• Life On Land

Reptile Husbandry Support

location
2 - 50 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
rating  Outstanding 4.9  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Reptile husbandry and maintenance of all the animals in the Centre.
  • Animal Rescues! Go on call outs with our dedicated curators who rescue reptiles in human/animal conflict situations.
  • Rehabilitaion of injured or sick wild animals that are brought to us by other institutions or the public.
  • Release of wild animals back into their natural homes after they have been rehabilitated
  • Educate members of the public at the zoo, and communities during our outreach programs, about reptiles and reptile conservation.

Especially good for

Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+

About the program

Work with a range of different reptiles (indigenous and exotic).Get practical experience in the day-to-day running of the center and help us educate people about reptiles

About

Nestled in the heart of South Africa's Limpopo Province, the center serves as a haven for reptiles, playing a crucial role in research, education, and conservation efforts. Volunteers are welcomed into a dynamic environment where they contribute directly to the care and rehabilitation of ...

About the program

About

Nestled in the heart of South Africa's Limpopo Province, the center serves as a haven for reptiles, playing a crucial role in research, education, and conservation efforts. Volunteers are welcomed into a dynamic environment where they contribute directly to the care and rehabilitation of various reptile species, including snakes, lizards, and crocodiles. We are a small reptile center but a large organization, well known throughout the world. We do our best to save reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids. All revenue remains in house. We do not have any outside investors. We do not buy or sell animals and 90% of our animals have either been donated or were abandoned pets. Under the guidance of experienced staff and our veterinarian; volunteers engage in a range of hands-on activities, such as feeding, cleaning enclosures, and assisting with medical treatments. Beyond daily tasks, volunteers participate in educational programs aimed at raising awareness about reptile conservation and the importance of preserving their habitats. Through workshops, guided tours, and interactive presentations, volunteers gain valuable insights into reptile behavior, ecology, and conservation challenges. The program also offers opportunities for volunteers to assist with research projects, including data collection and monitoring initiatives designed to contribute to scientific understanding and conservation strategies.

Social Issues 

The Hoedspruit Reptile Centre is situated in Limpopo, a rural and economically challenged province. Limpopo is renowned for its vast and secluded wildlife reserves, which unfortunately leads to an increased occurrence of human-wildlife conflict.

Regrettably, numerous myths about reptiles, particularly snakes, persist in rural areas. These animals are often feared and killed on sight, which adversely affects the local ecosystem and leads to a higher number of snakebite incidents, as snakes tend to bite defensively when threatened. Addressing this misconception is one of the social challenges our center confronts. 

Our reptile rescue service is complimentary; the public can contact us to safely remove problematic animals from their homes or businesses at no cost. We collect biometric data from these animals and contribute it to university research on various species. Regrettably, many animals face harm if not removed from such environments. 

 

What we do

  • Our Snake Education and Community Awareness Program (SECAP) is an initiative born from the partnership between Save the Snakes and Hoedspruit Reptile Centre. Our aim is to mitigate human-snake conflict and promote the conservation of snakes through education and outreach. Our goal is to engage and educate learners, healthcare workers and members of rural communities about snakes and snakebite, create more awareness about snakes that are found in the greater Kruger to Canyon Biosphere Region, and how we can live in harmony with them. Yet, this is merely one approach we take towards reptile conservation.
  • Our free program for the rehabilitation and release of injured reptiles invites the public to bring us injured wild reptiles in need of care. Our veterinarian and zoo staff expertly rehabilitate these animals until they are ready to be returned to the wild. Renowned for our expertise in reptile medical care, we frequently receive injured reptiles from other centers unable to provide the necessary treatment.
  • We often provide care for reptiles that have been surrendered by individuals who are no longer able to look after them.
  • Every year, we educate thousands of school children through scheduled programs at our facility. These children, hailing from rural areas, learn from our curatorial staff about reptile-related myths, how to react when encountering a venomous animal at home, and the steps to take if someone is bitten. Our guiding principle is 'Conservation Through Education and Research,' and we believe that educating young minds is the most effective method to engage with communities.
  • The Hoedspruit Reptile Centre offers a variety of training programs, including sessions for anti-poaching units, field guides, the general public, and veterinarians or veterinary students. Additionally, volunteers are welcome to attend any of our courses at no additional cost during their stay with us. 

Who can join? 

