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Great 4.44rating (124)
  • Life On Land

Chimpanzee Sanctuary Jane Goodall Institute

location
1 - 3 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Help traumatised chimps recover and thrive in a safe, naturalised environment.
  • Bring the Jane Goodall Institute's work to life.
  • Get to know the unique and charming personalities of 33 chimpanzees.

Highlights

  • Help traumatised chimps recover and thrive in a safe, naturalised environment.
  • Bring the Jane Goodall Institute's work to life.
  • Get to know the unique and charming personalities of 33 chimpanzees.
  • Enjoy a morning game drive in Kruger National Park.
  • Help raise awareness of this endangered species.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    50+

    About the program

    Volunteer at Chimp Eden and help create a brighter future for chimpanzees!

    About the Project

    Through decades of research and advocacy, Dr Jane Goodall has paved the way for chimpanzee conservation. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute to carry forward her mission, championing the protection of chimpanzees and other great apes while safeguarding their delicate ...

    About the program

    About the Project

    Through decades of research and advocacy, Dr Jane Goodall has paved the way for chimpanzee conservation. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute to carry forward her mission, championing the protection of chimpanzees and other great apes while safeguarding their delicate ecosystems.

    Chimp Eden is South Africa's first and only chimpanzee sanctuary and is run by the Jane Goodall Institute South Africa. Chimp Eden provides a haven for chimpanzees rescued from harrowing circumstances. Many of its residents bear scars from the bushmeat trade, human-wildlife conflicts, the illegal pet trade, and exploitation in entertainment venues. Rescued and relocated to Chimp Eden, these incredible primates underwent a period of recovery, learning to climb, forage, and build social connections with other chimps. 

    Due to the trauma many of the chimps experienced, they are unlikely to be released. Instead, the team, with the help of volunteers, pour their energy into providing the chimps with the best life possible and one that mirrors life in the wild. The chimps now thrive in large, naturalised enclosures and have formed troops with fellow rescues. Chimp Eden is open to visitors and works to inform the public about the harms of the illegal wildlife and exotic pet trade, the importance of protecting natural habitats and inspiring change to reverse chimpanzees' endangered status.

    As a volunteer at Chimp Eden, you'll play a vital role in supporting the chimpanzees' well-being. From preparing meals, crafting enrichment, assisting with construction, and observing and documenting chimpanzee behaviour and interactions, you'll help contribute to their physical and emotional rehabilitation. This experience goes beyond the daily tasks. It's about being part of a global effort to combat wildlife exploitation, learning about the intricacies of primate conservation, and immersing yourself in the beauty of South Africa's landscapes. Each day offers the chance to make a tangible difference, leaving a legacy of hope and compassion that resonates far beyond the sanctuary.

    Prior to Arrival

    • Most countries, including the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, do not require a visa to enter South Africa and are granted entry for up to 90 days upon arrival. However, you will need at least two blank pages in your passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the country.
    • You will need to fly into Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) on your project start date, where a project representative will meet you.
    • Medical tests are required to join this project. You must provide evidence that you do not have Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV and TB before arrival.

    Typical day

    Arrival Day

    A project representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the sanctuary (approximately a 40-minute drive). After settling in, you'll have the chance to meet your fellow volunteers, followed by a welcome dinner and an orientation session led by the project facilitator.


    Projec

    Typical day

    Arrival Day

    A project representative will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the sanctuary (approximately a 40-minute drive). After settling in, you'll have the chance to meet your fellow volunteers, followed by a welcome dinner and an orientation session led by the project facilitator.


    Project Days

    A typical day will include morning and afternoon activities, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Your morning session may include enrichment, food preparation and distribution, or observing the chimps. After lunch, you may participate in a construction and maintenance task or clean enclosures before witnessing the chimps' excitement as they settle in their night dens. You'll be involved in all aspects of chimpanzee care, joining the sanctuary staff in their daily routines and getting to know the chimps' unique personalities along the way!


