Youth volunteer projects in South Africa are perfect for teenagers looking to volunteer or take a gap year abroad, offering a chance to grow, develop new skills, and make a meaningful impact. These experiences build confidence, leadership, and teamwork abilities while contributing to both humanitarian and animal-focused initiatives. Volunteering broadens perspectives, connects young people with new opportunities, enhances future career prospects, and enriches educational experiences. Plus, it’s a rewarding way to give back and inspire positive change—all within a safe and supportive environment, giving parents peace of mind while their children are on one of our youth volunteer projects.
Our youth volunteer projects have different age requirements depending on the specific program. Below, we have listed the minimum ages for each project in South Africa that we can accept volunteers on that, are under 18 years old and the conditions.
Our Animal Sanctuary volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 14 when accompanied by a guardian and aged 16, if unaccompanied. For younger participants accompanied by a guardian, permission may be granted on a case-by-case basis—please enquire for details.
Our Exotic Primate Sanctuary volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 16 if accompanied by a guardian.
Our Horse Rescue, and Rehabilitation volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 14 when accompanied by a guardian and aged 16 if unaccompanied. For younger participants accompanied by a guardian, permission may be granted on a case-by-case basis—please enquire via email for details.
Our Marine Conservation with Sharks, Whales and Penguins volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 17 years of age if unaccompanied by a parent or guardian.
Our Monkey Rescue and Rehabilitation volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 16 years old if accompanied by a guardian out of baby monkey season. A minimum age of 21 years old is required when dealing with newborn baby monkeys in the birthing season. For younger participants accompanied by a guardian -strictly out of baby monkey season – permission may be granted on a case-by-case basis. Please enquire via email for details.
Our Sports Development volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 17 if unaccompanied by a guardian.
Our Township Crèche volunteer project in Knysna welcomes volunteers aged 16 of a minimum age of 16 years old if unaccompanied and younger if accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Our Wildlife Rescue, Rehabilitation and Clinic volunteer project welcomes volunteers aged 16 when accompanied by a guardian.
Please fill out the form below if you’d like more information about our youth volunteer projects- or others- and prefer to be contacted via WhatsApp or email.
Family Volunteering: A Life-Changing Adventure!
Volunteering as a family is an unforgettable and rewarding experience that brings parents and children closer while making a real impact. It’s a chance to explore the world together, immerse yourselves in new cultures, and teach your children valuable life lessons through hands-on experiences.
If you’re looking for a meaningful break but don’t want to leave your family behind—or if you want your children to experience the wonders and realities of life in a developing country—our carefully selected youth volunteer projects offer the perfect opportunity.
Authentic Volunteering – These aren’t just short-term experiences with more sightseeing than impact. You’ll be part of real, ongoing projects that make a difference year-round.
Safe & Family-Friendly – Our youth volunteer projects are chosen to be safe and well-suited for young children.
Flexible & Enjoyable – You’ll have plenty of free time to explore, with days off.
We welcome children aged 14 and up, with some projects allowing slightly younger ages if with a guardian. We’re also happy to tailor experiences to best suit your family’s needs.
Create memories. Make a difference. Volunteer together for the perfect family adventure!
