African Wildlife Refuge
Oudtshoorn, Western Cape
For nearly 5 years, this facility has been a sanctuary for over 90 species of animals — a place where conservation meets compassion. Here, you’ll have the rare chance to get up close and personal with wildlife that depends on your care and dedication.
If you’re passionate about animals and ready to make a real difference, this is your opportunity. In return for your support, we offer an unforgettable experience that connects you with nature and leaves a lasting impact — on both you and the animals you help protect.
Oudtshoorn, Western Cape
Oudtshoorn is a charming town located in the Klein Karoo region of the Western Cape, South Africa.
Between the semi-arid Karoo and the lush Garden Route, makes it uniquely rich in both desert-adapted species and forest wildlife — a rare ecological crossover.
Thanks to its Klein Karoo location, Oudtshoorn enjoys a hot, dry climate with clear skies most of the year (+- 300 Days) — perfect for outdoor adventures, wildlife visits, and stargazing.
- Arrival (Monday): Pick-up from George Airport (GRJ), orientation tour, shopping, and settle in
- Day 2 (Tuesday): Full Ranch tour, meet the team, and begin volunteer duties
- Days 3–5 (Wednesday–Friday): 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
- Starting with a morning meeting, followed by tasks, lunch and afternoon volunteer activities. Evenings are free time.
- Following Weeks: Continue weekday volunteering with weekends off; depart on a Monday
Your hosts will meet you on your arrival in George either at the airport or at your bus stop.
The trip from George back to Oudtshoorn will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
Depending on how tired you are and once you have been shown around your new accommodation, you will be taken on a brief orientation tour of the area, as well as to do any essential shopping you may need to do. You will then be left to settle into your new “home away from home”.
Either on the evening of your arrival or on the following morning, your host will orientate you regarding the environment you will be working in, run through your duties, expectations, house rules etc. and answer any questions you may have.
The next morning you will be taken to the Ranch where you will be given a complete tour of the Ranch itself as well as the breeding centres. You will also be introduced to the Ranch’s directors, managers, curators and the staff that you will be working with. After some final paperwork, you will start directly on your duties.
Founded in 1977 as South Africa's first crocodile show farm, this facility has evolved into a world-class conservation and education center. In the decades since, its mission has shifted from display to purpose — focusing on the protection, care, and education around endangered wildlife species.
Today, the ranch is home to over 90 species of animals and reptiles, including several rare and endangered ambassadors. While a small crocodile population remains, they now play a leading role in species preservation — most notably as one of the largest cheetah breeding centers in the world.
Our team of professionals provides expert care while using education to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and environmental responsibility.
This commitment has earned the ranch:
- Institutional membership with WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums) — one of only six African members.
- Accreditation from PAAZA (African Association of Zoos and Aquaria) — one of just four institutions on the continent to hold this honor.
Help us by:
- Cleaning animal enclosures
- General maintenance of the grounds
- Perimeter hikes to ensure safety and security of the animals
- Prepping food and feeding animals small to large
- Providing care and enrichment activities for the animals
- Sometimes research and data collection
Daily Schedule:
(Subject to change depending on program needs)
Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, fully immersed in meaningful, hands-on conservation activities.
Your day begins with morning responsibilities, including cleaning animal enclosures and night houses, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for the animals in our care. After a short break, you'll assist with preparing enrichment activities designed to stimulate natural behaviors and promote animal well-being.
Following lunch, you'll help distribute enrichment items, observe animal interactions, and assist in recording behavioral responses — all essential to our species-specific care programs. You may also be involved in basic maintenance and facility upkeep, contributing to the smooth operation of the sanctuary.
After 4.30pm your time is yours. This balance of structured work and personal freedom creates a fulfilling and enriching volunteer experience and weekends are free to explore.
Luxury double story volunteer lodge on the Ranch
Meals
- Breakfast: Basic ingredients provided at the lodge (tea, coffee, milk, bread, spreads, fruit, cereal, etc.)
- Lunch: Provided on weekdays by the Ranch restaurant
- Dinner: Prepared by the lodge manager (weekdays only)
- Weekends: Meals not included (personal shopping done during the week for meal prep)
- Dietary needs: Allergies and special diets (including vegan) can be accommodated — please inform us during registration