Volunteer in South Africa

At which airport do I need to arrive?

You need to fly into Cape Town International Airport.

Do you organize airport pick-up for volunteers?

Yes, we arrange for your airport pick-up upon arrival for your volunteer project in South Africa. With prior trip information, you will be greeted at the airport by local staff.

What happens if I miss my flight or arrive late?

No need to worry about that. If you miss your scheduled flight and your arrival is delayed, adjustments will be made accordingly. As you will be provided with the necessary contact information and hostel address in your placement packet, please get in touch with us as soon as possible so that we may arrange for a new pick-up time, or you can hire a local taxi and arrive to the hostel.

If my project begins on Monday, when should I arrive? If I want to arrive earlier than the day when my assignment begins, where do I stay, and who will organize the accommodations? Does it cost me extra?

It is always advisable to arrive early if possible. We suggest you arrive one day prior to the beginning of the program. As all our volunteer work in South Africa programs start on Monday, you can arrive on Sunday, rest for a day, and then begin the project in better physical and mental shape.

If you arrive earlier than the program starting date, you can stay at our hostel paying an additional cost for food and accommodations. Inform our in-country coordinator of your plans, and they will help you make the arrangements.

Who will bring me to the airport for my departure?

We do not provide departure transportation to our volunteers after the completion of their individual projects. Our local staff can assist you in arranging transportation to the airport for your departure, but you will be responsible for the payment of this, so budget accordingly.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

There are number of steps you will need to take to prepare for your South Africa volunteer trip. Visit your doctor and get up to date on needed vaccinations. Buy your flight tickets and provide your itinerary to our in-country coordinator so they can arrange your airport pick-up. Prepare yourself financially to cover unforeseen expenses and transportation to your project each day. Make sure you have obtained your required travel insurance and taken the necessary action to obtain your visa.

Can I arrive earlier than the suggested date if I want to explore South Africa before starting the project?

Yes! You are welcome to explore South Africa before you start volunteering. You can either book a hotel for yourself or stay at our volunteer hostel at an extra cost during this time. Please inform the in-country coordinator so they can prepare and confirm your accommodation before your arrival, if you choose to stay in our volunteer hostel.

What happens on my first day of orientation?

Volunteers receive a comprehensive orientation session led by the in-country coordinator. This includes an introduction to your project, safety instructions, local customs and culture, transportation guidance, and tips on daily life in South Africa. You’ll also receive project schedules, contact numbers, and details about weekend activities.

Is transportation provided during the project?

Volunteers can use public transportation, taxis, or arranged shuttle services to commute between the accommodation and the project sites. Our coordinators provide guidance on the safest and most affordable ways to travel daily.

Where are the projects located?

Except for the Wildlife Conservation Project, which is located near Port Elizabeth, our projects are located in and around the fascinating and bustling city of Cape Town, South Africa, the oldest city in the country, surrounded by mountains and both the Indian and Atlantic oceans.

Is there a minimum and a maximum stay?

In general, our projects last from two to twelve weeks. However, certain projects have longer minimum time frames to which you must commit. Be sure to review the project pages for this information.

Can I extend my stay if I choose to?

Yes, it is possible for our international volunteers in South Africa to extend their stay. You can extend your travel visa (if needed) in South Africa without any complications. We can also provide assistance in finding other volunteering projects to join during your extended stay.

Will I have enough time to travel after work and during the weekends?

All of our programs are designed to be flexible enough to allow free time to go out and explore South Africa’s beautiful landscapes after work and during weekends. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy this exciting destination.

Who will guide or support me in my project?

Our in-country coordinator will support and supervise you throughout your volunteer project in South Africa. Likewise, our local staff will also stay in contact with volunteers either with timely field visits or via email and telephone. You can expect our field staff to visit you every two to four weeks to make sure that all things are going as smoothly as planned.

Can I switch projects if I do not like the one that I chose?

Yes, you can change your project if you find yourself struggling or experiencing any kind of discomfort. However, we work hard to make sure our participants have a pleasant and meaningful experience volunteering abroad. Thus, it is quite rare for our volunteers to change their initial projects. Reach out to your in-country coordinator to discuss this possibility.

Can I work in more than one volunteer program in South Africa at once?

Yes, you can work in more than one volunteer project once if you choose to. You simply need to get in touch with our country coordinator to begin the application process for your participation in additional volunteer programs.

Keep in mind that each project requires you to work for at least four to five hours daily. Therefore, it can be difficult for volunteers to complete all their duties and responsibilities if they participate in more than one volunteer project at a time. A more manageable alternative can be to spend half of your available time on one project of interest, and switch to another for the second half of your trip.

How old do I need to be to participate?

You must be at least 18 years of age to participate. Anyone who is below the minimum age (16 or 17) must provide us with a legitimate parental consent from their parents/legal guardians for our approval to join. Minors can also volunteer alongside their parents.

