South Africa Lions Rock

Return the King of the Jungle to his pride

Can I hug a lion cub?

Read this blog article first if you are thinking of hugging lion cubs in South Africa.

Devote your time to the King of the Beasts, living and volunteering in South Africa's largest big cat sanctuary, situated against a backdrop of magnificent mountains and with spectacular views of the South African savannah. You will become a part of the important work taking place at LIONSROCK, run by FOUR PAWS international animal welfare charity and home to over 80 lions, tigers, leopards and other large cats.

Be surrounded by lions and other majestic big cats from the word go- wake up to the roar of the lions, and open your curtains to see the lions basking in the warm African sun as it rises over the sanctuary. Your contribution as a volunteer is essential to improving the conditions for these majestic creatures. Rescued from appalling conditions either in cramped enclosures in zoos or saved from the hands of hunters in canned hunting farms, the freedom that the lions experience arriving at LIONSROCK is something that they will never before have tasted. For many, it is the first time that they can properly stretch their limbs, let alone run, and the first time to feel grass under their feet.

You will be helping with the important research being carried out here, much of which helps towards further improving conditions for the lions and encouraging their natural instincts. As well as contributing to some valuable rescue and rehabilitation work you will witness and be involved in the extraordinary and complex work for animal welfare.

You will also 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. The accommodation, complete with swimming pool access, is some of the best volunteer accommodation that Oyster has to offer in the world!

LION VOLUNTEER REVIEWS- click here

What will I be doing?

Work at the sanctuary involves caring for the lions and other big cats, monitoring their progress and behaviour, helping with visitor education and refreshments, administration and maintenance work. Typical tasks include:

• helping out with the bi-weekly sanctuary feeding
• observing the behaviour of the lions and the progress of any new arrivals
• helping with any medical treatments required
• building new structures for enclosures and helping with maintenance work
• helping with game drives and guided horseback tours for guests
• getting involved with the other activities at the lodge, such as the reservation departments, presentation, accommodation, conferences, weddings, hiking trails and more
• marketing activity, like brochure distribution to local towns and the surrounding area
• guiding school children as part of their education program

It's a great opportunity for someone who has a keen interest in big cats, enjoys being part of a team and is prepared to get involved in all aspects of conservation work.

Getting there

You fly in to Johannesburg, where you will be met by our cheery and friendly LIONSROCK rep, Elaine. Elaine will take you up to the sanctuary, a three hour drive from the airport.

Supporting You

Oyster will prepare you thoroughly before you leave and support you while you are out there. Once you arrive in-country, our representative Elaine will be on hand to assist with any queries or problems. Elaine used to work at LIONSROCK, and so is extremely knowledgeable and well placed to be your source of support whilst you are there. She will help you settle in, tell you more about the area and of course about the lions themselves.

Accommodation and food

You stay in comfortable, brand new accommodation located at the heart of the sanctuary with other volunteers and some staff. The house boasts wifi, electric blankets on the beds, a fully equipped kitchen and bathroom, and views out over the lions. There is plenty of space to relax, to get involved with cooking a good South African braai and even swimming in the on-site swimming pool. If you don't fancy cooking, you can enjoy discounts at the LIONSROCK lodge restaurant.