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Great 4.45rating (27)

Penguin Sanctuary Support

location
6 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Experience the South African way of life by living with a Host Family or amongst other participants in the shared volunteer house.
  • Contribute to the protection of an endangered species and play your part in their conservation
  • Further your career working with animals by making a difference in another country

Highlights

  • Experience the South African way of life by living with a Host Family or amongst other participants in the shared volunteer house.
  • Contribute to the protection of an endangered species and play your part in their conservation
  • Further your career working with animals by making a difference in another country
  • Make memories by travelling in your spare time around one of the world's most beautiful cities, Cape Town.
  • Explore the rest of the 'Safari Superpower' South Africa and see incredible animals in their natural environment.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    By contributing at the penguin sanctuary, you work side by side with wildlife specialists and you'll be making a big impact on the conservation of this endangered species

    With their population decreasing by nearly 90% in the last 50 to 60 years, the African penguin is now one of the world’s most endangered species. Commercial fishing is a major cause, as it leaves the penguins with very little food to find. Oil pollution is another big contributor and also the lack ...

    About the program

    With their population decreasing by nearly 90% in the last 50 to 60 years, the African penguin is now one of the world’s most endangered species. Commercial fishing is a major cause, as it leaves the penguins with very little food to find. Oil pollution is another big contributor and also the lack of protected breeding grounds results in penguin parents struggling to protect their eggs and hatchlings from predators.

    The penguin and seabird project in Cape Town is in a lagoon area, about 20 minutes from the city centre. The rehabilitation centre is an important sanctuary for various species of seabirds, including the extremely endangered African penguins, albatrosses, petrels and skuas. You’ll work closely with other volunteers from around the world, as well as local veterinarians and rehabilitation workers, to find animals, treat them and release them back into the wild. The centre is split into different areas, so you may find yourself working indoors helping the animals who are being treated, or you may be outside working along the sea.


    Typical day

    A typical working day starts around 8:00 am and finishes at about 5:30 pm, five days a week, including weekdays, weekends, and public holidays. It can be hard work, with long shifts, so it’s good to be prepared for a busy schedule Task can include: 

    • Cleaning and disinfecting animal enclosures, ...

    Typical day

    A typical working day starts around 8:00 am and finishes at about 5:30 pm, five days a week, including weekdays, weekends, and public holidays. It can be hard work, with long shifts, so it’s good to be prepared for a busy schedule Task can include: 

    • Cleaning and disinfecting animal enclosures, pools, mats, and feeding equipment
    • Supporting laundry and cleaning of equipment used in bird care
    • Preparing food for birds (fish mash / species-appropriate feed)
    • Feeding African penguins and other seabirds
    • Assisting with medication, hydration, and basic care of birds
    • Supporting with bird handling and basic rehabilitation support

    Note: The list provided is intended as a general orientation rather than a fixed or guaranteed set of duties. Tasks may vary depending on the season, number of volunteers, project needs, duration of the placement (longer stays may involve more responsibilities), as well as prior experience and skill level.


    Free-time activities

     Cape Town is one of the most picturesque major cities in the world and has millions of tourists visit every year. It is world-renowned for it's breathtaking landscapes, yet also it's wildlife. They are numerous safaris available, which many volunteers will try on their days off. It also has a huge ...

    Free-time activities

     Cape Town is one of the most picturesque major cities in the world and has millions of tourists visit every year. It is world-renowned for it's breathtaking landscapes, yet also it's wildlife. They are numerous safaris available, which many volunteers will try on their days off. It also has a huge range of marine animals, and for the thrill seekers, there's even the chance to go shark cage diving! It is a major international city, so there are loads of opportunities to go shopping and areas to visit.

    Table Mountain is also one the world's major tourist attractions, which everyone who goes to Cape Town will hike.


    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)

    Required Documents

    CV, letter of motivation, criminal background check and visa document

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    A passion for working with animals is essential. Any previous experience or education with animals is beneficial, but not required.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 08:00 - 17:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    What's Included

    • Organization of the entire stay including placement in the project
    • Non-binding flight consultation
    • Individual advice from the RGV-Team in Munich
    • Support with your travel preparations (Vaccinations, insurance, safety, etc.)
    • Comprehensive RGV Travel-ABC for your travel preparations
    • Rainbow Family T-Shirt (available within EU only)
    • Orientation program with the local team
    • Personal contact and guidance by the RGV Team on site
    • 24/h emergency number
    • Accommodation in a private apartment close to the project location
    • Airport transfer on the agreed arrival and departure days
    • Certificate of participation / internship
    • Introductory course on personal development

    Airport Pickup at Cape Town International Airport

    One of our friendly team members will be ready and waiting at the airport, to make sure you're fully comfortable in your new environment.

    Accommodation

    The modern apartment is located on the upper floor of Jemaine’s (our team leader) property and accommodates up to two people in twin beds. The accommodation is within walking distance of the project site and is fully equipped with everything needed for everyday living.

    This includes a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi is also available. A special highlight is the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area and Table Mountain.

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Food & Beverages

    Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in Cape Town. 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

    Before you even depart, the team will take you through every step of the process, from answering your questions about the programme, through to advising you where to go for your visa. We are here to help you and to ensure that you feel totally comfortable (and prepared!) before departing.

    For your volunteer work in South Africa, you will land in Cape Town, and we accept arrivals in on Mondays and Thursdays. Here you will be welcomed at the airport by a member of the team in South Africa. From here, we drive you directly to your accommodation in Cape Town. The drive from the airport is a first small highlight as you'll get your first glimpse of Table Mountain. The rest of the day is used to move into your accommodation and get to know your new surroundings.

    Once settled, your stay begins with an orientation. As soon as you arrive, we will give you your South Africa starter package, which includes a city map, SIM card, and other useful things to make your stay easier. In addition, you will explore Cape Town on a guided hop-on hop-off city bus tour with a 1-day ticket included. During an orientation program, you will learn more about South Africa and its people. Our team will introduce you to a bit of the Cape Town slang and give you valuable safety, transportation, money tips and much more. 

    You can travel to your project by bus or Uber, which are both convenient options depending on your schedule and how comfortable you are with the local transport. Your program will start with an introduction day, and then you will get straight to work. The team at the project will explain your schedule and daily tasks to you.

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

    Program Fees

    $361 per week 6 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    6 - 12 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
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    Meet your project coordinator

    RGV
    27
    reviews
    4.45
    Great
    1999
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate response rate
    Spoken languages: German, Spanish, English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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    Price details