General Info
Volunteer with lions and other big cats in a highly-regarded sanctuary for mistreated lions. The sanctuary, run by an international animal welfare charity, FOUR PAWS, was set up in 2006 and is the largest of its type in South Africa. It offers a new home to big cats that have been abused, kept in cramped conditions or confiscated from hunters. Many have never felt grass between their paws!
What will I be doing?
When the cats arrive they bring with them a variety of conditions from frost bite to malnutrition - all the cats require special and dedicated care. You will be contributing to this valuable rescue and rehabilitation work by carrying out research into the behaviour and interactions of lions within a group and between neighbouring lion groups. Many of the animals have led solitary lives, this is unnatural for lion populations that would usually survive in large prides. The end goal is to place individuals into successful prides. You will witness and be involved in the extraordinary and complex work for animal welfare and appreciate the experience of learning how highly sensitive big cats are.
Other volunteer tasks include feeding the cats (a magnificent experience), cleaning enclosures, carrying out enrichment activities, helping with educational visits to the sanctuary and helping with any necessary veterinary procedures.
The sanctuary is home to many animals: as well as lions it also looks after other big cats including cheetah, tiger and leopard. You will also see hyena, wild dog and a rich variety of game species including zebra, wildebeest, impala, springbok, osterich and many more.
Where will I be based?
The sanctuary is located in the beautiful Eastern Free State. You will enjoy some of the best countryside South Africa has to offer. The sanctuary is situated against a backdrop of magnificent mountains, with spectacular views of the Eastern Free State plains below.
What can I do in my free time?
In your time off you can visit local towns, Bethlehem and Clarens, or go further afield to the Golden Gate National Park and the stunning Drakensberg Mountains. Our representative will be able to advise and help on trips and places to visit.
What is included?
The price stated includes all preparation work in the UK, transfers in South Africa, accommodation and food.
Can I touch the Lions?
Our programme does not allow any touching of the animals as they are still wild and have been mistreated at the hands of humans. Many programmes that offer such 'conservation' experiences are not supported by Oyster as the majority of cubs that can be hugged/walked by tourists have been taken away from their mothers unnaturally early and reared for the inhumane practise of canned hunting. The very activity FOUR PAWS are trying to get banned.
Benefits:
2 weeks = £995 (excluding flights)
Additional weeks = £250/week up to 1 month, £215/week thereafter.
Full support is offered throughout with a UK preparation course. We also include accomodation, food and airport transfes in South Africa. The park lodge has plenty of activities to keep you busy free of charge as well as a swimming pool.
