What the project does and why it needs you!
The project is a breeding park for lions, tigers, jaguars, leopards and other carnivores. The owner started the breeding program because of her love for the 'big cats' and her desire to give people the opportunity to come face to face with these amazing creatures. Many of these cats are close to extinction so breeding centers are key to their survival. The cubs need lots of attention and the park has limited staff. You are needed to help raise the cubs to ensure they grow up happy and healthy.
Who is it for?
This project is ideal for anyone who loves lions, the outdoors and is looking for a once in a lifetime experience working hands-on with big cats. As long as you love wildlife and are interested in looking after animals - this is the place for you. Forget a five star safari - this is the most incredible opportunity to spend time up close and personal with some of the most beautiful animals in the world.
What you’ll be doing?
You’ll be working very closely with these majestic animals by feeding and caring for them, raising the cubs and being involved in all the day to day activities of the lion center. You will be working alongside lion experts who have years of experience in the field. You can also help give tours to visitors to the project. Below is the list of typical daily activities at the center:
- Inspect the lion, tiger and jaguar enclosures, making sure that there is no damage to the fencing
- Feeding the lions - this will involve fetching animal carcasses from nearby farms and helping to prepare the meat for the cats (don't worry - this activity is optional!)
- Cleaning the lion, tiger and jaguar enclosures, removing old bones, giving the cats fresh water and maintaining the lion enclosures
- Cub duty - hand feeding twice a day, playing and giving attention
Guided tours, take visitors on guided tours
- General farm maintenance and improvements, repairing and improving the enclosures
- Learning about the breeding of lions, jaguars and tigers, being a tour guide, and any other topics that you are keen to know more about.
Where you’ll be staying?
You will be staying in a beautiful chalet lodge on site at the center. You will be sharing a room with up to three others. The chalets are well equipped and have modern amenities such are hot running water, showers and Western style toilets. There is even a swimming pool on site! There is also a stunning verandah with views over the project, the animal enclosures and some friendly monkeys! In the evenings feel free to relax, listen to the wildlife and savour the experience of being in South Africa. From time to time you will be able to go to local bars and restaurants or have a traditional South African braai (BBQ). At the weekends you will be able to arrange trips into the nearest town (about 20 minutes drive) to catch up on e-mails and so on.
What you’ll be eating?
You will be responsible for preparing your own meals and there will be a weekly shopping trip where you can stock up pn all the essentials. The kitchen at the lodge is fully equipped with a fridge, utensils and anything else you might need to prepare delicious meals.
Please make sure you bring durable clothing - jeans / khakis / combat trousers - as you will be working on the project, getting dirty and even lion cubs do have claws! Please don't wear brightly colored clothing. The project does not allow facial piercings or large visible tattoos - if you have them please take them out / cover them up. Other items to add to your pack include a powerful flashlight, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, raincoat, thick socks, personal toiletries and towels, sunscreen lotion and insect repellent. Finally don't forget some books etc for relaxing in the evenings.
Please book your flights to arrive into Johannesburg – O R Tambo airport (JNB). You must arrive by 4pm on your arrival date. You will be met at the airport and then taken to Pretoria Backpackers for an orientation at 5pm. After orientation you will have a lovely South African meal and spend the night at Pretoria Backpackers. You will take an early morning bus from Pretoria to Kroonstad where the lion center team will meet you and take you the short trip to the project.. Please note that your return bus ticket to Pretoria is included in the project fee. You can expect to leave Kroonstad at around 9.30am and arrive back in Pretoria at around 1pm. Return transfer from Pretoria to the airport is not included.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price Includes:
- Accommodation, Shared room in lodge at project
- Airport Pickup included on arrival date. Ask us for details if you're arriving early!
- Training: In-country orientation and briefing on arrival at the project
- Support: Pre-departure helpdesk, Local in-country team and 24hr emergency support.
Price Excludes:
- Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately $US 50 per week).
Also see tour packages in:
Africa
South Africa
Volunteering
Volunteering Vacations
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