I feel like joining this program gave me a lot of confidence to move forward in unknown situations. This was part of my practical, so I did the work experience to graduate university but everyday felt like it was more and more fun. I am so thankful to everyone I met and the team there for helping me feel safe, comfortable and involved. I would 100% go back again.
Volunteer in South Africa
Explore International Volunteer HQ’s popular South Africa volunteer abroad program. Choose from a huge range of trusted South Africa volunteer projects, including Marine Conservation, Teaching, Sports Development, Surf, Skate & Swim, Childcare and Wildlife Conservation. Volunteer opportunities in South Africa are based in the Cape Town neighborhoods of Muizenberg and Table View, as well as Kruger National Park and Gansbaai. With affordable Program Fees and top rated volunteer projects trusted by over 155,000 travelers, IVHQ is the best volunteer organization in South Africa.
Highlights:
- 11 meaningful project options available year-round
- Program Fees from $285 for 1 week
- Includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals, and 24/7 in-country support
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Accommodation in local volunteer houses
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Community projects based in and around Cape Town and unique Conservation projects based in Kruger National Park and Gansbaai
Key information
Volunteer opportunities in South Africa
Protects animals
4-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $285
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month
- Based in animal shelters
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help out at a local animal shelter by caring for abandoned cats and dogs and improving their quality of life through nurturing and play.
Increases access to education
3-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $285
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month
- Based in childcare centers in Cape Town
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Support under-resourced childcare centers that serve disadvantaged children by bringing your enthusiasm and energy to their daily operations. Engage in meaningful activities, assist with lessons, and help create a nurturing and supportive environment for the children.
Increases access to education
3-4 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $463
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based in kindergartens in low-income communities
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Volunteer in kindergartens in low-income communities, helping to provide fun activities, learning, development and general care for children who range from babies to 6 years old.
Supports community development
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $463
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based out of Table View
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help to organize and run fun activities for students during their school holidays.
Protects animals
6-7 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $1520
- Duration: 2 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based at sea & a Marine Center
- Volunteers aged 18+
Contribute to important marine conservation projects on South Africa's beautiful coastline. You'll spend time at sea, helping research and protect populations of sharks, whales, dolphins, penguins, seals, and seabirds.
Improves health & wellbeing
3-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $285
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month
- Based in local schools
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Volunteer in schools that don’t have physical education teachers, allowing students to play and practice games in a structured learning environment.
Improves health & wellbeing
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $463
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based at after-school programs
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help to organize, refine and run sports on after school programs for students aged between 6-15. Play local sports or introduce your own, encouraging improvement, teamwork and fun.
Improves health & wellbeing
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $355
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month
- Based at after-school beach programs
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Contribute to after school projects focusing on giving children from disadvantaged communities productive time being active and supported. Teach students how to surf and act as a mentor.
Improves health & wellbeing
3-5 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $502
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start every Monday
- Based at after-school programs
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Help to run an after school program with a difference for local students from low-income communities. Teach children aged between 10-16 how to surf, skateboard and swim, encouraging positivity, fun and learning outside the classroom.
Increases access to education
3-6 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $285
- Duration: 1 - 24 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of each month
- Based in elementary schools
- Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Assist teachers in local primary schools and help students aged 6-12 learn English, as well as supporting in other parts of schooling where it’s required.
Protects animals
6-8 hours volunteering per day
Program Fees from $985
- Duration: 2 - 12 weeks
- Programs start on the first and third Monday of every month
- Based in Balule Game Reserve
- Volunteers aged 18+, or 16+ accompanied
Incredible experiences await as a volunteer preserving iconic African wildlife in South Africa's spectacular Kruger National Park. You’ll help local conservationists with a range of protection and research activities.
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
MH
Mairi Hannah
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PL
Payton Lee
Volunteering was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I gained so much more than I ever expected, personal growth, a new perspective on life, and meaningful connections with people from different backgrounds. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me develop a deeper sense of empathy, gratitude, and purpose. For anyone hesitant about volunteering, my advice is just to take the leap. It’s natural to feel unsure, but the impact it can have on you and those you help is truly life changing. You’ll come back with memories, lessons, and a sense of fulfilment that will stay with you forever.
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LF
Luise Fichtner
I had a really nice experience and learned more about the culture, language and people in the township where I worked in South Africa. I feel a bit more self reflected and think more about what's really important in life. That's what I would say to people who think about joining as well.
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JB
Jonathan Buckingham
The local coordinator and team were amazing. The coordinator was warm, welcoming, and very organized. She made everyone feel right at home and handled any issue that came up. I would highly recommend this program to anyone looking for a smooth experience.
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Webinar: Volunteering abroad in South Africa with IVHQ
Considering volunteering abroad in South Africa? Watch the replay of our webinar where our experts will answer all your questions, give their top program recommendations, and give you tips and tricks to make the most of your volunteer abroad program.
Popular add-ons & experiences in South Africa
Take your volunteer experience to the next level with these popular add-ons and experiences. Explore your options below and learn how to book them once you've been accepted onto the IVHQ South Africa program.
Airport Drop-off
Enjoy a stress-free ride from your accommodation to the airport, organized by the local team.
$33
Double Private Room Upgrade - Protea Room
Upgrade to a private double room with a private bathroom (ensuite). Price is a per person cost.
From $257
Single Private Room Upgrade - Elephant Room
Upgrade to a private room while volunteering in South Africa.
From $342
Airport Drop-off
Enjoy a stress-free ride from your accommodation to the airport, organized by the local team.
$33
Double Private Room Upgrade - Protea Room
Upgrade to a private double room with a private bathroom (ensuite). Price is a per person cost.
From $257
Single Private Room Upgrade - Elephant Room
Upgrade to a private room while volunteering in South Africa.
From $342
Single Private Room Upgrade - Protea Room
Upgrade to a private room with a king single bed and ensuite.
From $514.5
No experiences or tours for Table View, yet...
Check what's required to visit South Africa
Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important you monitor this right up until you depart for your trip.