The volunteer program at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre provides a unique opportunity for individuals to make a meaningful difference while gaining invaluable experience in wildlife conservation. Whether aspiring conservationists, students, or nature enthusiasts, volunteers leave with a deeper appreciation for reptiles and a sense of fulfillment from contributing to their protection and survival in the wild.

What can volunteers expect from us at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre?

  • meals & accommodation
  • working with experienced professionals and participating in everything that we do daily
  • training on reptile husbandry and handling by industry experts
  • all equipment needed for you do be able to perform your daily duties

What we expect

Students assist with the general day to day care, husbandry and maintenance of all the animals in the Centre. This will include tasks such as feeding the animals and maintaining enclosures. Students are also expected to interact with guests at the Centre, and to help educate them on the importance of reptiles in a natural ecosystem. There is very infrequently a dull moment at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre as exciting new challenges present themselves on an almost daily basis. Whilst students are encouraged to have fun, they must remember that during their time at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre they are not on holiday. They are volunteering at the Centre to educate themselves and benefit from an excellent facility and program.

Typical day

Working Hours

Volunteers are expected to work every day from 8am to 5pm. Lunch is an hour long and is usually taken between 13:00 and 14:00. However, due to the varied nature of the work at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre, lunch may be taken at almost any time of the day. Time off must be pre-arranged with ...

Typical day

Working Hours

Volunteers are expected to work every day from 8am to 5pm. Lunch is an hour long and is usually taken between 13:00 and 14:00. However, due to the varied nature of the work at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre, lunch may be taken at almost any time of the day. Time off must be pre-arranged with management and the curators. 

* Please note that any activities or excursions that you might want to book on your off days will be for your own account. You will also be responsible for making the arrangements of these excursions. We do have a list of trusted service providers that we can supply you with when making your arrangements.

Tasks

No two days at the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre are the same. However, volunteers will have daily duties consisting of the following:

  • Animal husbandry, care and enrichment of our wide variety of different reptiles.  Including venomous animals (note: volunteers will never handle venomous snakes without direct supervision from one of our staff.  Handling will also be dependent on our zookeeper's assessment of your skills)
  • Assisting with or observation of the administering of medicine for any sick or injured wild animals in our quarantine facility
  • Food preparation and feeding of all the animals at the center
  • General maintenance and cleaning of enclosures 
  • General maintenance and cleaning of workspaces 
  • Interacting with the public at the center

Duties that will arise during the volunteer's stay at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre:

  • Reptile demonstrations (dependent on volunteer handling experience with venomous animals)
  • Assisting on reptile rescues (call outs) 
  • Helping with fundraising and marketing exercises 
  • Helping with and or initiating research projects
  • Attending any of the courses that we run on the day.  Volunteers are able to sit in (at no extra charge) on almost all our courses and will receive the appropriate certification.  
  • Observing and/or participating in preventative medical procedures of our animals

Free-time activities

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre does not offer any free time activities on site.  However, there are many activities that you can participate in off site in the surrounding area.  We provide you with a comprehensive list of activities and trusted service providers that you can contact to make ...

Free-time activities

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre does not offer any free time activities on site.  However, there are many activities that you can participate in off site in the surrounding area.  We provide you with a comprehensive list of activities and trusted service providers that you can contact to make arrangements for your off days.  


Some of these activities are:
  • Hiking and/or climbing in the Blyderivierspoort nature reserve - swim in local waterfalls, see the Blyde River Canyon, experience virgin indigenous forests.  There are many different hikes available in this pristine nature reserve just around the corner from the center. 
  • Shopping for curios at one of our many tourism centers in Hoedspruit town
  • Attending our monthly Farmer's Market in Hoedspruit
  • Scenic boat trips on the Blyde dam
  • Game viewing on horseback for riders ranging from beginners to experienced
  • Day visits to Kruger National Park
  • Game drives in one of the many Big 5 game reserves around us
  • Hot Air Ballooning on the escarpment of the Blyde River Canyon
  • Attending local conservation talks and activities
  • Yoga or Pilates classes
It is the volunteer's responsibility to make arrangements for these activities on their off days.  We have negotiated affordable rates with our trusted service providers for our volunteers, so rest assured you won't pay the "tourist" price.  And remember!  There will always be someone available to give you advice on any fun things to do while you're here.

