motivation, good health and an open mind. No specific skills are required; the programmes adapt to your profile. The conditions for taking part are set out on the programme pages or in the brochures available to download.
Can you combine several volunteering projects in South Africa?
Yes, and taking part in several humanitarian programmes is even encouraged for placements, gap years and longer volunteering. Here is an example of a 12 week itinerary combining community and environmental work in South Africa:
- Weeks 1 to 4: Hoedspruit nature reserve, Big 5 conservation
- Weeks 5 to 7: Gansbaai, marine protection and shark conservation
- Weeks 8 to 10: Cape Town, education project and community work
- Weeks 11 to 12: Cape Town or a local environmental project, combining environment and community impact
Why choose a mix of projects?
A complete, balanced experience. Immersion in several environments. Environmental and social impact. Ideal for a gap year, a break in your studies or a personal project. A strong addition to a CV and to university applications.
This programme is offered on a 12 week basis, but it can be adapted to your availability (minimum 2 weeks per project).
How long should you volunteer in South Africa?
The ideal length for a humanitarian trip or a placement in South Africa is between 2 and 12 weeks. The minimum is 2 weeks, and for visa reasons it is difficult to extend volunteering beyond 12 weeks in South Africa.
For gap years, placements or long term volunteering beyond 12 weeks, it is perfectly possible to combine a project in South Africa with one in Namibia or Botswana, as transport between these countries is plentiful and straightforward.
What are the requirements for volunteering in South Africa?
Although specific requirements vary with the organisation and the project, some qualifications and skills are generally needed.
First, a good command of English is essential, as it is the main language used on most programmes.
Volunteers also need good communication and interpersonal skills, in order to work effectively with local people and with other volunteers from a range of backgrounds.
Volunteers must also hold a valid passport and travel insurance.
