We take pride in ensuring our students/volunteers have the best possible experience during their stay on any of our volunteer programmes.

Here’s what a few of our vollies have to say about their time spent on our volunteer projects!

‘As soon as I arrived to SA I knew I would be in good hands for I had a warm welcome and was greeted with a much needed coffee and a muffin by the people who would soon become dear friends.

As soon as we arrived at the accommodation, I knew I was in for a treat! An incredible view from my room, with the beach and river at walking distance, a place filled with vegetation, little monkeys to keep us company and most importantly; the people who were all extremely welcoming and down to earth.

And thats just accommodation, not to mention the privilege it was to work with exotic reptiles, giraffe research, cattle, game capture and relocation, meeting Abby the Giraffe and of course, community work caring for peoples cats, dogs and goats.

Less of a review, this is a thank you letter to the people that made my beyond fathomable dream trip possible and unforgettable.’

Mauro Andres (Puerto Rico), 2023 - Pre-Vet

‘Spending 5 weeks on the Pre-Vet Programme completely exceeded all expectations, and I honestly feel like a different person since I arrived home.

From doing the most rewarding community work (providing treatment to dogs, cats and goats), to working with cows, sheep and piglets and being lucky enough to experience game captures with impala, sable and a lioness. Its fair to say my experience has been second to none. The programme offers so much opportunity to really get hands on and come out of your comfort zone.

The programme has also given me opportunities to meet new people and I have been lucky enough to make friends for life. One thing about the South African community is that they’re some of the friendliest people you will ever meet.

The staff were so welcoming from the second I stepped off the plane in East London and they really made it feel like home. My experience wouldn’t have been what it was without them . Lily, who I booked the programme through, was so helpful from the moment I emailed her and made me feel at ease about the whole experience. Thank you GAEA and Safari4U, I will definitely be back!’

Claire Cameron (UK), 2024 - Pre-Vet

‘ My experience in South Africa has completely changed my outlook on life. Why? Because its not only about working with animals but also with the community too. Seeing how happy they are with such little they have has made me feel so grateful and happy in life, and grateful to have helped them with their pets and livestock. South Africa, the pre-vet programme and its people have my heart forever <3

I will definitely 100% come back!’

Katherine V. Duarte Acevedo (Puerto Rico), 2023 - Pre-vet

‘I spent 3 weeks on the Pre-Vet Programme and 1 week on the Wildlife Vet Experience with Dr Luis. During my stay I was able to connect with lots of amazing people; students, staff locals, vet techs and veterinarians, etc.

I was able to work with and learn about small animals, wildlife, large animals and exotics. The programme prioritises working on preventative medicine for the township animals, ad i my opinion, this was one of the most gratifying aspects of my entire time there.

My experience wouldn’t have been nearly as positive if it wasn’t for the crew that took us beneath their wings and genuinely taught us so much. The vet techs, nurses and vets that I was lucky enough to be mentored by constantly went out of their way to give us the opportunity to try and learn new things. They made the whole experience really fun whilst also pushing us out of our comfort zones to learn & grow as future professionals, for that I am eternally thankful.

The students that I met during my stay are now lifelong friends, as well as future colleagues, no matter in which part of the world we find ourselves in.

My time in South Africa is one that I will forever cherish and be grateful for, since it changed me for the better, both personal and professional aspects.’

Daniella Sofia (Puerto Rico), 2022 - Pre-Vet

‘I was lucky enough to be part of this programme last month and I highly recommend it. Beckie and Jo are very knowledgeable in their field, and you will learn a lot from them. During your stay, you will get hands-on experience on various wildlife species, learn different techniques to locate, approach, capture and relocate them and will learn more about products and medication that are used for all sorts of wildlife. Also students’ safety is taken very seriously, and I felt safe at all times, even around more dangerous animals. The living accommodations and meals are wonderful, and you will be treated as a king! Overall fantastic experience, and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in wildlife medicine and conservation.’

Vicky Houde, 2023 - Wildlife Management & Veterinary Experience