Who manages the volunteer projects in South Africa?

Once in South Africa, there will be many layers of support for you. All of our programs are extensively managed by our in-country coordinator from start to end, and the local staff at your chosen project will also offer you support and guidance. IFRE offers field support to volunteers to ensure a pleasing and worthwhile experience.

Will I receive training before the start of my volunteer placement?

IFRE provides training before the start of any volunteer placement. The nature of the training will depend on the difficulty and requirements of the project itself. You will most likely receive training and guidance in an orientation class run by our country coordinator and local staff members after arriving in South Africa. This will cover your service work and project schedule, safety measures you need to keep in mind, and the customs and culture of South Africa.

Is there a dress code in the project?

No, there is no dress code. However, we do advise our international volunteers in South Africa to wear modest and decent clothing.

What volunteer programs are available in South Africa?

In South Africa, we are currently offering childcare, teaching English, sports and physical education, social welfare, and wildlife conservation volunteer programs.

Can I request a specific project site or type of work?

Yes. Volunteers can indicate their preferred projects, such as childcare, wildlife conservation, or teaching English, during the application process.

Are the projects suitable for beginners or those without prior experience?

Absolutely. Most of our projects are designed to accommodate volunteers of all skill levels. For specialized projects like wildlife conservation, some basic training is provided to prepare you for hands-on work.

What language will be spoken at the projects?

English is widely spoken, and all projects are conducted in English. Some local staff may speak Afrikaans, Xhosa, or Zulu; an interpreter will support you in such cases. You can also learn some basic local language phrases, and coordinators can provide tips to help you communicate effectively.

Is food provided during my stay at the project?

Food arrangements vary depending on your accommodation type. If you are staying in hostel accommodation, breakfast is provided on weekdays. However, lunch and dinner are not included, and meals are not provided during weekends.

If you are placed with a host family, you will receive three meals a day on weekdays (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Please note that meals may not be included on weekends, allowing you the flexibility to explore local dining options.

Why pay to volunteer abroad?

IFRE serves as a non-profit volunteer organization that highly prioritizes offering life-changing volunteer abroad programs in 19 countries worldwide. IFRE supports local development projects to make a difference in the lives of people living in disadvantaged areas.

IFRE depends upon its application fees for the operation and management of its programs. Everything from the utility bills, rent, and advertisement to the salary of the staff and tax of the company is covered by this. The project fees are paid directly to the host country and the projects you are volunteering to help, so you can feel good knowing that the money you spend volunteering in South Africa is going directly to where it is needed most.

Why are IFRE’s fees so much more affordable than those of other volunteer organizations?

IFRE does not aim to earn profits or gain financial income through its volunteering projects. IFRE’s fees have always been affordable, as all the programs are tailor-made, and the money paid directly goes to the host country. There are no hidden costs or middlemen involved. This helps us to cut down on unwanted expenses. IFRE is also a financially transparent organization and works together with many international organizations to provide the most affordable and meaningful volunteer opportunities possible.

Can I get a tax deduction?

As a 501(c)3 organization, IFRE can facilitate tax deductions to those who wish to take part in any of its volunteer projects.

Can I get help to raise funds?

Yes, we provide support that will aid your endeavor to raise funds for your volunteer trip to South Africa. Contact IFRE to learn more.

For further readings:
Cost /money matter
Why to pay for volunteer abroad
How to reduce the cost of volunteer abroad
Pay fee directly to host family

How is the program fee used?

The program fee covers accommodation, meals, project placement, orientation, supervision, and 24/7 support. It goes directly to the local projects and host families to support their communities.

Can I pay in installments?

Yes. IFRE allows payment of the registration fee in two installments: part when submitting the application and the remainder before departure. Weekly project fees are paid directly to the country coordinator upon arrival or before your arrival.

Are there hidden costs?

No. IFRE is transparent about all fees. Volunteers should budget extra for personal expenses such as travel, souvenirs, optional excursions, or extra meals outside the program only.

Is it safe to travel in South Africa?

Yes, by all means, South Africa is a safe country to travel in. The safety of IFRE’s volunteers is always a matter of paramount importance to us. However, all international tourists need information and awareness about safety. We request that everyone volunteering in South Africa do research about the safety measures necessary for South Africa before leaving home. Travel opinions and advice always help to make your travel safer.

What safety measures should I take?

You will be picked up from the airport and safely transferred to the hostel. Once with us, we will provide you with an orientation session. During orientation, we will inform you about the safety measures, project sites, local etiquette and culture, and various dos and don’ts to make your volunteering stay comfortable, safe, and productive. Of course, you will need to take ordinary safety precautions, such as not wandering in dangerous areas alone or walking at night, being vigilant, and not carrying a large amount of cash on you.

What happens if I get sick?

