Overview
Volunteer Work with Vervet Monkeys in South Africa

This volunteer project looks after over 500 monkeys, of which most are vervet monkeys, indigenous to South Africa. This hands-on project gives you the chance to get involved in just about all aspects of the work done at the centre, including preparing for and feeding the many baby monkeys received by the centre each year. Joining GVI to volunteer in Africa will give you the opportunity not only to work with these fascinating wild relations of ours but also to spend time in South Africa’s picturesque Letaba district, at the foot of the Wolkberg Mountains, and not far from attractions like the famous Kruger National Park.

View Film Footage, images, blogs, stories from the field, video diaries and more at the programs media centre

For anyone who has a passion for monkeys, this volunteer project is one not to miss – it is really hands-on with the monkeys. The people, the place and the monkeys were all incredible and hopefully something I will be visiting again.

Catherine Denby

What Difference Does This Project Make?

The project was established in 1993 to help orphaned and injured monkeys. On average, the project receives and looks after 20 babies per year and 20-30 juveniles and adults. The project received the Care Center award in 2002. Currently the foundation runs the biggest rehabilitation center for monkeys in South Africa. As well as caring for the monkeys, the center also runs outreach programs and gives talks at schools, clubs, organizations and conservancies, which all volunteers may have the opportunity to be involved in.

Highlights

Working alongside primatologists, learning to handle baby vervet monkeys, helping look after rescued monkeys, going on a variety of side trips to explore the beautiful surrounding area and game parks such as Kruger National Park (which can be arranged at the foundation).

Location

The project is based near Tzaneen, a town in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. Tzaneen is located in South Africa's picturesque Letaba district at the foot of the Wolkberg Mountains and is a five hour coach ride from Johannesburg and about one and a half hours drive from the Kruger National Park. The area has so much to offer those who visit it, including some of South Africa's most famous attractions, stunning landscapes and spectacular wildlife.

Field Conditions

This is a bush camp so be prepared for a truly outdoor experience! Although relatively basic, the living / sleeping conditions are comfortable and the camp is fully equipped with a sink, fridge, showers with hot and cold water, and eco-toilets. Each volunteer shares with one other in a wooden cabin. The cabins have built in single beds with mattresses. We provide a pillow, mattress, sheet and pillowcase. There are free laundry facilities. Please note that only vegetarian food is provided (which has had great reviews from past volunteers!).

There is a private upgrade cabin available. The cabin is suitable for couples, those preferring single accommodation or who prefer a quieter nights sleep. The cabin includes a double bed, duvet and pillows, mosquito net, outside fire area and firewood, two camping chairs, rechargeable lanterns, laundry collected and returned and a once a week cabin cleaning service. Please contact GVI for more details on price. The extra fee goes directly towards long term projects to help the monkeys.