South Africa

Adventure meets impact on Africa’s southern coast.

Welcome to South Africa

South Africa is a country of breathtaking contrasts, where wild savannahs meet rugged coastlines, vibrant townships blend with bustling cities, and conservation and community empowerment go hand in hand. For those looking to volunteer in South Africa, this destination offers an incredible balance of adventure, purpose, and cultural immersion.

At Outreach Overseas, our South Africa volunteer programs connect you directly with locally driven projects that are making a real impact on the ground. Whether you’re monitoring big cats at a rescue sanctuary, supporting wildlife protection, uplifting rural communities, or assisting with community outreach initiatives, your time in South Africa contributes to long-term, sustainable change.

South Africa is more than just a place to volunteer abroad, it is a destination where you’ll grow, learn, and experience the power of meaningful, responsible travel. South Africa welcomes you with warmth, resilience, and unforgettable landscapes and offers countless opportunities to make a difference where it matters most.

Volunteer Programs in South Africa

Marine & Shark Conservation

South Africa
Dive into hands-on shark conservation and marine research in South Africa’s premier dive destination.

African Wildlife & Big Cat Conservation

South Africa
Protect Africa’s predators and help end exploitative wildlife practices.

Big Cat Conservation Sanctuary

South Africa
Help Protect South Africa’s Majestic Big Cats in a True Ethical Sanctuary.

Elephant Conservation & Research

South Africa
Walk alongside gentle giants, supporting research, conservation, and community outreach in South Africa’s Garden Route.

Community Upliftment

South Africa
Support children and strengthen communities through education and sustainability projects.

Wildlife Conservation

South Africa
Work hands-on with rescued and protected wildlife while supporting conservation efforts.

Habitat Conservation

South Africa
Restore landscapes, protect biodiversity, and help fight climate change in South Africa’s Klein Karoo.

Wildlife Conservation & Community Outreach

South Africa
Protect wildlife, empower communities, and experience the wild beauty of South Africa’s Eastern Cape.

Apply in 4 Easy Steps

Step 1: Choose Your Program

Explore our programs and find the one that fits your passion and goals.

Step 2: Submit your Application

Complete our quick and easy online application form to start the process.

Step 3: Confirm Your Spot

Pay your $199 confirmation deposit after acceptance and we’ll get you ready to go.

Step 4: Make an Impact

Travel to your destination, join your team, and begin your volunteer journey.

Impact Through the SDGs

Every South African program supports multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, SDG 4: Quality Education, SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14 & 15: Life Below Water & Life on Land, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

Why Volunteer in South Africa?

🐘 Track iconic species like elephants and rhinos in real conservation settings

🌊 Dive into marine megafauna monitoring on some of the world’s best reefs

🧱 Help build and improve infrastructure in rural and underserved communities

🌍 Support education, environmental awareness, and public health efforts

🤝 Be part of ethical programs developed in collaboration with local partners

South Africa is ideal for solo travellers, students, and gap year explorers, offering the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and impact.

Volunteer guide for Africa opportunities.

About South Africa

South Africa is one of the most ecologically and culturally diverse countries in the world. Its wildlife reserves are home to lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, and countless other species in need of protection, while its communities are rich in heritage, creativity, and collective strength. Yet, like many countries, South Africa faces challenges, from habitat loss and wildlife trafficking to unequal access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.

This is where responsible volunteering becomes powerful.

Through Outreach Overseas, volunteers join locally led conservation and community initiatives that address real needs identified by the people who live and work in these regions. Our South Africa volunteer programs focus on wildlife care, habitat restoration, community upliftment, and marine conservation, all designed to strengthen resilience and create lasting impact.

To volunteer abroad in South Africa is to step into a nation shaped by history, hope, and extraordinary natural beauty. You’ll work alongside passionate conservationists, dedicated educators, and community leaders who are actively building a better future. And through your contribution, you become part of that story, supporting positive change while experiencing one of the most captivating destinations in Africa.

Volunteer Excited at beach

Ready to Become a Volunteer?

Apply now, or speak with our team about which South African program is the best fit for you.

Choose your next step:

Apply Now to start your application and secure your spot in the program.

Enquire Here to get all the details you need from our team before you commit.

Stay in the Loop

Want to know when new destinations and programs launch? Sign up for updates and be the first to hear about our opportunities to travel with purpose.