You don't need to worry at all. Your health will be closely assessed and monitored by our staff on-site. If you get sick, our in-house coordinator and support staff will take you to a nearby clinic or hospital if needed. Be sure to bring along your passport and a copy of your insurance policy to present to the doctor.

Why must I get travel insurance before beginning my volunteer trip to South Africa?

Obtaining reliable travel insurance is required for all IFRE volunteers. This gives you a safety cushion should something happen to you. If your trip is cancelled, if you need any kind of medical treatment, if you need to return home, if your belongings are stolen, or if you have an accident, you will be covered. IFRE can assist you in obtaining an affordable and comprehensive insurance policy if you need help with this.

What Vaccinations do I need?

Vaccinations are highly advisable for our volunteers traveling to South Africa due to the various health hazards they might encounter. You should consult the Center for Disease Control's traveler's health recommendations (www.cdc.gov.). The main recommended vaccinations for South Africa are tetanus and diphtheria, hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies, and hepatitis B. For your personal health precautions and extra safety, you should consider consulting your doctor for further vaccine recommendations.

What are the principal health risks for volunteering in South Africa?

The primary health risks that you should be aware of while traveling in South Africa are malaria, HIV/AIDS, cholera, hepatitis B, rabies, typhoid, yellow fever, and tuberculosis.

For further readings:
Vaccination
Volunteer Health and Safety
Safety Tips for Your Volunteer Abroad Trip

Who should I contact if I experience an emergency during my stay?

You will have the contact details of the in-country coordinator and local staff who are available 24/7. In case of an emergency, you should contact them immediately. Volunteers are also required to have travel insurance, which can assist with medical emergencies if needed.

Is South Africa safe for solo volunteers or female travelers?

Yes. South Africa is safe, but volunteers should exercise standard precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, keeping personal belongings secure, and following the guidance of in-country coordinators.

How are volunteers supported if they experience homesickness or culture shock?

IFRE coordinators are trained to provide emotional and practical support. Volunteers can participate in group meetings, social activities, or one-on-one sessions to address challenges and help adjust to local life.

What if there is a natural disaster or extreme weather during my stay?

Your in-country coordinator will provide instructions and support. South Africa has well-established emergency services, and volunteers will be guided to safe locations if required.

Do I need a visa to travel to and volunteer program in South Africa?

Yes, you will need a tourist visa. Without obtaining a travel visa, you will not be eligible to stay in South Africa and take part in our programs. You can learn more about South Africa’s travel visa.

How do I apply for the visa?

The easiest way to apply is to go to the South African embassy in your home country. You will need to have your original passport with you, along with a couple of passport-sized photos, and to fill out the visa application form provided by the Immigration Department of South Africa. You will have to pay a certain fee for the visa application. You can expect to obtain the visa in a couple of weeks. Depending on your nationality, you may be eligible to obtain your visa upon arrival at the airport in South Africa. Do some research online to determine what the requirements are for your home country.

Can I extend my visa while I am in the country? Can you help me with this?

Generally speaking, extending a South African tourist visa for volunteer work in South Africa is not difficult. You just need to pay a visit to the Immigration Department of South Africa, and the rest will be taken care of by the government officials. We can assist you if you need help from our local staff.

Can I volunteer in South Africa on a tourist visa?

Yes. Most volunteers use a tourist visa. You must comply with local visa regulations, which typically allow stays of 30-90 days depending on nationality.

Can minors volunteer in South Africa?

Yes, minors under 18 can volunteer with IFRE, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you are 16 or 17, you can volunteer with written consent from your legal guardian.

Is volunteer work in South Africa considered paid employment for visa purposes?

No. IFRE volunteers are unpaid and participate in community service, which is permitted under a tourist visa.

How do I contact IFRE’s local coordinator?

You will be provided with the personal information and contact details of our local staff members and in-country coordinator before your arrival. You can simply call them or send an email, and they will be happy to help you.

How can I communicate with my family from South Africa?

Contacting your family during your volunteer program in South Africa is effortless. There’s internet access available everywhere in South Africa, so you can video chat with them via Teams or chat with them on Facebook. You can also call them directly from your mobile phone, but it can be costly without the use of a local SIM card.

Can I use my phone?

Yes, you can use your personal mobile phone during your volunteer experience abroad. However, you will need to contact your current provider prior to travel to ensure your phone will work while traveling to another country.

Can I buy a SIM card in South Africa?

Yes, you can buy a local SIM Card in South Africa even if you are foreigner. Again, you will need to check with your current provider prior to leaving for your trip to determine if your phone is unlocked and will function with the foreign SIM card.

How can I get/purchase internet services?

First you will need to buy a local SIM card from the local vendor shops. You need your original passport for documentation and a recent passport-sized photo to fill out an application form. Once you have done that, the vendor will give you the SIM Card. You can then insert it and purchase a data pack to access the internet after its activation, or you can always ask the vendor to purchase the internet data pack for you.

Is there internet available everywhere?