Volunteer Information

No prior experience is necessary but for health and safety reasons, a high level of English comprehension (written and verbal) is essential.  Priority will be given to applicants with wildlife experience and applicants who are enrolled in tertiary studies within the applicable positions.

No.  Food and lodging is free for working volunteers.

Wildpark Africa projects are situated within the Limpopo Province which is characterised by  very hot weather in summer (temperatures may exceed 35ºC) from September to April so  cool clothing (preferably neutral in colour) and footwear is advisable. The cooler months are May to August (lowest temperatures are 2-4 ºC, with average day time temperature around 22ºC) and it gets cold at night and early in the mornings. (Check the actual weather for SA on www.weathersa.co.za.)

In addition, the following items are essential for all projects:

• Sunscreen/Sun-block
• Sunglasses
• Water Bottle/s
• Binoculars and Camera
• Insect repellent
• Torch/Flashlight
• Working gloves
• Day Backpack (for walks)
• First Aid Kit (if you have one)
• Bath towels
• Converter/Adapter

• When choosing which shorts or pants you would like to wear, please be sure to select ones which you don’t mind getting dirty
• Due to the nature of some of the work, we suggest volunteers do not wear skirts
• Enclosed shoes, sneakers or hiking/work boots
• Hat
• Raincoat (if you’re coming during summer: Nov-March)
• Scarf and gloves (if you’re coming during winter: June-Aug)

Wildpark Africa cannot be responsible for the costs of any accidents or injuries that may be incurred during your time during the program. If you are not covered by the insurance policy held by your university, school or organisational group, you are advised to take our private travel or health insurance.

Yes. There is free WiFi throughout camp.

Yes.  Wildpark Africa is not responsible for any visa requirements you might have so before you arrive from overseas, however in the case where you need to change your visitor’s visa to a volunteer visa for long term stays, we can discuss the necessary procedures and direct you to the appropriate government departments.

Simply complete the Volunteer Application Form on the website. You will be advised of your acceptance via email. 

While Wildpark Africa cannot make your travel bookings, we are very happy to assist you and give advice. There will be someone from the project to pick you up from the specified places below. All pickups take place once a month for volunteer admissions.

Shuttle: Citybug.co.za is the best service departing from JHB airport to Machadodorp five times a day. Be sure to select Milly’s Caltex Petrol Station, Machadodorp as your destination point and we can pick you up there.

Car: 280 km from Johannesburg (240 Km from Pretoria) on the Nelspruit road (N4) to Waterval Boven. Proceed past Waterval Boven on the N4, through the tunnel and after 3.6km turn right at the Bergwaters Eco Lodge sign. Cross over railway line and follow signs to Bergwaters Eco Lodge (1.4km gravel path). Once the Bergwaters Eco Lodge entrance has been reached proceed past entrance for another 100m and enter the Nature Reserve.

Malaria is not prevalent in our remote valley in the Mpumalanga mountains. They prefer the hotter climates in the lower regions near Nelspruit. Best of all is to minimize your contact with mosquitoes by using repellent lotions, sticks or sprays such as ‘Tabard’ or ‘Peaceful Sleep’.

There is off grid electricity at Wildpark Africa. South African electricity is 220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles a second, plug outlets are 15amp, three-pin (round).

A washing machine is available for washing clothes once week.

Your cell phone will automatically switch on to the South African Vodacom or MTN-service if you have international roaming activated, before you leave home.  Alternatively, you can purchase a South African SIM for your mobile phone or an international calling card. MTN offers the best service in the area.

The South African currency is the Rand. For up to date currency conversions, visit  www.xe.com. It is helpful to carry a small amount South African Rand (e.g. ZAR five00) with you; you will find a currency exchange bureau at the JHB international airport you also can access ATMs with your credit card and purchase items with your debit card.

There is no concern about safety at Wildpark Africa, the game reserve is guarded by our dogs electrically fenced, and town is also safe during our town trips. But like everywhere in the world security is everybody’s responsibility.

Most visitors to South Africa receive a 90-day tourist/travel visa. However, check with the South African embassy before you leave your country.

No, as a volunteer you are not getting paid for your work.