Volunteer at Inverdoorn
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Volunteer at Inverdoorn
Volunteer at Inverdoorn
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Volunteer at Inverdoorn
Volunteer at Inverdoorn

Volunteer at Inverdoorn

The Western Cape Cheetah Conservation Volunteer Program

Since 2001 Inverdoorn Game Reserve and the Western Cape Cheetah Conservation (WCCC) have been rescuing and rehabilitating cheetahs at a special facility at Inverdoorn in the Karoo.

The WCCC is at the forefront of cheetah conservation in South Africa and is a globally recognised initiative. Through dedication, passion and the expertise of leading specialists in veterinary science, conservation dynamics and predator behaviour studies, the WCCC currently have fourteen cheetahs in their care. Today the WCCC is a sanctuary for cheetahs as well as a centre for knowledge and research in cheetah conservation worldwide and aims to educate the public and promote awareness of cheetah conservation.

Cheetah conservation is a highly specialised area of conservation since the cheetahs present peculiar challenges. While human action and loss of habitat is still the number one cause of the decline in wild free-ranging cheetah populations throughout Africa, the genetic defects the species are prone to are an added concern. Generations of inbreeding has weakened the species leaving them susceptible to genetic diseases often related to the skin and bones.

As a result, eight trained and knowledgeable caregivers ensure that the cheetahs receive the best care possible. The cheetahs benefit from a unique wildlife management programme that ensures they receive adequate amounts of physical training and psychological stimulation every day by means of nursing, feeding, long walks, running exercises and interaction with visitors.

As part of our ongoing commitment to raising awareness we invite those with some experience in animal handling or caregiving or those with, or completing, undergraduate studies in wildlife conservation to apply for the volunteer program with the WCCC.

How to become a volunteer?

Should you wish to enter into the WCCC's volunteer program, you will need to be available for a period ranging from three to six months. As there are a limited number of places available, preference will be given to volunteers between the ages of 20 and 30 who speak fluent English and possess some experience in animal care.

Should you be accepted into the program, there will be a two-week probationary period, upon your arrival, after which you will undergo an evaluation by management. During this time you will be immersed in building a relationship with a predator in order to gain its trust. You are carefully monitored throughout to ensure your safety and that of the animal. You will be placed with an experienced handler who will offer guidance as you accompany the cheetahs on their daily feeds, walks, exercise routines and guest interactions.

 

Please note that there is a R 3 000.00 deposit payable before you may qualify for a volunteer position. After your stay, and if you have adhered to the volunteer chart, your deposit will be refunded.

 

The volunteer package

Should you be selected, the volunteer package will include the following:
  • Shared accommodation
  • Three meals a day
  • Uniforms and equipment
  • Free internet access
  • A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work with cheetahs

 

Working hours

A typical work week will consist of six days, with one day off per week and three consecutive days leave every fifth week. The day begins at 08:00AM and finishes at 05:00PM, with one hour for lunch each day.
As cheetahs are very sensitive creatures this schedule will change to accommodate their needs and is dependent on factors such as weather conditions, the cheetahs' moods, guest interactions and exercise booked for the cheetahs.

 

Some rules

1. For your safety, that of the guests and the cheetahs it is important that a volunteer is always with a handler when in contact with the cheetahs.
2. Lunch breaks will not be at regular times but depends on work priority and guests' requests.
3. Management reserves the right to organise when your off days will fall as this is dependent on guests' bookings.
4. No photographs or videos of the lodge or the cheetahs may be sold or published for a commercial purpose. Uploading to social networks may only be done with the permission of the lodge owner.

If you have been selected to volunteer at Inverdoorn, please be aware that other applications have been declined in favour of yours. You will soon embark on a life-changing, once-in-a-lifetime adventure – working side by side with the fastest living land animal on the planet. It is a privilege to work with these magnificent cats and at Inverdoorn they are the heart and soul of all that we do. We expect that you to bring enthusiasm, a desire to learn and a real love of nature to your work and that you will take away many wonderful memories.

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INVERDOORN Game Reserve
 Big 5 Safari
1200 Free-Roaming Animals
 Iziba Safari Lodge
 5 stars Luxury Lodge
21/2 Hours from Cape Town

Why choose Inverdoorn?

Amongst the wonders of Nature exists a splendid place situated in the magnificence of the vast open Karoo landscape, Inverdoorn Game Reserve & Iziba Safari Lodge. The 10 000 hectare property is a resourceful and stylish 'oasis' destination, only a 2.5-hour drive from Cape Town city centre.

Exclusive Cheetah interactions

Inverdoorn offers guests the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to really get to grips with a cheetah through its Exclusive Encounters package that allow guests to spend time interacting with the cheetahs through stroking, petting and giving the cheetahs water. Guests who opt for the five-star luxury accommodation packages automatically enjoy the one-on-one encounters while an optional extra package is available to other overnight guests and even day visitors. Learn More...