    Days Off

    If volunteering for 12 nights, you’ll have 2 days off to explore some of the surrounding area. You'll have a morning game drive in Kruger National Park on one of these days, followed by an evening braai. The next day, a trip into the local town will be arranged to collect supplies, which you are free to join, although you may wish to relax at the sanctuary or arrange an excursion (at your own expense). With stunning nature reserves on your doorstep, there's a whole host of adventures that await you.


    Departure Day

    On your last day of the project, you’ll be transferred back to the airport for your return flight home or to begin your onward travel plans.

    Free-time activities

    On the 12-night and 26-night durations, you'll have two days off. One of these days will include a morning game drive to Kruger National Park, followed by an evening braai. The following day, a trip into the local town to collect supplies is arranged, which you are free to join if you wish, or ...

    Free-time activities

    On the 12-night and 26-night durations, you'll have two days off. One of these days will include a morning game drive to Kruger National Park, followed by an evening braai. The following day, a trip into the local town to collect supplies is arranged, which you are free to join if you wish, or perhaps you'll prefer to relax at the sanctuary or arrange a visit to the Lowveld Botanical Gardens, Sudwala Caves, or Montrose Falls (please note, these excursions are at your own cost). 

    On the 7-night option, volunteers will experience the morning game drive to Kruger National Park, followed by a relaxing afternoon and evening braai. 

    Each evening, volunteers will enjoy hilltop sunsets and nights around the fire pit!

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Other Skills

    No specific skills are required to join this project; however, some physical activities are involved. Therefore, we recommend volunteers come with a moderate level of fitness.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    Airport transfers, accommodation, three meals per day, tea, coffee and drinking water, all volunteer activities at the project site, a morning game drive in Kruger National Park, and a conservation donation to Chimp Eden.

    Airport Pickup at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport

    You will need to arrive at Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) on your project start date. There, you will be greeted in the arrivals hall and taken via private transfer to the sanctuary, which takes approximately 40 minutes.

    Accommodation

    Volunteers will enjoy comfortable twin-share rooms allocated on a same-sex basis (couples will be allocated a room together). Each room is well-equipped with fresh linens, convenient plug sockets, and a fan. Plus, every room has its own en-suite bathroom, complete with a Western-style toilet, shower, sink, and mirror for your comfort!

    Food & Beverages

    Three meals a day are provided while on the project. Lunch and dinner will be freshly prepared for you, while breakfast will feature a selection of cereals, bread with spreads, eggs, and fresh fruit. You'll have traditional African Braai (BBQ) nights and visit local shops where you can purchase additional snacks and drinks.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) in Nelspruit. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Start Dates for a 7-Night Duration

    In 2026 - May 30th, June 6th, 31st October, November 7th

    In 2027 - May 8th, May 16th, July 17th, July 25th, November 14th

    Start Dates for a 12-Night Duration

    In 2026 - March 15th, March 29th, April 12th, April 26th, May 10th, June 14th, June 28th, July 12th, August 2nd, August 16th, October 4th, October 18th, November 15th

    In 2027 - March 14th, March 28th, April 11th, April 25th, May 30th, June 13th

    Start Dates for a 26-Night Duration

    In 2026 - March 15th, April 12th, June 28th, August 2nd, October 2nd

    In 2027 - March 14th, April 11th, May 30th, August 1st, October 10th

    All start dates are subject to availability. Please contact us to check whether your preferred start date is still available! 

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $886 per week 1 - 3 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    1 - 3 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.4
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2024
    Een ongelooflijke ervaring om deel te mogen uitmaken van dit centrum waar de nood voor hulp zeer hoog is, de hitte de vochtigheid, de regen ...
    Godelieve Meuris

    Orangutan Wildlife Center

    Location

    Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Nelspruit

    Meet your project coordinator

    Emily
    124
    reviews
    4.44
    Great
    2003
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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