Primate Sanctuary Assistant

location
4 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+

rating  Excellent 4.8  · 
  Verified by Volunteer World
  Excellent response rate

Highlights

  • Get to know certain primates and there social life
  • Be part of the team making a diffrence to the lives of these wonderful animals
  • meet other amazing volunteers from all over the world, make life long friends

Highlights

  • Get to know certain primates and there social life
  • Be part of the team making a diffrence to the lives of these wonderful animals
  • meet other amazing volunteers from all over the world, make life long friends
  • take your passion for primates and enhance there lives
  • enjoy excursions to the Kruger National park and see the many animals of Africa firat hand


  • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples

    About the program

    Experience living in the African bush and help rehabilitating the indigenous vervet monkey. 🐒

    About the project

    The Vervet Monkey Foundation operates the largest centre for vervets in the world. In 2006 we became a member of PASA (Pan African Sanctuaries Alliance) and we are also a GFAS (Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries) certified sanctuary. We currently care for over 500 monkeys ...

    About the program

    About the project

    The Vervet Monkey Foundation operates the largest centre for vervets in the world. In 2006 we became a member of PASA (Pan African Sanctuaries Alliance) and we are also a GFAS (Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries) certified sanctuary. We currently care for over 500 monkeys and we take in many orphans each year. We also have some ex-pets here that you may get a chance to spend some time with. In addition you will help the monkeys further by general husbandry, feeding, building new enclosures, observations and maintaining the upkeep of the foundation. Longer term volunteers may become involved with integrations of monkeys into social groups which is very rewarding and a lot can be learned about their behaviour. You will get the opportunity to make new friends and form long-term relationships with like-minded people while you get involved in the everyday tasks of running a monkey sanctuary. 

    You may be involved with hand-rearing during baby season, teaching them to drink and get ready for their introduction to monkey moms, you may be lucky enough to see juniors venture out into their new enclosures, watching them become real monkeys. We have some ex-pets here that often need some time spent grooming from outside the cages before they are ready to be integrated into troops. In addition you will help the monkeys further by building new enclosures and maintaining the upkeep of the foundation.

    Traveling to the project site

    You will need to fly into Johannesburg (Oliver Tambo) airport and take a Translux coach to Tzaneen. Translux coach tickets cost approximately R255.00 each way. The bus usually leaves Johannesburg at 9.30am, Midrand at 10am and Pretoria at 10.30am. If your flight gets in before 8am and you are able to get the bus the same day as your flight then we advise you to take the Gautrain from the airport (approx R125) to Pretoria bus station. The coach arrives in Tzaneen around 3.40pm. We will pick you up upon arrival in the car park where the bus drops you in Tzaneen and transport you to the Foundation. Please note it is essential to book your bus ticket in advance (min 3 weeks) as there may not be any seats left on the day. I If your arrival in Johannesburg is too late to be able to connect with the bus departure, we suggest that you stay at Pretoria for the night. You may phone one of the guest houses below to arrange to pick you up at the airport and drop you the next morning at the Translux bus station. 

    On Arrival to the VMF

    On arrival all volunteers will have to sign an indemnity form indicating that you accept and understand that you are working with wild animals and that your presence and all activities you undertake at the centre are done so at your own risk. Volunteers will be expected to be on call at all times, including weekends. You should be prepared for often challenging and hard work, based around a shift rota with other volunteers. A typical work day is 8 hours per day depending on the time of year.. You will be presented with a day off each week that you may use to travel to the local town of Tzaneen to purchase supplies or to relax. Volunteering can be an altogether rewarding experience, working together with like minded individuals. You will be able to see at first hand how your actions are benefiting the vervet monkey and the people striving to protect this indigenous primate of Africa.

    Dedication

    A number of volunteers now work at the Foundation after deciding to stay on to further support the monkeys in our care. As long-term volunteers, they help by co-ordinating daily tasks and are at hand to offer assistance and experience to new volunteers.