Requirements

Requirements

Minimum Age: 18 years

In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

Language Skills

You need to speak English (intermediate level)

Nationality Restrictions

No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

Other Skills

Volunteers do NOT need any prior reptile handling experience to enroll in our program. Please let us know if you have any specialized skills that you would like us to know about during your stay at the Centre.

Time Commitment

Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:00 - 17:00

What's Included

What's Included

Services by Hoedspruit Reptile Centre

The fee includes the following:

  • Government VAT
  • Accommodation in our volunteer house at the center:  this house has a lounge, pool table, fully equipped self-catering kitchen, cleaning staff twice a week, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities and swimming pool.  
  • All the ingredients required to prepare your meals (we provide the ingredients and volunteers prepare the fresh meals)
  • Working at the reptile Centre and everything that that entails; every day from 08:00 to 17:00 
  • Attending any of our courses free of charge - just note that a course has to be already booked and running for you to attend it.  If you would like to book any specific course during your stay let our office know during your program arrangements.
  • Free airport and shuttle pickups and drop offs.

Airport Pickup at Hoedspruit Airport

We offer a free pick up and drop off service for our volunteers at our local airport - Eastgate Airport.

We also offer a free pick up and drop off service for our volunteers at the shuttle points in Hoedspruit Town.  

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre will communicate directly with the volunteer to make the arrangements for the transfers between the airport, center and/or shuttle points.  

Accommodation

All students are housed in the Volunteer House on the Centre’s premises. The accommodation is shared and has a fully equipped kitchen, pool, braai (BBQ area), bathrooms and lounge.

Our volunteer house has four bedrooms. Here below the description of each room. Please note that you might share your room with another volunteer during your stay.  We only take 6 volunteers at any stage and try and provide our long stay volunteers with single rooms. We make sure to never have a male and female volunteer share a room. Our rooms are large and equipped with power outlets as well as ceiling fans and mosquito nets. We do recommend that volunteers bring their own mosquito nets as well though.

Room 1:
  • 2 x single beds
  • power outlets
  • small cupboard next to each bed
  • ceiling fans
Room 2:
  • 1 x single bed
  • 1 x desk
  • power outlets
  • small cupboard next to bed
  • ceiling fan
Room 3:
  • very large room
  • 3 x single beds
  • power outlets
  • small cupboard next to each bed
  • ceiling fans
Room 4:
  • very large room
  • 3 x single beds
  • power outlets
  • small cupboard next to each bed
  • ceiling fans

There is one bathroom with a toilet, shower and basin for longer stay volunteers. Then for shorter stay volunteers we have a shared bathroom with three showers, three basins and three toilets.

WiFi is available free of charge. Please just note that the free WiFi is a 2Mb up and 2Mb down line per person (each student receives their own wifi code). You will be able to send and receive WhatsApp. But video calling and streaming will not be possible. We recommend that you purchase a Vodacom sim card for your stay at the centre. You can easily buy one at the airport on your way to us. You will be able to load affordable South African data on this sim card and you will have stable and fast(ish) internet when you need it.

Food & Beverages

Accommodation and Meals

All students are housed in the Volunteer House on the Centre’s premises. The accommodation is shared and has a fully equipped kitchen, pool, braai (BBQ area) and lounge.

Students will follow a set menu. Ingredients will be provided for each meal, and you will be responsible for preparation of the meals according to the recipe.

Responsible usage of ingredients is required. Ingredients are supplied on a weekly basis. Do not waste your ingredients.

Deviation from the set menu will be at the centre’s discretion and will only be considered if there are less than 2 students at the house.

Meals

There is a set menu for meals. If you have any specific dietary restrictions, please let us know and we shall try our best to accommodate you. Nevertheless, students must understand that the menu provided is balanced but basic and as such certain special requirements or desires may not be met. Students will be offered the opportunity to attend the weekly shop where they can purchase any additional luxuries/needs at their own expense.

Special dietary requirements other than vegetarian

There is a health shop in Hoedspruit town that caters for any kind of special dietary requirement. Please make an arrangement with us if you need to get your supplies for this shop - prior to your arrival.

Some of the items that we do not provide for students:

  • Condiments
  • Spices other than the basic salt and pepper and various stocks
  • Snacks (other than the fruit we provide)
  • Luxury items such as olive oil, apple cider vinegar, real butter, a variety of breads and cheeses etc.

The below are example meal options provided for your stay.

