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Volunteering with children & wildlife
in South Africa
Education, conservation and real impact on the ground
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I still remember my arrival…
And that moment when I saw giraffes roaming freely along the road.
You instantly realize you’re not in a place like any other.
Located near Kruger National Park, DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage is set in an environment where wildlife is truly part of everyday life.
Since 2006, this project has been working to raise awareness among children from nearby villages about the environment, health, and civic values, while also caring for wild animals that are unable to survive on their own.
MY FIELD PERSPECTIVE :
Here, the impact goes beyond the animals: it reaches the children… and therefore the future.
What makes this project even more powerful is that some of the people working here today were once students themselves. It represents a real opportunity for the younger generation, while also being a place that shelters animals that cannot be released back into the wild.
Why this mission is unique
Here, you don’t just come to help…
you share knowledge.
A deeply human mission
You support children in discovering nature and wildlife… while helping them build their future.
→ A role that goes far beyond volunteering.
A real immersion
You become part of the center’s daily life.
You take part, observe, and learn.
→ No tourism here. Just real, hands-on experience.
Animals at the heart of the project
Animals are not here to be “seen.”
They are part of an educational program.
→ You contribute to their well-being while understanding their role.
A tangible and lasting impact
Here, what you do truly matters.
For the animals, but above all for the children
(and you genuinely feel it on the ground).
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Your mission
What?
A unique mission combining education and wildlife conservation.
In practice, your days alternate between:
– time spent with children
– educational activities
– animal-related tasks
Here, you are truly involved in the daily life of the center.
Who?
This mission is for you if:
– you are 18 years old or older
– you are comfortable speaking English
– you are motivated, curious, and committed
No specific qualifications are required — your mindset is what matters most.
When?
All year round (from mid-January to mid-December)
Arrivals and departures take place on Saturdays.
How long?
From 1 to 12 weeks, with the possibility to stay longer for a deeper immersion.
Shall we talk about it together?
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What your mission includes
(and your contribution)
Your contribution directly supports:
– children’s education
– wildlife protection
– the day-to-day running of the center
Here, every action has a real impact.
What’s Included in Your Fee
What’s not included
These elements remain your responsibility to give you more flexibility.
Vaya Planet support: before, during, and after your mission
Transfers to/from Hoedspruit
On-site accommodation (tiny house option available at an extra cost)
3 meals per day
Laundry service and daily cleaning
Wi-Fi in common areas
International/domestic flights
Tourist visa
Travel/medical insurance (mandatory)
Personal toiletries (shampoo, sunscreen, insect repellent)
Excursions or personal activities
Contributions vary depending on the duration of your stay, the time of year, and the type of accommodation.
Each contribution directly helps fund the project on-site.
Here, nothing is “touristic”, you are part of a real commitment.
Example contributions :
Full transparency, no hidden fees.
1 week
→ 710€ - $780
3 weeks
→ 1850€ - $2.020
8 weeks
→ 3600€ - $3.970
Want to be sure you’re making the right choice?
Each project is different, and places are limited.
Let’s talk together to see if this mission truly matches your profile.