    You will not need any prior experience as we will teach you everything you need to know – just come with enthusiasm and an interest in conservation! If you have any specific skills or interest we are happy to try and utilize them during your stay. No matter what you do, you can expect that it is hot, dirty and hands on!

    Hands On Experience

    During the baby season (Nov – Feb) there is a possibility volunteers will work with baby monkeys, nearly all orphaned and traumatised. We introduce them to foster mothers ensuring each baby is stabilised, healthy and able to drink from a bottle when handling them. During the juvenile season (Mar – Oct), you may be able to see juniors being integrated into a troop within our rehabilitation programme or participate in other integrations. Baby rehabilitation involves volunteers handling or observing the babies in their outdoor playpen, mixing up bottles of milk, preparing foods and administering medicine if required. You will feed and monitor them throughout the day, constantly checking their progress. Be aware these babies will defecate and urinate on you quite happily - this is unavoidable so old clothes are recommended. You must remember the vervet monkeys are wild animals so expect a few ‘nips’ whilst they play! You will be helping to rehabilitate vervet monkeys into viable troops for release into protected reserves, integrating them back into their natural environment.

    Touring and days off

    Volunteers get one day off per week; we provide a lift into Tzaneen to purchase supplies, swim in the nearby lodge pool, spa or relax over a cappuccino in the mall. Volunteers her for 4 weeks are also invited to take one touring day per week to visit local sights. Volunteers often tour with new friends met at the VMF. You may wish to hire a car with some friends you meet here. Popular tours include the world famous Kruger National Park, only 1 hour from here. Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window, stunning waterfalls and of course, wildlife viewing.



    Typical day

    Typical everyday tasks can include:
    • Collecting, chopping and delivering food for monkeys.
    • Cooking at weekends for volunteers
    • Hands-on care-giving of baby monkeys (baby season only), helping in our sickbay
    • Monitoring and report writing of monkeys around the Sanctuary
    • Cleaning monkey cages, washing feed ...

    Typical day

    Typical everyday tasks can include:
    • Collecting, chopping and delivering food for monkeys.
    • Cooking at weekends for volunteers
    • Hands-on care-giving of baby monkeys (baby season only), helping in our sickbay
    • Monitoring and report writing of monkeys around the Sanctuary
    • Cleaning monkey cages, washing feed bowls & plates and cleaning blankets
    • Assisting with introductions and rehabilitation of new monkeys.
    • Assisting with basic medical practices and administering medications.
    • Clearing vegetation for fire breaks, looking after the volunteer village.
    • Assisting with education outreach programs
    • Participating in fundraising, newsletters, we can also use graphic design skills

    Each “Main Feed” involves the daily preparation and distribution of food to all of the monkeys in the sanctuary. As a volunteer, your duty would be to prepare the food bowls. You will cut, wash and share out the fruit and vegetables equally before distributing the food bowls to the vervets. Seed pods and fruits are also picked from our indigenous trees on a regular basis. 

    Monitoring is a crucial and important job as you will monitor and observe each monkey within the sanctuary, checking for any injuries, stress or sickness - reporting information back to “base” to ensure the vervets are in the best of health. This task is done daily; you will usually have a 2-day to 3-day shift rotation whilst monitoring to provide continuity of observation. 



    Free-time activities

    There are also plenty of opportunities to visit local attractions such as the Kruger National Park or to go on adventures with other volunteers to local sites and site seeing expeditions.

    Free-time activities

    There are also plenty of opportunities to visit local attractions such as the Kruger National Park or to go on adventures with other volunteers to local sites and site seeing expeditions.


    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.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 07:30 - 16:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Vervet Monkey Foundation

    Your fees go toward food, accommodation and much needed financial support for the monkeys and the Sanctuary.