Breakfast

  • Cereal and milk, tea and coffee

Lunch examples

  • Ham and cheese sandwich
  • Peanut butter and jam sandwich
  • Hot dog roll
  • Wrap
  • Russian & Chips

Dinner Examples- All dinner options can be easily converted to vegetarian meals

  • Mac and cheese
  • Spaghetti bolognaise
  • Chicken a la king
  • Braai (bbq)
  • Cottage Pie
  • Fajitas

Examples of fruit include apples, bananas, oranges, mangoes and pears

Examples of vegetables offered include mushrooms, peppers, corn, tomatoes, butternut, gem squash, carrots and sweet potatoes.

 

Internet Access

Limited access at the project site

What's NOT included?

What's NOT included?

Flight Tickets

The nearest airport is Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) in Hoedspruit. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

Travel Insurance

Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for South Africa provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

Vaccines

If you are intending to volunteer in South Africa you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for South Africa. VACCINE CHECKER

Details on arrival

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre is open 365 days a year, and our volunteers are welcome to arrive on any day at any time. We will provide free pickups and drop-offs from either the airport in Hoedspruit, or from the various shuttle points in town itself.  

We do require that volunteers book a minimum stay of two weeks to fully enjoy what we have to offer. There is no limit on how long you can book a program with us though.  

We recommend that students on a budget book a shuttle from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit instead of the flight. The shuttle services we recommend all have proven track records of excellent service and safety standards.  

Our office will assist volunteers with contact numbers and recommendations of shuttle companies during the booking process.  

NOTE ON WIFI access at the volunteer house:

WiFi is available free of charge. Please just note that the free WiFi is a 2Mb up and 2Mb down line per person (each student receives their own wifi code). You will be able to send and receive whatsapps. But video calling and streaming will not be possible. We recommend that you purchase a Vodacom sim card for your stay at the centre. You can easily buy one at the airport on your way to us.  If you did not manage to get a sim card at the airport then we will assist you to buy one in Hoedspruit once you have arrived.  You will be able to load affordable South African data on this sim card and you will have stable and fast(ish) internet when you need it.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Program fees

2 weeks (min. stay) 788€
3 weeks 1,213€
4 weeks 1,637€
5 weeks 2,062€
9 weeks 3,760€
17 weeks 7,156€
50 weeks (max. stay) 21,164€
Average fees 409€/week

Program fees

409€ per week 2 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

Payment methods

Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

NO CREDIT CARD FEES

Duration

2 - 50 weeks

Deposit

The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

Final Payment

Your final payment will be agreed with Hoedspruit Reptile Centre during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

Meet your organization

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre

Outstanding 4.9 rating (12 reviews)

Agency - founded in 1984

Verified by Volunteer World

  Excellent response rate

Coordinated by

Ronel

Spoken languages: English

About the project

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre, the zoo component complements its scientific ethos, providing a platform for studying reptile behavior, physiology, and conservation strategies

Meet your organization

Nestled amidst the mountains of the Blyde River Canyon of South Africa, lies the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre, a haven for serpents, chelonians, and lizards alike. Since its inception, this sanctuary has not only stood as a testament to the remarkable biodiversity of the region but also as a beacon of conservation, education, and research.

History

The start of the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre dates back to 1984. What began as a humble endeavor soon blossomed into a renowned institution, attracting visitors, researchers, and conservationists from across the globe.

Over the years, the centre has evolved, expanding its facilities and collection of species. Yet, amidst this evolution, it has remained steadfast in its commitment to conservation, education, and community engagement, etching its name as a cornerstone of conservation efforts in South Africa.

Mission

At the heart of the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre beats a singular mission: to conserve and protect reptilian species through research, education, and sustainable practices. Through meticulous care, community outreach programs and rescue & rehabilitation initiatives, the centre endeavors to safeguard the fragile ecosystems that these creatures call home.

Moreover, the centre is dedicated to dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding reptiles, nurturing a sense of appreciation and respect for these magnificent beings. By fostering empathy and understanding, it seeks to cultivate a harmonious coexistence between humans and reptiles, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity for generations to come.

Values

Embedded within the fabric of the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre are a set of core values that guide its every endeavor:

  1. Conservation: The centre is unwavering in its commitment to the conservation of reptilian species and their habitats, recognizing them as integral components of the natural world deserving of protection.

  2. Education: Education lies at the forefront of the centre's endeavors, empowering visitors with knowledge about reptiles and their ecological significance.

