Animals in Wonderland – International Volunteer Experience
About the Program
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to volunteer at Animals in Wonderland Wildlife Sanctuary & Learning Adventure Camp in South Africa!
This program offers international students hands-on experience with our captive-bred wildlife, participation in educational programs for local children, and immersion in South African culture and conservation.
You’ll not only help care for our beloved animals but also assist with our children’s holiday clubs, educational talks, and sanctuary activities — all while learning valuable skills in wildlife care, education, and community outreach.
Program Highlights
Assist in caring for our sanctuary animals (feeding, enrichment, habitat cleaning).
Take part in Wildlife Educational Talks and Reptile Shows at schools and community events.
Support our Holiday Club programs, helping kids connect with nature through fun, creative activities.
Learn about South African wildlife, conservation, and animal behaviour from experienced handlers.
Experience authentic South African culture, food, and nature.
Make lifelong friends and memories in a peaceful, purpose-driven environment.
Program Duration
- Minimum stay: 1-2 weeks
- Maximum stay: 1 month
- Flexible start dates throughout the year
Program Costs
To help cover accommodation, meals, training, and animal care, volunteers contribute:
Contact Jeru for the information and costs.
Cost Includes:
- Shared volunteer accommodation (on-site)
- 3 meals a day
- Airport pickup and drop-off (Port Elizabeth/Gqeberha)
- Training & orientation
- Volunteer T-shirt and certificate
- Excursions to local attractions (beach days, nature reserves, or cultural trips)
Excludes:
- Flights and travel insurance
- Personal expenses
Daily Schedule (Example)
- 06:00-06:30 – Morning animal care and feeding
07:30 – Breakfast
09:00 – Educational activities or sanctuary maintenance
13:00 – Lunch break
14:00 – Sight seeing – exploring the Eastern Cape
17:00 – Free time / Sunset walks / Beach visits
18:00 Animal Night Routines - 19:00 – Dinner & reflection
Who Can Apply
- Students aged 18+ (gap year, university, or post-graduate)
- Passionate about wildlife, nature, and working with children
- Willing to get hands-on, help where needed, and learn new skills
- English-speaking (basic conversational level required)
Volunteer Benefits
- Gain real-life wildlife and education experience
- Receive a Volunteer Certificate of Participation
- Build your CV with hands-on conservation and community work
- Experience the heart of South African wildlife up close
- Be part of a cause that makes a lasting difference
How to Apply
Email: jeru@animalsinwonderland.co.za
Include:
- Full name and age
- Nationality and passport number
- Dates you’d like to volunteer
- A short motivation letter on why you want to join
At Animals in Wonderland, our Volunteer and Learning Program is built around five fascinating subjects that give participants a unique, hands-on educational experience — blending wildlife care, practical skills, and a deep appreciation for nature.
Here’s what we focus on:
Falconry
Learn the ancient art of falconry and experience the incredible bond between human and bird of prey. Volunteers are introduced to our raptors — including Mia the Spotted Eagle Owl and Dash the Harris Hawk — and help with daily care, feeding, handling, and flight training sessions. You’ll discover how falconry connects trust, discipline, and conservation.
Herpetology
Get up close with reptiles as you explore their world through our reptile educational program. Learn how to handle snakes safely, care for lizards and tortoises, and understand their vital role in ecosystems. You’ll also assist in Reptile Talks for local schools, sharing knowledge and helping others overcome their fears.
Herbology
Discover the power of plants in nature’s medicine cabinet. This subject explores local herbs, edible plants, and natural remedies used for animal care and wellness. Volunteers help grow and maintain our herb gardens, learn how plants support both animals and people, and make simple herbal products like salves or teas.
Cooking and Baking
From baking delicious treats for our visiting children to preparing meals using fresh ingredients, this subject brings warmth and creativity into the kitchen. Volunteers learn essential cooking skills and traditional South African recipes — and even get to bake for special events, parties, or charity days. It’s a sweet way to share love through food!
Zookeeping
Gain real-world experience in animal care and management. You’ll help feed, clean, enrich, and observe our diverse animal family — from meerkats and monkeys to macaws and caracals. This subject teaches responsibility, empathy, and teamwork, while deepening your understanding of what it takes to care for wildlife ethically and compassionately.
Together, these five subjects form the heart of our program — nurturing knowledge, kindness, and a lifelong connection to animals and the natural world.