volunteers

Make a Difference at Zanchieta Wildlife Rescue! 🦁

As a volunteer at Zanchieta, you’ll work hands-on with rescued animals, assist with daily operations, and experience the beauty of South Africa’s Free State—all while hearing lions roar at dusk and dawn!

🌍 About the Project

Zanchieta is a rescue and rehabilitation center providing a permanent home for wild animals that cannot be released back into the wild. We care for non-breeding lions, monkeys, servals, caracals, warthogs, meerkats, and more—many of whom have been abandoned, injured, or traumatized. Our mission is to ensure their health, safety, and well-being.

Volunteers play a vital role by helping with feeding, cleaning, building enclosures, and creating enrichment activities. You’ll also have the chance to learn about wildlife conservation and experience the Free State’s breathtaking nature.

📅 Project Details

✔ Start Date: Anytime throughout the year
✔ Location: Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
✔ Minimum Duration: 14 days (extensions available)

✅ Volunteer Requirements

✔ Basic English proficiency
✔ Willingness to follow instructions
✔ Moderate fitness level
✔ CV/Resume or completed application form
✔ Copy of return flight itinerary
✔ Travel Insurance (medical, travel, and trip cancellation – proof required)

🏡 Accommodation

Wake up and fall asleep to the sounds of nature! Volunteers stay in a 10-room lodge, just steps from the animal enclosures.

✔ Shared rooms (2–4 volunteers per room)
✔ Communal braai area (BBQ)
✔ Shared bathroom & relaxation area with books and a pool table

🍽 Meals (Included in Program Cost)

✔ Breakfast: Freshly prepared daily
✔ Lunch: Toasted sandwiches, wraps, hotdogs, vetkoek, etc.
✔ Dinner: Hot meal (traditional braai, stews, casseroles, fresh veggies, meats)
✔ Drinks: Tea, coffee, and tap water included (other drinks at own expense)

Note: Special dietary needs (e.g., vegetarian, allergies) must be communicated before arrival. Volunteers with very specific diets may need to supplement meals at their own cost.

📶 Internet & Essentials

✔ Wi-Fi: Available for purchase
✔ SIM cards & data packages: Available in town

📦 Suggested Packing List:

✔ Casual work clothes (volunteer shirt provided)
✔ Semi-formal clothes for town trips
✔ Sunscreen, hat, swimsuit & towel
✔ Toiletries & personal medication
✔ Work boots/gumboots
✔ Flashlight & batteries
✔ Notebook & pen
✔ Proof of vaccinations
✔ Insect repellent
✔ Laptop (for personal entertainment)

💡 Important: South Africa experiences different seasons—check the weather before packing!

🎟 Additional Services & Activities

✔ Transport to town and back
✔ Skydiving (transport + DVD recording): On request
✔ Kruger Safari (Big 5 experience, transport & some meals included) (min. 4 people)
✔ Weekly laundry service
✔ Church visits or custom trips available upon request

Prices may change over time.

📌 Who is this program for?

✔ Animal lovers wanting to make an impact
✔ Students of veterinary medicine, animal care, biology, or conservation
✔ Anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience!

🚫 What’s NOT Included?

❌ Airfare & visas
❌ Travel & medical insurance
❌ Personal vaccinations & medications
❌ Extra activities not listed in the program

📩 Ready to Volunteer? Join Us Today!

📧 Email: volunteer@zanchieta.co.za
📞 Call: +27 72 200 3272
🌍 Website: www.zanchieta.co.za

📆 Want to stay longer? No problem! Let’s discuss options and make your adventure unforgettable.

🌟 Make a difference. Experience the wild. Volunteer at Zanchieta! 🌟