Connecting you with
Amazing Experiences
Across Africa.
Join our ethical conservation and community working holiday projects. Make a tangible difference while experiencing the adventure of a lifetime.
10 000+
Volunteers Served
4
Iconic Destinations
20+
Years of Experience
100%
Ethical Projects
Your Call to Africa Starts Here
Volunteer Encounter offers an experience of a lifetime to anyone with a passion for travel, Africa, its people and wildlife. We offer hands-on, purpose-driven experiences that bring you closer to Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, and communities. Our projects are tailor made to make a positive difference in the world’s most magical continent.
Our approach brings conservation and community together – supporting local communities while protecting the environments and wildlife that make Africa so extraordinary.
This is more than just a trip, it’s about gaining perspective, building connections, and experiencing Africa in a unique way. Your call to Africa starts Here.
TOP PICKS
Our Featured Projects
Antelope Park, Zimbabwe
Safari Stables
Starting from £1219 GBP
Join our Safari Stables Working Holiday at Antelope Park (Zimbabwe) which was chosen as the best project of 2025!
Kruger Park, South Africa
Kruger Project
Starting from £2746 GBP
Make a difference to South Africa’s big 5 project. Work to preserve the conservation for future generations.
Antelope Park, Zimbabwe
Community & Wildlife
Starting from £958 GBP
Be part of our goal to improve education, by providing essential individualised classroom support to kids eager to learn and prosper.
Experience the Raw Beauty of Africa.
Join thousands of volunteers who have made a lasting impact on
wildlife and communities.
Our Destinations
Explore our carefully selected locations across Africa, each offering unique landscapes, wildlife, and community needs.
Zimbabwe
South Africa
Zambia
Zanzibar
Reviews
Why Choose Volunteer Encounter?
It’s not easy choosing a volunteer project or a volunteer organization. Time, money and dreams of how you can contribute to different causes are incredibly precious to you, and must be weighed up. We know that because most of us started as volunteers as well.
That’s why we’d like to present to you the top reasons why we think you should consider us at Volunteer Encounter
One
We have an excellent track record, we have many years of experience in running our own projects and have excellent reviews!
Two
We put back much more into communities and conservation than what the volunteers contribute through their project fees.
Three
We offer 24 hour on the ground support to volunteers, and a proper detailed induction program upon arrival to prepare you for each project.
Four
Our association with ALERT (African Lion Environmental Research Trust,) puts us at the forefront of a pioneering lion conservation program.
Five
We offer unique activites at Antelope Park, like elephant and rhino interactions, horse management and community developement.
Six
We have seen how much people enjoy their time in Africa, and we’ve seen many of them returning to their original projects time and time again.
Explore our Different Projects in Africa
Horses
Wildlife
Community
Marine
Family
Combo
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions we get asked about volunteering with us
What is the Minimum Age?
For Antelope Park projects, if you are 16 years old you’ll need a legal guardian with you (close family member over 18 years old) and if you are 17 years old you’ll need a signed Parental Consent Form.
For the rest of our project, the minimum age is 18 years old.
How long can I volunteer for?
You can volunteer from 1 weeks to 12 weeks maximum. Please note that in Victoria Falls we can also offer shorter placement on enquiry.
What’s included in the program cost?
- Accommodation
- 3 meals a day
- Daily housekeeping and regular laundry service
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
- All daily transfers to and from your projects during your stay
- Comprehensive orientation and training program
- 24-hour, on-site support by our friendly and knowledgeable staff
- Wifi is included
Where does the project fee go to?
Your payment goes directly back into the project. It facilitates funding for items such as resources, building materials, equipment and project supplies. It also covers operational costs such as housing, communication and project vehicles.
Do I have to pay any extras before arrival?
Yes. You need to make your own arrangements for:
- Your flights to and from the project’s specific airport.
- Your visa.
- Your travel insurance.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Wifi is included in your package.
Will I have to pay for anything once on a project?
Personal items that you may want to buy, such as toiletries or gifts are not included.
Also, there is an additional cost to be paid locally to cover excursions and any visas they may require for border crossings.
Don’t forget to check the extra activities list!
Will someone meet me on arrival?
Of course! Our experienced Volunteer Manager will meet you at the airport upon arrival and transfer you safely to the project. There will usually be other volunteers arriving at the same time and it’s a great time to start making connections.
What if my flight arrives at a later time?
The program cost includes transportation to and from the project-specific pick-up point. However, if you arrive outside of our standard flight days or time, we can organize a private transfer at an additional cost.
Just remember to always stay in touch with your Project Manager if your flight gets delayed or cancelled, as they will be able to inform you how to proceed next.
What is the weather like?
For detailed weather breakdowns, see the FAQ for each location on the Destinations Page.
Is working with wild animals dangerous?
Yes, wild animals are wild; but rest assured, when you arrive at your project you will get a proper orientation about our safety protocols.
It is important to know there are risks and mishaps could occur, but they are very rare. It is essential to pay attention and follow the rules at all times!
Will I have free time to travel around?
Yes, of course! Your weekends are off and we arrange extra trips and excursions with reputable tour partners.
While our staff members normally don’t chaperone volunteers during their free time, you will be accompanied by trained tour guides.
What happens if I have a medical emergency?
In the case of an unusual medical emergency, our project teams are equipped to deal with various situations and have strict protocols in place. If hospitalization is needed our Volunteer manager will send you to Midlands Private Hospital.
Do I book my flights myself?
Yes, but our Destination Specialists will provide you with our flight requirements and will be able to give you the best advice on how to choose a perfect flight.
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Have questions or need to enquire? Get in Touch our team to find out more information.