Long-Term Primate Carer

Non-profit
·
founded in 1996
International Primate Rescue
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Coordinator | IPR
Coordinator | IPR
Book with Flex Option! Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs.

High­lights

Work with over 100 primates!
Learn more about how to protect monkeys.
Live in an exotic place surrounded by nature!
Explore the local village with fellow volunteers!
Meet like-minded volunteers from all over the world!
Join us as a volunteer at our primate sanctuary to take care of our lovely monkeys. Previous experience is desirable but not required. This volunteer program is especially suitable for:
Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups

At International Primate Rescue we have over 100 primates. Most of our primates are ex-pet or ex-lab animals that have behavioural problems and are not indigenous to South Africa. Because of this the care for these animals is very hands on. At IPR, we also strive to discourage, provide help, awareness and educate people that wish to, or already own a primate.

We currently care for the following monkeys: Capuchins (brown tufted and Weeper); Squirrel Monkeys; Macaques (Crab eating, Barbary and Rhesus); Common Marmosets; Tamarins; Mona monkeys; Patas Monkey and Grey Mouse lemurs.

Long term volunteers are required to stay for a minimum of one year and do not pay the fee required by short termers. This is not a paid position but your board and lodging is included for free in exchange for your work. Long term volunteers will receive a food allowance so that they can buy their preferred food themselves. Long term volunteer positions are very sought after and we cannot guarantee that there will be space for you. You are very much more likely to be accepted as a long term volunteer if you have visited our sanctuary as a short term volunteer, so this is something to bear in mind. Long term volunteers have specific roles and more responsibilities than the short term volunteers. Some of our previous long term volunteers have found their dream positions working with primates, or gone on to qualify as vets, etc. The experience you gain working with our primates for the duration of your year-long visit is a great CV booster.

Typical day

You will be responsible for all aspects of primate care as outlined below:

  • Food preparation and feeding
  • Distributing supplements, primate pellets and conducting health checks on the primates
  • Cleaning and maintaining the enclosures
  • Enrichment
  • Observations and monitoring
  • Recording behaviours and concerns in the daily observation book

Free-time activities

Bosveld tours can organise group trips to places such as Kruger National Park, Horseback Safaris, Lion and Rhino park, Wonder Caves, Apartheid museum and many more.
You have use of the pool next door on selected days. 
There is a local bar, supermarket and pizza take away not far from the sanctuary.

Swimming
Sightseeing
Safari/
Zoo
Hiking
Museum/
Opera
Riding

Require­ments

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 (basic level)
Nationality Restrictions
No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.
Other Skills
Good work ethic and awareness of physical work that will get you dirty.
Time Commitment
Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 09:00 - 17:00

What's Included

Accommodation

Long Term volunteers may be asked to share a room with another long term volunteer.

There are 2 indoor toilets and 1 shower, with a further (enclosed) shower and toilet on the grounds outside, we also provide towels for your use. 

We have a volunteer kitchen for your use and groups tend to go on shopping trips every week or so to buy food.

Dorm Room
Internet Access
Sorry, no access at the project site
What's NOT included?
Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees. An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either. Food, snacks or beverages are at extra costs.
Flight Tickets
The nearest airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. We assist you to find cheap flights to South Africa.
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.
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.

Dates & Fees

Details on arrival

If you have asked us to arrange an airport pick up, our driver will meet you at Johannesburg airport. The trip to the sanctuary takes about 45 min to an hour. If you arrive during the day, our driver will take you food shopping on the way.

When you arrive you will see that your accommodation is right in the middle of the sanctuary, so we can give you a tour straight away and introduce you to all the monkeys. Or if you are too tired you can relax and shower and we will show you around later. The rest of the day you can relax and unpack or get to know the monkeys.

The airport pick-up will be paid separately and is not included in the program fees.

Availability
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Duration
50 - 50 weeks

Why book with Volunteer World

Extra security layer by Volunteer World
Volunteer World is the world's leading comparison platform for international volunteer opportunities. We guide you through a safe and easy application process - including all necessary payments. Planning your next meaningful trip with Volunteer World gives you free access to our:
Quality Assurance
High ethical standards & transparent social impact
Flex Option
Change your reservation at no extra costs
Refund Guarantee
We refund your fees if International Primate Rescue cancels your trip
Support & Mediation
We cover your back no matter what happens
Our services are free of charge!
All program fees are charged directly by International Primate Rescue.

What are people saying about Volunteer World?

Long-Term Primate Carer

Join us as a volunteer at our primate sanctuary to take care of our lovely monkeys. Previous experience is desirable but not required.

Free of charge

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