Help raise Lions and Tigers in South Africa

  South Africa

Johannesburg

Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks

Description: Are you scared of big cats?
Well, you should be. These ferocious carnivores have earned their title as 'kings of the jungle' for good reason. Though they will grow up to be prowling hunters of the night, they don't start out that way. Actually, at two months old, they are simply adorable creatures who are always in search of care and attention. This is where you come in. At the big cat breeding center, you will help care for the cubs by getting involved in a host of activities including feeding and playing with the cubs and their older brothers and sisters!

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.

Highlights:
* Helping to look after lion, tiger and other 'big cat' cubs
* Tumbling around with the lion cubs
* Learning about all the different big cats
* Being surrounded by the beautiful wilderness of South Africa

Qualifications: 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

Cost in US$: USD 2195.00 for 2 weeks, USD 600.00 for every week thereafter

* Accommodation: Shared room in lodge at project
* Food: Food is not included; you will need to purchase your own food (budget approximately USD 50 per week)
* 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

Experience Required: no

Age Range: 18-80

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to South Africa Independently

Post-Program Services Include:

• Alumni Network

i-to-i Meaningful Travel's Mission Statement: i-to-i is an award-winning organization providing unique opportunities for you to travel, work and live abroad. Thousands of travelers aged 18 to 80 have joined our volunteer vacations and over 50,000 have learned to Teach English as a Foreign Language through our tailor-made TEFL courses. With over 400 projects on 4 continents, you can join the worldwide i-to-i volunteer community on an extended adventure in areas such as teaching, community development, sports coaching, conservation, building or internships in tourism, marketing, journalism, or health.

Year Founded: 1994