Want to help protect endangered species? Join this amazing penguin rescue centre in South Africa and support the conservation of vulnerable seabirds.
This project mainly focuses on the African penguin but also cares for a variety of other marine birds. The African penguin, also known as the black-footed penguin, is the only penguin species that breeds in Africa. It’s found only along the coasts of South Africa and Namibia.
Sadly, their numbers have dropped dramatically in recent years. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed them as endangered. The main cause is likely overfishing, which depletes their food sources. Oil spills are also a major threat to these beautiful birds.
This project includes a public education centre where you can help lead guided tours and raise awareness about marine conservation.
The core of the work happens at the penguin and seabird rehabilitation centre. As a volunteer, you’ll help with everything that comes with caring for these animals, from cleaning enclosures and preparing meals to feeding and general care.
There is also an intensive care unit for the sickest or most injured birds that have just arrived, and you’ll have the chance to assist there too.
Your day starts with a short team meeting at 8:00 am, followed by a range of hands-on tasks. In the beginning, there’s a lot to learn but after a few weeks, you’ll be confidently helping with many parts of the daily care routine and gaining loads of insight into these fascinating animals.
Kim vrijwilliger in Zuid Afrika
Bedankt voor alles want zonder jullie was het niet gelukt!
Seppe vrijwilliger in Zuid Afrika
Ik heb in Ecuador, Peru en Zuid-Afrika gewerkt en alleen maar positieve ervaringen en belevingen gehad. Zowel de projecten, de gastgezinnen, het vrijwilligershuis, alles was top!
Working hours
You’ll work 5 days a week from 08:00am to 5:00pm. If you’d like to work extra days, that’s always possible.
Colleagues / Who you’ll work with
The team changes slightly each year, but usually includes:
6 permanent staff
4 students
Around 4 international volunteers
Around 20 local volunteers (working 1 day a week)
1 veterinarian
Language spoken on the project
English is the main language spoken. Since most team members are well-educated, their English is generally quite good.
Holiday periods
This project cares for animals, so it’s open all year round.
Accommodation
There are two guesthouses with private kitchens. You might have your own room or share with someone else. There’s WiFi, a washing machine, and regular cleaning. The beach is just a 5-minute drive away.
Transport to and from the project
Volunteers share a rental car. Costs are split, approximately $85 per week.
Useful items for the project
If you’ve got a little extra space in your luggage, the project will be very grateful for supplies. Please check with us first to see what would be most helpful.
Airport pick-up
You’ll receive a warm welcome at Port Elizabeth airport from our local contact. You’ll then be taken to your accommodation. After that, we’ll help you get local currency, a South African SIM card, and do your first grocery shop. On your first evening, you’ll go out for dinner with your housemates, always a fun welcome!
The next day includes a Code of Conduct session, a township tour, and time to get familiar with your new surroundings. It might feel a bit strange at first, but you’ll adjust quickly. After a few days, you’ll attend a workshop on South African history, safety, customs, and culture, and then you’re ready to begin your new adventure!
Free time
Check out our optional trips to explore what you can do in your downtime! Since you’re in such a beautiful destination, it’s definitely worth seeing more of the country.
Your contact person
Jacco is the local contact in South Africa.
For this project, we are looking for volunteers who want to contribute to the protection of endangered penguins and other seabirds. You will be working at a rescue centre for African penguins, the only penguin species that breeds in Africa.
Projects in South Africa are ideal for young volunteers aged 18+, but also for the 50+ age group.
Affinity with Animal Welfare: Enthusiasm for animal care is, of course, essential.
Initiative and Proactivity: Being able to work independently and take initiative is important.
Patience and Empathy: You’ll need to be understanding and patient when working with animals.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect for local customs and traditions is a must.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Be prepared to adapt to different circumstances in South Africa.
Communication Skills: Good collaboration with local staff and other volunteers is essential.
Team Spirit: Teamwork is key.
As a volunteer, you’ll help clean enclosures, prepare food, and feed and care for the penguins. You may also support the visitor centre and assist with intensive care for sick birds. Working hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00am to 5:00pm, with the option to work extra days if you'd like.
Your stay in South Africa will offer opportunities for personal and professional growth, cultural discovery, and unforgettable experiences.
If you’re passionate about animal welfare and ready to take on a meaningful challenge, this project in South Africa is perfect for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of these beautiful animals.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
1 week: $449 (minimum stay is 6 weeks)
Each additional week: $289
Shared car rental: approx. $85 per week
*All prices in AUD.
Before departure
Online introductory meeting
Information package with details about South African culture and customs, plus a preparation checklist including insurance, money matters and travel tips
Pre-departure training
Support with applying for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Access to the online community
Help with your visa application
Support with booking your flight (upon request)
During your stay
Airport transfer to the project, including a one-night hotel stay
Local orientation
Help with visa extension (if required)
Ongoing support throughout your stay
Homestay accommodation with your own private room
Upon return
Evaluation session
Certificate (on request)
The chance to stay involved via our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flight
Vaccinations
Visa
Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Meals
Travel insurance
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