🐘 Fact Sheet – Over 50s Elephant Volunteer Adventure, South Africa
Summary
A unique, all-inclusive volunteer holiday designed exclusively for travellers aged 50 and over. Join a small group of like-minded adventurers to care for rescued elephants, contribute to important welfare research, and experience the best of South Africa’s wildlife, food, and culture.
Project Location
📍 Near Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape, South Africa – set within a stunning 110-hectare elephant park along the famous Garden Route.
Length of Project
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1 week (7 days)
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2 weeks (14 days) – second week as part of the regular programme with volunteers of all ages.
Group / Individual Basis
Travel alone or with a friend/partner – many participants join solo and meet a small group of like-minded over 50s travellers on arrival. Shared accommodation fosters a friendly, social atmosphere.
Support
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Pre-departure guidance and personalised support from Oyster Worldwide’s UK team.
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Friendly, dedicated local staff to guide and support you throughout your stay.
What’s Included
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Organisation of rewarding voluntary work with rescued African elephants.
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Pre-departure information covering preparation, health and safety, responsible travel, and life in South Africa.
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Airport pick-up and drop-off from George Airport (GRJ) on set dates (Sundays).
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Comfortable twin-share accommodation on-site (luxury private room upgrade available).
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All meals included: 4 dinners, 4 lunches, 5 breakfasts, 1 brunch, 3 afternoon teas each week (2 dinners out in town at own expense).
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Hands-on volunteering tasks: food preparation, cleaning, enrichment creation, behavioural observation, data input, day and night monitoring.
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Exclusive experiences:
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Sunrise elephant walk and walking safari (with coffee, tea & rusks).
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Visit to a nearby game reserve where rehabilitated elephants have been released.
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South African dessert cooking class with the in-house chef.
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Traditional evening braais (BBQs) under the stars.
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One transfer per week into Plettenberg Bay to explore local shops, beaches, and markets.
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Full orientation and induction on arrival.
Not Included
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International flights.
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Travel and medical insurance (required).
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Personal spending money (£50–£75 per week recommended).
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Optional big excursions before/after volunteering (safaris, bungee jumping, shark cage diving, etc.).
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Meals during the two evenings out in town per week.
Accommodation
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On-site, safe, comfortable twin-share rooms with shared facilities.
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Option for standard or upgrade to luxury private en-suite room:
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7-day trip:
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14-day trip:
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Set within the park, surrounded by wildlife – you may even hear the elephants at night!
Travel Arrangements
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Arrival: Fly into George Airport (GRJ) on Sunday; 60-minute transfer to the park included.
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Departure: Return transfer to George Airport on Sunday after your programme ends.
Pre-Departure Information
Full project details, packing lists, health and safety advice, and travel tips provided via your My Oyster account at least 4 weeks before departure.
Medical
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Some vaccinations may be required – consult your GP or travel clinic well in advance.
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Inform Oyster of any pre-existing conditions; a doctor’s note may be required for participation.
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Useful travel health information: Fit For Travel.
Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, covering:
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Medical care and emergency evacuation.
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Personal accident and cancellation.
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Lost or stolen luggage.
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Oyster can introduce a recommended policy for UK citizens; non-UK residents should arrange equivalent cover.
Any Risk Factors
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African elephants are large wild animals – strict safety protocols are always in place and all interactions are supervised by trained rangers.
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South Africa has higher crime levels in certain areas, but the project is located in a safe, secure environment away from high-risk zones.
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Other potential risks: road safety, sun exposure, and infectious disease (vaccinations required).
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Our pre-departure briefing includes full guidance on safety and best practices.
Downtime
Free afternoons to relax or explore:
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Plettenberg Bay’s golden beaches, markets, and cafes.
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Optional extra activities nearby: whale watching, sea kayaking, hiking, wine tasting, arts and crafts tours, or adrenaline sports like bungee jumping or skydiving.
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Participants are free to travel independently during time off, provided staff are informed of plans.
Accessibility
This project can sometimes accommodate volunteers with minor physical disabilities – please discuss your needs with us before booking.
Financial Security
Your booking is fully protected under Oyster Worldwide’s financial security arrangements. If your booking includes flights arranged by Oyster, your trip is ATOL-protected.
