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Impact Volunteers Africa

Wildlife volunteering in Africa, priced in rand

or browse all 9 trips
9 programs
vetted conservation projects
4 countries
across Southern Africa
From R16 000
every price in rand
Free to apply
you pay only once dates are confirmed

Discover the trips on the map

Nine conservation and marine programs across South Africa, Namibia, Mozambique and Malawi. Tap a pin, or a country to zoom in.

See all 9 trips

From browsing to booked

Nothing is paid until your dates are confirmed with the project. You deal with Vivienne the whole way.

  1. 01

    Browse

    Find a project that speaks to you

  2. 02

    Check Availability

    Make sure your dates and spot are open

  3. 03

    Speak with IVA

    Talk it through with the Impact Volunteers Africa team

  4. 04

    Confirm the Project

    Lock in your placement and the details

  5. 05

    Book & Prepare

    Book your spot and get ready with our onboarding

Across our partner projects: 120+ volunteers placed and 15 000+ volunteer hours contributed.

Vivienne van Zyl, founder of Impact Volunteers Africa

One person, from your first question to your flight home

“As a new organisation, building trust is extremely important to me. I want participants to feel comfortable asking questions, understanding the costs involved and knowing what will happen at every stage of the process.”

Vivienne van Zyl, Founder, Impact Volunteers Africa

  • 16+ years working internationally
  • Marine conservation programs
  • Volunteer coordination & program management
  • Master's Degree in Education Management
  • Qualified PADI Dive Instructor

Free guide to volunteering in Africa

What to ask, what it costs and how to choose an ethical project.

Questions people ask

Who can apply to volunteer?

Most programs require a minimum age of 18, basic English communication skills, and no formal qualifications. Each destination page lists its specific requirements.

How do I apply?

Complete the application form on our Apply page — it takes a few minutes. Submission does not guarantee acceptance; every application is reviewed by Impact Volunteers Africa and the host organisation before confirmation.

What is included in the program fee?

Inclusions vary by program but typically cover accommodation, most meals, airport transfers, orientation and training, and daily project supervision. Flights, visas, vaccinations and personal expenses are not included.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is required before arrival at every placement.

Do I need vaccinations or medical checks?

Some programs have mandatory requirements — for example a TB test, rabies vaccination and malaria prophylaxis for the Malawi placement. We confirm the exact requirements for your program during the application process.

Can I choose my start date and how long I stay?

Each program has its own start days and duration options — from 1 week up to 13 weeks depending on the project. You choose your preferred start date and stay length in your application.

Is a deposit or application fee required?

Applying is free. We check availability with the host organisation first and come back to you before any payment is discussed. Once you choose to go ahead, a once-off IVA registration fee applies alongside the program fee, and full payment details and terms are provided with your acceptance. Our Terms & Conditions are available to read before you apply.