    Accommodation

    Volunteer Village life involves sharing a wooden cabin with twin beds with one other person. Alternatively, we have an individual private cabin with double bed for an extra fee. We have a natural, electricity-free environment at the Volunteer Village, though, you may take your electronics for recharging up to the cottage on occasions. You may wish to bring a small camping lantern for your cabin and definitely a head torch / torch. We provide mattress, table, pillow and sheets but please ensure you bring a sleeping bag.
    This is home sweet home; the potential creature sightings are colorful lizards, snakes and birds. The village houses 4 showers, 2 eco-toilets, and a campfire; which is great for an evening under the stars or a braai (South African BBQ)!
    The shower is on the whole able to provide hot water, but be aware cold showers are a possibility (refreshing on a blazing hot day)! Water in the area is scarce. The eco-toilet is a bush toilet with worms that do the composting. You don’t have to flush here!
    We have recently added the addition of two private cabins outside of the village suitable for a couple or those who prefer a little privacy - please enquire within for fee.

    Food & Beverages

    All meals are animal friendly (vegan), breakfast is all help yourself from various cereals , toast, coffee and tea. Lunches and Dinners are prepared during the week with volunteers helping on weekends - tea and coffee are provided.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at O.R. Tambo International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. 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

    We prefer volunteers to arrive on a Sunday or Monday, an orientation is give on day of arrival so you know where everything is.

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

    Program fees

    4 weeks (min. stay) 1,225€
    5 weeks 1,531€
    6 weeks 1,837€
    7 weeks 2,144€
    8 weeks 2,450€
    9 weeks 2,756€
    12 weeks (max. stay) 3,675€
    Average fees 306€/week

    Program fees

    306€ per week 4 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    4 - 12 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 Vervet Monkey Foundation during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.


    Meet your organization

    Vervet Monkey Foundation

    Excellent 4.8 rating (16 reviews)

    Non-profit - founded in 1989

    Verified by Volunteer World

      Excellent response rate

    Coordinated by

    Dave

    About the project

    Vervet Monkey Foundation helps injured and orphaned primates to be re-introduced into their natural habitat.

    Meet your organization

    History of Vervet Monkey Foundation

    In 1989 the plight of the vervet monkey species in South Africa first came to light when an orphaned baby vervet monkey, only hours old was discovered. Enquiries to recognised authorities concerning the fate of such primates revealed that there were no facilities to provide for its care and welfare, instead they were told to kill the monkey because, such animals were regarded as vermin. 

    As environmentalists and humanitarians, they saw that the solution to this problem did not lie in euthanasing these orphaned primates but rather, the need for an organisation to provide a sanctuary for them and to holistically investigate what was in fact happening to this indigenous primate of South Africa. 

    It soon became apparent that very little was in fact known about this species. Most of the data available at that time was negative, contradictory, incomplete and inaccurate. This void was due to its classification as vermin, and this lack of knowledge had portrayed this indigenous primate in a very poor and negative light. At that time there was also very little information pertaining to the rehabilitation of this primate species. As conservationists they could see that the solution to this problem was not the senseless killing of these primates but the need for a programme incorporating: 

    • A facility to research the life style and environment of this species.
    • A program to rehabilitate orphaned and injured primates.
    • A program to research the claims of damage and problems caused by vervet monkeys and offer possible solutions for co-existence.
    • An education program to inform the public of the role that the vervet monkey plays in the eco system.
    • A sanctuary for primates unfortunate enough to be unreleasable but, manageable enough to be used for educational purposes.

    As a high priority they began to research the possibility of rehabilitating these orphans and to develop a much needed rehabilitation programme and sanctuary where injured and miss-placed vervet monkeys would be humanely treated.

    During the past decade the Foundation has developed a unique rehabilitation programme that has helped revolutionise the way in which primates are rehabilitated. Our enclosure designs are now utilised in similar primate projects. Fundamentally, the Foundation has saved and improved the lives of more than six hundred vervet monkeys. The foundation has also achieved many firsts in the rehabilitation of this primate species with the aid of volunteers, gap year students and primate carers.

