FAQs
What kind of volunteering can I do?
There are many different types of volunteer programs around the world, but we focus on some of the best Africa wildlife volunteer programs available. You can get involved in hands-on wildlife research, animal care and husbandry, wildlife veterinary experiences, support land management initiatives, and even contribute to marine conservation efforts in southern Africa.
Where should I volunteer abroad?
The ideal destination depends on your interests, but southern Africa is one of the most diverse and rewarding regions for international volunteering. From working with big game species to preserving fragile ecosystems, it’s a place where your impact can be truly meaningful.
Is volunteering abroad safe?
We are one of the most trusted names in volunteer travel, and the health and safety of our volunteers is our top priority. With the expertise of our team and our comprehensive safety protocols, we’ve helped thousands take part in volunteer work in Africa with confidence and peace of mind.
We're ABTA-accredited, ATOL-bonded, and follow strict UK and international travel standards. That means complete protection, legally and financially, for your booking. We also have our own on-the-ground support team, available 24/7. You can find more information on how our volunteers travel with confidence at the dedicated page.
Is volunteering abroad with animals ethical?
Volunteering with animals abroad sounds amazing - and it is! But with us, it's not just about getting up close to the wildlife, it's about doing good the right way, and this is what makes the best volunteer abroad programs stand out from all the rest.
We only partner with wildlife sanctuaries and rehabilitation centres in Africa that comply with the animal welfare guidelines established by SATSA and ABTA. This guarantees that our projects uphold the highest standards of care, conservation value, and ethical treatment of animals.
For more information on the topic of supporting ethical wildlife volunteering abroad, please refer to our Animal Welfare page.
And we only partner with wildlife research projects where animal populations are either fully self-sustaining or largely sustainable with minimal human support - a model we refer to as "assisted sustainable". This approach allows animals to live as naturally as possible, which is vital for ensuring high standards of animal welfare and enabling genuine conservation efforts.
For more information on the topic of supporting sustainable wildlife management, please refer to our Wildlife Populations guide.
What are the best places to volunteer abroad?
Many of our travellers say southern Africa has the best volunteer programs, and it’s easy to see why! With exceptional wildlife and expert-led conservation projects, it’s not just our opinion - it’s what past volunteers consistently tell us. You can read about their experiences on our Reviews page.
What are the requirements to volunteer abroad with wildlife?
A small selection of our programs have specific requirements, which you can read about on their individual pages, but for most of them - no previous experience is necessary.
Are there any age restrictions for volunteering abroad?
We create experiences for wildlife enthusiasts aged between 16 and 70+, so there’s usually a good mix of age groups at all our locations, and we do our best to schedule trips with people of a similar age, depending on your interests and availability and each project's capacity. We are happy to chat to you about this in more detail.
How long can I volunteer for?
You can join a project for as little as 1 week, or stay for up to 12 weeks or more. There’s flexibility to make the most of your time abroad, at a Single project or a Combined experience.
Why volunteer with African Conservation Experience?
As southern Africa’s original conservation travel company, African Conservation Experience offers more than just travel - we create customised, ethical experiences, shaped by qualified zoologists and conservationists. With our own operations team on the ground and dedicated support from start to finish, you'll join vital conservation initiatives that genuinely make a difference. It’s this expert care and long-standing credibility that make us a trusted choice for some of the best volunteer programs in Africa.
Are there any testimonials from previous volunteers?
Absolutely! In addition to our Google Reviews, we're thrilled to showcase first-hand stories from people who've joined our most popular volunteer programs. Their experiences speak volumes about what makes an African Conservation Experience so special.
How do I join a popular wildlife volunteer program?
Take the first step on your adventure by simply submitting an enquiry form. We offer volunteer opportunities based on your experience, goals, and interests. You can visit a Single project or even combine multiple projects to create an exciting Combined experience. You can find out more about how we take time to create a customised African Conservation Experience that’s just right for you here.
We can't wait to speak with you about the best volunteer opportunities in Africa!