  3. Ethical Practices: Ethical considerations underpin every aspect of the centre's operations, from animal care to sustainable tourism practices. It upholds the highest standards of welfare for its inhabitants, ensuring their physical and psychological well-being.

  4. Community Engagement: The centre recognizes the importance of community involvement in conservation efforts. By forging partnerships with local communities, schools, and organizations, it endeavors to foster a sense of stewardship for the environment and promote sustainable living practices.

  5. Innovation: Embracing innovation and research, the centre strives to push the boundaries of reptile conservation. Through cutting-edge techniques and collaborations with scientific institutions, it seeks to unravel the mysteries of reptilian biology and ecology, driving forward the frontiers of conservation science.

Goals

  1. Expansion of Conservation Initiatives: The centre aims to expand its conservation initiatives, focusing on the protection of endangered species and human animal conflict. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative projects, it seeks to make meaningful contributions to global biodiversity conservation efforts.

  2. Enhanced Educational Outreach: Recognizing the transformative power of education, the centre endeavors to enhance its educational outreach programs. By reaching a broader audience through digital platforms, workshops, and outreach events, it aims to instill a sense of environmental stewardship in future generations.

  3. Sustainable Growth: As the centre continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability. From eco-friendly infrastructure to responsible tourism practices, it seeks to minimize its environmental footprint while maximizing its positive impact on local communities and ecosystems.

  4. Advocacy and Awareness: Advocacy lies at the forefront of the centre's mission. Through advocacy campaigns, media engagement, and public outreach, it aims to raise awareness about the importance of reptile conservation and mobilize support for urgent conservation action.

  5. Research and Innovation: Embracing a spirit of curiosity and innovation, the centre strives to advance reptile conservation through research. By harnessing the latest technologies and collaborating with experts in the field, it aims to unravel the complexities of reptilian biology and ecology, paving the way for more effective conservation strategies.

Hoedspruit Reptile Centre stands as a beacon of hope in the realm of conservation, embodying the spirit of resilience, innovation, and stewardship. As it continues to forge ahead on its journey, guided by its rich history, unwavering mission, steadfast values, and aspirational goals, it beckons us to join hands in safeguarding the wondrous diversity of reptilian life that graces our planet.

12 reviews · rating4.9

Emily Moore rating5

2024 at Reptile Husbandry Support

The Hoedspruit Reptile Centre has the best team, who create such a supportive and fun environment to learn more about reptiles. From helping maintain the centre to learning venomous snake handling with real snakes, I always felt safe and prepared. I learned so much about reptile husbandry, which is ...
Gina rating5

2024 at Reptile Husbandry Support

I stayed at Hoedspruit Reptile Centre for 6 weeks and wish I stayed longer. All the staff are so friendly, making you feel welcome and helping you settle in the accommodation. I got to work, hands on, with venomous snakes and help on call outs where we rescued animals from unwanted situations. The ...
Emma Jansson rating4.2

2024 at Reptile Husbandry Support

My school sent me on a three week internship at the reptile Center. To learn about how it is to work with animal care outside of Sweden, and how reptile care is understated in many parts of the world. I came there with little knowledge about reptiles and not a big fan of the cold blooded creatures ...
Morgan Victor rating5

2023 at Reptile Husbandry Support

I spent two weeks volunteering at the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre in November 2023. I completed their Standard and Advanced Snake Capture Courses and was able to go on call outs to rescue snakes, as well as subsequently release them. Working in the snake lab was a great experience too, as I got to be ...
Seán Ryan rating5

2023 at Reptile Husbandry Support

I have volunteered at Hoedspruit Reptile Park three times over the last 12 years. Each time it has been a superlative experience. The hands-on training is second to none. As a volunteer I was taught to handle and care for all kinds and snakes as well as monitor lizards and other reptiles. The ...
Brendan Rooney rating5

2023 at Reptile Husbandry Support

I couldn't of asked for a better time, I was treated with respect. They thought me everything I ever wanted to know and more. I honestly just had a Blast. From handling Snouted Cobras, to going out on calls to help catch snakes. To helping with Nile crocidles. And then at the end I went on an ...

Location

Africa > Southern Africa > South Africa > Hoedspruit

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Volunteer Abroad  >  Animals  >  Wildlife Conservation in South Africa
Contact Ronel
  Excellent response rate
English

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