    About the Vervet Monkey Foundation

    The Vervet Monkey Foundation operates the largest centre for vervets in the world. In 2006 we became a member of PASA (Pan African Sanctuaries Alliance) and is also a GFAS (Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries) certified sanctuary. 

    During the past decade the Vervet Monkey Foundation has developed a unique rehabilitation programme that has helped revolutionise the way in which primates are rehabilitated. Our enclosure designs are now utilised in similar primate projects. Fundamentally, the Vervet Monkey Foundat has saved and improved the lives of more than six hundred vervet monkeys. The foundation has also achieved many firsts in the rehabilitation of this primate species with the aid of volunteers, gap year students and primate carers. TheVervet Monkey Foundation currently cares for over 500 monkeys and we take in many orphans each year.

    With no government funding, the sanctuary depends on international volunteers to help care for the primates. Volunteering at the Foundation is probably the most beneficial as not only does your financial contribution go to aiding the monkeys but we have the extra needed hands to help with all the various ongoing tasks at the foundation.

    Rehabilitation Programme for Vervet Monkeys

    The Vervet Monkey Foundation has over many years developed and pioneered a new approach to the rehabilitation of orphaned vervet monkeys. In 1998 we announced our unique rehabilitation programme that incorporated the use of large electrified enclosures that are natural, and by using introduction enclosures, we had formed within this natural system, large viable troops, that would be re-introduce into protected vervet forest reserves.

    Our rehabilitation centre is designed to handle orphaned vervet monkeys of all ages and more specifically designed to cope with large numbers of babies that become orphaned each year this has been made possible with international volunteers and gap year students getting involved . Babies are easily assimilated into our programme and we try to get as many of them out of the hands of the public and into our care.  To date, we have successfully rehabilitated hundreds of babies. They were rehabilitated and raised within a natural environment and retained a high degree of their natural fear of humans. 

    Our programme can return an orphaned baby monkey back into a wild state in four to eight weeks, this is achieved by introducing a baby to a female in one of our resident troops living in natural environments at our centre.

    16 reviews · rating4.8

    Guillaume Ducci rating5

    2021 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    I just spend 5 wonderful weeks at the Vervet Monkey Foundation, the place is amazing, the staff is an extraordinary little family, what they do for the Vervets Monkeys are admirable. It’s quite an amazing experience that I will probably reiterate ! Thank you for those magical moments, keep ...
    Muriël Wever rating4.6

    2018 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    I highly recommend this place! I have been there for 6 weeks and it were the best 6 weeks of my life. Everyone is so kind and supportive and the overall atmosphere is very good. It's located nearby the Kruger Park and Blyde river canyon, so you can take some touring days of and see something of ...
    Twyla Unknown rating5

    2015 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    The vmf is an amazing place. I always think its paradise when I was there. I went as a 6month volunteer and ended up staying two years to help volunteer as the Vet nurse. Best decision I ever made. Learnt more about the primates and observe their behaviour. The staff and volunteers that go through ...
    David Unknown rating4.8

    2015 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    So great to be able to come and help support the important work here. Good healthy, hearty and tastey Vegan food. Evenings chatting round the fire-pit. Fantastic staff and volunteers. Fun trips out organised. Amazing views, wildlife and weather. I have completely fallen in love with the place and ...
    Nhiker Unknown rating4.8

    2015 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    We spent a morning volunteering at the Vervet Monkey Foundation. It is not a tourist attraction! It is a dedicated sanctuary that is staffed by enthusiastic volunteers from all over the world. While we helped, the staff told us all about the Vervet monkeys and the remarkable work being carried out ...
    Juan Carlos Unknown rating4.6

    2015 at Primate Sanctuary Assistant

    It's a place where you can find whatever you want, nature, adventure, love, friends, opportunities or even what you want to do in life! Talking more about my experience, being there gave me a lot of friends and also a new way of seeing the world and how i can do for ...

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