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Croatia, Split5/5 (2 reviews)

Animal rescue sanctuary volunteer programme

On the island of Brač near Split, care for donkeys, horses, goats and other animals rescued from abandonment, neglect or abuse in an animal sanctuary.

Where
Split, Croatia
Length
From 1 to 12 weeks
Minimum age
16 years old
Language
English basic

from €1,725 for 2 weeks

Check availabilityTalk to the team

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The project

This mission offers hands-on experience with animals rescued from abandonment, neglect, or abuse, within an animal sanctuary located on the island of Brač, accessible by boat from Split.

The sanctuary provides a natural and caring environment for animals that need care, attention, and time to regain their confidence. It is home to donkeys, horses, ponies, goats, rabbits and cats.

Volunteers directly contribute to their daily well-being and help provide them with better living conditions.

A project we follow
Projects chosen with care and followed through regular visits on site.

A typical week

The mission schedule may change depending on the season, particularly due to temperatures and weather conditions.

In summer, for example, activities at the sanctuary take place in the late afternoon, in order to avoid the hottest hours of the day. Schedules may therefore be adjusted depending on the time of year and the needs of the animals.

Accommodation and meals

Accommodation in a youth hostel, in single-sex dormitory rooms for 4 to 8 people with air conditioning (private rooms available upon request). Free Wi-Fi 24/7. The accommodation also has a shared kitchen, a garden and shared terraces.

The hostel is located in a quiet and safe area of the city of Split, close to the beach, within walking distance of the city center, with a bus stop nearby.

Animal Protection Missions in Croatia

Tasks vary from day to day, but may include:

  • Cleaning the shelter facilities, which takes up a large part of the day.
  • Animal care: brushing and grooming to ensure their hygiene and well-being.
  • Games and walks to socialize the animals, keep them fit and entertain them.
  • Photography and videos to create an identity booklet for each animal, in order to promote their adoption.
  • Improving the animals’ living conditions: maintaining green spaces and building fences.

As the animal protection mission in Croatia is physical and can be messy, it is important to wear appropriate clothing. Boots will be provided on site, and a changing room is available.

A Sanctuary Located on an Island

As the sanctuary is located on an island across from Split, volunteers need to take into account the daily travel by boat and other local transportation.

Volunteers should budget approximately €10 to €15 per day for transportation costs, including boats and the necessary travel to reach the island.

Additional information

Three meals per day, every day: breakfast, lunch and dinner (local style). Vegetarian, gluten-free and lactose-free meals are also available upon request.

Budget

How long are you going for?

2 weeks

Arrivals Sunday, all year round

Total programme budget€1,725

That is, per week€863

Each extra week

Check availability for 2 weeks

What is included

  • Airport pickup at Split Airport on Sunday and transfer to the accommodation
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Material and equipment
  • 24/7 support

Not included

  • Flights
  • Return transfer to the airport
  • Daily transportation between the accommodation and the project
  • Personal Insurance

Where your money goes
Donations are reinvested in full and directly into the local associations. How the costs break down

How to fund my project

See the budget week by week
LengthTotal programme budget

Responsible travel by Freepackers

Why not take your time?

Extend your trip in Croatia

No volunteering here: a tour with local guides, at your own pace. The team arranges it with your stay, in the same enquiry.

You can add it when you fill in your enquiry.

Getting ready to leave

Your application

An up-to-date CV and a cover letter describing your background and what brings you here.

Insurance

For any project abroad, Freepackers requires travel insurance covering accidents, illness, repatriation and third-party liability. With Chapka Cap Student, you get 5% off.

Online language lessons

With Clic Campus: video lessons and an e-learning platform, from home.

Animal rescue sanctuary volunteer programme8 photos

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